Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

What sets Benihana apart is their skillful use of simple ingredients, turned extraordinary by precise techniques and a secret ingredient or two. From the satisfying crunch of freshly seared chicken to the soft, buttery rice flavored with garlic and sesame, every bite feels indulgent yet achievable in your own kitchen.

1. The Origins of Benihana’s Chicken Fried Rice

History of Benihana Restaurant

Benihana first opened its doors in 1964 in New York City, founded by Hiroaki “Rocky” Aoki. Inspired by the teppanyaki cooking style in Japan, Aoki aimed to bring a unique dining experience to American patrons. At Benihana, chefs perform cooking theatrics on a flat iron griddle, blending entertainment with delectable meals. Fried rice, a staple of teppanyaki cooking, quickly became a signature item on the menu.

Evolution of Their Fried Rice Recipe

What began as a simple side dish evolved into a showstopper, with chefs tossing rice mid-air and searing it with their signature garlic butter. Over the years, the recipe has been fine-tuned to balance flavors perfectly, making it a must-have accompaniment to steak, chicken, or shrimp hibachi. The addition of fresh vegetables and precise seasoning ensures each batch is made to perfection.

2. Essential Ingredients for Authentic Flavor

Creating Benihana’s chicken fried rice at home begins with gathering the right ingredients. While the dish itself seems straightforward, the magic lies in the quality and preparation of its components. Let’s explore what makes each ingredient essential to replicating the iconic flavor.

Rice Selection: Jasmine vs. Short-Grain

The foundation of any fried rice recipe is, of course, the rice. At Benihana, day-old jasmine or medium-grain rice is preferred. These varieties have just the right balance of starchiness to create a slightly chewy yet fluffy texture when stir-fried. Avoid sticky or long-grain rice varieties, as they can clump together and disrupt the balance of the dish.

The Importance of Day-Old Rice

Using day-old rice is crucial. Freshly cooked rice contains too much moisture, making it prone to turning mushy during frying. Chilling the rice overnight allows the grains to firm up, making them easier to separate in the pan. This step is non-negotiable for achieving the perfect fried rice texture.

Protein Choices: Chicken, Shrimp, or Tofu

Benihana’s signature version uses diced chicken, seared until golden and juicy. However, shrimp or tofu are excellent alternatives, offering their unique textures and flavors. If using shrimp, opt for medium-sized, peeled, and deveined ones. For a vegetarian option, firm tofu works well after being pressed and cubed.

Vegetables: Carrots, Onions, and Green Onions

A vibrant medley of vegetables adds both flavor and color to the dish. Diced carrots, chopped onions, and sliced green onions are staples. The carrots add a subtle sweetness, while the onions bring a savory depth. Green onions, added at the end, provide a fresh, aromatic finish.

Seasonings: Soy Sauce, Garlic Butter, and Sesame Oil

Three key seasonings define the flavor profile of Benihana’s fried rice:

• Soy Sauce: Choose a light soy sauce to season the rice without overpowering it.
• Garlic Butter: This secret ingredient gives the dish its rich, indulgent flavor. A blend of butter, minced garlic, and a hint of soy sauce creates the perfect savory base.
• Sesame Oil: Just a splash adds a nutty aroma and enhances the authentic hibachi flavor.

By assembling these high-quality ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to recreating the authentic taste of Benihana fried rice.

3. Preparing the Rice

The preparation of the rice is as important as the cooking itself. Skipping steps or rushing through this process can compromise the dish’s texture and flavor.

Rinsing and Cooking Techniques

Start by thoroughly rinsing the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. This step ensures that the grains don’t clump together. For cooking, use a rice cooker or stovetop method, adding just enough water to keep the grains separate but tender. A ratio of 1 cup of rice to 1 ½ cups of water typically works well.

Cooling and Storing for Optimal Texture

Once cooked, spread the rice on a baking sheet to cool. Refrigerate it uncovered overnight to allow excess moisture to evaporate. Cold, dry rice is ideal for achieving that coveted crispiness during frying.

4. Crafting the Signature Garlic Butter

One of Benihana’s most closely guarded secrets is their garlic butter. This velvety, aromatic blend takes the fried rice to the next level. Luckily, it’s surprisingly simple to recreate at home.

Ingredients and Proportions

To make garlic butter, you’ll need:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves of garlic, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, soy sauce, and lemon juice.
2. Stir until the ingredients are well incorporated and the butter is smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to parchment paper, roll it into a log shape, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Alternative Methods

For a shortcut, use pre-minced garlic and soften the butter slightly in the microwave. However, freshly minced garlic provides a more robust flavor.

This garlic butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for future use. It’s versatile and works well with other dishes, from vegetables to steaks.

5. Cooking Techniques for Hibachi-Style Fried Rice

The hallmark of Benihana chicken fried rice lies in its precise cooking techniques. Replicating the hibachi-style requires attention to detail, the right equipment, and a few insider tips to achieve restaurant-quality results.

Equipment Needed: Wok vs. Skillet

For an authentic hibachi experience, a wok is the best tool. Its high sides and rounded bottom allow for even heat distribution and efficient stirring. However, a large, heavy-bottomed skillet works just as well if a wok isn’t available. Non-stick options are ideal for beginners, as they reduce the risk of rice sticking during the frying process.

Heat Management and Cooking Order

High heat is essential for creating the slightly charred, smoky flavor signature to fried rice. Preheat your wok or skillet for a few minutes before adding oil. Begin by cooking the proteins, then the vegetables, and finally, the rice. Each component is added sequentially to ensure nothing overcooks or loses its texture.

1. Cook the chicken: Sear diced chicken pieces in a little sesame oil until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Add diced onions and carrots, cooking until they soften slightly.
3. Fry the rice: Push the vegetables to the side, add the day-old rice, and spread it evenly across the wok. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes without stirring to develop a slight crisp.

Achieving the Perfect Sear on Proteins

For the chicken, patting it dry with a paper towel before cooking ensures a good sear. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this lowers the temperature and results in steaming rather than browning.

6. Step-by-Step Recipe Guide 

This step-by-step guide will help you assemble all the elements into a cohesive, delicious dish.

Ingredients

• 2 cups day-old rice
• 1 cup diced cooked chicken
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup diced carrots
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons garlic butter

Instructions

1. Prepare your wok or skillet: Heat the pan over high heat and add sesame oil. Swirl to coat the surface evenly.
2. Cook the chicken: Add the diced chicken, stirring occasionally until it’s golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté vegetables: Add onions and carrots to the wok. Cook until the onions become translucent.
4. Add rice: Push the vegetables to one side and add the day-old rice. Spread it out to maximize contact with the hot surface. Let it sit undisturbed for 1-2 minutes to develop a slight crisp.
5. Combine ingredients: Mix the rice with the vegetables, then stir in the chicken. Add soy sauce and garlic butter, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
6. Finish with green onions: Stir in the sliced green onions for a fresh, aromatic touch.
7. Serve immediately: Plate the fried rice and enjoy it while it’s hot.

Chef’s Tips for Authenticity

• Use a squeeze bottle for soy sauce to mimic the precise, controlled drizzle used by hibachi chefs.
• Flip and toss the rice occasionally with a spatula to replicate the theatrical flair of a Benihana chef.

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the Pan

Adding too much rice or too many ingredients at once lowers the pan’s temperature, leading to steaming rather than frying. Work in batches if necessary to maintain the high heat.

Using Freshly Cooked Rice

As tempting as it may be, freshly cooked rice contains too much moisture. Always use chilled, day-old rice for the best results.

Overuse of Soy Sauce

While soy sauce is a key ingredient, overdoing it can make the rice too salty and mask the delicate flavors of the other components. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

8. Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about Benihana’s chicken fried rice recipe is its versatility. You can adapt the recipe to suit dietary needs, flavor preferences, or available ingredients.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with tofu or additional vegetables. Firm tofu works best—cut it into cubes, pat it dry, and sear it until golden before adding to the rice. For a vegan version, substitute the garlic butter with vegan butter and use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free and vegan-friendly dish.

Incorporating Different Proteins

Shrimp, beef, or pork are excellent alternatives to chicken. Shrimp should be cooked until they turn pink and slightly charred, while thinly sliced beef or pork can be quickly stir-fried until tender. For a seafood twist, add crab meat or scallops for a luxurious touch.

Adjusting Seasonings to Taste

Experimenting with seasonings can make the dish uniquely yours. Add a hint of ginger for warmth or a splash of oyster sauce for a savory depth. If you enjoy spicy food, a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of red chili flakes can elevate the flavor.

9. Serving Suggestions

Benihana’s chicken fried rice is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with complementary dishes can create a true Japanese steakhouse dining experience.

Pairing with Other Dishes

• Hibachi-Style Steak: Slices of seared steak seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil pair beautifully with the fried rice.
• Miso Soup: A bowl of warm miso soup makes for a comforting side dish.
• Hibachi Vegetables: Stir-fried zucchini, mushrooms, and bean sprouts add variety and nutrition.

Presentation Tips for an Authentic Experience

Serve the fried rice on warm plates to mimic the restaurant experience. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or extra green onions for a polished look. For added flair, use a small bowl to shape the rice into neat mounds before plating.

10. Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content of your dish is helpful, especially for those tracking their intake or seeking healthier substitutions.

Caloric Breakdown

A standard serving of chicken fried rice contains approximately:

• Calories: 400-500 per serving
• Protein: 25-30 grams (depending on the chicken portion)
• Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
• Fats: 15-20 grams (largely from butter and sesame oil)

Macronutrient Content

The dish is a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, making it a satisfying meal for most diets.

Healthier Substitutions

• Use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber.
• Reduce the amount of butter and sesame oil to lower the fat content.
• Swap chicken thighs with chicken breast for a leaner protein option.

11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What type of oil is used at Benihana?
Benihana chefs typically use a blend of sesame oil and vegetable oil. This combination provides a light, nutty flavor and helps achieve the high smoke point needed for hibachi-style cooking.

What is the secret ingredient to restaurant fried rice?
The secret to Benihana’s fried rice lies in their garlic butter. This rich, savory blend of butter, garlic, soy sauce, and lemon juice adds depth and a restaurant-quality flavor to the dish.

Why does Chinese restaurant fried rice taste so good?
Chinese fried rice owes its flavor to the use of high heat, day-old rice, and umami-rich seasonings like soy sauce and oyster sauce. Benihana adds their twist with garlic butter and perfectly seared proteins.

How do you cook Benihana frozen chicken fried rice?
To cook Benihana frozen fried rice, preheat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil, then pour in the frozen rice. Stir occasionally until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy. For extra flavor, add a bit of soy sauce or garlic butter.

Can I use freshly cooked rice?
While freshly cooked rice is tempting, it tends to clump and become mushy. Using day-old, chilled rice ensures the grains remain separate and achieve the desired texture.

How can I make it gluten-free?
Substitute soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Ensure all other seasonings and sauces used are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Making Benihana chicken fried rice recipe at home is easier than you might think. With high-quality ingredients, the right techniques, and a touch of garlic butter magic, you can bring the flavors of the hibachi grill to your own kitchen. Whether you’re recreating a fond dining experience or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike.

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