How to Make the Perfect Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Creating the perfect Benihana chicken fried rice recipe at home is easier than you might think. Known for its unique combination of garlic butter, well-seasoned chicken, and wok-fried rice, this recipe brings the iconic hibachi experience right into your kitchen.

Learn the techniques behind this popular dish, and discover how the right ingredients and preparation can elevate your homemade fried rice. Explore how using Jasmine rice ensures the right texture for this flavorful dish. Don’t forget to master the art of making garlic butter, a signature element of this recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To recreate the authentic Benihana-style fried rice, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups of cold cooked rice (preferably Jasmine or medium-grain rice).
8 oz chicken thighs, diced.
2 tablespoons of garlic butter (homemade or store-bought).
1 tablespoon oyster sauce and 1 tablespoon fish sauce.
Vegetables: diced carrots, onions, and sliced green onions.
Seasonings: salt, pepper, and sesame seeds for garnish.
Optional: scrambled eggs for additional texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Dice your vegetables and season the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper.
If you’re using fresh rice, let it cool completely or spread it out on a tray to remove excess moisture.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat a wok or skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of safflower oil.
Sear the chicken until it turns golden brown and is cooked through. Set aside.

3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Using the same wok, sauté carrots, onions, and green onions until softened. Push them to the side of the wok.

4. Scramble the Eggs

Crack eggs into the wok’s center and scramble until fully cooked. Mix with the vegetables.

5. Fry the Rice

Add the cold rice to the wok and stir until evenly combined. Pour in the oyster and fish sauces for flavor.

6. Finish with Garlic Butter

Stir in the garlic butter for that signature Benihana flavor. Toss everything to combine.

Pro Tips for Perfect Fried Rice

Use day-old rice for the best texture. It’s less sticky and absorbs flavors better.
Cook in small batches to ensure the rice fries evenly without becoming mushy.
Keep the wok hot for a quick sear that adds a smoky flavor, often referred to as wok hei.
Add scrambled eggs last for a fluffy texture that complements the fried rice.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Benihana Chicken Fried Rice recipe hot with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a side of grilled vegetables or miso soup. For more recipe inspiration, check out this guide on crafting chicken and yellow rice recipes.

FAQs

What Makes Benihana Fried Rice Unique?

The garlic butter and the high-heat cooking method give this dish its distinct flavor.

Can I Use Other Proteins?

Yes, substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?

Use a hot skillet with a splash of oil to reheat and restore the rice’s texture.