Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of your favorite hibachi grill right to your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for various occasions, from family dinners to meal prepping for the week. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this restaurant-quality meal at home, all while enjoying the comforting combination of chicken, vegetables, and rice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, and fresh lemon juice creates a rich flavor profile that rivals any restaurant dish.
• Versatile: You can customize this fried rice with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it suitable for everyone.
• One-Pan Wonder: With all ingredients cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish offers a nutritious choice without compromising on taste.

Tools and Preparation

To successfully make Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice, having the right tools on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly and allows for high heat cooking that enhances flavor.
• Spatula: Essential for stirring and flipping ingredients without damaging them.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures precise measurements for oils, sauces, and seasonings to maintain flavor balance.

Ingredients

We took this recipe straight from the hibachi grill and our mega-popular Hibachi Chicken recipe, for a perfect restaurant-style meal made at home.

For the Chicken

• 1 ½ teaspoons sesame oil
• 4 teaspoons neutral oil (like avocado or canola; 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon, divided)
• ¾ pound chicken breasts (cut into very small pieces, roughly half of bite-sized)
• 5 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (divided)
• 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)

For the Vegetables

• ½ cup diced white onion
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots)

For the Rice

• 2 large eggs
• 4 cups cooked rice (cool to touch; see Notes)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Heat Your Wok

Begin by heating your wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sesame oil along with 2 teaspoons of neutral oil.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Once the oil is hot:
1. Add the chicken pieces to the pan.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Stir-fry until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Onions

Next:
1. Push the chicken to one side of the pan.
2. Add the diced onions and mixed vegetables to the other side.
3. Stir-fry everything together until vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Scramble Eggs

Incorporate:
1. Push everything aside again.
2. Add remaining butter to create space.
3. Crack in the eggs and scramble until fully cooked.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to mix:
1. Add cooked rice to the skillet.
2. Pour in remaining soy sauce and fresh lemon juice.
3. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Finally:
1. Remove from heat.
2. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
3. Serve hot and enjoy your Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice!

How to Serve Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Serving Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice can transform your meal into a delightful experience. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the savory flavors of the fried rice.

Add Some Crunchy Spring Rolls

• Crispy vegetable spring rolls add texture and are perfect for dipping in soy sauce.

Serve with Steamed Dumplings

• Steamed dumplings filled with vegetables or chicken provide a satisfying bite alongside your fried rice.

Accompany with Pickled Vegetables

• Tangy pickled vegetables offer a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the fried rice.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your dish with chopped green onions or cilantro for an extra burst of freshness.

How to Perfect Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Perfecting Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice requires attention to detail and skillful techniques. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Cold Rice: Day-old rice works best as it prevents clumping and allows for better frying.
• Preheat Your Pan: Ensure your pan is hot before adding ingredients; this helps achieve that signature wok hei flavor.
• Stir-Fry in Batches: If making a large quantity, stir-fry ingredients in batches to avoid steaming them.
• Season Gradually: Add soy sauce and other seasonings gradually, tasting as you go to avoid overpowering flavors.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking; give each ingredient room to fry properly.

Best Side Dishes for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Pairing side dishes with your Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice can enhance the meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A mix of colorful vegetables stir-fried in garlic adds vibrant flavors and nutrients.
2. Miso Soup: Light and warming, miso soup makes an excellent starter or side, complementing the main dish.
3. Egg Drop Soup: This simple yet flavorful soup provides a comforting balance to the hearty fried rice.
4. Crispy Tofu Bites: Seasoned and fried tofu offers a satisfying crunch and protein boost alongside your meal.
5. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness to your plate.
6. Roasted Broccoli: Seasoned roasted broccoli brings out its natural sweetness while adding a nutritious element.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Overcooking the chicken: Ensure your chicken pieces are cooked just until no longer pink to maintain a tender texture. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness if needed.
• Using cold rice: Cold rice is essential for frying, but make sure it’s not too wet. Spread cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool before using.
• Ignoring seasoning: Proper seasoning is crucial. Taste as you go and adjust with soy sauce, salt, or pepper until you achieve the desired flavor.
• Crowding the pan: Cooking in batches helps avoid steaming the ingredients. A crowded pan won’t give you that authentic fried texture.
• Skipping the vegetables: Mixed vegetables add both flavor and nutrition. Don’t skip them; they enhance the dish’s texture and color.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

• Place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice:

Can I use other proteins for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or even tofu for added plant-based protein.

What type of rice is best for this recipe?

Use long-grain rice like jasmine or basmati. Day-old rice works best as it’s drier and fries better.

How can I customize my Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. You can also adjust soy sauce levels based on your taste preference.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well in the fridge and freezer, making it perfect for meal planning throughout the week.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can omit chicken entirely and replace it with extra vegetables or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock if desired.

Final Thoughts

This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is not only simple but also versatile enough to cater to various tastes. Feel free to customize with different proteins or veggies based on what you have on hand. It’s a delightful way to enjoy restaurant-quality food right at home!