The Benihana fried rice recipe is a beloved teppanyaki dish featuring tender chicken, savory garlic butter, and perfectly fried rice. If you’ve ever dined at a Benihana restaurant, you know how flavorful and satisfying this dish can be. The good news? You don’t need a hibachi grill or a professional chef to enjoy it at home. With the right ingredients and simple techniques, you can recreate the authentic Benihana chicken fried rice recipe in your own kitchen.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything from essential ingredients and preparation tips to step-by-step cooking instructions and expert techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe will help you master the art of Benihana-style fried rice with ease.
The Popularity and Origins of This Teppanyaki Staple
Originally introduced in teppanyaki-style restaurants, this dish has since gained worldwide fame. As a result, many home cooks now attempt to replicate it.
What Makes Benihana’s Fried Rice Unique?
The Benihana chicken fried rice recipe stands out because of its use of garlic butter, day-old rice, and its signature teppanyaki preparation style. The savory flavors and tender chicken are perfectly balanced with vegetables and scrambled eggs, creating a restaurant-quality experience at home.
Ingredients Breakdown for Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Benihana Chicken Fried Rice
To replicate the authentic Benihana chicken fried rice recipe, start with day-old rice, chicken, and classic teppanyaki vegetables.
- Rice: The foundation of any fried rice is, of course, the rice itself. For this recipe, day-old rice works best. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist, which can make the dish soggy. Instead, leftover rice, which has dried out a bit, fries beautifully and absorbs the seasonings better.
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. For best results, cut the chicken into small, Bite-sized pieces to promote even cooking.. You can marinate it briefly in soy sauce, white pepper, and a dash of oil for extra flavor.
- Vegetables: The classic trio of carrots, onions, and peas gives the dish its color and texture. To achieve consistent cooking, chop the vegetables into small, uniform pieces.
- Garlic Butter: This is the secret ingredient that sets Benihana fried rice apart. Made with butter, grated garlic, and soy sauce, it adds a rich, savory flavor that ties everything together beautifully.
- Eggs: Scrambled eggs add texture and a mild, creamy flavor. Before frying, make sure to beat them well.
- Soy Sauce and Seasonings: Light soy sauce, a sprinkle of white pepper, and a pinch of sugar balance the flavors perfectly. Additionally, MSG is optional, but it adds to the savory depth.
- The Secret Ingredient: Garlic Butter
Garlic butter is essential for achieving the signature flavor of the Benihana chicken fried rice recipe.
Preparing the Key Components Before Cooking Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
The Importance of Using Day-Old Rice
One of the most critical steps in making the perfect Benihana chicken fried rice recipe is using the right kind of rice. Freshly cooked rice contains too much moisture, which can result in a mushy texture. Instead, opt for day-old rice that has been chilled in the fridge. The grains firm up as they cool, making them ideal for frying.
Before you start cooking, take the rice out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes. Then, break apart any clumps with your hands or a fork. This make the rice fries evenly and absorbs all those delicious flavors.
If you don’t have leftover rice, you can spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for a few hours to dry it out.
Prepping Chicken and Vegetables for Consistency
Prepping your ingredients ahead of time is key to achieving that authentic teppanyaki experience. For the chicken, cut it into bite-sized cubes and marinate it briefly with soy sauce, a sprinkle of white pepper, and a touch of oil. This gives the chicken a boost of flavor and keeps it tender.
When it comes to vegetables, consistency is crucial. Chop the carrots, onions, and scallions into small, uniform pieces. This helps them cook quickly and evenly. You can also use frozen peas for convenience since they’re already the perfect size.
Having everything prepped and ready to go makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Once your rice, chicken, and veggies are ready, you’re set to create a dish that rivals your favorite teppanyaki experience!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
How to Cook Chicken for the Perfect Texture
First, marinate the chicken with soy sauce, salt, and a touch of white pepper to subtly deepen its flavor. Heat a wok or large pan over high heat, add a bit of oil, and cook the chicken until it is golden brown and crispy on the outside.make the chicken pieces remain tender and juicy on the inside. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Preparing and Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same pan, add a bit more oil, then sauté the minced garlic for 15–20 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the diced carrots, chopped scallions, and onions. Stir-fry the vegetables over high heat for 1–2 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crisp. Proper cooking of the vegetables helps create a pleasing balance of textures in the final dish.
Incorporating Day-Old Rice
Now, crumble the day-old rice to break up any clumps and add it to the pan. Here’s a revised version of the sentence:
“Continuously stir the rice to achieve even cooking and to coat each grain with the rich flavors of garlic and vegetables.”
Let me know if you’d like further adjustments! This step is critical for achieving the signature texture of Benihana’s fried rice.
Mixing in Eggs and Seasonings
Push the rice to one side of the pan, then crack two eggs into the empty space. Allow the eggs to cook until nearly set, then mix them into the rice. Season the dish with soy sauce, white pepper, sugar, and garlic butter. Stir everything thoroughly to combine all the elements and create a cohesive dish.
Final Touches and Serving
Once everything is well-mixed and heated through, transfer the fried rice to a serving dish. Garnish with additional scallions if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Benihana chicken fried rice.
Mastering the Art of Making Garlic Butter
Ingredients and Ratios for Garlic Butter
Garlic butter is the heart of any good chicken fried rice recipe Luckily, it’s incredibly easy to make! All you need are:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, finely grated or minced
- 3 teaspoons light soy sauce
Start by softening the butter at room temperature until it’s easy to mix. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, garlic, and soy sauce. Mix well until everything is fully blended. This creates a smooth, aromatic butter with a savory kick.
Tips for Storage and Versatility in Other Dishes
Once you’ve prepared the garlic butter, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze it in individual portions. This makes it easy to grab a tablespoon whenever you need it.
Garlic butter isn’t just for fried rice. It’s incredibly versatile! Try it on grilled steaks, sautéed shrimp, or roasted vegetables. A dollop on freshly baked bread takes it to the next level.
Want more ideas for flavorful recipes? Check out our Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joe Recipes for a fun, easy meal packed with savory goodness!
Cooking Equipment and Techniques
Why a Wok or Large Pan is Ideal for Fried Rice
When making a Benihana chicken fried rice recipe, using the right cooking equipment is crucial for success. Traditionally, a wok is the best tool because of its unique shape and ability to handle high heat. The sloped sides make it easy to toss and stir ingredients without spilling. Plus, the wok’s high heat allows the rice to fry quickly, giving it that perfect, slightly crispy texture.
However, if you don’t have a wok, don’t worry! A large, deep skillet or a cast-iron pan will work just fine. Just make sure the pan is big enough to avoid overcrowding the ingredients. If the pan is too small, the rice and other components will steam instead of fry, which leads to a soggy dish — and nobody wants that!
To get the best results, always preheat your wok or pan before adding oil. The surface should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles immediately on contact. This allows your ingredients to cook evenly and quickly, just like in a teppanyaki restaurant.
Tips for High-Heat Cooking and Avoiding Sogginess
High-heat cooking is essential for achieving the perfect Benihana chicken fried rice recipe. The heat helps fry the rice grains quickly, sealing in flavor and preventing sogginess. Therefore, it’s best to use oils with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils won’t break down, even under intense heat.
Additionally, add your ingredients in stages rather than all at once. For instance, cook the chicken first, then the vegetables, and finally the rice. This way, everything cooks properly and maintains its texture.
Also, keep the ingredients moving constantly. Stir-frying make that each grain of rice gets coated with oil and garlic butter. As a result, the flavors are evenly distributed, and nothing burns.
Flavor Variations and Customization Options
Adding Different Proteins: Chicken, Shrimp, or Beef
One of the best things about a Benihana chicken fried rice recipe is how easily you can customize it. While chicken is the classic choice, you can effortlessly swap it out for other proteins. For example, shrimp adds a sweet, briny flavor, while beef brings a rich, hearty touch. If you’re short on time, diced ham or bacon can be quick and flavorful options too.
To keep the dish tasting authentic, marinate your protein with a bit of soy sauce, white pepper, and oil before cooking. This step make that each bite is packed with delicious flavor.
Vegetarian Alternatives and Additional Seasonings
If you prefer a meatless version, you can still enjoy a satisfying dish. Instead of chicken, try adding tofu, mushrooms, or even extra vegetables. For instance, broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas add both color and crunch.
For even more flavor, consider sprinkling in some sesame seeds or a dash of sesame oil just before serving. Additionally, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the entire dish.
Ultimately, the beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. No matter how you tweak it, you’ll end up with a plate of fried rice that’s bursting with flavor and texture!
Common Mistakes in a Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe and How to Avoid Them
Fresh Rice Pitfalls in a Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
One of the biggest mistakes in a Benihana chicken fried rice recipe is using freshly cooked rice. Fresh rice contains too much moisture, which results in a mushy, clumpy texture. For the best outcome, always use day-old rice. When rice sits overnight in the fridge, it dries out, making each grain fry separately and stay fluffy.
If you must use fresh rice, spread it on a baking sheet and chill it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This helps remove excess moisture and keeps your fried rice from turning into a sticky mess.
Seasoning Issues in Your Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Another common pitfall in a Benihana chicken fried rice recipe is using too much soy sauce or garlic butter. While these ingredients add incredible flavor, too much can overpower the dish. Start small and taste as you go to keep flavors balanced.
Additionally, don’t skip white pepper, which adds subtle heat. If the dish tastes too flat, a pinch of sugar can brighten the flavors. Keeping these simple tips in mind make sure your fried rice hits that authentic Benihana flavor without going off track.
Day-old rice is crucial for making the Benihana fried rice because it fries better and avoids becoming mushy.
FAQs
Why Use Day-Old Rice?
Day-old rice is drier, preventing a mushy texture and allowing for better frying.
How Long Can You Store Garlic Butter?
Up to one week in the fridge or frozen for later use.
What’s the Best Substitute for White Pepper?
Black pepper works, but use less since it has a stronger taste.
Can I Make This Without MSG?
Yes! The garlic butter and soy sauce provide enough umami flavor.
Can I Make It Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute tofu or mushrooms for chicken.
Conclusion
With this Benihana chicken fried rice recipe, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home. The perfectly fried rice, savory garlic butter, and tender chicken make this dish a crowd favorite. Whether you’re making it as a side or a main course, it’s a quick and delicious way to bring the teppanyaki experience to your kitchen.
Looking for more great recipes? Check out our Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joe Recipe!
Benihana Chicken Fried Rice
Equipment
- Wok or Large Skillet – A wok is ideal for high-heat cooking, ensuring the rice gets crispy without becoming soggy. If unavailable, use a large, deep skillet or a cast-iron pan.
- Spatula or Wok Turner – A sturdy spatula helps stir-fry ingredients quickly and evenly, preventing them from sticking.
- Cutting Board & Knife – For prepping the chicken and vegetables. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts and even cooking.
- Mixing Bowls – Used for marinating the chicken, preparing garlic butter, and beating eggs.
- Measuring Spoons & Cups – To accurately measure soy sauce, butter, and seasonings.
- Small Saucepan (Optional) – If you want to melt the garlic butter before adding it to the rice.
- Tongs or Chopsticks (Optional) – Helpful for handling ingredients, especially when adding proteins like shrimp or tofu.
- Pro Tips for Equipment Use:
- ✔ Preheat your wok or skillet before adding oil to get that restaurant-style sear.
- ✔ Use a high-smoke-point oil (like peanut, avocado, or canola) to prevent burning.
- ✔ Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even frying—cook in batches if needed.
Ingredients
- For the Fried Rice:
- 2 cups day-old cooked rice preferably jasmine or short-grain
- 1 cup boneless skinless chicken breast or thigh, diced
- 1/2 cup onion finely chopped
- 1/2 cup carrots diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 2 eggs beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar optional, balances flavors
- 2 tablespoons oil avocado, peanut, or canola
- 2 tablespoons butter
- For the Garlic Butter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3 cloves garlic finely minced or grated
- 3 teaspoons light soy sauce
- Optional Garnishes:
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds
- A drizzle of sesame oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter
- In a small bowl, combine softened butter, grated garlic, and soy sauce.
- Mix well until smooth and well combined. Set aside for later use.
- Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add diced chicken, season with a pinch of salt and white pepper, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pan, add another 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Toss in onions, carrots, and frozen peas. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until softened.
- Step 4: Scramble the Eggs
- Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Add the beaten eggs to the empty space and scramble until just set.
- Step 5: Incorporate the Rice
- Add day-old rice to the pan and break up any clumps with a spatula.
- Drizzle in soy sauce, white pepper, and sugar, then mix well.
- Step 6: Mix in Chicken and Garlic Butter
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir everything together.
- Add 2 tablespoons of garlic butter and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes to evenly coat the rice in flavor.
- Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Turn off the heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Benihana Chicken Fried Rice!
- Equipment Needed for Benihana Chicken Fried Rice
- To achieve the perfect teppanyaki-style fried rice at home, having the right equipment is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
Notes
Customize the Protein: Swap the chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu for a different take on this recipe.
Storage Tip: Leftover fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
