Introduction
Benihana’s chicken fried rice recipe is a fan-favorite, known for its rich, buttery flavor and perfectly cooked ingredients. This hibachi-style fried rice is made using garlic butter, soy sauce, and fresh vegetables, giving it the signature taste that keeps people coming back.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making Benihana chicken fried rice recipe at home. From choosing the best type of rice to mastering the hibachi cooking techniques, you’ll learn everything needed to create this delicious dish.
The secret to authentic Benihana fried rice lies in high-heat cooking, constant stirring, and the perfect blend of seasonings. Whether you’re making it as a standalone dish or pairing it with hibachi steak or shrimp, this recipe will help you achieve restaurant-quality fried rice in your own kitchen.
Let’s dive in and make the best Benihana chicken fried rice recipe at home!
Looking for more delicious rice-based recipes? Check out our Anjappar Egg Fried Rice Recipe for another flavorful take on fried rice!
What Makes Benihana chicken fried rice recipe Special?
Benihana’s chicken fried rice is famous for its rich, buttery flavor and perfectly cooked ingredients. Unlike traditional fried rice, it is made on a flat-top hibachi grill, which allows for even cooking and a slightly crispy texture. The key to its flavor lies in garlic butter, a blend of unsalted butter, garlic, soy sauce, and lemon juice. This simple yet powerful ingredient enhances the umami taste of the rice, giving it that signature restaurant-style richness.
The Unique Cooking Method
Hibachi chefs use high heat and constant movement to cook the rice quickly without overcooking it. Unlike wok-style fried rice, which relies on tossing, hibachi fried rice is spread out and stirred frequently, ensuring that each grain is evenly coated with seasonings and butter.
Essential Ingredients That Make It Stand Out
- Cold, Day-Old Rice – Prevents mushiness and absorbs flavors better.
- Garlic Butter – The secret ingredient that gives it a savory depth.
- High-Heat Oil – Safflower or peanut oil helps achieve a crispy texture.
- Fresh Vegetables – Diced carrots, onions, and green onions add color and crunch.
- Eggs & Seasonings – Soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce bring out the authentic taste.
Why You Should Try Making It at Home
The best part? You don’t need a hibachi grill to enjoy this dish at home. With the right technique and ingredients, you can recreate this restaurant-quality fried rice in your own kitchen. Ready to learn how? Let’s dive in!
Choosing the Best Rice for Benihana-Style Fried Rice
The foundation of any great Benihana chicken fried rice recipe starts with the right type of rice. The texture, stickiness, and ability to absorb flavors all depend on choosing the best variety and preparing it correctly.
Fresh vs. Day-Old Rice: Which One is Best?
Hibachi chefs prefer day-old rice because it is drier and firmer, preventing it from turning mushy when stir-fried. Freshly cooked rice contains too much moisture, leading to clumping and a sticky texture. However, if you must use fresh rice, spread it on a tray and let it cool under a fan to remove excess moisture.
Best Rice Varieties for Fried Rice
Not all rice works well for hibachi-style fried rice. The ideal rice is non-sticky, slightly firm, and absorbs flavors well.
| Rice Type | Texture & Features | Best Used For |
|---|---|---|
| Jasmine Rice | Medium grain, slightly sticky but fluffy | Best for hibachi-style fried rice |
| Medium-Grain White Rice | Balanced texture, absorbs flavors well | Used in most Chinese takeout fried rice |
| Sushi Rice (Short-Grain) | Sticky, chewy texture | Works for Japanese-style fried rice but less ideal for hibachi |
| Brown Rice | Nutty flavor, firmer texture | Healthier option, but takes longer to cook |
| Basmati Rice | Long-grain, fluffy, fragrant | Not ideal—too dry and lacks the chewy texture of hibachi rice |
How to Prepare Rice for Fried Rice
- Cook the rice ahead of time – If possible, use rice that has been refrigerated overnight.
- Spread it out to cool – This helps remove excess moisture.
- Break it apart before cooking – This ensures even frying and prevents clumping.
Quick Tip
If you’re in a rush, cook fresh rice and spread it on a baking sheet, then place it in the fridge for 30 minutes to dry it out quickly.
With the right rice prepared the right way, you’re one step closer to restaurant-style fried rice!
The Secret Benihana Garlic Butter Recipe
One of the key ingredients that makes Benihana chicken fried rice recipe so flavorful is garlic butter. This simple yet powerful blend enhances the savory, umami-rich taste of the rice, giving it that signature hibachi flavor.
Why Is Garlic Butter Important?
Unlike regular fried rice, Benihana’s version is known for its rich, buttery taste. Instead of just relying on soy sauce, hibachi chefs use garlic butter to coat the rice, chicken, and vegetables, creating a deep, savory flavor that is hard to resist.
Benihana-Style Garlic Butter Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 stick unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp soy sauce
How to Make It
- In a bowl, combine butter, garlic, lemon juice, and soy sauce.
- Use a spoon to mix everything evenly until well combined.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge—it lasts up to a month!
How to Use Garlic Butter in Fried Rice
- Add 2 tbsp of garlic butter to the pan while cooking the chicken.
- Stir in another tbsp when adding the rice for extra flavor.
- Finish with a small dab before serving for that authentic Benihana taste.
With this garlic butter recipe, your homemade Benihana chicken fried rice recipe will have the same rich, umami-packed taste as the restaurant version!
Cooking Techniques – How Hibachi Chefs Make Fried Rice
The secret to Benihana-style chicken fried rice isn’t just the ingredients—it’s the cooking technique. Hibachi chefs use high heat, fast movements, and precise timing to achieve that signature flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
| Step | Action | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Prep Ingredients | Dice chicken, chop vegetables, and scramble eggs in a bowl. | Ensures quick and even cooking. |
| 2. Heat the Wok | Use high heat and add safflower oil or peanut oil. | Prevents rice from becoming soggy. |
| 3. Cook the Chicken | Stir-fry chicken until golden brown, then push to the side. | Allows even cooking without overcooking. |
| 4. Add Vegetables & Eggs | Sauté onions, carrots, and green onions. Scramble eggs separately. | Enhances flavor and texture. |
| 5. Stir-Fry the Rice | Add cold rice, breaking it apart with a spatula. | Prevents clumping and ensures even seasoning. |
| 6. Season the Rice | Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce. Stir well. | Brings out the authentic hibachi flavor. |
| 7. Finish with Garlic Butter | Stir in Benihana garlic butter for a rich, umami taste. | The final touch for restaurant-style fried rice. |
Pro Tips for Perfect Fried Rice
✅ Use High Heat – This prevents rice from sticking and creates a slight crispiness.
✅ Keep Ingredients Moving – Stir constantly to distribute flavors evenly.
✅ Add Garlic Butter at the End – This locks in the buttery, umami-rich flavor.
By following these steps, you’ll get fluffy, flavorful fried rice just like at Benihana! Now, let’s talk about the best seasonings and sauces.
Essential Seasonings & Sauces for Benihana Fried Rice
The key to achieving Benihana-style chicken fried rice lies in using the right seasonings and sauces. These ingredients enhance the savory, umami-rich taste, giving it that authentic hibachi flavor.
Key Hibachi Spices & Seasonings
- Garlic – The most important flavor booster. Used fresh or in garlic butter.
- Ginger – Adds a subtle heat and depth to the dish.
- Sesame Seeds – Provides a nutty crunch and mild flavor.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for balancing the taste without overpowering the dish.
What Sauce Do Hibachi Chefs Use?
Hibachi chefs use a combination of sauces to enhance flavor without making the rice soggy.
Best Sauces for Fried Rice
- Soy Sauce – The base seasoning, adds saltiness and umami.
- Oyster Sauce – Provides a deep, slightly sweet umami flavor.
- Fish Sauce – Enhances savory depth without tasting fishy.
What Do They Squirt on the Rice at Hibachi?
- Soy sauce – For seasoning.
- Sake or Water – To create steam and help the rice fluff up.
- Garlic butter – The final touch for richness and depth.
By using these seasonings and sauces, you can recreate the perfectly balanced, flavorful fried rice that makes Benihana’s version so addictive! Next, let’s go over common mistakes to avoid when cooking fried rice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Benihana Fried Rice
Even with the right ingredients, small mistakes can prevent your fried rice from having that perfect hibachi-style texture and flavor. Here are the most common mistakes and how to fix them.
Top Mistakes & How to Fix Them
| Mistake | Why It’s a Problem | How to Fix It |
|---|---|---|
| Using Fresh Rice | Too much moisture makes rice sticky and clumpy. | Use day-old rice or spread fresh rice on a tray to cool before cooking. |
| Overcrowding the Pan | Causes rice to steam instead of fry. | Cook in small batches to allow even frying. |
| Not Using High Heat | Prevents rice from getting crispy and flavorful. | Use high heat and a heavy-bottomed pan or wok. |
| Adding Too Much Soy Sauce | Makes rice soggy and overpowering in flavor. | Use only 1 tbsp per 2 cups of rice and add gradually. |
| Skipping the Garlic Butter | Loses the signature Benihana flavor. | Add garlic butter at the end for richness. |
| Not Stirring Constantly | Uneven cooking leads to burnt spots. | Keep stirring and tossing to coat every grain evenly. |
Pro Tips for Perfect Fried Rice
✅ Use a Large Pan or Wok – This ensures even heat distribution.
✅ Keep Everything Moving – Prevents sticking and burning.
✅ Season Gradually – Add sauces and seasonings in small amounts to control the flavor.
✅ Finish with Garlic Butter – Enhances the final rich, umami-packed taste.
By avoiding these mistakes and following these pro tips, you’ll be able to create perfectly textured, flavorful Benihana-style fried rice every time! Now, let’s look at some pro tips for even better results.
Pro Tips for the Best Benihana-Style Fried Rice
To achieve restaurant-quality fried rice, it’s important to use the right techniques and ingredients. Here are some expert tips to make your homemade Benihana chicken fried rice recipe taste just like the one at the restaurant.
1. Use High Heat
Hibachi chefs cook on extremely hot griddles, which helps to sear the rice and lock in flavors. At home, use a wok or a large skillet on high heat to prevent sogginess.
2. Keep Stirring & Tossing
The key to evenly cooked rice is constant movement. Stir-fry the rice, chicken, and vegetables quickly to ensure that each grain is coated with sauce and garlic butter without sticking.
3. Add Garlic Butter at the End
For the best flavor, stir in Benihana garlic butter at the final step. This allows the buttery, umami-rich taste to coat the rice without burning.
4. Use the Right Rice
- Day-old rice works best because it is drier and won’t clump.
- If using fresh rice, spread it out on a tray and chill it for 30 minutes before frying.
5. Cook in Small Batches
Avoid overcrowding the pan, as too much rice at once can cause steaming instead of frying. Cook in small portions to achieve crispy, flavorful rice.
By following these pro tips, you’ll be able to create perfectly textured, flavorful fried rice just like Benihana’s! Next, let’s explore serving ideas and pairings for a complete hibachi-style meal.
Serving Ideas & Best Pairings for Benihana Fried Rice
Benihana chicken fried rice recipe is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right dishes can elevate your meal to a full hibachi-style dining experience. Whether you prefer grilled meats, seafood, or classic Japanese sides, these pairings will complete your meal.
Best Dishes to Serve with Benihana Fried Rice
| Dish | Why It Works | Serving Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| Hibachi Steak | The rich, smoky flavor of grilled steak pairs perfectly with buttery fried rice. | Slice the steak into bite-sized pieces and drizzle with garlic butter. |
| Hibachi Shrimp | Light, tender shrimp complement the savory rice. | Toss shrimp with soy sauce and sear over high heat. |
| Teriyaki Chicken | Sweet and savory flavors balance the umami taste of the rice. | Glaze grilled chicken with teriyaki sauce before serving. |
| Miso Soup | A warm, comforting soup that cleanses the palate. | Serve as an appetizer with green onions and tofu. |
| Yum Yum Sauce | A creamy, slightly tangy dipping sauce that enhances every bite. | Drizzle over rice or serve on the side for dipping. |
| Steamed Vegetables | Adds freshness and crunch to the meal. | Use broccoli, zucchini, and mushrooms for a balanced side. |
Pro Tips for a Complete Hibachi Experience
✅ Serve on a Hot Plate – This keeps the rice warm, just like at Benihana.
✅ Use Chopsticks – For an authentic Japanese dining feel.
✅ Add a Side of Yum Yum Sauce – A classic dip that pairs perfectly with fried rice and grilled meats.
✅ Make a Hibachi-Style Platter – Arrange grilled steak, shrimp, chicken, and rice on a large plate for a restaurant-style presentation.
By pairing Benihana chicken fried rice recipe with these delicious dishes, you can create a complete hibachi meal that brings the Japanese steakhouse experience right to your home! Next, let’s answer some frequently asked questions.
FAQs About Benihana chicken fried rice recipe
What Does Benihana Put in Their Fried Rice?
Benihana’s fried rice is made with day-old rice, garlic butter, soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, eggs, and fresh vegetables like carrots and green onions. The garlic butter is the secret ingredient that gives it a rich, umami-packed flavor.
What Type of Oil Does Benihana Use?
Benihana uses safflower oil or peanut oil for frying. These oils have high smoke points, making them perfect for high-heat hibachi cooking without burning or affecting the taste.
What Is the Secret Ingredient to Restaurant Fried Rice?
The key secret ingredient is garlic butter, which enhances the depth and richness of the dish. Other essential elements include oyster sauce and fish sauce, which add umami flavor that makes restaurant-style fried rice taste better than homemade versions.
What Sauce Do Hibachi Chefs Use for Fried Rice?
Hibachi chefs use a combination of sauces to season fried rice, including:
Soy Sauce – Adds salty, umami depth.
Oyster Sauce – Brings a slightly sweet, rich umami flavor.
Fish Sauce – Provides a deep, savory taste without overpowering the dish.
What Sauce Does Benihana Use?
Benihana is famous for its Yum Yum Sauce and Ginger Sauce.
Yum Yum Sauce is a creamy, tangy dipping sauce made with mayonnaise, ketchup, butter, garlic powder, and paprika.
Ginger Sauce is a savory, citrusy sauce made from soy sauce, ginger, vinegar, and onions.
What Do They Squirt on Rice at Hibachi?
Hibachi chefs squirt a mix of:
Soy sauce for flavor.
Sake or water to create steam and fluff the rice.
Garlic butter to add richness.
These small details are what give Benihana fried rice its iconic flavor! Now, let’s wrap up with a final conclusion.
Conclusion
Making Benihana chicken fried rice recipe at home is easier than you think! By using day-old rice, garlic butter, and the right sauces, you can recreate the authentic hibachi flavor in your own kitchen. The key is high-heat cooking, constant stirring, and balanced seasoning to achieve that perfect texture and taste.
Pairing your fried rice with hibachi steak, shrimp, or teriyaki chicken will complete the restaurant-style experience. Don’t forget to serve it with Yum Yum Sauce or Ginger Sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
With these step-by-step techniques and pro tips, you’ll be able to make restaurant-quality fried rice every time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.
Now, grab your wok, fire up the stove, and bring the Benihana experience to your home! Happy cooking!
Print
🍽 Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 20 min
Ingredients
✅ 2 tbsp safflower oil (or peanut oil)
✅ 8 oz chicken thighs, diced
✅ 2 cups cold, cooked Jasmine rice
✅ 2 tbsp garlic butter (recipe below)
✅ 3 eggs, scrambled
✅ ¼ cup green onions, sliced
✅ ¼ cup onion, diced
✅ ¼ cup carrots, diced
✅ 1 tbsp oyster sauce
✅ 1 tbsp fish sauce
✅ 1 tsp salt
✅ 1 tsp black pepper
For the Garlic Butter:
✅ 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
✅ 2 cloves garlic, minced
✅ 2 tbsp lemon juice
✅ 1 tsp soy sauce
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Garlic Butter
- Mix butter, garlic, lemon juice, and soy sauce in a bowl until well combined.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
2️⃣ Cook the Chicken
- Heat safflower oil in a wok over medium-high heat.
- Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown.
- Stir in 1 tbsp garlic butter, then push the chicken to one side.
3️⃣ Cook the Vegetables & Eggs
- Add onions, green onions, and carrots, and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in scrambled eggs, cook briefly, then mix everything together.
4️⃣ Fry the Rice
- Add cold rice to the wok and break it apart.
- Pour in oyster sauce, fish sauce, and 1 tbsp garlic butter.
- Stir-fry until the rice is evenly coated and heated through.
5️⃣ Serve & Garnish
- Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and extra green onions.
- Serve hot with hibachi steak, shrimp, or Yum Yum sauce!
Notes
✅ Use day-old rice to prevent mushiness.
✅ Cook on high heat for a crisp texture.
✅ Add garlic butter at the end for a rich, umami-packed flavor.
🔥 Enjoy your homemade Benihana chicken fried rice! 🍚🥢
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 10 min
- Category: Lunch
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: ~660 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 1211mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 79g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 194mg
