benihana chicken fried rice recipe

Delicious Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe at Home

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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.

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.

  1. 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.
  2. Add thinly sliced chicken breast (or chicken thighs) and stir-fry until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink.
  3. Next, add your favorite vegetables like carrots, peas, and scallions. Stir-fry until they’re tender-crisp.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

benihana chicken fried rice

“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.

IngredientQuantityPreparation
Carrots1 cupFinely diced
Onions1 cupFinely diced
Celery1 cupFinely diced
Bell peppers1 cupFinely diced
Chicken breast2 cupsCooked 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.

Vegetable fried rice with chicken

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.

IngredientQuantity
Butter, softened1/4 cup
Garlic, minced2 cloves
Soy sauce1 tablespoon
Soy sauce2 tablespoons
Sesame oil1 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.

DishCaloriesPrep TimeCooking Time
Benihana Chicken Fried Rice370 calories per serving35 minutes15 minutes
Hibachi-Style Grilled Vegetables150 calories per serving20 minutes10 minutes
Benihana Teriyaki Chicken280 calories per serving30 minutes20 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

What is the secret ingredient in Benihana’s chicken fried rice?

The secret ingredient is garlic butter. It gives the rice its unique flavor.

Why is safflower oil preferred for this recipe?

Safflower oil is chosen for its high smoke point. This helps in sautéing and frying the ingredients right.

How important is using day-old rice for this recipe?

Day-old rice is key for the right texture. It fries up better and is chewier.

What are the key ingredients in this Benihana chicken fried rice recipe?

The main ingredients are white rice, avocado or safflower oil, and onion. Garlic, cooked chicken, and black pepper are also important. Frozen mixed vegetables, eggs, soy sauce, sesame oil, butter, and green onions round out the list.

What equipment is best for making this fried rice?

A large non-stick skillet or wok is best. It helps in sautéing and frying the ingredients well.

How important is temperature control when making this fried rice?

Temperature control is very important. It helps in sautéing the ingredients right and getting the texture just right.

How should the rice be prepared in advance?

Cook the rice, fluff it, and spread it in a shallow container. Refrigerate it overnight. This makes the rice perfect for fried rice.

How should the vegetables and chicken be prepared?

Dice the vegetables finely for even cooking. Use pre-cooked, cubed chicken for convenience. Frozen mixed vegetables are also a good option.

How can the signature Benihana flavor be achieved?

Use soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic butter mixture. This combination gives the Benihana flavor.

How should the fried rice be served and stored?

Serve the fried rice hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze for 3-4 months.

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