Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful dish that brings the hibachi experience right to your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, this recipe combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice. It’s quick, easy, and offers the satisfying flavors of a restaurant meal without the wait and expense.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be made in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, and fresh lemon juice ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out the vegetables or protein based on what you have on hand or your preferences.
• Healthy Option: Using low-sodium soy sauce and plenty of veggies makes this dish a healthier alternative to takeout.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love fried rice! It’s an easy way to get them to enjoy their veggies.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: This allows for even cooking and enough space to stir-fry without spilling.
• Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps in scrambling eggs and mixing the rice thoroughly.
• Medium bowl: Useful for holding the cooked chicken while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

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

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

Step 2: Prepare the Fried Rice

In the same skillet:
1. Heat 1 teaspoon neutral oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and frozen mixed vegetables; sauté for about 3 minutes until onions are almost translucent.
3. Push vegetables to one side of the skillet; crack in two large eggs.
4. Scramble eggs with a spatula until fully cooked.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add cooled rice and 3 tablespoons butter into the skillet with vegetables and scrambled eggs.
2. Stir frequently while cooking for about 5 minutes until heated through.
3. Stir in 3 tablespoons soy sauce; cook for an additional minute.

Step 4: Final Touches

Add back in the cooked chicken:
1. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
2. Stir everything together until well combined.

Serve warm in bowls garnished with sesame seeds if desired!

Enjoy your delicious homemade Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice!

How to Serve Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Serving restaurant-style chicken fried rice can elevate your dining experience at home. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your meal memorable.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A light, crunchy salad complements the richness of the fried rice, adding a refreshing element to your meal.

Serve with Soy Sauce and Chili Oil

• Offer soy sauce and chili oil on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick of flavor. It allows guests to customize their dish according to their taste.

Add Crispy Spring Rolls

• Spring rolls add a delightful crunch. They can be served as an appetizer or alongside the fried rice for a complete meal.

Top with Green Onions

• Chopped green onions not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a burst of freshness that balances the dish’s flavors.

Garnish with Sesame Seeds

• Sprinkling sesame seeds on top adds a nutty flavor and makes the presentation more appealing.

How to Perfect Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

To achieve restaurant-quality chicken fried rice at home, follow these essential tips that ensure flavor and texture come together beautifully.

• Use Day-Old Rice: Day-old rice is dryer and less sticky, which prevents clumping during cooking.
• High Heat is Key: Cooking on high heat helps achieve that authentic stir-fried taste while keeping ingredients crisp.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you have a large batch, cook in smaller portions. This allows each piece to brown properly.
• Season as You Go: Layer flavors by seasoning each component separately instead of adding all at once.
• Add Fresh Ingredients Last: Incorporate fresh herbs or greens right before serving for vibrant color and flavor.

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Best Side Dishes for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

To enhance your meal further, consider serving these delicious side dishes alongside your chicken fried rice. They provide variety and complement the main dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Broccoli: Steamed or sautéed broccoli tossed with garlic adds nutrition and flavor while being easy to prepare.
2. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame beans are a healthy snack option that pairs well with Asian cuisine.
3. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides comfort and enhances the overall dining experience.
4. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar offers a refreshing contrast to the warm fried rice.
5. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Grilled skewers marinated in teriyaki sauce add protein and delicious smoky flavors.
6. Chili Garlic Noodles: Spicy noodles serve as an excellent counterpart, adding heat and satisfying carbohydrate cravings.
7. Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried vegetables offer crunchiness that complements the soft texture of fried rice.
8. Fruit Salad: A tropical fruit salad brings sweetness that balances out savory dishes beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making restaurant-style chicken fried rice, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the dish’s overall quality. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice is often too moist and clumpy. Instead, use leftover or cooled rice for the best texture.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much at once can lead to steaming rather than frying. Cook in batches if necessary for even heat and browning.
• Ignoring seasoning: Relying solely on soy sauce can make your dish one-dimensional. Remember to use salt and pepper generously for balanced flavor.
• Skipping the prep: Not having all your ingredients prepped and ready can lead to overcooked components. Prepare everything in advance for a smooth cooking process.
• Not allowing the chicken to brown: Stirring too frequently can prevent the chicken from achieving that perfect golden-brown color. Let it sit for a minute before stirring.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the fried rice to cool completely before sealing it in the container.

Freezing Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2-3 months.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread rice on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place rice in a microwave-safe bowl and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

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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, vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice, often inspired by hibachi cooking techniques.

Can I customize my restaurant-style chicken fried rice?

Absolutely! You can add other proteins like shrimp or tofu, or include different vegetables based on your preference.

How do I make my fried rice less soggy?

To avoid soggy fried rice, always use cooled or day-old rice as it has less moisture compared to freshly cooked rice.

What type of oil should I use for frying?

Using neutral oils like avocado or canola oil is best because they have a high smoke point and won’t overpower the flavors of your dish.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken with tofu or omit it altogether, and use vegetable broth instead of soy sauce for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

This restaurant-style chicken fried rice is not only delicious but also highly customizable! Whether you want extra veggies or prefer another protein, it’s easy to adapt this recipe to suit your tastes. Try it today for a meal that’s quick, satisfying, and better than takeout!

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