Hibachi Style Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself craving restaurant-quality comfort food at home, then this Hibachi Style Chicken Fried Rice is exactly what you need. Bursting with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and perfectly seasoned rice, this dish combines simple ingredients to create an irresistible medley of flavors and textures. Each bite is a delightful journey, perfectly balancing savory soy sauce, the warmth of garlic and ginger, and the nutty aroma of sesame oil. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this Hibachi Style Chicken Fried Rice will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Hibachi Style Chicken Fried Rice lies in its straightforward but essential ingredients. Each one adds its own signature touch—whether it’s tender chicken, crisp veggies, or the subtle kick from garlic and ginger. Together, they build both texture and flavor that sing in harmony.

• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs: Bite-sized pieces that cook quickly and soak up the savory marinade.
• 2 large eggs: Scrambled to add richness and a fluffy texture to the rice.
• 4 cups cooked white rice: Preferably day-old to ensure it fries up perfectly without getting mushy.
• 1/2 cup chopped onions: Brings sweetness and depth when sautéed.
• 1/2 cup diced carrots: Adds a pop of color and slight crunch.
• 1/2 cup peas: Bright green bursts of freshness and natural sweetness.
• 2 green onions: Chopped for garnish to finish the dish with a fresh, mild onion flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that unmistakable fragrant base.
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced: Provides a subtle warmth and slight zing.
• 2 tbsp vegetable or canola oil: For high-heat cooking without overpowering the flavors.
• 1 tbsp sesame oil: Adds that signature nutty aroma and taste.
• 3 tbsp soy sauce: The salty, umami backbone—low sodium option if preferred.

How to Make Hibachi Style Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly and quickly. Give them a quick marinade with a splash of soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger for added depth. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sauté until it turns a beautiful golden brown and is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside—this step seals in the juiciness and builds that lovely color.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

Using the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed to prevent sticking. Crack in the eggs and scramble them gently and quickly until just set. You want them soft and fluffy rather than over-cooked. Push the eggs to one side of the pan to make room for the veggies.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Next, toss in the chopped onions, diced carrots, and peas. Stir-fry these until they become tender but still retain a bit of crispness and that vibrant color. This contrast of textures is crucial in keeping the dish lively and satisfying.

Step 4: Combine Rice and Mix

Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Mix in the garlic and ginger to evenly distribute those incredible flavors throughout the rice and veggies. This is where the dish starts transforming into the beloved Hibachi Style Chicken Fried Rice you know and love.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Finish

Return the cooked chicken to the pan and drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over everything. Stir-fry it all together until the rice is heated through and everything’s coated with the irresistible savory glaze. Finish by tossing in the chopped green onions for a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness perfectly.

How to Serve Hibachi Style Chicken Fried Rice

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped green onions is classic and brings a lovely fresh crunch and color contrast. If you like an extra hint of zest, a few toasted sesame seeds add a subtle nutty crunch that complements the sesame oil beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Hibachi Style Chicken Fried Rice shines as a main dish, but you can elevate your meal with sides like steamed or stir-fried vegetables, a bowl of miso soup, or even crispy egg rolls for a little extra indulgence. Each side adds a wonderful layer of texture and flavor diversity to your dining experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Plate the fried rice in a neat mound and garnish with extra green onions or fresh cilantro for a pop of green. Serving it in small cast iron skillets or even inside pineapple bowls can turn your meal into a festive occasion. For dinner parties, setting out small bowls of soy sauce and chili oil lets everyone customize to their taste, making the experience interactive and fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Hibachi Style Chicken Fried Rice keeps well when stored properly. Transfer leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or second-night dinners.

Freezing

If you want to stash some away for longer, this fried rice freezes wonderfully. Cool it completely, then pack it tightly in freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing much of its flavor or texture. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, the best method is a quick stir-fry in a hot pan with a splash of oil to revive that fresh-fried texture. Alternatively, use a microwave but do so in short bursts and stir between intervals to prevent drying out. Adding a little extra soy sauce or a drizzle of sesame oil during reheating helps keep the flavors vibrant.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for Hibachi Style Chicken Fried Rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice works just fine and adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Just keep in mind it might take a little longer to heat through and has a chewier texture than white rice.

Is it necessary to use day-old rice?

Day-old rice is recommended because it’s drier and less likely to become mushy when fried. If you’re using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a tray and let it cool and dry out a bit before using for the best results.

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Definitely! Shrimp, tofu, or even thinly sliced beef can be swapped in to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to make sure your protein is cooked perfectly.

Is this recipe spicy?

This Hibachi Style Chicken Fried Rice is not spicy by default, making it perfect for all palates. However, you can easily add heat with chili flakes, Sriracha, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.

How important is the sesame oil to the dish?

Sesame oil adds a distinctive nutty aroma and rich depth that makes the fried rice taste authentically hibachi style. While you can omit it if needed, the dish will definitely be more special and flavorful with it.

Final Thoughts

Whipping up this Hibachi Style Chicken Fried Rice at home brings the joy of hibachi dining right to your kitchen. It’s simple enough to make on a busy weeknight, but impressive enough to serve to guests. Once you taste the perfect balance of savory chicken, crisp vegetables, and fluffy rice, you’ll understand why it’s a cherished favorite. Give it a try and let it become your go-to comfort meal—you might just find yourself craving it again and again!

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