Have you ever craved that irresistible, buttery, and umami-packed Benihana chicken fried rice recipe but didn’t feel like heading to a restaurant? Imagine recreating this signature dish right in your own kitchen—fluffy rice, juicy chicken, and perfectly balanced flavors, all sizzling together just like at a teppanyaki grill.
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If you’ve ever wondered how Benihana achieves that unmistakable taste, you’re in the right place. This Benihana chicken fried rice recipe isn’t just close—it’s better than takeout! With the right ingredients, techniques, and a few pro tips, you’ll be making fried rice so good, you’ll never order out again. Ready? Let’s get cooking!
What Makes Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe So Special?
Benihana chicken fried rice recipe isn’t your average takeout dish. It has a unique depth of flavor, texture, and richness that sets it apart. Here’s why:
- Garlic Butter: This secret ingredient adds depth and richness.
- Teppanyaki Cooking Style: High-heat stir-frying enhances flavor.
- Perfectly Cooked Rice: Using day-old rice prevents clumpiness.
- Balanced Seasoning: A blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and butter creates umami-packed goodness.
- Fresh Ingredients: Simple, high-quality components make all the difference.
Now, let’s gather everything you need to whip up this restaurant-quality dish at home.
Ingredients: What You Need for the Best Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Before starting, make sure to gather all the essential ingredients. The key to achieving the perfect Benihana-style fried rice lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients and preparing them correctly. Below is everything you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked white rice | 3 cups | Day-old rice works best for texture, as it prevents mushiness. |
| Chicken breast | 1 cup, diced | Boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces. |
| Eggs | 2 large | Beaten, to add richness and texture. |
| Garlic butter | 2 tbsp | The key to Benihana’s signature flavor. |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp | Use low-sodium for better control over seasoning. |
| Sesame oil | 1 tbsp | Adds an authentic Japanese aroma and nutty taste. |
| Green onions | 2 tbsp | Finely chopped, for garnish and added freshness. |
| Carrots | ¼ cup | Finely diced, adding color and slight sweetness. |
| Peas | ¼ cup | Fresh or frozen, bringing a pop of texture. |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste | Adjust seasoning as needed. |
| Cooking oil | 1 tbsp | Use a high-smoke-point oil like vegetable or canola. |
Step-by-Step: How to Make Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Preparing Your Ingredients
- Start by cooking your white rice a day in advance and storing it in the fridge. This step is crucial as fresh rice tends to be too moist, leading to clumpy and mushy fried rice.
- Dice the chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure quick and even cooking.
- Finely chop your green onions, carrots, and other vegetables so they cook evenly.
- Crack and beat the eggs, preparing them for scrambling later.
- Have your soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic butter measured and ready to go to keep things efficient during cooking.
Cooking the Chicken
- Warm 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat..
- Add the diced chicken, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Scrambling the Eggs
- In the same pan, add a small drizzle of oil if needed.
- Pour in the beaten eggs and let them set for about 30 seconds before scrambling gently with a spatula.
- Cook until just set, then remove from the pan and set aside with the chicken.
Sautéing the Vegetables
- Add garlic butter to the pan, allowing it to melt and become fragrant.
- Stir in the diced carrots and peas, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Toss in the green onions, stirring for another 30 seconds.
Stir-Frying the Rice
- Turn the heat to high and toss the cold, cooked rice into the pan.
- Break up any clumps using a spatula and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, allowing the grains to become slightly crispy.
- Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, stirring constantly to ensure the flavors are evenly blended.
Combining Everything
- Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the pan.
- Stir everything together and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or soy sauce as needed.
Final Touch & Serving
- Transfer the fried rice to serving plates and garnish with additional chopped green onions.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your homemade Benihana chicken fried rice!
Serving Suggestions & Pro Tips
- Garnish with extra green onions for added freshness and color.
- Pair with hibachi-style vegetables or yum yum sauce to complete the meal.
- For an authentic Benihana experience, use a cast-iron griddle or wok for stir-frying.
- Double the recipe and freeze leftovers for an easy meal prep option.
- Add a touch of oyster sauce or a splash of mirin for extra depth of flavor.
- To achieve a smoky, restaurant-style flavor, cook over high heat while stirring constantly.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
- Using fresh rice → Always use day-old rice to avoid mushiness.
- Overcrowding the pan → Cook in batches if necessary to allow proper frying.
- Skipping garlic butter → This is the key ingredient to achieving Benihana’s signature taste.
- Not stirring enough → Keep the ingredients moving to prevent sticking or burning.
- Overcooking the chicken → Cook just until tender and juicy to avoid dryness.
FAQ: Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Can I make this with brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and works well, but be sure to cook it al dente.
What’s the best substitute for garlic butter?
A mix of regular butter and minced garlic works perfectly.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Shrimp, beef, or tofu are excellent alternatives.
How can I store and reheat leftovers?
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: warm a pan over medium heat and add a splash of soy sauce for enhanced freshness.
Conclusion: Why This Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe Beats Takeout Every Time
- Making this dish at home is easy, cost-effective, and customizable.
- You get better quality ingredients and bigger portions than takeout.
- Once you try this recipe, you’ll never go back to ordering from a restaurant!
Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! Drop a comment below with your experience.