The smell of garlic butter and the sight of fried rice being tossed brings Benihana to life. But, you can make this dish at home. With a few ingredients and some tips, you can enjoy Benihana chicken fried rice recipe.
Table of Contents
The Secret Behind Benihana’s Famous Fried Rice
If you love restaurant-style fried rice, you’ll be excited to learn Benihana’s secret. It’s all about a few key things. From the special garlic butter to the choice of oil and the use of day-old rice, these elements combine to bring the Benihana taste to your kitchen.
Understanding the Signature Garlic Butter
Benihana’s famous fried rice starts with their signature garlic butter. This mix of softened butter, light soy sauce, and grated garlic adds a rich flavor. It’s what makes their fried rice so unique.
Why Safflower Oil Makes a Difference
Benihana’s chefs use safflower oil for their fried rice. It’s because safflower oil has a high smoke point. This lets the rice sear and caramelize without burning, giving it a golden, crispy texture.
The Importance of Day-Old Rice
Day-old rice is a key part of Benihana’s restaurant style fried rice. Letting the rice sit uncovered in the fridge overnight makes it drier. This firmer texture is essential for the perfect stir-fry.
By knowing about the garlic butter, safflower oil, and day-old rice, you can make Benihana’s famous restaurant style fried rice at home. Enjoy the authentic Benihana experience in your own kitchen.
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Making Benihana-style chicken fried rice at home needs the right ingredients. The secret is in the mix of components that bring the restaurant’s flavors to life. From day-old rice to garlic and onions, each part is crucial for a tasty dish.
The dish’s heart is chicken. It should be cooked well and cut into small pieces. Alongside, vegetables like frozen mixed veggies, carrots, mushrooms, and zucchini add color and nutrients.
- White rice (preferably day-old and chilled)
- Avocado or safflower oil
- Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Cooked chicken, diced
- Black pepper
- Frozen mixed vegetables
- Eggs, lightly beaten
- Soy sauce
- Sesame oil
- Butter
- Green onions, sliced
Soy sauce and sesame oil are key for the Benihana taste. They give the dish a savory and nutty flavor. A bit of butter and green onions add richness and a fresh finish.
With these ingredients, you can make a chicken fried rice copycat that’s just like Benihana. Enjoy a healthy chicken fried rice that’s as good as the original.
Kitchen Equipment and Preparation Tips
Making the perfect easy chicken fried rice at home needs the right tools and techniques. For that Benihana taste, use a large non-stick skillet or a wok. This gives you enough room for sautéing and frying.
Choosing the Right Pan
A large, non-stick skillet or a traditional wok is best for easy chicken fried rice. Woks are great because their wide, sloping sides make tossing and mixing easy. Plus, the non-stick surface keeps the rice from sticking to the pan.
Temperature Control Techniques
Keeping the right temperature is key for that Benihana fried rice texture. Start by heating the pan high, then adjust the heat to avoid burning or overcooking. This ensures the rice gets a nice sear and smoky flavor.
Rice Preparation Methods
- Start with chilled, day-old cooked rice for the best results. Day-old rice is drier and cooler, which is perfect for fried rice.
- Rinse the cooked rice under cold water to remove excess starch. Then, spread it out on a baking sheet and refrigerate until ready. This helps the rice dry out and prevents stickiness during stir-frying.
By following these tips, you’ll get great at making easy chicken fried rice at home, just like Benihana pros.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Learn how to make the perfect benihana chicken fried rice recipe at home. These simple steps will guide you to a delicious hibachi-style fried rice. It will take your taste buds on a journey to Benihana’s famous theatrical dining.
- Begin by sautéing diced onions and minced garlic in a hot wok or large skillet. Use a neutral oil like avocado or canola oil. Cook until the onions are translucent and the garlic smells great.
- Add thinly sliced chicken breast (or chicken thighs) and stir-fry until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Next, add your favorite vegetables like carrots, peas, and scallions. Stir-fry until they’re tender-crisp.
- Make a well in the center of the wok or skillet. Pour in a few beaten eggs. Scramble them gently, then mix them with the vegetables and chicken.
- Finally, add your cooked rice to the wok or skillet. Mix in soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, white pepper, and sesame oil. Toss until the rice is coated and heated evenly.
- For extra flavor, stir in a tablespoon of garlic butter. This is made by mixing melted butter with minced garlic.
The whole cooking process should take about 15-20 minutes. This lets the ingredients blend perfectly, creating the Benihana fried rice experience. Make sure to adjust the heat to keep the rice separate and the flavors bright.

“The key to a great fried rice is to cook each component separately before combining them for the perfect texture and flavor.”
By following these steps, you can make the tasty benihana chicken fried rice recipe at home. It will bring an authentic hibachi-style experience to your family and friends.
Mastering the Perfect Rice Texture
To get the Benihana texture for your authentic chicken fried rice, start with the right rice. A few key techniques can make your japanese rice recipe stand out.
Rice Washing Techniques
First, wash the rice until the water is clear. This removes extra starch that can make the rice sticky. Rub the grains gently between your palms to get rid of all starch.
Proper Rice-to-Water Ratio
For cooking, use a 1:1 ratio of rice to water. This ensures each grain cooks well and absorbs just the right moisture. You’ll get a light and fluffy texture.
Cooling and Storage Methods
After cooking, fluff the rice with a fork. Spread it out in a large, shallow container. Let it cool completely before refrigerating it overnight. This step is key for the perfect fried rice texture, as it helps grains separate and prevents sticking.
“The key to Benihana’s famous fried rice is all in the rice preparation. By following these simple techniques, you can recreate the restaurant’s signature texture at home.”
With these tips, you’re ready to make authentic chicken fried rice just like Benihana. Use the right ingredients and cooking methods. Your dish will impress everyone.
Vegetable and Protein Preparation
To make the best vegetable fried rice with chicken or healthy chicken fried rice, start with the veggies and protein. Cut the veggies into small pieces so they cook evenly and mix well with the rice. Use a mix of fresh and frozen veggies for taste and ease.
Begin by finely chopping the following veggies:
- Carrots
- Onions
- Celery
- Bell peppers (any color)
For the protein, choose pre-cooked, cubed chicken for quick prep. Or, grill and dice chicken breasts for extra flavor. Adding shrimp or tofu can also spice up your dish.
Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
---|---|---|
Carrots | 1 cup | Finely diced |
Onions | 1 cup | Finely diced |
Celery | 1 cup | Finely diced |
Bell peppers | 1 cup | Finely diced |
Chicken breast | 2 cups | Cooked and diced |
For a quick fix, use frozen mixed veggies instead of chopping each one. Adjust the amounts to get the right mix of veggies and rice.

For a tasty vegetable fried rice with chicken or healthy chicken fried rice, focus on prep. Make sure to dice the veggies and chicken well. This will make your dish both flavorful and fulfilling.
Creating Benihana’s Signature Flavors
Discover the secret to Benihana’s famous fried rice. It’s all about mastering the art of mixing flavors. The trick is blending a few key ingredients just right.
Garlic Butter Mixture Recipe
First, make a garlic butter mix. Mix softened butter, minced garlic, and a bit of soy sauce. This mix will give your fried rice that Benihana flavor.
Seasoning Combinations
To get Benihana-style fried rice, balance your seasonings well. Use soy sauce, sesame oil, and your garlic butter mix. But watch the soy sauce, too much makes it too salty.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Butter, softened | 1/4 cup |
Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
Soy sauce | 1 tablespoon |
Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
Sesame oil | 1 tablespoon |
By balancing these flavors, you can make Benihana’s restaurant style fried rice at home. Adjust the mix to match your taste.
Plating and Serving Suggestions
Serve your hibachi chicken fried rice hot. Add sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This will bring the authentic Benihana flavors right to your plate.
For a full Benihana meal, pair your authentic chicken fried rice with other hibachi dishes. Grilled veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, and onions are great. A side of teriyaki chicken or steak will make it even better.
Dish | Calories | Prep Time | Cooking Time |
---|---|---|---|
Benihana Chicken Fried Rice | 370 calories per serving | 35 minutes | 15 minutes |
Hibachi-Style Grilled Vegetables | 150 calories per serving | 20 minutes | 10 minutes |
Benihana Teriyaki Chicken | 280 calories per serving | 30 minutes | 20 minutes |
By mixing the hibachi chicken fried rice with other dishes, you can bring Benihana’s lively flavors to your kitchen.
Storage Tips and Leftover Management
Benihana chicken fried rice can be enjoyed for days, not just during the meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add water or oil to a skillet and heat over medium. Make sure it reaches 140°F (60°C).
For longer storage, freeze the fried rice for 3-4 months. Cool leftovers, then put them in airtight containers or freezer bags. Squeeze out air before sealing. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave, ensuring it’s hot.
Follow these tips to enjoy your Benihana chicken fried rice for longer. With a bit of prep, you’ll have tasty easy chicken fried rice whenever you want.
FAQ
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Source Links
- Benihana Chicken Fried Rice – https://dashfordinner.com/benihana-chicken-fried-rice/
- Benihana Fried Rice – https://insanelygoodrecipes.com/benihana-fried-rice/
- Perfect Hibachi Chicken {Benihana Copycat} – The Girl on Bloor – https://thegirlonbloor.com/hibachi-chicken/
- On Copy Cat Eggless Benihana Chicken Fried Rice – https://therealcookingmaggie.com/2024/04/25/on-copy-cat-eggless-benihana-chicken-fried-rice/
- 3 Simple Steps to Make Benihana Fried Rice at Home – https://www.sparkvegetarian.com/benihana-fried-rice/
- Hibachi-Style Steak Fried Rice Recipe – Tasting Table – https://www.tastingtable.com/1542505/hibachi-style-steak-fried-rice-recipe/
- Yum Yum Sauce – https://www.daringgourmet.com/yum-yum-sauce/
- Hibachi Restaurant-Style Fried Rice (Benihana Copycat) – https://thesassyfoodie.com/hibachi-fried-rice/
- Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe – Step-by-Step Guide – https://www.dijafood.com/benihana-chicken-fried-rice-recipe/
- Benihana Fried Rice – https://forktospoon.com/air-fryer-benihana-chicken-fried-rice/
- Chicken Fried Rice – Restaurant Quality! (VIDEO) – CJ Eats Recipes – https://cjeatsrecipes.com/chicken-fried-rice/
- Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe – https://recipefairy.com/benihana-fried-rice/
- 5 Easy Rice Recipes to Spice Up Dinner – The Girl on Bloor – https://thegirlonbloor.com/5-easy-rice-recipes-to-spice-up-dinner/
- Ultimate Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe at Home – https://www.tastetriumph.com/benihana-chicken-fried-rice-recipe/
- Copycat Benihana Ginger Salad Dressing – https://copykat.com/benihana-salad-dressing-you-may-not-be-able-to-go-out-to-benihana-every-night-for-dinner-but-you-can-make-one-of-their-salad-dressings-at-home/
- Best Benihana Ginger Salad Dressing Copycat Recipe To Make At Home! – https://bakeitwithlove.com/benihana-ginger-salad-dressing-recipe/
- Hibachi Ginger Sauce: A Quick & Tasty Hibachi Dipping Sauce Recipe! – https://bakeitwithlove.com/hibachi-ginger-sauce/
- Easy Copycat Benihana Hibachi Vegetables Recipe – https://fancyaproncooking.com/4031/easy-copycat-benihana-hibachi-vegetables-recipe/