How to Make Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

The sizzle of the hibachi grill and the aroma of garlic butter fill your memory. These are the sensations when you think of Benihana’s chicken fried rice. This dish has been a favorite for decades, making many wonder how to make it at home. Today, we’re sharing the secrets of this beloved Japanese-American dish.

Benihana’s fried rice is more than a side dish; it’s a main attraction. It combines perfectly cooked rice, tender chicken, and fresh veggies. All these are seasoned with a special blend, creating a flavor mix that’s irresistible. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new, learning this recipe will add a touch of teppanyaki excitement to your kitchen.

Get ready to turn simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal. With the right techniques and practice, you’ll soon toss rice like a pro. You’ll impress your family and friends with your cooking skills. Let’s explore the world of Benihana chicken fried rice and learn how to make it at home.

Introduction to Benihana’s Signature Dish

Today, we’re sharing the secrets of the beloved Benihana chicken fried rice recipe. Benihana’s fried rice is a favorite on the benihana fried rice menu. It has been a hit for nearly 60 years. This dish mixes Japanese flavors with American tastes, making it a standout.

History of Benihana Restaurant

Hiroaki “Rocky” Aoki started Benihana in New York City in 1964. He introduced hibachi cooking to Americans. Chefs at the table flip shrimp and make onion volcanoes, making meals fun and interactive.

What Makes Benihana Fried Rice Special

The benihana fried rice recipe is loved for its mix of tastes and textures. It uses day-old rice for a crispy feel. Fresh veggies, protein, and seasonings make it both comforting and exciting.

The Secret Behind Restaurant-Style Flavor

High heat stir-frying is key to great fried rice. It makes flavors stronger by up to 30%. Soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic butter add depth and richness. This mix gives the dish its signature taste.

Essential Ingredients for Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Creating the perfect list of benihana fried rice ingredients is vital for that authentic taste. Let’s explore what you need for this teppanyaki chicken fried rice recipe.

Rice Selection and Preparation

The base of hibachi chicken fried rice is day-old white rice. Use 2 cups of cooked long-grain or jasmine rice, chilled overnight without a cover. This makes the rice perfect for frying.

Protein Components

For protein, you’ll need ½ pound of boneless chicken breast, cut into small pieces. Marinate it in a mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper for 15-30 minutes before cooking.

Vegetables and Aromatics

The veggie mix includes:

• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• ½ cup green onions, sliced
• ¼ cup frozen peas
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

Special Seasonings and Sauces

The secret to that signature Benihana flavor is in these seasonings:

• 2 tablespoons garlic butter
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Optional: 1 teaspoon sesame seeds for garnish

With these ingredients, you’re set to make a tasty hibachi-style fried rice at home. Remember, using day-old rice and keeping the heat high is key for that authentic teppanyaki taste.

The Secret Ingredient: Garlic Butter Compound

The secret to Benihana chicken recipe flavor is garlic butter compound. This blend makes your fried rice taste like it’s from a restaurant.

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Mix these ingredients well to get a smooth, aromatic paste. This garlic butter is your secret to authentic restaurant-style fried rice.

To cook like Benihana, melt a lot of this compound in your wok or pan. Then add the other ingredients. The butter will make every rice grain taste rich and savory, just like Benihana.

Make the garlic butter compound ahead of time and keep it in an airtight container. It can stay in the fridge for a week or in the freezer for three months. This way, you can enjoy that Benihana taste anytime you want.

Using top-notch butter and fresh garlic is key for the best flavor. This simple secret will make your fried rice taste like it’s from a restaurant, just like Benihana.

Kitchen Equipment and Tools Needed

To make tasty fried rice with eggs and veggies, you need the right tools. Let’s look at the key equipment for making great fried rice at home.

Wok vs. Traditional Pan Options

Choosing between a wok and a regular pan can change your fried rice. A carbon steel wok spreads heat well and has more room to cook. But, if you don’t have a wok, a big cast iron skillet or a 12-inch non-stick pan works great for fried rice with eggs and veggies.

Essential Utensils

Make sure your kitchen has these important tools:

• Large spatula or turner
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon or rice paddle
• Measuring cups and spoons

Heat Source Considerations

High heat is key for real fried rice with veggies. Gas stoves are best for control, but electric stoves can also work. If using an electric stove, adjust cooking time for the perfect crispy texture.

With these tools, you’re set to make delicious fried rice with eggs and veggies. It will be just as good as your favorite restaurant’s.

Rice Preparation Techniques

The secret to perfect Benihana-style fried rice is in the rice preparation. This Japanese rice dish starts with day-old rice. This is key to understanding what makes Chinese fried rice special.

1. Cook 4 cups of long-grain rice (jasmine or basmati) the day before.
2. Spread the cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool completely.
3. Leave it uncovered in the refrigerator overnight.

This method reduces moisture, making the rice perfect for frying. The rice will soak up flavors better. This gives it that restaurant-quality taste everyone loves.

“Day-old rice is the foundation of great fried rice. It’s not just tradition; it’s culinary science.”

For the best results, aim for rice that’s slightly dry but not brittle. If you’re short on time, spread freshly cooked rice on a tray and refrigerate it for a few hours. This quick-chill method can mimic the texture of day-old rice in a pinch.

Remember, proper rice preparation is key. It’s the first step in creating that authentic Benihana experience right in your kitchen.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Making Benihana-style chicken fried rice at home is simple. Let’s explore the steps to make it taste like a restaurant. The secret is in how you prepare and cook it.

Protein Preparation

Begin by cooking your chicken. Cut it into small pieces and season with salt and pepper. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat and add oil. Cook the chicken until it’s golden and done. Then, set it aside.

Vegetable Cooking Sequence

Next, sauté your vegetables. Add diced onions, carrots, and peas to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they’re tender but crisp. Move them to one side of the pan.

Rice Frying Method

Now, it’s time for the rice. Add day-old rice to the pan and break up clumps. Stir-fry for 3 minutes, mixing with vegetables. Make a well, crack in eggs, and scramble them. Then, mix with the rice.

Final Seasoning Steps

To get that restaurant taste, add garlic butter compound and soy sauce. Mix well, coating each rice grain. This is what type of oil Benihana uses for flavor. Cook for 2-3 minutes more, stirring constantly for crispy edges.

High heat and constant stirring are key for perfect fried rice. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Benihana chicken fried rice!

Pro Tips for Restaurant-Quality Results

Want to make the best Benihana chicken fried rice at home? Here are some pro tips to help you. Start with day-old rice to avoid clumps and get the right texture. If you want a recipe without egg, just skip it and add more veggies.

Use high heat while cooking. This method keeps your rice fluffy and veggies crisp. Move ingredients in the pan to avoid burning and ensure even cooking. Add garlic butter compound last for a glossy finish, just like Benihana’s.

• Prep all ingredients before starting
• Cook chicken until no pink remains (5-10 minutes)
• Sauté veggies for 6-8 minutes until tender
• Use 4 cups of cooked rice for 6 servings

Timing is key. Add ingredients in the right order for the best flavor and texture. For a real Benihana taste, add Chinese sausage and chicken bouillon powder. These small steps make a big difference in your homemade fried rice.

“The secret to great fried rice is in the details – from the heat of your pan to the timing of your ingredients.”

With these tips, you’re on your way to making Benihana-style chicken fried rice like a pro. Try different ingredients to make it your own while keeping that Benihana taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mastering the benihana chicken fried rice recipe hibachi style needs focus. Steer clear of common errors to achieve a top-notch dish. Here are some key areas where home cooks often go wrong.

Rice Moisture Control

Using fresh rice is a big mistake. Choose 1-2 day old, chilled rice instead. This helps avoid a soggy mess, essential for a true hibachi taste.

Temperature Management

Keeping the heat high is vital for Benihana’s signature flavor. Many home cooks don’t heat their wok or pan enough. This leads to steamed, not fried, rice. Always aim for a sizzling hot cooking surface.

Ingredient Proportions

Getting the right mix of ingredients is critical. For Benihana-style fried rice, use:

• 13 large shrimp (cook for 30-60 seconds per side)
• ¾ cup thawed peas and carrots
• ½ teaspoon baking soda for crisp shrimp texture

Is Benihana fried rice healthy? It’s a special treat but can be part of a healthy diet. One serving (1 bowl) has:

By avoiding these common mistakes and knowing the nutritional facts, you can make a tasty Benihana-style chicken fried rice at home.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

After mastering the benihana fried rice recipe maxiskitchen style, you’ll want to savor every last bite. Proper storage ensures your delicious creation stays fresh for days. Store your fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to a month.

When it’s time to reheat, you have options. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot. For better texture, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or oil to prevent drying. This method takes 3-4 minutes and restores that fresh-cooked taste.

Leftover fried rice is versatile. Use it to stuff bell peppers or wrap in tortillas for a quick lunch. Many benihana fried rice recipe reddit posts suggest adding a fried egg on top for a hearty breakfast.

Remember, food safety is key. Always reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). With these tips, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality fried rice even days after cooking.

Conclusion

Now you can make Benihana chicken fried rice like a pro. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to prepare for 4 servings. Each serving has 245 kcal. You’ll need 2 cups of day-old white rice, 1 chicken breast, and fresh veggies, all seasoned with Benihana’s special blend.

For authentic Benihana chicken fried rice, pay attention to the details. Use long-grain or jasmine rice for the right texture. Stir-fry at high heat. You can also make it your own by adding your favorite veggies or changing it for special diets.

By mastering Benihana chicken fried rice, you’re not just cooking a meal. You’re keeping alive nearly 60 years of culinary tradition. From its start in New York City to its global fame, this dish captures the essence of Benihana’s teppanyaki experience. So, get your wok ready, gather your ingredients, and enjoy Benihana in your kitchen today!

Now you can enjoy the authentic Benihana chicken fried rice recipe at home.