Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of your favorite hibachi grill right into your kitchen. This one-pan meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep, or impressing guests. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy rice, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice and veggies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 45 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful: The combination of sesame oil and soy sauce delivers authentic Asian flavors that will satisfy your cravings.
• Versatile: Feel free to swap in different proteins or veggies based on what you have on hand.
• One-Pan Meal: Easy cleanup means you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week for convenient lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Provides ample space for stir-frying ingredients evenly while ensuring everything cooks quickly.
• Cutting board: Offers a safe surface for chopping vegetables and proteins efficiently.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts, making food prep quicker and easier.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Fried Rice

• 1 ½ teaspoons sesame oil
• 4 teaspoons neutral oil (like avocado or canola; 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon, divided)
• ¾ pound chicken breasts (cut into very small pieces)
• 5 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (divided)
• 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• ½ cup diced white onion
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots)
• 2 large eggs
• 4 cups cooked rice (cool to touch)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure the chicken is cut into small pieces for even cooking. Dice the onion and set aside.

Step 2: Heat Oils in Wok

Heat the sesame oil and half of the neutral oil in your wok over medium-high heat until hot.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the wok. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Incorporate the diced onion and mixed vegetables into the wok. Stir-fry for an additional 3-5 minutes until they are tender.

Step 5: Scramble Eggs

Push everything to one side of the wok. Add remaining oil if necessary. Crack in the eggs and scramble until cooked through.

Step 6: Combine Rice

Add the cooked rice to the wok along with half of the soy sauce. Mix everything together thoroughly.

Step 7: Finish with Seasoning

Drizzle in lemon juice and add remaining soy sauce. Stir to combine well. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot as a main dish or side!

How to Serve Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Serving your Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is an excellent way to impress family and friends. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it versatile for any occasion.

Family-style Serving

• Serve the chicken fried rice in a large bowl at the center of the table for a communal dining experience. This approach encourages sharing and conversation.

Individual Bowls

• For a more personal touch, serve the rice in individual bowls. Garnish each bowl with sesame seeds and a sprinkle of green onions for added flair.

With Extra Sauce

• Offer additional soy sauce on the side for those who like their dish extra savory. You can also provide hot sauce for a spicy kick.

As Part of a Buffet

• If hosting a gathering, include this fried rice as one of the main dishes on a buffet table. Pair it with other Asian-inspired dishes to create a cohesive theme.

How to Perfect Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Perfecting your Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice involves simple techniques that elevate the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Use cold rice: Cold, day-old rice works best because it’s less sticky and holds its shape during frying.
• High heat cooking: Use high heat to achieve that signature charred flavor, mimicking restaurant-style cooking.
• Do not overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Season throughout: Add soy sauce gradually while cooking, allowing each layer of ingredients to absorb flavor.
• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh vegetables for added crunch and flavor; frozen mixed veggies work but can be upgraded with fresh options.

Best Side Dishes for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Pairing side dishes with your Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice enhances the meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Vegetable Spring Rolls
   Crispy rolls filled with fresh vegetables make for a delightful appetizer that complements fried rice beautifully.
2. Edamame
   Lightly salted edamame pods offer a healthy snack or side that adds protein and fiber to your meal.
3. Miso Soup
   A warm bowl of miso soup is comforting and balances the meal with its umami flavors.
4. Asian Slaw
   A refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing provides a crunchy contrast to the fried rice.
5. Chicken Satay Skewers
   Grilled chicken skewers marinated in spices bring additional protein and flavor alongside your fried rice.
6. Cucumber Salad
   This light salad dressed in vinegar complements the rich flavors of chicken fried rice while adding crunch and freshness.
7. Tempura Vegetables
   Lightly battered and fried vegetables add a crispy element that pairs well with soft fried rice.
8. Hot & Sour Soup
   A spicy yet tangy soup can awaken the palate before enjoying your delicious chicken fried rice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using fresh rice – Freshly cooked rice can become mushy when stir-frying. Always use rice that has been cooled, ideally leftover rice, for the best texture.
• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking chicken for too long can lead to dryness. Sauté it just until cooked through and no longer pink.
• Neglecting the oil ratio – Using too little oil can cause sticking, while too much can make the dish greasy. Use the recommended amount to achieve perfect results.
• Skipping the vegetables – Vegetables add flavor and nutrition. Don’t skip them; incorporate a mix of your favorites for a balanced meal.
• Not seasoning properly – Be sure to taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking. A pinch of salt or soy sauce at the right moment enhances overall flavor.
• Crowding the pan – Overcrowding prevents even cooking and browning. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and achieve that restaurant-style finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread fried rice on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water. Cover and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil or water, and stir-fry until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice.

How do I make my Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice taste like hibachi?

To achieve that hibachi flavor, use sesame oil generously and incorporate garlic and ginger while cooking.

Can I substitute vegetables in Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.

How can I customize my Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?

You can add different proteins like shrimp or beef, or mix in extra seasonings like chili flakes or teriyaki sauce for varied flavors.

What can I serve with Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?

This dish pairs well with Asian-inspired sides like egg rolls, spring rolls, or even a simple cucumber salad.

Final Thoughts

Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences by adding different proteins or vegetables. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner and sure to impress!