Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

This restaurant-style chicken fried rice is inspired by hibachi-style cooking, delivering the same bold flavors and perfectly textured rice as your favorite takeout—right from your own kitchen. Packed with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and just the right amount of seasoning, this dish is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a meal-prep-friendly option, this recipe is a must-try.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Better Than Takeout – No more overly salty or soggy fried rice. This version is well-balanced and full of flavor.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 45 minutes with minimal prep.
• Customizable – Swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Stores and reheats beautifully for easy leftovers.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Skillet or Wok – A wok provides the best heat distribution, but a large nonstick skillet works well too.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon – For stirring and tossing the ingredients evenly.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board – To easily dice the chicken and vegetables.
• Small Bowls – Helps with organizing prepped ingredients for efficient cooking.

Preparation Tips

• Use Day-Old Rice – Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist. Leftover rice from the fridge fries up perfectly.
• Prep Ingredients in Advance – Since cooking happens quickly, have everything chopped and measured before starting.
• Cook Over High Heat – Helps to achieve the authentic fried rice texture.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ teaspoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon neutral oil (avocado or canola oil)
• ¾ pound chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
• 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
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat sesame oil and neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for 1 minute without stirring.
3. Add soy sauce, butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir occasionally and cook for 1-3 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink and lightly browned.
4. Transfer the cooked chicken to a bowl and set it aside. Wipe out the skillet.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat 1 teaspoon of neutral oil in the same skillet.
2. Add the diced onion and frozen mixed vegetables. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onions are almost translucent.

Step 3: Cook the Eggs

1. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet.
2. Crack the eggs into the empty side and scramble them until fully cooked.

Step 4: Fry the Rice

1. Add the cooked rice and butter to the skillet. Stir frequently and cook for about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the soy sauce and cook for an additional minute.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet.
2. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
3. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.

Step 6: Serve & Garnish

1. Portion the fried rice into bowls.
2. Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired.
3. Serve warm and enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

This restaurant-style chicken fried rice pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some excellent options to complete your meal:

1. Egg Drop Soup

A light, savory soup made with whisked eggs in a flavorful broth. It adds warmth and comfort to your meal without overpowering the flavors of the fried rice.

2. Spring Rolls

Crispy vegetable or shrimp spring rolls provide a crunchy contrast to the soft and savory rice. Serve with a sweet chili or soy dipping sauce.

3. Steamed Dumplings

Juicy dumplings filled with pork, chicken, or vegetables complement the dish well. A side of soy sauce or chili oil enhances the flavors.

4. Garlic Green Beans

Sautéed green beans with garlic and a touch of soy sauce bring freshness and a slight crunch, balancing the richness of the fried rice.

5. Cucumber Salad

A refreshing cucumber salad with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes adds a cool contrast to the warm, flavorful rice.

6. Miso Soup

A traditional Japanese miso soup with tofu and seaweed pairs beautifully with hibachi-style fried rice.

7. Kimchi

Fermented spicy cabbage adds a tangy, spicy kick that enhances the dish’s overall depth of flavor.

8. Sesame Chicken

If you want to create a full takeout-style meal, crispy sesame chicken makes a great protein-rich addition.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

1. Using Freshly Cooked Rice

Freshly cooked rice is too moist and can turn mushy when fried. Always use chilled, day-old rice for the best texture.

2. Overcrowding the Pan

Frying too much at once prevents proper browning and can make the dish soggy. Cook in batches if needed.

3. Skipping the Butter

The butter is key to achieving the rich, restaurant-style flavor. Do not substitute it entirely with oil.

4. Overcooking the Chicken

Cut the chicken into small, even pieces and cook just until done. Overcooking will make it dry and chewy.

5. Using Low Heat

Fried rice needs high heat for the best texture and slight crispiness. Cooking on low heat results in steamed rice rather than fried.

6. Adding Soy Sauce Too Early

If soy sauce is added too soon, the rice absorbs too much moisture, leading to a mushy texture. Add it near the end for even coating.

7. Forgetting to Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Soy sauce alone may not provide enough seasoning. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or additional seasonings as needed.

8. Not Letting the Chicken Brown Properly

To get that delicious seared flavor, let the chicken cook undisturbed for at least one minute before stirring.

Recipe Tips for the Best Chicken Fried Rice

1. Use the Right Rice

For the best results, use long-grain white rice, jasmine rice, or basmati rice. Day-old rice is ideal since it has dried out slightly, preventing clumping.

2. Cook Ingredients Separately

To achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures, cook the chicken, vegetables, and eggs separately before combining everything at the end.

3. Don’t Skip the Butter

Butter adds richness and depth to the dish, helping to achieve the restaurant-style taste that many takeout versions have.

4. Use High Heat

Cooking over high heat prevents steaming and ensures that the rice gets a slightly crisp texture rather than becoming mushy.

5. Customize to Your Taste

Adjust the ingredients based on your preferences. Swap chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu, and use different vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftover Fried Rice

• Allow the fried rice to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Fried Rice

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, adding a small amount of oil or butter. Stir-fry the rice for a few minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place the rice in a microwave-safe bowl, sprinkle with a few drops of water, and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Oven: Spread the rice in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

Freezing Tips

• Divide the rice into individual portions before freezing for easy reheating.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.

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FAQs

1. What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Jasmine rice or long-grain white rice works best. Using day-old, cold rice helps to prevent a mushy texture.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.

3. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Omit the chicken and add more vegetables or tofu for a plant-based alternative.

4. Can I add extra protein?

Yes, you can increase the amount of chicken or add shrimp, beef, or even scrambled tofu for additional protein.

5. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, chili oil, or diced jalapeños to increase the heat level.

6. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice can be used, but it has a chewier texture and takes longer to cook.

7. Why is my fried rice mushy?

This can happen if the rice is freshly cooked, if too much liquid is added, or if the pan is overcrowded. Always use day-old rice and cook in batches if needed.

8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, fried rice can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat using a skillet for the best texture.

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Conclusion

This restaurant-style chicken fried rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the taste of takeout to your home. With the right techniques, high heat, and a few key ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to customize, great for meal prep, and a fantastic way to use up leftover rice.

Try this recipe and experiment with different proteins and vegetables to suit your taste. Whether served on its own or alongside other Asian-inspired dishes, this homemade fried rice will become a staple in your kitchen.

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