Benihana Fried Rice

Bring the iconic flavor of Japanese steakhouse fried rice to your own kitchen with this easy and delicious Benihana-style Fried Rice. Made with day-old rice, tender chicken, scrambled eggs, veggies, and a buttery garlic soy sauce, this fried rice recipe tastes just like what you’d find at your favorite teppanyaki grill—minus the performance!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Restaurant-Style at Home – Recreate the famous hibachi flavor in your own kitchen.
Quick & Easy – Done in under 30 minutes with everyday ingredients.
Great for Leftovers – A perfect way to use leftover rice or veggies.
Customizable – Add shrimp, tofu, beef, or extra veggies to make it your own.
Kid-Friendly – Mild, flavorful, and always a hit with the whole family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups cold cooked jasmine or white rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 tbsp butter, divided
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced (or protein of choice)
• ½ cup diced carrots
• ½ cup frozen peas
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp garlic butter (see below)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: ½ tsp sesame oil for extra flavor

For Homemade Garlic Butter:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp soy sauce

Tools You’ll Need

• Large nonstick skillet or wok
• Spatula
• Small bowl (for garlic butter)
• Measuring spoons and cups

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, and soy sauce.
Set aside to melt into the rice later for that signature flavor.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
Heat 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the beaten eggs and scramble until just set.
Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Veggies and Protein
In the same skillet, add the carrots and a splash of oil or water.
Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Add peas and diced chicken. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add the Rice
Add the cold rice to the skillet.
Break up clumps with a spatula and stir everything together.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Flavor
Stir in soy sauce, garlic butter, and scrambled eggs.
Mix well and cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.
Add green onions, salt, pepper, and sesame oil (if using). Toss to combine.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot straight from the skillet.
Garnish with extra green onions or a drizzle of yum yum sauce if desired.

Tips for Best Results
Use Cold, Day-Old Rice – Fresh rice is too sticky. Cold rice fries up perfectly.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Use a large skillet or wok to ensure even cooking.
Butter is Key – It adds richness and depth of flavor, just like the real thing.
Customize It – Add cooked shrimp, steak, or tofu instead of chicken.
Cook Hot and Fast – A hot pan gives you that classic fried rice texture.

Serving Suggestions
Hibachi Vegetables – Grilled zucchini, mushrooms, and onions.
Japanese Steak or Chicken – For a full teppanyaki-style dinner.
Miso Soup – A light, savory side.
Yum Yum Sauce – Drizzle or dip for a creamy, tangy finish.
Cucumber Salad – For a fresh, crunchy contrast.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze cooled rice in zip-top bags for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil or water.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why use day-old rice?
   Cold, dry rice separates better when fried, avoiding mushy clumps.
2. Can I make it vegetarian?
   Absolutely! Skip the chicken and use more vegetables or tofu.
3. What’s the best rice for fried rice?
   Jasmine rice is ideal for its light, fluffy texture, but any long-grain rice works.
4. Can I make garlic butter in advance?
   Yes! Store it in the fridge for up to a week and use it for other recipes too.
5. Is Benihana fried rice spicy?
   Not at all—it’s mild and savory, but you can add chili flakes or sriracha if you like heat.

Final Thoughts
Benihana Fried Rice is a simple but flavorful dish that brings the excitement of hibachi dining straight to your home kitchen. With buttery garlic notes, savory soy flavor, and customizable mix-ins, it’s the perfect main or side dish for any night of the week.

Grab your skillet and let’s make dinner sizzle!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Japanese–American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 430 | Protein: 20g | Carbohydrates: 40g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 670mg

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