Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
Experience the joy of dining out from the comfort of your home with this Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice. This easy-to-make dish captures the essence of hibachi cooking and is perfect for various occasions, whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant rice in a delicious stir-fry, you’ll impress everyone at your table. Plus, you can customize it to fit your taste by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the protein level.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Whip up this dish in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with different proteins or vegetables based on what you have on hand.
- Flavorful: The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh ingredients creates a delightful taste that rivals takeout.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and straightforward cooking make this recipe accessible for cooks of all levels.
- Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and veggies, this fried rice is a nutritious choice compared to takeout.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice efficiently, gather the following essential tools.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space for stir-frying ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
- Spatula: Essential for flipping and mixing ingredients thoroughly while cooking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure precise ingredient amounts for consistent flavor every time.
Ingredients
Proteins
- ¾ pound chicken breasts
Rice
- 4 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
Vegetables
- ½ cup diced white onion
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
Eggs
- 2 large eggs
Sauces and Oils
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- Sesame oil and neutral oil for frying
How to Make Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
Step 1: Heat the Oils
Heat sesame oil and neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken pieces to the skillet.
- Cook until browned on all sides.
Step 2: Add Flavors
Mix in soy sauce, butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper once the chicken is cooked.
- Set aside the mixture once combined well.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, sauté onions and mixed vegetables until soft.
- Push them aside in the pan.
- Scramble eggs in that space until fully cooked.
Step 4: Combine Rice
Stir in cooked rice into the skillet along with any remaining butter.
- Add soy sauce again as needed.
- Mix everything together well.
Step 5: Return Chicken
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Combine all ingredients until heated through.
- Ensure everything is mixed evenly for flavor distribution.
Step 6: Serve
Serve warm, garnished with sesame seeds or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your homemade Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice!
How to Serve Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
Serving Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is all about enhancing its flavors and making it a complete meal. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that elevate your dish.
Pair with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions on top for a burst of color and flavor.
- Cilantro: Add a handful of chopped cilantro for a refreshing taste that complements the rice.
Accompany with Sauces
- Soy Sauce: Serve extra low-sodium soy sauce on the side for those who enjoy a little more saltiness.
- Sriracha or Chili Sauce: For spice lovers, offer Sriracha or chili sauce to drizzle over the fried rice.
Add Crunchy Toppings
- Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and a delightful crunch.
- Fried Shallots: Crispy fried shallots can provide an extra layer of texture and taste.
Serve with Protein Boosters
- Grilled Chicken: Place grilled chicken strips on top for added protein and a gourmet touch.
- Shrimp or Tofu: Include shrimp or sautéed tofu for variety, catering to different dietary preferences.

How to Perfect Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
To achieve the best results with your Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Day-Old Rice: Leftover rice has a firmer texture that prevents clumping during frying.
- High Heat Cooking: Cook over medium-high heat to get that classic stir-fried flavor without steaming the ingredients.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Add Ingredients in Stages: Introduce proteins first, followed by vegetables, and then rice to maintain proper cooking times.
- Season Gradually: Start with less soy sauce; you can always add more later as needed for flavor balance.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition.
Best Side Dishes for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
Pairing side dishes with your Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice can turn it into a full feast. Here are some excellent options.
- Egg Drop Soup: A light soup that complements the fried rice perfectly without overpowering it.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls offer a crunchy texture and can be filled with various vegetables or meats.
- Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with meat or veggies add heartiness to your meal.
- Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing provides a nice crunch.
- Wonton Soup: This savory soup pairs well and adds warmth to your dining experience.
- Sesame Cucumber Salad: A cool salad with cucumbers dressed in sesame oil offers a refreshing contrast to the warm rice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice, it’s easy to slip into some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice can become mushy when fried. Always use day-old rice for the best texture.
- Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much at once prevents even cooking and browning. Fry in smaller batches for better results.
- Neglecting prep: Not chopping vegetables or protein beforehand delays cooking time. Prepare all ingredients before starting.
- Skipping seasoning: Failing to season properly can lead to bland fried rice. Don’t forget to taste and adjust flavors during cooking.
- Ignoring heat control: Cooking on low heat can result in soggy rice. Maintain medium-high heat for that perfect stir-fry finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice in an airtight container.
- 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 prevent freezer burn.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil, heating for about 15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil, and sauté until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice:
Can I use different proteins in Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?
Yes! You can customize this dish by using shrimp, beef, or tofu instead of chicken, depending on your preference.
What vegetables work best in Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?
Feel free to add bell peppers, peas, or broccoli. You can mix and match vegetables based on what you have on hand.
How do I make my fried rice more flavorful?
In addition to soy sauce, try adding oyster sauce or sesame seeds for extra depth of flavor in your Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if needed.
Final Thoughts
Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is not only quick and easy but also highly customizable. Whether you prefer extra veggies or different proteins, this dish accommodates your tastes perfectly. Try it today for a satisfying meal that brings the flavors of your favorite restaurant right into your kitchen!

Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the delightful flavors of hibachi cooking at home with this Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice. This quick and easy dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, featuring tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic rice all tossed together in a savory stir-fry. Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste. Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal that’s not only delicious but also healthier than takeout!
Ingredients
- ¾ pound chicken breasts
- 4 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- ½ cup diced white onion
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- Sesame oil and neutral oil for frying
Instructions
- Heat sesame oil and neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides.
- Mix in soy sauce, butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper once the chicken is cooked; set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté onions and mixed vegetables until soft, then scramble eggs in the cleared space.
- Stir in cooked rice along with any remaining butter and soy sauce as needed.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and mix everything thoroughly until heated through.
- Serve warm, garnished with sesame seeds or fresh herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 120mg