Benihana Chicken Fried Rice – The Best Homemade Recipe

There’s something undeniably special about sitting at a hibachi grill, watching a skilled chef effortlessly toss rice, eggs, and chicken over a blazing hot surface. The sizzle, the aroma, and the perfectly timed flick of a spatula—it’s all part of the magic that makes Benihana Chicken Fried Rice an experience rather than just a meal.

However, what if you could create the same enchantment in your own kitchen? Imagine impressing your friends and family with authentic Benihana-style fried rice, loaded with savory flavors, tender chicken, and just the right amount of garlic butter. The good news? You absolutely can—and it’s easier than you think!

In this guide, you’ll discover how to recreate the famous Benihana Chicken Fried Rice at home. From choosing the right ingredients to mastering the hibachi cooking technique, we’ll walk you through every step to ensure your homemade version tastes just like the real thing.

Ready to transform your kitchen into your own personal teppanyaki grill? Let’s dive in!

What Makes Benihana Chicken Fried Rice So Special?

Before you grab your wok, it’s important to understand why this dish is so beloved. What sets Benihana Chicken Fried Rice apart from regular fried rice?

Here’s what makes it unique:

• Signature Hibachi Cooking Style – Cooked over an open, high-heat griddle, the rice gets that slightly smoky, toasty flavor that’s hard to replicate with a regular stove.
• The Right Rice – Day-old jasmine rice is key. It absorbs flavors beautifully and stays firm, preventing mushy fried rice.
• Garlic Butter Magic – This is the secret ingredient that gives Benihana’s fried rice its irresistible, buttery taste.
• Perfectly Balanced Seasonings – A mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, and simple spices enhances the flavor without overpowering the natural taste of the ingredients.
• Hibachi Cooking Oil – A blend of soybean oil, sesame seed oil, and a touch of garlic helps achieve the rich umami flavor.

By following the right techniques and using the right ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to mastering restaurant-quality Benihana Chicken Fried Rice in your own home.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

Creating the perfect Benihana Chicken Fried Rice starts with selecting the right ingredients. Every element is essential to creating the distinctive flavor and texture. Below is a breakdown of everything you need.

Key Ingredients for the Best Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Cooked Jasmine Rice	3 cups (cold, day-old)	Forms the base, provides the right texture
Chicken Breast (diced)	1 cup	Lean protein, adds flavor and substance
Eggs	2	Adds richness and binds ingredients
Green Onions	2 stalks (chopped)	Provides freshness and slight crunch
Soy Sauce	2 tablespoons	Enhances umami flavor
Garlic Butter	2 tablespoons	The signature ingredient for authentic taste
Sesame Oil	1 tablespoon	Gives a slight nutty aroma and depth of flavor
Salt & Pepper	To taste	Basic seasoning for balance
Carrots & Peas	½ cup each	Adds color, sweetness, and texture
Hibachi Cooking Oil	2 tablespoons	A mix of soybean oil and sesame oil for authentic stir-fry taste

Ingredient Selection Tips for Perfect Hibachi Fried Rice

• Rice: Use day-old jasmine rice for the best results. Freshly cooked rice contains too much moisture, which can lead to soggy fried rice. If you don’t have leftover rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a tray and refrigerate it for at least a few hours.
• Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breast for a leaner option. If you prefer a juicier texture, chicken thighs can be used instead.
• Garlic Butter: This is the ingredient that gives Benihana fried rice its signature flavor. You can make it at home by mixing softened butter with minced garlic and a pinch of salt.
• Hibachi Cooking Oil: This is a simple mix of soybean oil, sesame oil, and garlic-infused oil. It’s what helps create the signature smoky flavor when cooking on high heat.

Substitutes and Variations for Homemade Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

• If you don’t have jasmine rice, basmati rice can be a good alternative, though it will be slightly less sticky.
• For a healthier version, you can swap white rice for brown rice or even cauliflower rice.
• To add more depth, try using oyster sauce along with soy sauce for a richer umami flavor.
• If you want a hint of sweetness, a small dash of mirin or honey can help balance the flavors.

With these ingredients ready, you’re now set to start cooking. The next step is all about mastering the step-by-step cooking process to ensure your fried rice has the perfect texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to recreate the magic of Benihana-style fried rice at home. Follow this detailed step-by-step process to ensure the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma.

1 – How to Prepare Ingredients for Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

• Start by cooking the rice a day in advance. If you’re using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and refrigerate for a few hours to remove excess moisture.
• Dice the chicken breast into small bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Chop the green onions, and set aside for garnishing.
• Prepare the garlic butter by mixing softened butter with finely minced garlic and a pinch of salt. This is what gives the rice its distinct buttery aroma.
• Crack two eggs into a bowl and whisk them lightly.

2 – Cooking the Chicken

• Heat one tablespoon of hibachi cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add the diced chicken breast and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked.
• After taking the chicken out of the pan, put it aside.

3 – Scrambling the Eggs

• In the same pan, add a small drizzle of oil if needed.
• Pour in the whisked eggs and let them sit for a few seconds before gently stirring.
• Scramble the eggs until they are soft but fully cooked.
• Push the eggs to the side of the pan to make room for the rice.

4 – Stir-Frying the Rice

• Increase the heat to high and add another tablespoon of hibachi cooking oil.
• Add the cold, day-old jasmine rice, breaking it apart with a spatula to prevent clumps.
• Toss the rice continuously to ensure it gets an even coating of oil and doesn’t stick to the pan.

5 – Adding Vegetables and Chicken

• Stir in the diced carrots and peas, mixing them well with the rice.
• Add the cooked chicken back to the pan and continue tossing for another 2 minutes to let the flavors blend.

6 – Flavoring the Rice

• Drizzle soy sauce evenly over the rice and stir quickly to distribute the color and flavor.
• Add garlic butter and mix well, allowing it to melt into the rice.
• Pour in a teaspoon of sesame oil to enhance the aroma.

7 – Final Touches

• Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the rice and give it one last toss.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If you prefer more saltiness, add a little extra soy sauce.

8 – Serving the Fried Rice

• Transfer the rice to a serving platter while it’s still hot.
• For an authentic experience, serve it alongside hibachi steak, shrimp, or grilled vegetables.
• Pair it with homemade yum yum sauce for dipping.

Now that you’ve mastered the cooking process, let’s move on to some expert tips and tricks to take your fried rice to the next level.

Tips for the Best Homemade Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

Creating Benihana-style chicken fried rice is not just about following a recipe—it’s about mastering the techniques that make it taste like it came straight from a teppanyaki grill. Here are some expert tips to ensure your fried rice turns out perfectly every time.

Choosing the Right Rice

• Day-old jasmine rice is best – Freshly cooked rice is too moist and can turn mushy when stir-fried. If you must use fresh rice, spread it on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours.
• Long-grain vs. short-grain rice – Jasmine rice is preferred because of its light, fluffy texture, but you can also use basmati. Avoid short-grain rice, which tends to clump together.

Getting the Perfect Texture

• Cook on high heat – The secret to hibachi-style fried rice is cooking on high heat, which helps evaporate excess moisture and gives the rice a slightly crisp texture.
• Use a wok or large skillet – A wide cooking surface allows for even heat distribution and prevents the rice from steaming.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cooking in small batches ensures that all the ingredients get evenly cooked. If you add too much rice at once, it may become soggy.

Mastering the Hibachi Cooking Technique

• Keep the ingredients moving – Constantly stir the rice with a spatula to prevent sticking and to distribute the flavors evenly.
• Use the right oil – Hibachi-style fried rice gets its flavor from a combination of soybean oil and sesame oil. Steer clear of oils with strong flavors, such as olive oil.
• Add the soy sauce towards the end – This prevents the rice from absorbing too much liquid and becoming mushy.

Enhancing Flavor and Seasoning

• Garlic butter is the key – Benihana’s signature garlic butter is what makes their fried rice stand out. Be generous with it.
• Sesame oil for fragrance – Just a small amount of sesame oil enhances the aroma and adds depth to the dish.
• A dash of mirin for sweetness – If you like a hint of sweetness in your fried rice, adding a teaspoon of mirin or honey can balance the flavors.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Not using cold rice – Fresh rice will clump together and create a mushy texture. Always use cold, day-old rice for the best results.
• Adding too much soy sauce – A little goes a long way. Too much soy sauce can overpower the dish and make it too salty.
• Overcooking the chicken – Chicken should be tender and juicy. Cooking it on medium-high heat for a few minutes is enough to keep it from drying out.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to create restaurant-quality Benihana Chicken Fried Rice in your own kitchen.

What to Serve with Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

While Benihana Chicken Fried Rice is a satisfying dish on its own, pairing it with the right sides and accompaniments can elevate your meal to a full hibachi-style dining experience. Here are some of the best dishes and sauces to serve alongside your homemade fried rice.

Classic Hibachi Proteins

Adding a protein-rich main dish enhances the flavors of the fried rice and makes the meal more filling.

• Hibachi Steak – Tender, juicy, and cooked to perfection with a simple garlic butter glaze.
• Hibachi Shrimp – Lightly seasoned and quickly seared shrimp for a slightly sweet, smoky taste.
• Teriyaki Chicken – A sweet and savory option that complements the flavors of the fried rice.
• Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf – A savory, cheesy twist on traditional meatloaf, combining the rich flavors of beef, peppers, onions, and provolone cheese. This hearty dish pairs well with the light, garlicky flavors of fried rice.

Traditional Hibachi Vegetables

For a well-balanced meal, adding a vegetable side dish is a great option.

• Sautéed Zucchini and Onions – A simple yet flavorful mix of sliced zucchini and onions stir-fried with soy sauce and butter.
• Mushrooms with Garlic Butter – Sautéed mushrooms cooked in hibachi butter for an umami-rich bite.
• Mexican Corn Casserole – This creamy, cheesy corn dish adds a slightly sweet contrast to the savory fried rice, making it a fantastic addition to your meal.

Sauces to Elevate the Meal

Benihana-style fried rice pairs wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Here are some classic choices:

• Yum Yum Sauce – A creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce that’s perfect for drizzling over rice or dipping proteins.
• Ginger Sauce – A light, tangy sauce made with fresh ginger, soy sauce, and vinegar for a refreshing contrast.
• Spicy Mayo – A mix of mayonnaise and Sriracha for a spicy, creamy kick.
• Teriyaki Sauce – A sweet and savory glaze that can be drizzled over grilled meats and rice.

Side Soups and Salads

For an authentic Benihana-style meal, consider starting with a light soup or salad before serving the fried rice.

• Miso Soup – A warm, umami-rich broth with tofu, seaweed, and green onions.
• Chicken Potato Soup – A hearty, comforting soup with tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and a flavorful broth. This dish is a great addition to your meal, offering a warm, filling contrast to the lighter, umami-rich fried rice.
• Ginger Salad – A crisp green salad topped with a light, tangy ginger dressing.

Sushi Pairings

For an authentic Japanese restaurant experience, pairing fried rice with sushi is a fantastic idea.

• Volcano Roll – A sushi roll topped with a spicy, creamy mixture that enhances the umami flavors of the fried rice. The contrast of textures between the crispy topping and the soft rice makes this an exciting combination.
  Learn how to make it here: Volcano Roll

Desserts to Complete the Meal

To end your meal on a sweet note, a light and refreshing dessert is the perfect choice.

• Pineapple Pie – A sweet, tropical dessert that balances the savory richness of fried rice with its tangy pineapple flavor.
• Mochi Ice Cream – A traditional Japanese dessert that offers a soft, chewy texture with a creamy, ice-cold center.
• Green Tea Ice Cream – A mildly sweet and refreshing way to finish your hibachi meal.

Beverages to Complement the Meal

Choosing the right drink can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideal beverage pairings:

• Green Tea – A traditional, earthy tea that balances the richness of the rice.
• Iced Matcha Latte – A slightly sweet, creamy green tea drink.
• Detox Smoothie – A refreshing and nutritious smoothie that pairs well with fried rice while helping cleanse the palate.

By pairing your Benihana Chicken Fried Rice with these thoughtfully selected side dishes, soups, sushi, and desserts, you can create a restaurant-style meal at home that is both satisfying and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

Does Benihana have chicken fried rice?

Yes, Benihana serves chicken fried rice as one of their most popular menu items. It is made fresh on the teppanyaki grill by hibachi chefs and includes cooked jasmine rice, diced chicken, eggs, soy sauce, garlic butter, and hibachi seasoning. This dish is often served as a side or a main course and is well-loved for its rich, savory flavor and slightly crispy texture.

What type of oil does Benihana use?

Benihana uses a special hibachi cooking oil, which is typically a blend of soybean oil, sesame oil, and sometimes garlic-infused oil. This combination helps achieve the slightly nutty and umami-rich flavor that makes their fried rice unique. The high smoke point of soybean oil allows for high-heat cooking, which is essential for achieving the perfect texture in fried rice.

What’s the difference between hibachi fried rice and regular fried rice?

The primary differences between hibachi-style fried rice (like Benihana’s) and regular fried rice include:

• Cooking Method: Hibachi fried rice is cooked on a flat-top teppanyaki grill, while regular fried rice is usually made in a wok or frying pan.
• Flavor Profile: Hibachi fried rice typically has a lighter and smokier flavor, often enhanced by garlic butter, while regular fried rice can be more heavily seasoned with ingredients like oyster sauce or fish sauce.
• Texture: Because hibachi fried rice is cooked on an open flat-top grill, it has a slightly crisp, toasted texture compared to traditional wok-fried rice, which may have a softer texture due to continuous stirring.
• Ingredients: While both versions use rice, eggs, vegetables, and soy sauce, hibachi fried rice often includes garlic butter and hibachi seasoning, giving it a unique taste.

What is the secret ingredient to restaurant fried rice?

The secret ingredient that gives restaurant-style fried rice its signature flavor is garlic butter. At Benihana, a special garlic-infused butter is used to coat the rice, giving it a rich, savory depth that is hard to achieve at home without the right ingredients.

Other important elements include:

• Day-old jasmine rice – Ensures the rice is dry enough to absorb flavors without turning mushy.
• High heat cooking – Essential for achieving the slightly crispy texture and smoky taste.
• Soy sauce and sesame oil – Adds umami and depth.
• Hibachi cooking oil – A blend of soybean oil and sesame oil enhances flavor and prevents sticking.

By incorporating these ingredients and techniques, you can easily recreate Benihana Chicken Fried Rice at home with authentic restaurant-quality results.