Description

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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Ingredients

Scale

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

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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.

Notes

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.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Japanese–American