Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of hibachi cooking right to your kitchen. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep, this recipe is quick and easy to make, ensuring that you enjoy a delicious homemade meal without the hassle of takeout. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice, it’s sure to become a favorite!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken:
• For the Fried Rice:
• For Garnish
• How to Make Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Step 1: Cook the Chicken
• Step 2: Prepare the Fried Rice
• Step 3: Serve
• How to Serve Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• Pair with Protein
• Offer Dipping Sauces
• Serve with Soup
• How to Perfect Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Best Side Dishes for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storing Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice in the Refrigerator
• Freezing Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Reheating Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is restaurant-style chicken fried rice?
• Can I customize my restaurant-style chicken fried rice?
• How do I prevent my chicken from getting rubbery?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Can I make this dish vegetarian?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

This dish offers more than just great taste; it’s a versatile option for any occasion.

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, and fresh ingredients creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite proteins or veggies to tailor the dish to your taste.
• Budget-Friendly: Using leftover rice and simple ingredients makes this a cost-effective meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: It stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully for lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this restaurant-style chicken fried rice efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Spatula
• Medium bowl
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space for cooking and allows for even heat distribution.
• Spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without damaging them, ensuring everything cooks evenly.
• Medium bowl: Perfect for transferring cooked chicken and mixing ingredients with ease.

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)

For Garnish

• Sesame seeds (optional)

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How to Make Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 ½ teaspoons sesame oil and 1 tablespoon neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oils are hot, add the chicken pieces and let cook for 1 minute without stirring.
3. Add 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon butter, 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken until it is no longer pink (approximately 1-3 minutes), stirring no more than once or twice to allow it to brown nicely.
4. Transfer the cooked chicken to a medium bowl and set aside. Wipe out the skillet or wok to use again.

Step 2: Prepare the Fried Rice

1. Heat 1 teaspoon neutral oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and frozen mixed vegetables. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onions are almost translucent.
2. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Crack the eggs into the skillet and scramble them with a spatula until fully cooked.
3. Add the cooked rice and 3 tablespoons butter to the skillet. Stir frequently and cook for about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in 3 tablespoons soy sauce and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, then stir everything together until well combined and heated through.

Step 3: Serve

Portion the fried rice into bowls, garnish with sesame seeds if desired, and serve warm.

Enjoy your homemade Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice—a dish that rivals your favorite hibachi restaurant!

How to Serve Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Serving restaurant-style chicken fried rice can elevate your meal experience. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides and toppings, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Green Onions: Chop fresh green onions for a crunchy texture and a pop of color.
• Cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds freshness and an aromatic flavor.

Pair with Protein

• Grilled Shrimp: Add grilled shrimp on top for extra protein and seafood flavor.
• Teriyaki Chicken: Serve alongside teriyaki chicken bites for a delightful combination.

Offer Dipping Sauces

• Soy Sauce: A small bowl of soy sauce allows guests to add more flavor as desired.
• Chili Oil: For those who enjoy heat, chili oil provides a spicy kick.

Serve with Soup

• Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup complements the fried rice nicely.
• Egg Drop Soup: This light soup is another tasty option that pairs well with the rich flavors of chicken fried rice.

How to Perfect Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Perfecting your restaurant-style chicken fried rice requires attention to detail. Here are some tips for achieving the best results.

• Use Day-Old Rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too moist. Day-old rice is drier and fries better without becoming mushy.
• High Heat Cooking: Cook on high heat to get that authentic stir-fry taste and prevent sogginess.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Season Generously: Use salt and pepper along with soy sauce for balanced flavor throughout the dish.
• Stir Frequently, But Not Too Much: Stirring allows even cooking; however, let ingredients sit occasionally for that desired caramelization.

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Best Side Dishes for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Complementing your chicken fried rice with the right side dishes enhances the meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy on the outside, these rolls filled with vegetables make for a crunchy appetizer.
2. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame is a healthy snack that adds protein and fiber to your meal.
3. Kung Pao Chicken: This spicy stir-fry adds depth and additional flavors that pair well with fried rice.
4. Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing balances out the richness of the fried rice.
5. Wonton Soup: A soothing broth filled with tender wontons complements the textures of your main dish perfectly.
6. Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried vegetables offer a crispy contrast to the soft rice dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help ensure your restaurant-style chicken fried rice turns out perfectly. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice is too moist and clumpy for fried rice. Always use cooled or leftover rice for the best texture.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it tough. Aim to cook it just until it’s no longer pink for tender pieces.
• Neglecting seasoning: Relying solely on soy sauce can lead to bland flavors. Use salt, pepper, and lemon juice to enhance the overall taste.
• Not preheating the skillet: A hot skillet is crucial for a good fry. Preheat your pan to get that nice sear on the chicken and vegetables.
• Skipping the veggies: Vegetables add color and nutrients. Don’t skip them; they are essential for a well-rounded dish.

Storing Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice in the Refrigerator

• Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to avoid freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months, making sure to label with the date.

Reheating Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the fried 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 loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil if needed. Stir frequently until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is restaurant-style chicken fried rice?

Restaurant-style chicken fried rice is a flavorful dish made with seasoned chicken, mixed vegetables, and day-old rice, inspired by hibachi cooking.

Can I customize my restaurant-style chicken fried rice?

Absolutely! You can add different proteins like shrimp or tofu, or toss in your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli.

How do I prevent my chicken from getting rubbery?

To avoid rubbery chicken, cook it just until no longer pink and ensure you don’t stir too often while browning.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This restaurant-style chicken fried rice is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator or frozen for future meals.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken with tofu or omit it entirely and increase the amount of vegetables instead.

Final Thoughts

This restaurant-style chicken fried rice is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for using up leftovers and can be customized based on your preferences. Whether you want extra veggies or different proteins, this dish adapts beautifully. Give it a try—you’ll love how quick and satisfying it is!