If you’ve ever savored the smoky, savory flavors of hibachi chicken fried rice at a Japanese steakhouse and wished you could whip up that magic in your own kitchen, this Hibachi-Style Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant veggies, and just the right balance of seasoning, this dish delivers that authentic hibachi taste with minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or impressing guests with a homemade takeout classic, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your culinary rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but essential, each playing a crucial role in crafting that perfect combination of flavors and textures. From the tender chicken and fluffy rice to the colorful vegetables and flavorful sauces, every element comes together harmoniously in this Hibachi-Style Chicken Fried Rice Recipe.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided): Helps with cooking evenly and adding a slight crisp to ingredients.
- 2 large eggs (beaten): Adds richness and a silky texture when scrambled into the rice.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs (diced): Provides tender, juicy protein that’s seasoned perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning that enhances the natural flavors without overpowering.
- 3 cups cooked and chilled rice: Day-old jasmine or white rice is perfect for achieving that ideal fried rice texture.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (thawed): Adds color, crunch, and a touch of sweetness to balance the savory notes.
- 3 green onions (sliced): Brings freshness and a subtle bite.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: The salty, umami backbone of the dish.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds a luscious, creamy finish that elevates the rice.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional): A fragrant touch that lends a nutty aroma and depth.
- Yum yum sauce or extra soy sauce for serving (optional): Perfect for dipping or drizzling to personalize every bite.
How to Make Hibachi-Style Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Scramble the Eggs
Start by heating one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and gently scramble until just cooked through but still tender. Removing the eggs at this stage helps prevent overcooking and keeps them nice and fluffy, ready to be folded back in later for that classic hibachi feel.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Season your diced chicken with a bit of salt and pepper, then add it to the hot pan. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken pieces are nicely browned on the outside and fully cooked through. The sizzling chicken aroma is already hinting at the delicious meal ahead. Remove and set aside with the eggs to keep warm.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Rice and Veggies
In the same pan, add the chilled cooked rice. Break apart any clumps with your spatula and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until the rice is heated evenly and starting to develop a slight crisp. Toss in the thawed peas and carrots, soy sauce, and optional sesame oil. Stir everything together to ensure every grain is flavorful and the veggies are warmed through. This is where the dish really starts to come alive with authentic Japanese steakhouse vibes.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken and eggs to the pan with the rice mixture. Add the sliced green onions and dollop the butter on top. Stir everything thoroughly until the butter melts and the ingredients are evenly incorporated, creating a rich, glossy finish. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce if needed. This final step brings all the vibrant ingredients together for a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
How to Serve Hibachi-Style Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh green onions are a fantastic garnish for this fried rice, adding that pop of color and a bit of crisp freshness. You can also sprinkle toasted sesame seeds to lend a subtle crunch and enhance the nutty flavors. For those who love a little extra zing, a drizzle of yum yum sauce or a splash of soy sauce on the side brings that beloved Japanese steakhouse experience right to your plate.
Side Dishes
This Hibachi-Style Chicken Fried Rice Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple yet flavorful sides. Grilled or steamed vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms complement the rice beautifully. A crisp seaweed salad or miso soup can add an elegant touch and round out your meal with authentic Japanese tastes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your hibachi chicken fried rice in individual mini cast iron skillets or shallow bowls for a rustic yet stylish look. You could even hollow out a steamed pineapple or bell pepper and fill it with the fried rice for a festive presentation that will wow your guests. Adding a perfectly fried egg on top transforms this dish into an indulgent feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Hibachi-style chicken fried rice stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Since it tastes even better the next day once the flavors meld a bit, leftovers make for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this dish later, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. Just be sure to cool the fried rice completely before sealing to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your fried rice gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent drying out, and stirring until steaming hot. Microwaving works as well but stirring halfway through helps heat evenly and keeps that perfect hibachi-style texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! Brown rice can be swapped in for a nuttier flavor and extra nutrients. Just keep in mind that the texture will be a bit heartier, and it might take slightly longer to stir-fry to get that desired crispness.
Is sesame oil necessary in the Hibachi-Style Chicken Fried Rice Recipe?
Sesame oil is optional but highly recommended because it adds a wonderful nutty aroma and depth of flavor. If you’re not a fan, feel free to omit it without sacrificing the overall taste.
Can I substitute chicken breast with another protein?
Yes! You can use boneless pork, shrimp, or even tofu if you want a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your chosen protein is fully cooked and flavorful.
What’s the best way to prevent rice from clumping during cooking?
Using day-old, chilled rice is key—freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and sticky. When stir-fried, the grains separate nicely and absorb flavors better, resulting in the perfect hibachi-style texture.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
You can easily customize the recipe by adding diced onions, sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just toss them in with the peas and carrots for a colorful and nutrient-packed meal.
Final Thoughts
This Hibachi-Style Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is such a joy to make and share. It brings that exciting takeout flavor right to your kitchen with simple ingredients and straightforward steps that anyone can master. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own, filling your home with irresistible aromas and delicious memories!
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Hibachi-Style Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired, American Hibachi
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
This Hibachi-Style Chicken Fried Rice offers a flavorful and easy-to-make meal inspired by classic Japanese steakhouse dishes. Featuring tender chicken, fluffy day-old rice, mixed vegetables, and a harmonious blend of soy sauce and sesame oil, it delivers a delicious takeout-style dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or leftovers.
Ingredients
Protein and Eggs
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs (diced)
Vegetables
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (thawed)
- 3 green onions (sliced)
Rice and Grains
- 3 cups cooked and chilled rice (preferably day-old jasmine or white rice)
Oils and Fats
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
Seasonings and Sauces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Yum yum sauce or extra soy sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Scramble the eggs: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble gently until just cooked. Remove the eggs from the pan and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook the chicken: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same pan. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside with the eggs.
- Stir-fry the rice and vegetables: In the same pan, add the cooked and chilled rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry the rice for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through. Add the thawed peas and carrots, soy sauce, and sesame oil if using. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Combine all ingredients: Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the pan. Add the sliced green onions and butter. Stir everything together and continue cooking until the mixture is well combined and hot throughout.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the fried rice and add more soy sauce if needed to balance flavors. Serve the hibachi chicken fried rice immediately, optionally drizzling with yum yum sauce or additional soy sauce for extra flavor.
Notes
- Using day-old rice helps prevent clumping and gives the fried rice a better texture.
- Customize by adding other vegetables like zucchini, onions, or bell peppers for variety.
- This dish is ideal for using leftovers and makes a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner.
- For a nut-free variation, omit any nuts or nut oils and verify sauces are nut-free.
