Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice recipe is a fantastic way to bring the flavors of hibachi cooking into your kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this dish combines succulent chicken, colorful vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a great alternative to takeout. Enjoy restaurant-quality fried rice right at home!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken:
• For the Fried Rice:
• How to Make Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Step 1: Cook the Chicken
• Step 2: Prepare the Fried Rice
• Step 3: Combine Ingredients
• Step 4: Serve
• How to Serve Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• Pair with Dipping Sauces
• Add Crunch with Fried Shallots
• Serve in Unique Bowls
• How to Perfect Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Best Side Dishes for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Reheating Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I customize my Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?
• How do I prevent my chicken from becoming tough?
• What type of rice is best for this recipe?
• Can I make this dish vegetarian?
• How do I ensure my Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice tastes authentic?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking: This recipe takes just 45 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Featuring fresh chicken and vibrant veggies, each bite is packed with flavor.
• Customizable: You can easily modify the ingredients based on what you have at home or your dietary preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves fried rice! It’s a dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Great for Leftovers: Make a big batch and enjoy it for lunch or dinner the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious chicken fried rice, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Spatula
• Medium bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Provides enough space for even cooking and helps achieve that signature fried texture.
• Spatula: Essential for stirring and flipping ingredients without breaking them apart.
• Medium bowl: Convenient for setting aside cooked chicken before adding it back to the fried rice.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ teaspoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon (3 teaspoons) neutral oil (like avocado or canola oil)
• ¾ pound chicken breasts, cut into very small pieces (roughly half of bite-sized)
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

For the Fried Rice:

• 1 teaspoon neutral oil
• ½ cup diced white onion
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas and carrots)
• 2 large eggs
• 4 cups cooked rice, cooled to room temperature (see Notes)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

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How to Make Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 ½ teaspoons of sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Let cook for 1 minute without stirring.

Then add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of butter, 2 teaspoons of lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink (about 1-3 minutes). Stir only once or twice to allow browning. Transfer cooked chicken to a medium bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Fried Rice

In the same skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of neutral oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and frozen mixed vegetables. Sauté for about 3 minutes until onions are nearly translucent.

Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Crack in the eggs and scramble until fully cooked.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooled rice and 3 tablespoons of butter into the skillet. Stir frequently while cooking for about 5 minutes. Next, stir in 3 tablespoons of soy sauce and cook for an additional minute.

Finally, return the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper before mixing everything together until well combined and heated through.

Step 4: Serve

Portion out the fried rice into bowls. If desired, garnish with sesame seeds before serving warm. Enjoy your homemade restaurant-style chicken fried rice!

How to Serve Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Serving your homemade restaurant-style chicken fried rice can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ideas to present this delicious dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a burst of freshness.
• Cilantro Leaves: Add fresh cilantro for a vibrant flavor that complements the dish.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Soy Sauce: Offer low-sodium soy sauce on the side for those who love an extra kick of umami.
• Chili Sauce: Provide chili sauce for those who enjoy a spicy touch.

Add Crunch with Fried Shallots

• Crispy Shallots: Top your fried rice with crispy fried shallots for added texture and flavor.

Serve in Unique Bowls

• Bento Boxes: Present the chicken fried rice in bento boxes for a fun, organized meal.
• Wok-style Serving Dish: Use a wok or large serving dish to mimic the hibachi restaurant experience.

How to Perfect Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Getting your chicken fried rice just right can make all the difference. Here are some essential tips to ensure perfection.

• Use Day-Old Rice: Leftover rice is ideal because it’s drier and won’t clump together when frying.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
• High Heat is Key: Cooking on high heat helps achieve that signature stir-fried flavor and prevents sogginess.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go; add salt and soy sauce gradually to reach the desired flavor without overwhelming it.
• Add Protein Variations: Experiment with shrimp, beef, or tofu alongside chicken for a different twist.

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Best Side Dishes for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Complementing your chicken fried rice with delightful side dishes can enhance the meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with veggies or meat provide a crunchy contrast.
2. Egg Drop Soup: A light and flavorful soup that pairs well with the hearty fried rice.
3. Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds crunch and acidity.
4. Steamed Dumplings: Savory dumplings filled with pork or chicken offer a satisfying bite alongside your main dish.
5. Miso Soup: This warm soup brings umami flavors that complement the richness of fried rice beautifully.
6. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame makes for a protein-packed, healthy side option that’s easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making restaurant-style chicken fried rice at home can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using Freshly Cooked Rice: Fresh rice tends to be too sticky and moist. Always use cooled or leftover rice for the best texture.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many ingredients at once can lead to steaming rather than frying. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Relying solely on soy sauce for flavor can make your dish one-dimensional. Use salt, pepper, and other spices to enhance the taste.
• Skipping the Chicken Browning Step: Not allowing the chicken to brown properly can result in rubbery pieces. Let it sear nicely by not stirring too often.
• Not Using Enough Oil: Insufficient oil can lead to dry fried rice. Ensure you use enough oil for a rich flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add fried rice and stir frequently until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite proteins like shrimp or tofu, or toss in extra vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli.

How do I prevent my chicken from becoming tough?

To keep your chicken tender, avoid overcooking. Cook just until no longer pink and let it rest after cooking before adding it back into the fried rice.

What type of rice is best for this recipe?

Long-grain jasmine or basmati rice works best since they stay fluffy and separate after cooking.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and use tofu or additional veggies as your protein source.

How do I ensure my Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice tastes authentic?

Use high-quality soy sauce and sesame oil, and remember not to skip on seasoning with salt and pepper.

Final Thoughts

This restaurant-style chicken fried rice is a delightful dish that combines convenience with flavor. It’s versatile enough for any occasion—feel free to customize it with your preferred proteins or vegetables! Give it a try; you’ll love how easy it is to recreate this takeout favorite at home!