Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy family dinner. Inspired by hibachi-style cooking, this recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and seasoned rice into a satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to your new favorite homemade dish!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

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 Everything
• Step 4: Serve
• How to Serve Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Pair with Fresh Salad
• Add Extra Proteins
• Serve with Soy Sauce and Chili Oil
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• Use Decorative Bowls
• How to Perfect Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Best Side Dishes for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Reheating Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make restaurant-style chicken fried rice at home?
• Can I customize my restaurant-style chicken fried rice?
• What is the best type of rice for fried rice?
• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, and fresh lemon juice creates an irresistible taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences.
• Crowd-Pleasing: With its delicious flavors and colorful presentation, this fried rice will impress everyone at the table.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is needed since everything is cooked in one skillet.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will help ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

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 allows you to stir-fry effectively.
• Spatula: Ideal for scrambling eggs and mixing ingredients without damaging your skillet’s surface.
• Medium Bowl: Useful for transferring cooked chicken while keeping everything organized.

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)

PIN THIS!

How to Make Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 ½ teaspoons sesame oil and 1 tablespoon neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot:

1. Add the chicken pieces; let cook for 1 minute without stirring.
2. Stir in 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon butter, 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook until no longer pink (approximately 1-3 minutes), stirring minimally for browning.
4. Transfer the cooked chicken to a medium bowl; set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Fried Rice

In the same skillet:

1. Heat 1 teaspoon neutral oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and frozen mixed vegetables; sauté for about 3 minutes until onions are almost translucent.
3. Push vegetables to one side of the skillet; crack in the eggs and scramble until fully cooked.
4. Add cooled cooked rice and 3 tablespoons butter; stir frequently for about 5 minutes.
5. Mix in 3 tablespoons soy sauce; cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet:

1. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
2. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.

Step 4: Serve

Portion the fried rice into bowls:

1. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
2. Serve warm and enjoy your homemade restaurant-style chicken fried rice!

How to Serve Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Serving your restaurant-style chicken fried rice can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special occasion. Here are some suggestions to make your meal enjoyable and visually appealing.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A light, refreshing salad can complement the richness of the fried rice. Consider a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon juice.

Add Extra Proteins

• Include grilled shrimp or sliced beef as an additional protein option. This can enhance the dish’s flavor and make it even more filling.

Serve with Soy Sauce and Chili Oil

• Offer soy sauce and chili oil on the side for those who prefer extra seasoning or heat. These condiments can elevate the flavors of your fried rice.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped green onions or cilantro can add a fresh touch. Sprinkle them on top just before serving for an appealing presentation.

Use Decorative Bowls

• Presenting the fried rice in colorful bowls can make your meal look more inviting. Choose dishes that contrast nicely with the rice’s golden color.

How to Perfect Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Creating the perfect restaurant-style chicken fried rice at home requires attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips to achieve a delicious outcome every time.

• Use Cold Rice: Freshly cooked rice is too moist. Use leftover or cooled rice for the best texture.
• High Heat is Key: Cooking on high heat helps achieve that slight char and prevents sogginess.
• Limit Stirring: Stirring too much can break down the rice grains. Let them sear slightly before stirring.
• Season Gradually: Add salt, pepper, and soy sauce incrementally for better flavor control.
• Don’t Skimp on Butter: Adding enough butter enhances richness and prevents sticking while frying.
• Customize Ingredients: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Pairing sides with your chicken fried rice can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great side dish ideas that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Egg Drop Soup: A soothing soup made with beaten eggs and broth, offering a light start to your meal.
2. Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with vegetables or meat provide a crunchy contrast to the soft rice.
3. Steamed Dumplings: These savory bites can be filled with pork, chicken, or veggies, making them an excellent addition.
4. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots tossed in sesame dressing adds freshness.
5. Teriyaki Chicken Wings: Sweet and sticky wings provide a flavorful protein option that pairs well with fried rice.
6. Miso Soup: This traditional Japanese soup is light yet flavorful, perfect for balancing out heavier dishes.
7. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection add color and nutrients to your meal.
8. Pickled Vegetables: A small serving of pickled veggies offers a tangy kick that complements the rich flavors of fried rice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing restaurant-style chicken fried rice, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and will result in clumpy fried rice. Always use cooled or leftover rice for the best texture.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for just 1-3 minutes until it’s no longer pink, allowing it to retain moisture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Relying only on soy sauce for flavor can lead to bland fried rice. Use salt, pepper, and lemon juice generously for a well-rounded taste.
• Not preheating the pan: A cold skillet will cause ingredients to steam instead of fry. Preheat your skillet or wok before adding oil and ingredients for perfect cooking results.
• Skipping the garnish: Ignoring garnishes can make your dish look less appealing. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added flavor and visual appeal.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot. Stir between intervals.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until evenly heated.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make restaurant-style chicken fried rice at home?

To make this dish at home, follow the recipe provided, ensuring you use cooled rice and seasonings like soy sauce and lemon juice for flavor.

Can I customize my restaurant-style chicken fried rice?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite proteins or vegetables such as shrimp, beef, or bell peppers to suit your taste preferences.

What is the best type of rice for fried rice?

The best types of rice are long-grain varieties like jasmine or basmati that have been cooked and cooled. This helps achieve a fluffy texture without clumping.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Brown rice can be used as a healthier alternative but may require slightly different cooking times due to its density.

Final Thoughts

This restaurant-style chicken fried rice offers endless possibilities with its rich flavors and quick prep time. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, allowing you to customize it according to your tastes. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious meal that rivals takeout!

---