If you’ve ever craved that perfectly seasoned, restaurant-style rice that accompanies hibachi grill meals, then you are going to adore this Hibachi-Style Chicken Fried Rice Recipe. It’s a vibrant, satisfying dish packed with tender chicken pieces, colorful veggies, fluffy scrambled eggs, and the unmistakable nutty aroma of sesame oil. Each bite delivers that crave-worthy balance of rich umami flavors and comforting textures, taking your taste buds on an exciting trip to a Japanese steakhouse without leaving your kitchen. This quick and easy recipe is a surefire way to bring a sizzling flavorful experience to your dinner table any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is what makes this dish shine. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering the authentic taste, perfect texture, and inviting color that defines hibachi chicken fried rice.
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or long-grain white rice (preferably day-old): Day-old rice helps achieve that ideal fluffy, non-mushy texture in fried rice.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced: Tender chicken provides protein and absorbs savory flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: The essential salty umami base that seasons the entire dish.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a rich, toasty aroma that defines the hibachi flavor profile.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided: Needed for stir-frying and ensuring every ingredient cooks evenly without sticking.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Provides moistness and creaminess while creating that classic fried rice texture.
- ½ cup diced onion: Offers sweetness and a subtle crunch, balancing savory notes.
- ½ cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed: Brightens the dish with color and gentle sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, fragrant depth that elevates the entire recipe.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds creamy richness and rounds out the flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing and balancing every bite.
- Optional: chopped green onions and extra soy sauce for garnish: Fresh green onions add a burst of color and flavor, while extra soy sauce allows for customized seasoning.
How to Make Hibachi-Style Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken Perfectly
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced chicken pieces, seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. Allow them to cook undisturbed for a few minutes until they develop a golden brown crust, then stir occasionally for a total of about 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through. Once ready, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside, so you can focus on building layers of flavor in the next steps.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil and toss in the diced onions. Let them cook down for about 2 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds, releasing a delightful aroma without burning it. Next, add the thawed peas and carrots, sautéing for 2 more minutes until they are tender but still retain a bit of snap, bringing freshness and eye-catching color to your dish.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
Push the cooked vegetables toward one side of the pan to clear some space. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble them gently, coaxing soft, fluffy curds that will blend seamlessly with the other ingredients. Once the eggs are fully cooked, combine them with the vegetables, creating a harmonious mix of textures and flavors.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Rice and Combine
Add the day-old rice to the pan, breaking apart any stubborn clumps with your spatula. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes, ensuring each grain is well-coated and heated through. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, then drizzle in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and butter. Toss everything energetically until the butter melts and all ingredients are evenly coated in that luscious, savory glaze. Give it a final taste and adjust the salt and pepper if necessary.
How to Serve Hibachi-Style Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions on top adds a burst of bright, fresh flavor and a pop of vibrant color, making the dish both visually appealing and irresistible. For those seeking a little extra kick, a light drizzle of soy sauce or even a bit of spicy mayo can complement the dish perfectly.
Side Dishes
This Hibachi-Style Chicken Fried Rice Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed or grilled vegetables, a crisp Asian-style salad, or miso soup to round out your homemade hibachi meal. The savory richness of the fried rice balances beautifully with lighter, refreshing accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the fried rice in mini pineapple bowls or alongside grilled skewers of chicken or shrimp to elevate presentation. You can also sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or finely diced fresh chili for added texture and flavor complexity, impressing guests with an authentic Japanese steakhouse vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover hibachi-style chicken fried rice in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It stays fresh for up to 3 days and makes an excellent quick lunch or dinner option without losing those delicious flavors.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this dish for up to one month. Just be sure to cool the fried rice completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in your fridge to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat the fried rice in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil to revive that fresh-from-the-wok taste and texture. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess; stirring frequently helps keep each grain fluffy and separated.
FAQs
Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?
While fresh rice can be used, it tends to be more moist and sticky, which can result in clumpy fried rice. Day-old rice is dryer and allows for that perfect fluffy texture beloved in hibachi dishes.
Can I substitute chicken with other proteins?
Absolutely! This Hibachi-Style Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is versatile enough to swap chicken for shrimp, steak, or tofu, each giving a delightful variation to suit your preferences.
What if I don’t have sesame oil?
Sesame oil is key for authentic flavor but if you don’t have any, you can substitute with a small amount of peanut oil or omit it altogether. Just know the dish will miss that distinctive toasted aroma.
Is this recipe suitable for dairy-free diets?
You can make this dish dairy-free by simply omitting the butter or replacing it with a plant-based alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally free of dairy.
How spicy is this recipe?
This Hibachi-Style Chicken Fried Rice Recipe has no inherent spiciness but feel free to add chili flakes, Sriracha, or hot sauce during cooking or at the table for some heat.
Final Thoughts
This Hibachi-Style Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is like a warm hug on a plate—comforting, flavorful, and wonderfully satisfying every time. It’s effortless to prepare yet impressive enough to wow family and friends. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked on the authentic taste and sizzling flair it brings straight from the hibachi grill to your home kitchen. So don’t hesitate—fire up that pan and dive into a memorable meal tonight!
Print
Hibachi-Style Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
Hibachi-style chicken fried rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish inspired by Japanese steakhouse favorites. Made with tender diced chicken, fresh vegetables, scrambled eggs, and perfectly seasoned jasmine rice, all stir-fried on high heat to create a delicious, restaurant-style meal you can easily make at home.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or long-grain white rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
- Chopped green onions
- Extra soy sauce for serving
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5–6 minutes until fully cooked and browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pan, add the remaining vegetable oil and sauté the diced onion for 2 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the thawed peas and carrots and cook for another 2 minutes until tender.
- Cook the eggs: Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the empty side. Scramble the eggs gently until cooked through, then mix the eggs with the vegetables.
- Stir-fry the rice: Add the cooked rice to the pan and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, breaking up any clumps to evenly heat the rice and combine it with the vegetables and eggs.
- Combine and season: Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and butter. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or soy sauce as desired.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish the fried rice with chopped green onions and serve hot, optionally adding extra soy sauce for flavor.
Notes
- Use day-old rice for the best texture to prevent sogginess.
- For extra flavor, add hibachi-style yum yum sauce or a drizzle of teriyaki sauce.
- Swap chicken for shrimp, steak, or tofu to customize the protein.
- To make this dish dairy-free, omit the butter or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.
