Ever wondered how to make Benihana’s magic in your kitchen? The benihana chicken fried rice recipe lets you do just that. It’s a fun way to enjoy a beloved hibachi dish at home. Plus, it’s cheaper than eating out.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event, this recipe will wow everyone. It’s easy to make and full of authentic flavors.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Benihana Fried Rice
Benihana has changed the way we dine with their authentic benihana fried rice. This dish is a mix of flavor and showmanship. The lively atmosphere, with chefs cooking right before you, makes it unforgettable.
Fried rice is a big deal in Japanese food. Benihana makes it special with careful preparation and top-notch ingredients.
Knowing the benihana fried rice ingredients helps you understand its unique taste. It has protein, veggies, and special seasonings. The cooking process, like using rice from the day before, adds to the flavor and texture.
Using medium or long-grain jasmine rice is key for the perfect dish. This rice type gives the right balance.
The recipe makes eight servings, great for family or friends. It has 370 calories per serving, so you can enjoy it without guilt. Sesame seeds add a nice crunch and nutty taste, making it even better.
Whether for a big group or just a few, making authentic benihana fried rice at home will wow your guests.
Benihana uses healthy oils like safflower or canola for their meals. This shows their dedication to tasty, nutritious food. When cooking, balance the flavors, especially with soy sauce, for that golden-brown look.
This attention to detail turns Benihana fried rice into more than just a meal. It’s a culinary journey you can enjoy at home.
What Makes Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Unique
The benihana chicken fried rice copycat recipe has special elements that make it stand out. It starts with day-old jasmine rice, which is drier and firmer. This makes it perfect for frying without getting mushy.
Fresh vegetables like carrots, yellow onion, and green onion add flavor and crunch. They make the dish more enjoyable to eat.
The authentic benihana fried rice garlic butter is a key ingredient. It adds a creamy, rich flavor that’s hard to beat. Cooking at high heat brings out the Maillard reaction, enhancing the taste and texture.
The way Benihana chefs cook your meal adds to the fun. Watching them work their magic makes dinner feel like a show. This unique presentation and delicious flavors make the dish unforgettable.
Compared to regular fried rice, this version is healthier. Each serving has about 523 calories, much less than the usual 1,000 calories found in restaurant versions. So, making this benihana chicken fried rice copycat recipe at home is a tasty and healthier choice.
Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Making Benihana Chicken Fried Rice at home is simple. It has tender chicken, colorful veggies, and perfect rice. Follow this guide to make it, with all the ingredients and steps you need.
Ingredients for the Fried Rice
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 12 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 3-4 cups cooked and cold white rice
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 stick unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Scallions for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Incorporate the sliced carrots and minced garlic into the skillet, stirring for about 2 minutes.
- Add the cooked and cold rice, breaking up any clumps. Stir to mix with the chicken and vegetables.
- Mix in the unsalted butter and soy sauce, ensuring each grain of rice is coated with flavor.
- Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Cook everything together for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with scallions before serving.
This Benihana chicken fried rice recipe serves four people and is sure to impress your friends and family. Storing leftovers is easy; simply refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. With a preparation time of about 35 minutes and a cooking time of around 15 minutes, you’re just a short while away from enjoying this indulgent dish.
Essential Cooking Techniques for Fried Rice
To make perfect fried rice, you need to learn some key cooking techniques. These methods are important for turning simple ingredients into a tasty, restaurant-style dish. Here are some essential techniques to improve your fried rice cooking skills:
- Proper Rice Preparation: It’s important to use cold, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice is too wet and clumps together. Day-old rice is drier, making it better for frying and getting the right texture.
- Wok Temperature: Heat your wok or skillet very hot before adding ingredients. A hot surface helps quickly sear proteins and veggies, adding flavor.
- Efficient Ingredient Combination: Add ingredients step by step, starting with proteins like chicken or shrimp. This way, each part cooks evenly and gets its flavor.
- Timing Matters: Keep your cooking process organized to avoid overcooking. Add veggies after proteins, letting them cook a bit before mixing in the rice.
- Coating the Rice: Stir the rice well with oil, making sure each grain is coated. This is key for even flavor and preventing clumps.
Using these cooking techniques for fried rice will help you make a delicious Benihana-style fried rice. By mastering these methods, you can achieve the same texture and taste as Benihana’s famous dish.
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Authentic Flavor
To make authentic Benihana fried rice at home, picking the right ingredients is key. The type of rice, protein, and vegetables greatly affect the taste. Let’s explore the best choices for that real Benihana flavor.
Best Rice Options
The base of great fried rice is the rice itself. Medium-grain rice, like Calrose or jasmine, is perfect. They’re sticky yet fluffy, great for soaking up flavors. Using day-old rice keeps it from getting mushy, ensuring a delicious dish.
Protein Alternatives: Chicken, Shrimp, and More
There are many tasty protein options. Chicken is a favorite, but shrimp, beef, or tofu offer new tastes. Marinate these with teriyaki or simple spices to add more flavor.
Vegetable and Spice Suggestions
Adding various vegetables and spices makes your Benihana fried rice better. Here are some great picks:
- Carrots
- Green onions
- Peas
- Bell peppers
- Garlic
- Shallots
For spices, soy sauce is essential. Add sesame oil for a nutty taste and white pepper for a kick. These ingredients mix to make a dish that truly feels like traditional hibachi.
| Ingredient Type | Recommended Options |
|---|---|
| Best Rice | Medium-grain, Calrose, Jasmine |
| Protein | Chicken, Shrimp, Beef, Tofu |
| Vegetables | Carrots, Green onions, Peas, Bell peppers |
| Spices | Soy sauce, Sesame oil, White pepper |
Tips for Perfecting Your Fried Rice
To make your benihana chicken fried rice recipe top-notch, follow these key tips. They cover technique and choosing the right ingredients for a tasty dish.
The Importance of Day-Old Rice
Day-old rice is key to great fried rice. It’s drier, which stops it from getting mushy. Fresh rice is too wet, making it clumpy. Try to use rice that’s been in the fridge overnight or let it cool for 30 minutes before cooking.
Oil Selection for High-Heat Cooking
Choosing the right oil is vital for frying. Use oils like canola or vegetable, which can handle high heat without burning. They help your fried rice turn out crispy and flavorful.
Controlling Soy Sauce Use
It’s important to use the right amount of soy sauce. Start with a little and add more if needed. Soy sauce adds flavor and color, so use it wisely. Too much can make your rice too dark, while too little might taste bland. Always taste as you go.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Day-Old Rice | Use chilled rice from the fridge to ensure a non-mushy consistency. |
| High-Smoke Oils | Select oils like canola or vegetable for optimal frying temperatures. |
| Soy Sauce Control | Start with a small amount, adjusting to maintain balance in flavor. |
Making Benihana Chicken Fried Rice with Yum Yum Sauce
Make your Benihana chicken fried rice even better with Yum Yum Sauce. This creamy sauce adds a new layer of flavor. You can mix it in or serve it on the side for a restaurant-like taste.
The Yum Yum Sauce recipe is easy but packs a punch. Begin with one cup of mayonnaise. Then, add one tablespoon of melted butter for creaminess. For a bit of spice, use half a tablespoon of Sriracha or ketchup.
Using fresh ingredients is key. Choose juicy chicken breasts and three cups of cooked white rice. Add one cup each of zucchini, mushrooms, onions, and carrots. Cook everything quickly over high heat to keep the veggies crisp.
For extra flavor, add three cloves of minced garlic and a quarter cup of soy sauce. Brown sugar adds a sweet touch. A squeeze of lemon juice from half a lemon brings freshness. This mix captures the essence of Benihana’s dishes.
Presenting your dish is important. Place the chicken fried rice on your plate and drizzle Yum Yum Sauce on top. Or let everyone add it themselves. This simple touch makes every bite a delight.
Get creative with the recipe to suit your taste. Swap proteins, veggies, or make it vegetarian. Enjoy making a meal that feels like Benihana.
Healthier Alternatives to Traditional Ingredients
Turning your Benihana Chicken Fried Rice into a healthier dish is easy. Choose brown rice over white for more fiber and nutrients. This swap keeps the taste great while making it better for you.
Try coconut aminos or sodium-reduced soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. It cuts down sodium but keeps the flavor. Add carrots, peas, and bell peppers for extra vitamins and minerals.
Use vegan butter or ghee for flavor without dairy allergens. Adding more chopped veggies makes it colorful and fiber-rich. The more veggies, the better for your health!
Watch your portion sizes and balance ingredients for fewer calories. These changes help you enjoy a healthier Benihana Chicken Fried Rice that’s good for you.
Customizing Your Benihana Chicken Fried Rice
Start your journey in customizing benihana chicken fried rice by trying new ingredients. This dish is perfect for making it your own. Add fresh veggies, proteins, and spices to make it special.
Think about adding these:
- Proteins: Try shrimp, tofu, or a mix for something different.
- Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli can add flavor and nutrition.
- Spices: A little chili flakes or ginger can give it a zing.
Adding international flavors can open up new tastes. Imagine adding Indian spices or a Mexican twist with salsa. These ideas make customizing benihana chicken fried rice a fun project.
Here’s a quick guide for different ingredients:
| Original Ingredient | Customization Options | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Tendons | Shrimp, Tofu | Seafood essence or vegetarian option |
| Rice | Quinoa, Brown Rice | Nuttier taste or whole grain |
| Soy Sauce | Coconut Aminos | Less sodium, sweet flavor |
| Vegetables | Spinach, Bean Sprouts | Fresh and crispy contrast |
Every choice you make changes the dish. Each try at customizing benihana chicken fried rice brings you closer to your ideal flavor. Explore the endless options and make it your own.
Conclusion
Making your own Benihana chicken fried rice is more than cooking. It’s a fun experience that adds joy and flavor to your kitchen. This simple recipe lets you enjoy the hibachi-style meal at home, saving money. It combines cooked rice, tender chicken, and colorful veggies for a dish everyone loves.
Learning this recipe is great for your cooking skills. You can make it anytime you want, and it’s easy to change up the flavors. This makes it your own special dish.
Start your hibachi cooking journey with this easy Benihana fried rice recipe. It’s perfect as a main dish or with other favorites. This tasty meal will become a favorite in your home. Share your cooking stories and enjoy making homemade Benihana chicken fried rice with loved ones!