Who doesn’t love the rich, buttery, and garlicky taste of Benihana chicken fried rice? This famous hibachi-style dish is a crowd-pleaser, packed with tender chicken, fluffy scrambled eggs, and perfectly seasoned rice. If you’ve ever wanted to recreate that authentic Japanese fried rice experience in your own kitchen, you’re in the right place!
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ultimate copycat Benihana chicken fried rice recipe, covering everything from selecting the right ingredients to mastering hibachi-style cooking techniques. You’ll also learn about the secret ingredient—garlic butter—that gives this dish its signature flavor. Plus, we’ll share expert tips on cooking methods, customization options, and the best sauces to serve on the side.”Benihana chicken fried rice recipe”
Table of Contents
Introduction to Benihana Chicken Fried Rice
What Makes Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Special?
Unlike regular fried rice, Benihana’s version stands out because of its rich umami flavor and hibachi-style preparation. What sets it apart?
- Garlic Butter Magic – A blend of garlic, butter, and soy sauce creates an irresistible taste.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken – Tender, juicy, and infused with a savory glaze.
- High-Heat Stir-Frying – Cooking over high heat gives the rice a smoky, slightly crispy texture.
- Day-Old Rice – Using cold, leftover rice prevents sogginess, ensuring each grain stays separate.
This unique combination makes Benihana chicken fried rice a must-try dish.
The History and Popularity of Benihana’s Fried Rice
Benihana, a world-famous teppanyaki-style restaurant, has been serving its iconic fried rice for decades. Established in 1964, the chain introduced Americans to interactive hibachi cooking, where chefs prepare meals right before your eyes.”Benihana chicken fried rice recipe”
Over time, the restaurant’s signature fried rice became a fan favorite. People love its buttery, garlicky flavor and crispy texture—and now, home cooks everywhere want to recreate it!
What You’ll Learn in This Recipe Guide
In this article, you’ll discover:
✅ The exact ingredients needed for authentic hibachi fried rice
✅ Step-by-step instructions to cook the perfect Benihana chicken fried rice
✅ Pro tips for achieving restaurant-quality texture and flavor
✅ Sauce pairings and customizable options for a personalized touch
Ingredients for Authentic Benihana Chicken Fried Rice
Creating the perfect Benihana chicken fried rice recipe starts with gathering the right ingredients. The balance of flavors—savory, garlicky, and slightly sweet—comes from a carefully selected combination of rice, chicken, vegetables, and seasonings. “Benihana chicken fried rice recipe”
Main Ingredients: Rice, Chicken, Vegetables, and More
To achieve the signature hibachi-style taste, you’ll need:
✅ Rice: Day-old jasmine rice works best, as fresh rice can turn mushy when fried. If you don’t have leftover rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for at least an hour.
✅ Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts work well. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
✅ Vegetables: A mix of finely diced onions, carrots, and peas adds texture and a pop of color.
✅ Eggs: Scrambled eggs provide richness and that classic fried rice texture.
✅ Garlic Butter: This secret ingredient is what makes Benihana chicken fried rice taste so indulgent. We’ll explain how to make it in the next section.
The Secret to the Signature Benihana Garlic Butter
One of the biggest flavor boosters in hibachi fried rice is garlic butter. This simple yet powerful ingredient consists of:
✔️ Unsalted butter – For a creamy, rich taste.
✔️ Minced garlic – Fresh garlic enhances the overall umami.
✔️ Soy sauce – Adds a salty, slightly sweet depth of flavor.
Mix these ingredients and let them sit at room temperature before using. It melts beautifully into the rice, creating that unmistakable Benihana-style flavor.”Benihana chicken fried rice recipe”
Best Soy Sauce and Seasonings for the Perfect Flavor
To season the fried rice like a hibachi chef, use:
- Low-sodium soy sauce – Adds saltiness without overpowering the dish.
- White pepper – A subtle, slightly spicy kick.
- Sesame oil – Enhances aroma and provides a nutty undertone.
- Salt and sugar – Balances flavors.
Choosing the Right Oil for Hibachi-Style Cooking
Hibachi chefs use a blend of oils for the perfect fried rice texture. Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are best, as they have high smoke points. Adding a small amount of sesame oil at the end gives an authentic Japanese fried rice aroma.”Benihana chicken fried rice recipe”
Now that we’ve covered the key ingredients, let’s move on to the most important part—preparing the rice!
Preparing the Rice – The Key to Perfect Fried Rice
The foundation of any great Benihana chicken fried rice recipe is the rice itself. If the rice isn’t cooked and stored properly, your dish could turn out mushy instead of perfectly fluffy and separated.”Benihana chicken fried rice recipe”
Why Day-Old Rice Works Best
Using day-old rice is the golden rule of making perfect fried rice. Why?
✔️ It’s drier than fresh rice, preventing clumping.
✔️ It absorbs the flavors of soy sauce and garlic butter better.
✔️ It gets that signature slightly crispy texture when fried.
If you don’t have leftover rice, no worries! Cook your rice fresh, spread it on a baking sheet, and chill it in the fridge for at least an hour to remove excess moisture.”Benihana chicken fried rice recipe”
How to Dry Out Freshly Cooked Rice for Fried Rice
If you’re in a hurry, follow these steps to dry out rice quickly:
- Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch.
- Use less water than usual about 10-15% less to make it slightly firmer.
- Spread the cooked rice onto a baking sheet in a thin layer.
- Refrigerate for at least an hour before using it in your fried rice.
Best Rice Varieties for Making Benihana-Style Fried Rice
For the most authentic hibachi fried rice, choose medium or long-grain rice, like:
🍚 Jasmine rice – The best choice for light, fluffy texture.
🍚 Basmati rice – Works well but has a slightly different fragrance.
🍚 Calrose rice – A softer alternative but still effective.
Avoid short-grain or sticky rice, as they tend to clump together.
Cooking Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Step-by-Step
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this dish to life. The secret to making restaurant-quality Benihana chicken fried rice recipe lies in the cooking technique. The key is to cook everything quickly at high heat while constantly stirring to keep the rice fluffy and separate.”Benihana chicken fried rice recipe”
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients Before Cooking
Before you start cooking, follow these steps for a smooth cooking process:
✅ Cut the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
✅ Dice the vegetables finely so they cook quickly.
✅ Whisk the eggs in a bowl and set aside.
✅ Make the garlic butter by mixing softened butter with minced garlic and soy sauce.
✅ Measure out your seasonings so you can add them quickly while cooking.
Having everything prepped ahead of time will help you stir-fry like a pro!
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken to Perfection
Heat your pan or griddle over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil.
Add the diced chicken and cook until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
Season with soy sauce, salt, and white pepper for that classic hibachi-style flavor.
Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 3: Stir-Frying the Vegetables and Rice Together
Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan. Toss in the diced onions, carrots, and peas.
Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened but still crisp.
Add the cold, prepped rice and break up any clumps using a spatula.
Drizzle in soy sauce and mix well, ensuring each grain of rice gets coated evenly.
Step 4: Adding Garlic Butter and Seasonings for Maximum Flavor
🧄 Stir in the garlic butter mixture and continue tossing the rice. This step enhances the richness of the dish.
🧄 Adjust seasonings by adding a pinch of sugar, more soy sauce, or white pepper to taste.
🧄 Keep the heat high and keep stirring to achieve that slightly crispy texture.
Step 5: Finishing Touches – Scrambled Egg and Final Tossing
🍳 Push the rice to one side of the pan and pour the whisked eggs into the empty space.
🍳 Scramble the eggs lightly, then mix them into the rice.
🍳 Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss everything together.
🍳 Drizzle a bit of sesame oil at the end for extra flavor.
And that’s it! Your homemade Benihana-style chicken fried rice is ready to serve.
Tips for Making the Best Benihana Chicken Fried Rice at Home
Even though this dish is easy to make, a few pro tips can take your Benihana chicken fried rice recipe to the next level.”Benihana chicken fried rice recipe”
Chef’s Secrets to Achieving the Signature Hibachi Flavor
Use high heat – Cooking at high heat gives the rice that signature crispy texture.
Don’t overcrowd the pan – Too many ingredients in the pan can make the rice soggy instead of fried.
Use garlic butter generously – This is what makes Benihana’s fried rice so special!
Let the rice sit before stirring – Occasionally letting the rice sit for 30 seconds allows it to slightly crisp up.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Fried Rice
Using freshly cooked rice – Unless properly dried, fresh rice can become too soft.
Adding too much soy sauce – A little goes a long way! Too much can make the rice overly salty.
Skipping the butter – Garlic butter is what gives this dish its signature taste.
How to Get the Perfect Texture – Not Too Dry, Not Too Sticky
Balance the oil – Too much oil makes rice greasy, too little makes it dry.
Toss constantly – Keeping the rice moving prevents clumping and ensures even cooking.
Add egg at the right time – Scramble it separately and then mix it in for the best consistency.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve that restaurant-quality flavor every time.
Customizing Your Benihana Chicken Fried Rice
One of the best things about the Benihana chicken fried rice recipe is how versatile it is. While the classic version is delicious on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences.”Benihana chicken fried rice recipe”
Adding Shrimp, Beef, or Other Proteins
Want to mix things up? Here are some popular protein options you can add:
🍤 Shrimp: Cook shrimp separately and toss it in during the final steps. Shrimp cooks fast, so it only needs 2-3 minutes per side.
🥩 Beef: Thinly sliced steak, like ribeye or sirloin, makes for a heartier dish. Sear the beef first, then add it back at the end.
🍗 Extra Chicken: If you love chicken, feel free to double the portion for a protein-packed meal.
Vegetarian and Vegan Alternatives
Going meat-free? No problem! You can still enjoy this hibachi-style fried rice by using these delicious plant-based alternatives:
🥦 Tofu: Pan-fry tofu cubes in sesame oil for a crispy texture.
🍄 Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy, umami flavor.
🌱 Edamame or Chickpeas: A great protein boost for vegetarians.
Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Variations
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, swap out the rice with:
✅ Cauliflower rice – Light, fluffy, and absorbs flavors well.
✅ Shirataki rice – A zero-carb option with a slightly chewy texture.
✅ Quinoa – Not low-carb, but a great high-protein alternative.
No matter how you customize it, the essence of the Benihana experience remains flavorful, buttery, and utterly satisfying!”Benihana chicken fried rice recipe”
Best Sauces to Serve with Benihana Chicken Fried Rice
No Benihana chicken fried rice recipe is complete without a delicious dipping sauce! While the fried rice is flavorful on its own, the right sauce can enhance the taste even more. Here are the best sauces to serve alongside your dish:
Yum Yum Sauce – The Famous Hibachi Sauce
Known as hibachi white sauce, Yum Yum sauce is creamy, slightly sweet, and tangy. It pairs perfectly with both chicken and fried rice.
🥄 Ingredients:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
- 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin out)
Mix all ingredients and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Ginger Sauce – A Fresh and Tangy Pairing
If you prefer something lighter and refreshing, try a traditional Japanese ginger sauce. It’s slightly spicy with a citrusy kick.
🥄 Ingredients:
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Whisk everything together, and you’ve got a zesty sauce perfect for drizzling over your fried rice.
Soy Sauce vs. Teriyaki Sauce – Choosing the Right One
If you want to keep it simple, stick with low-sodium soy sauce or upgrade to a sweet, glossy teriyaki sauce for extra richness. Either way, both options complement the buttery garlic flavor of the fried rice.”Benihana chicken fried rice recipe”
Cooking on a Griddle vs. Stovetop – What Works Best?
When making the Benihana chicken fried rice recipe, you might wonder if you need a hibachi-style griddle or if a regular stovetop pan will do the trick. Both methods work well, but each has its pros and cons.”Benihana chicken fried rice recipe”
Using a Blackstone Griddle for an Authentic Hibachi Experience
A flat-top griddle (like a Blackstone) is the closest way to replicate the Benihana experience at home. Here’s why:
Even heat distribution – Ensures all ingredients cook quickly and evenly.
More cooking space – You can easily move ingredients around, just like at a hibachi restaurant.
Crispy, flavorful rice – The high heat allows the rice to develop a light charred texture, adding depth to the flavor.
If you have an outdoor Blackstone or a large teppanyaki griddle, this is the best way to cook Benihana-style chicken fried rice.”Benihana chicken fried rice recipe”
How to Make Benihana Fried Rice on a Regular Stovetop
Don’t have a griddle? No problem! You can still make delicious hibachi fried rice using a large nonstick pan or wok.
✔️ Use high heat – A wok is ideal because it distributes heat evenly.
✔️ Cook in batches – Overcrowding the pan will make the rice soggy.
✔️ Let the rice toast slightly – Don’t stir constantly—let it sit for 30 seconds between tosses for a crispy texture.
While a griddle is ideal, a stovetop wok or pan can still deliver an authentic, flavorful result with the right technique.”Benihana chicken fried rice recipe”
Frequently Asked Questions
When making the Benihana chicken fried rice recipe, a few common questions come up. Let’s answer them!”Benihana chicken fried rice recipe”
1. What does Benihana put in their fried rice?
Benihana’s fried rice is famous for its rich, buttery, and garlicky flavor. The key ingredients include:
- Day-old rice (for the perfect texture)
- Chicken, shrimp, or steak (for protein)
- Eggs, carrots, peas, and onions (for added flavor)
- Garlic butter (the secret to that authentic taste)
- Soy sauce, salt, and pepper (to season everything perfectly)
2. What kind of oil is used at Benihana?
Hibachi chefs at Benihana typically use a blend of vegetable oil and sesame oil. Vegetable oil has a high smoke point, making it great for high-heat cooking. A small drizzle of sesame oil at the end enhances the nutty, umami flavor.”Benihana chicken fried rice recipe”
3. What sauce does hibachi use for fried rice?
While fried rice is flavorful on its own, Benihana often serves it with Yum Yum sauce (a creamy, slightly sweet white sauce) or Japanese ginger sauce (a tangy, citrusy dip). Both complement the dish beautifully!
4. What is the secret to a good fried rice?
The best hibachi fried rice comes down to a few essential tips:
✔️ Use cold, day-old rice – Fresh rice is too soft and sticky.
✔️ Cook on high heat – This gives the rice that signature texture.
✔️ Use garlic butter – It adds richness and depth of flavor.
✔️ Stir-fry quickly – Keep everything moving to prevent burning.