Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of your favorite hibachi grill straight to your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a delicious meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy rice makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This restaurant-style chicken fried rice can be made in under an hour, making it a fantastic option for busy evenings.
  • Flavorful Experience: Packed with savory soy sauce and aromatic sesame oil, every bite bursts with flavor that rivals takeout.
  • Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personal touch.
  • One-Pan Wonder: With all ingredients cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze!
  • Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Spatula
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
  • Spatula: Ideal for stirring and tossing the rice and vegetables to ensure even cooking.

Ingredients

We took this recipe straight from the hibachi grill and our mega-popular Hibachi Chicken recipe for a perfect restaurant-style meal made at home.

For the Chicken

  • 1 ½ teaspoons sesame oil
  • 4 teaspoons neutral oil (like avocado or canola; 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon, divided)
  • ¾ pound chicken breasts (cut into very small pieces, roughly half of bite-sized)

For the Flavor Base

  • 5 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (divided)
  • 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
  • salt (to taste)
  • pepper (to taste)

For the Vegetables and Rice

  • ½ cup diced white onion
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 cups cooked rice (cool to touch, see Notes)
  • sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

  1. Gather all your ingredients. Ensure the cooked rice is cool to touch as this will help prevent clumping during cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden brown and fully cooked.
  3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

  1. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of neutral oil.
  2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
  3. Stir in frozen mixed vegetables and cook until heated through.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet.
  2. Add remaining butter to melt before incorporating cooked rice into the pan.
  3. Pour in soy sauce, sesame oil, lemon juice, and stir everything together.

Step 5: Scramble Eggs

  1. Create space in the center of the pan, crack in the eggs, and scramble them gently until fully cooked.
  2. Mix everything together until combined thoroughly.

Step 6: Final Touches

  1. Taste your fried rice; adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice!

How to Serve Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Serving Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is about enhancing the flavors and presentation. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes, making it perfect for any meal.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

  • Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
  • Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a nutty flavor and delightful texture.
  • Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens the dish, adding a zesty kick.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

  • Soy Sauce: A classic choice that enhances the umami flavor of the rice.
  • Sriracha: For those who like a spicy kick, drizzling Sriracha adds heat and depth.
  • Hoisin Sauce: A sweet and tangy sauce that complements the savory notes of chicken fried rice.

Serve with Protein Options

  • Grilled Shrimp: Juicy grilled shrimp add elegance and extra protein to your meal.
  • Teriyaki Chicken: Complement your fried rice with teriyaki chicken for a delicious fusion.
  • Fried Tofu: For a vegetarian option, crispy fried tofu is a great pairing.
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How to Perfect Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

To achieve the best results with your Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice, follow these tips. Perfecting this dish will ensure delicious flavors every time.

  • Use Day-Old Rice: Using cold, day-old rice prevents mushiness and allows for better texture when frying.
  • High Heat Cooking: Cooking on high heat helps achieve that signature wok hei flavor found in restaurant dishes.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too much at once can cause steaming instead of frying; work in batches if necessary.
  • Season Gradually: Add soy sauce gradually to control saltiness and enhance flavors without overpowering the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Pairing side dishes with your Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

  1. Egg Rolls: Crunchy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat make a delightful appetizer.
  2. Spring Rolls: Light and fresh spring rolls offer a contrast to the warm fried rice.
  3. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles provide a refreshing side that complements the flavors of fried rice.
  4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds comfort and depth to your meal experience.
  5. Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with meat or vegetables pair beautifully with fried rice.
  6. Asian Salad: A crisp salad dressed in sesame vinaigrette adds brightness and crunch alongside your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice at home is simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your dish. Here are some tips to ensure your fried rice is perfect.

  • Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice can become mushy when fried. Use rice that has been cooked and cooled for at least a couple of hours or overnight.
  • Overcrowding the pan: Adding too many ingredients at once can lower the pan’s temperature, causing steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches for the best texture.
  • Skipping the oil: Oil is crucial for preventing sticking and achieving that lovely crispiness. Don’t skimp on the oil; use enough to coat the pan well.
  • Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season adequately can lead to bland fried rice. Taste as you go and adjust with soy sauce, salt, or pepper as needed.
  • Not chopping ingredients finely: Large chunks of chicken or vegetables can disrupt even cooking. Make sure everything is diced small for uniformity.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container.
  • Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

  • Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
  • Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

  • Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread rice on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
  • Microwave: Place rice in a microwave-safe bowl, sprinkle with water, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
  • Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or oil, and stir-fry until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice, you’re not alone! Below are some frequently asked queries.

How do I make my fried rice taste like at a restaurant?

To achieve that restaurant-quality flavor, use high-quality soy sauce and sesame oil. Also, don’t forget to fry the rice on high heat for a nice char.

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover chicken works great in Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice. Just chop it into small pieces before adding it to the pan.

Is there a vegetarian version of Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken with tofu or more vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian option.

What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Day-old jasmine or basmati rice is ideal for making Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice due to its firmer texture after cooling.

Final Thoughts

Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite proteins or vegetables to suit your taste. Give this delightful dish a try; it’s perfect for any occasion!

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Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice


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  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Transform your kitchen into a hibachi grill with this Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, this dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy rice tossed in savory soy sauce and aromatic sesame oil. It’s not just quick and easy to prepare; it’s also customizable to fit your taste preferences. Whether you’re using leftover chicken or adding extra veggies, this one-pan wonder is sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy a delightful meal that captures the essence of your favorite takeout right at home!


Ingredients

Scale
  • ¾ pound chicken breasts (cut into small pieces)
  • 4 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
  • ½ cup diced white onion
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas and carrots)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 5 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 ½ teaspoons sesame oil
  • 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown. Remove from skillet.
  2. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Sauté diced onion until translucent, then stir in mixed vegetables until heated through.
  3. Push vegetables aside, melt remaining butter in the center, then add cooked rice, soy sauce, sesame oil, and lemon juice. Mix well.
  4. Make space for eggs in the center of the pan, scramble them until cooked, then combine everything thoroughly.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with optional sesame seeds for garnish.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 430
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 660mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg

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