Experience Benihana at Home: The Ultimate Chicken Fried Rice Copycat Recipe

Imagine savoring your favorite Japanese steakhouse meal without leaving the comfort of your home. This incredible copycat recipe for Benihana’s Chicken Fried Rice allows you to do just that! Perfectly replicating the iconic flavors of the original, this homemade version is not only deliciously authentic but also surprisingly simple and budget-friendly. Skip the expensive restaurant bill and satisfy your cravings with a dish that’s just as good, if not better, than what you’d find at Benihana.

What makes this Benihana chicken fried rice recipe taste so remarkably similar to the one prepared right before your eyes at your favorite Japanese steakhouse? The secret lies in a rich, savory ingredient that might surprise you. While many fried rice recipes focus solely on soy sauce and sesame oil, Benihana elevates their dish with a signature garlic butter. To make this recipe accessible for home cooks, we’ve simplified this key flavor element by directly incorporating both fresh garlic and rich butter, eliminating the extra step of making garlic butter from scratch. However, if you’re feeling adventurous and want to go the extra mile, you absolutely could prepare Benihana’s renowned garlic butter for an even deeper flavor profile.

This recipe transforms common, inexpensive ingredients into a gourmet experience, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or when you’re simply in the mood for some seriously delicious Asian-inspired comfort food. It’s a culinary journey that promises convenience, flavor, and incredible value, all cooked right in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

• Authentic Restaurant Favorite, Reimagined at Home. This recipe is a perfect replica of the famous chicken fried rice from Benihana, renowned for its theatrical teppanyaki cooking style. We’ve meticulously recreated that irresistible taste profile using just a hot skillet, proving that you don’t need a hibachi grill to achieve restaurant-quality results. Enjoy the nostalgic flavors and aromas of your favorite Japanese steakhouse without the wait or the price tag. It’s a delicious way to bring that special dining experience right to your kitchen table.
• Ingenious Way to Use Up Leftovers. Tired of food waste? This recipe is your culinary hero! It expertly utilizes leftover rice, transforming it into the ideal base for perfectly textured fried rice. Beyond rice, it’s also a fantastic opportunity to use up any cooked chicken you might have on hand, whether it’s from a rotisserie chicken, a previous roast, or grilled chicken breasts. This clever approach not only reduces waste but also saves you precious cooking time and effort, making dinner prep a breeze.
• Remarkably Budget-Friendly. Eating out at Benihana can be a delightful treat, but it can also be quite costly. This copycat recipe offers a significantly more economical alternative. By leveraging simple, everyday ingredients and making the most of your leftovers, you can create a family-sized portion of this iconic dish for a fraction of the cost of dining out. It’s the perfect solution for satisfying those expensive cravings while keeping your grocery budget in check.
• Incredibly Quick and Easy to Prepare. Who knew a dish this flavorful could be ready so fast? If you have just 20 minutes to spare, you have more than enough time to whip up this satisfying dinner. The streamlined steps and use of already-cooked ingredients mean less time chopping and more time enjoying. It’s an ideal weeknight meal solution for busy individuals and families looking for a delicious, hearty, and fast dinner option.
• Kid-Approved and Family-Friendly. The simple yet robust flavors of this chicken fried rice make it a universally appealing dish. It’s a fantastic way to get even the pickiest eaters excited about dinner, especially with the inclusion of tender chicken and colorful vegetables. This recipe promises a wholesome, satisfying meal that the whole family will ask for again and again.

Essential Ingredients for Your Benihana-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Crafting the perfect Benihana-style chicken fried rice begins with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this restaurant favorite to life in your kitchen:

• Cooked Rice: The cornerstone of any great fried rice. For optimal texture, 2 cups of leftover, day-old white rice is highly recommended. The refrigeration process dries out the rice grains, preventing them from becoming mushy when fried and allowing them to achieve that desirable slightly crispy texture. While standard white rice is perfectly fine, you can also use jasmine, basmati, or short-grain rice, depending on your preference. Avoid freshly cooked, warm rice if possible.
• Cooked Chicken: This recipe brilliantly utilizes 2 cups of pre-cooked chicken, cubed for easy integration. This is your chance to repurpose leftover rotisserie chicken, homemade roast chicken, pan-seared chicken breast, or even flavorful baked chicken thighs. Using cooked chicken significantly cuts down on prep time and ensures the chicken is tender and fully heated through with the other ingredients.
• Soy Sauce: A fundamental flavor enhancer for fried rice. We recommend using 3 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce to better control the dish’s overall saltiness. However, any regular soy sauce you have on hand will work. For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos are excellent substitutes to make this recipe gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
• Toasted Sesame Oil: This is a crucial ingredient that imparts a wonderfully nutty, aromatic depth to the fried rice. Just 1 teaspoon makes a significant difference. Do not skip it, as it’s key to achieving that authentic Asian flavor profile. Ensure you’re using *toasted* sesame oil for the best results, as its flavor is much more pronounced than untoasted varieties.
• Butter: The surprising “secret ingredient” that sets Benihana’s fried rice apart. While it might seem unconventional in a fried rice recipe, 2 tablespoons of butter (preferably salted) are essential. Benihana is famous for its signature garlic butter, and by combining regular butter with fresh minced garlic in this recipe, we create an easy and delicious approximation of their unique flavor. It adds a richness and subtle sweetness that truly elevates the dish.
• Large Eggs: Small pieces of scrambled egg are a classic and essential component of fried rice. You’ll need 2 large eggs, beaten, which add a pleasant texture and additional protein to the dish. They absorb the flavors of the other ingredients beautifully.
• Cooking Oil: Choose a high smoke point, neutral-flavored oil for sautéing. 2 tablespoons of avocado oil, safflower oil, or vegetable oil are ideal. These oils can withstand high heat without burning, ensuring your ingredients cook evenly and develop a nice sear. While olive oil can work in a pinch, its lower smoke point and distinct flavor may alter the final taste.
• Fresh Vegetables and Aromatics: These add freshness, texture, and foundational flavor. You will need 1 small onion, finely diced, and 2 cloves of garlic, minced. Additionally, ½ cup of frozen mixed vegetables (typically peas, carrots, and corn) provides a colorful and convenient addition. Feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables if desired.
• Black Pepper: A simple yet effective seasoning. A ¼ teaspoon of black pepper adds a subtle hint of warmth and balances the savory flavors. For those who enjoy a spicier kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes, a drizzle of sriracha, or a touch of hot honey to the finished dish.
• Garnish: Elevate the presentation and add a final layer of freshness. Sliced green onions are a classic garnish, providing a mild oniony bite and vibrant color. Toasted sesame seeds are another excellent option, offering a textural contrast and enhancing the nutty notes from the sesame oil.

For precise measurements and a comprehensive list of ingredients, please consult the full recipe card below.

Mastering Benihana Chicken Fried Rice: Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating this delicious Benihana-style chicken fried rice is a straightforward process that yields fantastic results. Follow these simple steps for a perfect skillet meal every time:

1. Prepare the Aromatics: Begin by heating the avocado oil (or your chosen high smoke point oil) in a large, non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion. Sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent, releasing its sweet aroma.
2. Infuse with Garlic: Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet with the softened onions. Stir-fry for an additional 30-60 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic, until it becomes fragrant and its savory essence permeates the pan. This step is crucial for building the foundational flavor of your fried rice.
3. Warm the Chicken: Introduce the cooked, cubed chicken and the black pepper to the skillet. Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, just until the chicken is thoroughly heated through. Since the chicken is already cooked, this step simply warms it and allows it to absorb the flavors of the aromatics.
4. Add the Vegetables: Sprinkle the frozen mixed vegetables into the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring, until the vegetables are completely thawed, heated through, and their colors become vibrant. The mixed vegetables add a lovely sweetness, crunch, and visual appeal to the dish.
5. Scramble the Eggs: Push the chicken and vegetable mixture to one side of the skillet, creating a clear space on the other half. Pour the beaten eggs into this empty section of the hot skillet. Scramble the eggs until they are fully cooked through, forming small, fluffy pieces, which typically takes about 1-2 minutes. Once cooked, you can gently fold them into the chicken and vegetable mixture.
6. Incorporate the Rice: Add the day-old cooked rice to the skillet. Use your spatula to break up any clumps of rice, ensuring it disperses evenly throughout the pan. Stir and cook the rice with the chicken, vegetables, and eggs for approximately 2-3 minutes. During this time, some pieces of rice should begin to turn golden brown and develop a slightly crispy texture, which is ideal for fried rice.
7. Flavor with Sauces: Pour the soy sauce and toasted sesame oil evenly over the rice mixture. Stir vigorously to ensure all ingredients are well combined and coated in the savory sauces. Continue cooking for an additional 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.
8. Melt in the Butter: Finally, add the 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Stir continuously until the butter is completely melted and beautifully incorporated into the fried rice. The butter adds a rich, glossy finish and that distinctive Benihana flavor. Taste the fried rice and add a pinch of salt if needed, adjusting to your preference.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the skillet from the heat. If desired, garnish generously with freshly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve immediately while hot and savor your homemade Benihana Chicken Fried Rice!

Storage and Reheating Tips for Fried Rice

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality and safety of your homemade fried rice. Here’s how to handle leftovers:

• Refrigeration: To ensure food safety and preserve freshness, transfer any leftover fried rice to an airtight container as soon as it has cooled to room temperature (within one hour of cooking). Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the total safe storage time for cooked rice is generally up to 4 days from when the rice was initially cooked.
• Important Safety Note: Never leave cooked rice at room temperature for extended periods. It is highly susceptible to bacterial growth. Always transfer it to appropriate storage promptly after it cools.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat fried rice in a skillet over medium heat. To prevent it from drying out, you can add a tablespoon or two of water or a little extra oil. Stir frequently until the rice is heated through. Ensure that all parts of the rice reach a minimum internal temperature of 140ºF (60ºC). You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring halfway through, but the skillet method often yields better texture.
• Freezing: Fried rice freezes well! Allow the leftovers to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight, freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 4 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen fried rice in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave, following the guidelines above, ensuring it reaches the safe internal temperature of 140ºF (60ºC).

*Source: How Long Does Rice Last in the Fridge? – Food and Wine

Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Fried Rice

• The Unbeatable Magic of Leftover Rice: When it comes to achieving that coveted restaurant-quality fried rice, day-old, refrigerated rice is truly your best friend. The science behind this tip is simple: freshly cooked rice retains a significant amount of moisture and starch, which can lead to a sticky, mushy mess when stir-fried. After a night in the fridge, the rice grains dry out and firm up, becoming perfectly separated and ideal for frying, allowing them to crisp up beautifully without clumping. If you don’t have leftover rice, you can cook fresh rice, spread it thin on a baking sheet, and refrigerate it for a few hours (or even freeze for 30 minutes) to quick-dry it.
• Maximize Flavor and Minimize Waste: Clean Out Your Fridge: This recipe is a fantastic vehicle for using up various odds and ends from your refrigerator, making it incredibly budget-friendly and reducing food waste. Beyond the suggested frozen mixed vegetables, consider adding finely diced bell peppers, shredded cabbage, snap peas, thinly sliced mushrooms, or even leftover cooked shrimp or pork. Just ensure any additional vegetables are cut into small, uniform pieces to cook quickly and evenly. This approach not only boosts the nutritional value and flavor complexity of your fried rice but also helps you make the most of your groceries.
• Versatility of Rice Varieties: Don’t feel limited to a specific type of white rice. While standard long-grain white rice is commonly used, this recipe is quite forgiving. Jasmine rice offers a lovely aromatic quality, basmati rice provides a slightly nuttier flavor, and even medium-grain sushi rice can be used. The key is to ensure it’s day-old and well-chilled, regardless of the variety. Experiment with what you have on hand and discover your personal favorite!
• High Heat is Your Friend: Fried rice thrives on high heat. Cooking on medium-high heat ensures that the ingredients sear and caramelize rather than steam. This high temperature helps to create those delicious crispy bits of rice and ensures a quick cooking time, essential for the texture of classic fried rice. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary, to maintain high heat.
• Prep Everything Before You Start: The beauty of stir-frying is its speed, but this also means you need to have all your ingredients ready and measured before the heat even hits the pan. This culinary technique, known as “mise en place,” ensures a smooth cooking process and prevents anything from burning while you’re scrambling for the next ingredient. Chop all your vegetables, cube your chicken, beat your eggs, and measure your sauces beforehand.

While technically possible, leftover day-old rice is strongly recommended for the best fried rice results. Freshly cooked rice contains more moisture and starch, which can cause it to clump together and become mushy when fried. Day-old rice, having dried out in the refrigerator, fries up beautifully with separate grains and a slightly crispy texture. If you must use fresh rice, cook it, spread it thinly on a baking sheet, and refrigerate it for several hours (or even 30 minutes in the freezer) to help it dry out before frying.

Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile and encourages customization. Feel free to include other quick-cooking vegetables like broccoli florets, diced bell peppers, thinly sliced zucchini, chopped cabbage, or edamame for added nutrition, color, and flavor. It’s an excellent way to use up any vegetables you have in your crisper drawer. Just ensure they are cut into small, uniform pieces so they cook evenly with the other ingredients.

Yes, brown rice is a fantastic substitute! It adds a nutty flavor, a chewier texture, and a boost of fiber, making your meal even more satisfying and nutritious. As with white rice, for the best fried rice texture, it’s crucial to cook and cool the brown rice beforehand, or ideally, use leftover day-old brown rice. This will prevent it from becoming overly moist or mushy during the frying process.

Yes, it’s very easy to adapt this recipe for vegetarians. Simply omit the chicken and, if desired, replace it with firm tofu or tempeh, cubed and pan-fried until golden. You could also increase the amount of vegetables or add more eggs. Ensure you use tamari or coconut aminos for the soy sauce if you’re avoiding gluten.

If you love a kick, there are several ways to add more spice! You can incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic and onions, add a dash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce directly into the pan with the soy sauce, or serve the finished dish with a drizzle of hot honey or extra sriracha on the side. Adjust the amount of spice to your personal preference.