If you’ve ever dined at Benihana, you know that their teppanyaki-style fried rice is one of the best parts of the experience. The combination of perfectly seasoned rice, tender chicken, fluffy eggs, and garlic butter creates an irresistible dish.
The good news? You don’t need a fancy hibachi grill to make this at home! This easy, restaurant-style fried rice recipe will help you recreate that authentic flavor in your kitchen.
What is Benihana Chicken Fried Rice?
A Brief History of Benihana & Teppanyaki Cooking
Benihana is one of the most famous Japanese steakhouse chains, known for its exciting teppanyaki-style cooking. Founded in 1964, Benihana introduced the world to entertaining hibachi chefs and delicious dishes cooked on flat-top grills. Their signature fried rice quickly became a customer favorite.
Why is Benihana Fried Rice Special?
Unlike traditional fried rice, Benihana-style fried rice has a unique depth of flavor due to a few key elements:
- Day-old jasmine rice: Provides the best texture and prevents sogginess.
- Homemade garlic butter: The secret ingredient that gives it the signature taste.
- High-heat cooking: Replicates the restaurant-style smoky flavor.
- Simple but effective seasoning: A mix of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and minimal spices.
Ingredients You Need for Benihana-Style Chicken Fried Rice
Before we dive into the cooking process, gather these essential ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably a day old)
- 1 cup boneless, skinless chicken breast (diced)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ½ cup frozen peas and carrots
- ¼ cup chopped onion
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional but adds umami flavor)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Secret Benihana Garlic Butter:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp soy sauce
Garnishes:
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Benihana Chicken Fried Rice
1. Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Scramble the Eggs & Sauté the Veggies
- In the same pan, add a little more oil.
- Pour in the beaten eggs, scramble lightly, then remove from the pan.
- Add onions, peas, and carrots to the pan and stir-fry for about 2 minutes.
3. Stir-Fry the Rice & Add Seasonings
- Increase the heat to high and add the cooked rice.
- Stir well, breaking up any clumps.
- Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and mix everything together.
4. Add the Secret Benihana Garlic Butter
- Stir in the prepared garlic butter to infuse the rice with its signature flavor.
- Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
5. Garnish & Serve
- Add chopped green onions and sesame seeds for the final touch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Benihana-style fried rice!
Pro Tips, Variations & Serving Suggestions
Pro Tips for Perfect Fried Rice
- Use day-old rice: Fresh rice is too sticky and can become mushy.
- Cook over high heat: This mimics the hibachi-style cooking.
- Don’t over-season: Let the garlic butter and soy sauce be the main flavors.
Recipe Variations
- Shrimp Fried Rice: Swap chicken for shrimp.
- Vegetarian Fried Rice: Use tofu or mushrooms instead of chicken.
- Spicy Version: Add a drizzle of sriracha or chili flakes.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with hibachi steak or shrimp for a complete meal.
- Serve with Japanese miso soup or a fresh ginger salad.
- Top with yum yum sauce for extra creaminess.
benihana chicken fried rice recipe
This homemade Benihana Chicken Fried Rice recipe delivers the authentic teppanyaki-style flavor with tender chicken, fluffy eggs, garlic butter, and perfectly seasoned jasmine rice—just like at the restaurant!
- Total Time: 25
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably a day old)
- 1 cup boneless, skinless chicken breast (diced)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ½ cup frozen peas and carrots
- ¼ cup chopped onion
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional but adds umami flavor)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Cook chicken, scramble eggs, sauté veggies, stir-fry rice, season, add garlic butter, and serve.
Notes
- Day-old rice gives the best texture, so use it if possible.
- High heat is key to replicating the smoky flavor from hibachi-style cooking.
- Chicken breast works best, diced into small, even pieces.
- Garlic butter is the secret ingredient that defines the signature Benihana taste.
- Low-sodium soy sauce ensures a balanced flavor without being too salty.
- Vegetables like peas and carrots are traditional, but you can swap in other favorites like mushrooms or bell peppers.
- Scramble eggs separately before adding to avoid overcooking them.
- Customize: You can swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or add chili for a spicy version.
- Storage: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3
FAQs & Recipe Recap
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?
A: Yes, but let it cool completely before using to avoid clumping.
Q: What type of soy sauce is best?
A: Low-sodium soy sauce works best for balanced flavor.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan for best results.
Quick Recipe Recap
📌 The Best Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
🕒 Prep Time: 10 mins | 🔥 Cook Time: 15 mins | 🍽 Servings: 2-3
✅ Ingredients: Chicken, jasmine rice, eggs, vegetables, garlic butter, soy sauce.
✅ Instructions: Cook chicken, scramble eggs, sauté veggies, stir-fry rice, season, add garlic butter, and serve.
✅ Pro Tip: Use day-old rice for the best texture!
Final Thoughts
Making Benihana Chicken Fried Rice at home is easier than you think! With the right ingredients and technique, you can enjoy this restaurant-quality fried rice any time. Whether you’re recreating a full teppanyaki experience or just looking for a quick, delicious meal, this recipe is a winner.
Now that you know how to make it, why not try pairing it with hibachi steak or shrimp for the ultimate Japanese steakhouse experience? Happy cooking! 🍽🔥