Easy Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

There’s something truly magical about dining at Benihana. The sizzling teppanyaki grill, the skilled chefs flipping shrimp tails into their hats, and the irresistible aroma of chicken fried rice cooking right in front of you—it’s an experience that stays with you long after the meal is over. But what if you could recreate that iconic Benihana Chicken Fried Rice at home?

This recipe brings the flavors of Benihana straight to your kitchen. Imagine tender chunks of chicken, fluffy rice, and crisp vegetables tossed in a savory soy sauce blend, all cooked to perfection in a single skillet. It’s a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, and the best part? You don’t need to be a teppanyaki master to pull it off.

Whether you’re craving a taste of your favorite restaurant or looking for a quick, satisfying meal, this Benihana Chicken Fried Rice recipe is here to save the day. Let’s get cooking!

What Makes Benihana Chicken Fried Rice So Special?

Benihana’s chicken fried rice isn’t your average fried rice. It’s a dish that stands out for its bold flavors, perfect texture, and the theatrical cooking style that makes it so memorable. Here’s what sets it apart:

1. The Perfect Balance of Flavors

The combination of savory soy sauce, rich sesame oil, and a touch of butter creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. Each bite is a harmony of umami, sweetness, and a hint of smokiness.

2. The Teppanyaki Cooking Method

At Benihana, the rice is cooked on a high-heat teppanyaki grill, which gives it a slightly charred, smoky flavor. While most home kitchens don’t have a teppanyaki grill, you can achieve similar results by using a hot skillet or wok.

3. The Texture

The rice is fluffy yet slightly crispy, the chicken is tender, and the vegetables add a satisfying crunch. You’ll want more because it’s a masterwork of texture.

4. The Customization Of Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

This dish’s versatility is one of its best features. You can add your favorite vegetables, swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu, or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.

By understanding what makes Benihana Chicken Fried Rice so special, you can appreciate the care and technique that goes into making it—and replicate it at home with ease.

Ingredients for Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

The secret to making Benihana Chicken Fried Rice lies in using simple, high-quality ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need to recreate this iconic dish at home:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Cooked white rice	4 cups	Day-old rice works best
Chicken breast	2 cups	Diced into small pieces
Eggs	2 large	Beaten for scrambling
Onion	1 medium	Finely chopped
Carrots	1/2 cup	Diced into small cubes
Green onions	1/2 cup	Chopped, for garnish and flavor
Soy sauce	3 tbsp	Use low-sodium if preferred
Sesame oil	1 tbsp	Adds authentic flavor
Butter	2 tbsp	For richness and sautéing
Garlic	2 cloves	Minced for aromatic flavor
Salt and pepper	To taste	For seasoning

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions for Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

• Cooked White Rice: Day-old rice is ideal because it’s drier and less sticky, making it perfect for frying. If you don’t have leftover rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool completely before using.
• Chicken Breast: You can substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor or use shrimp, tofu, or beef for variety.
• Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is a healthier option, but you can use regular soy sauce if that’s what you have on hand.
• Sesame Oil: This is a must for authentic flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use vegetable oil, but the taste will differ slightly.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute with peas, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers.

Step-by-Step Instructions for easy Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

Follow these simple steps to create a dish that rivals the restaurant version:

Prep the Ingredients

1. Dice the chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces.
2. Chop the onion, carrots, and green onions.
3. Beat the eggs in a small bowl and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat.
2. Season with salt and pepper after adding the diced chicken. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, then remove and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

1. Put one tablespoon of the butter in the same skillet.
2. Sauté the onions, carrots, and minced garlic until softened and fragrant.

Scramble the Eggs

1. The vegetables should be pushed to one side of the skillet.
2. Fill the empty side with the beaten eggs, and scramble them until they are cooked through.

Combine Everything

1. Break up any clumps in the cooked rice before adding it to the skillet.
2. Stir in the cooked chicken, soy sauce, and remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
3. Mix everything until thoroughly heated and well combined.

Garnish and Serve

1. Stir in the chopped green onions.
2. Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions or a drizzle of sesame oil if desired.

Tips for the Best Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

To ensure your Benihana Chicken Fried Rice turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:

1. Use Day-Old Rice

The excessive moisture and stickiness of freshly cooked rice can cause clumpy fried rice. Day-old rice is drier and easier to fry, giving you that perfect fluffy texture.

2. Cook Over High Heat

To mimic the teppanyaki grill’s high heat, cook your fried rice over medium-high to high heat. This helps achieve that slightly charred, smoky flavor that’s characteristic of Benihana’s dish.

3. Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet

If your skillet is too small or you add too many ingredients at once, the rice can steam instead of fry. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure everything gets evenly cooked and crispy.

4. Season as You Go

Don’t wait until the end to add seasoning. Season the chicken while cooking, and taste the rice as you add the soy sauce to ensure the flavors are balanced.

5. Add a Splash of Teriyaki Sauce

For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle a bit of teriyaki sauce into the rice while cooking. It adds a sweet and savory depth that’s hard to resist.

6. Customize to Your Taste

Feel free to add or swap ingredients based on your preferences. Try adding peas, mushrooms, or even pineapple for a sweet twist.

Serving Suggestions for Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served in countless ways. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable:

As a Main Dish

• Serve with a side of miso soup or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Add a fried egg on top for extra richness and flavor.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled shrimp, steak, or tofu for a teppanyaki-style feast.
• Serve alongside vegetable tempura or gyoza for an Asian-inspired spread.

Garnish Ideas

• Sprinkle with sesame seeds for a nutty crunch.
• Add extra green onions or cilantro for a fresh, vibrant touch.
• Drizzle with sriracha or chili oil for a spicy kick.

FAQs About Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

Does Benihana Have Chicken Fried Rice?

Yes, Benihana serves chicken fried rice as part of their teppanyaki menu. It’s a fan favorite, known for its savory flavor, fluffy texture, and the theatrical way it’s prepared right in front of you on the teppanyaki grill.

What Type of Oil Does Benihana Use?

Benihana typically uses a combination of sesame oil and vegetable oil for their fried rice. Sesame oil adds a rich, nutty flavor, while vegetable oil has a high smoke point, making it ideal for high-heat cooking.

What’s the Difference Between Hibachi Fried Rice and Regular Fried Rice?

• Hibachi Fried Rice: This is cooked on a teppanyaki grill at high heat, giving it a slightly smoky, charred flavor. It often includes butter and sesame oil for richness.
• Regular Fried Rice: Usually made in a wok or skillet, it may lack the smoky flavor and often uses simpler ingredients like soy sauce and basic vegetables.

What Is the Secret Ingredient to Restaurant Fried Rice?

The secret to restaurant-style fried rice is day-old rice and high-heat cooking. Day-old rice is drier, which prevents it from becoming mushy, while high heat creates that slightly crispy, smoky texture. Additionally, sesame oil and butter are often used to add depth and richness.

Conclusion: Bring the Benihana Experience Home

There’s no need to book a table at Benihana to enjoy their iconic Chicken Fried Rice. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can recreate the magic of teppanyaki cooking right in your own kitchen. From the savory soy sauce and nutty sesame oil to the tender chicken and fluffy rice, every bite is a reminder of the restaurant experience you love.

This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it as a main course, a side dish, or a base for your favorite proteins, it’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice and vegetables, making it both practical and satisfying.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your skillet, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of Benihana Chicken Fried Rice that rivals the real thing. Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family—they’ll be asking for the recipe!

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