Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings the flavors of hibachi cooking right to your kitchen. Perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep, this recipe is not only quick but is also loaded with satisfying chicken, vibrant veggies, and fragrant rice. The best part? You can customize it to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to homemade goodness!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken:
• For the Fried Rice:
• How to Make Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Step 1: Cook the Chicken
• Step 2: Prepare the Fried Rice
• Step 3: Combine Ingredients
• Step 4: Serve
• How to Serve Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Add Fresh Herbs
• Serve with Sauces
• Pair with Protein
• Use Unique Serving Dishes
• How to Perfect Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Best Side Dishes for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Reheating Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How can I make my Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice healthier?
• What type of rice is best for fried rice?
• Can I customize my Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?
• How do I store leftovers of Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?
• What sauces pair well with Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 45 minutes, this recipe is great for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, and fresh lemon juice elevates the taste profile.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the chicken quantity for your needs.
• Serve It Anytime: Enjoy it as a main dish or a side; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Better Than Takeout: Experience restaurant-quality flavor without leaving home.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather your essential tools and equipment before getting started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Spatula
• Medium bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: A spacious cooking surface allows even heat distribution, ensuring perfectly cooked ingredients.
• Spatula: This tool helps in stirring ingredients effectively while preventing sticking or burning.
• Medium bowl: Useful for transferring cooked chicken and other ingredients without making a mess.

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)

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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. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink (about 1-3 minutes), stirring no more than once or twice for browning.
3. Transfer the cooked chicken to a medium bowl and set aside. Wipe out the skillet or wok.

Step 2: Prepare the Fried Rice

In the same skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Heat 1 teaspoon neutral oil.
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 and crack in the eggs. Scramble until fully cooked.
4. Stir in cooked rice and 3 tablespoons butter; stir frequently for about 5 minutes.
5. Add in 3 tablespoons soy sauce; cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet:
1. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
2. Stir everything together until combined and heated through.

Step 4: Serve

Portion fried rice into bowls:
– Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
– Serve warm and 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 delightful flavors and making it visually appealing. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Cilantro: A few cilantro leaves can add a refreshing touch that complements the dish.

Serve with Sauces

• Soy Sauce: Offer extra low-sodium soy sauce on the side for those who love a saltier taste.
• Chili Sauce: A drizzle of chili sauce can add heat to those who enjoy spicy food.

Pair with Protein

• Grilled Shrimp: For seafood lovers, grilled shrimp can make a fantastic addition.
• Tofu: Crispy tofu cubes provide a great vegetarian option that pairs well with fried rice.

Use Unique Serving Dishes

• Bento Boxes: Present individual portions in bento boxes for a fun, Japanese-inspired touch.
• Wok Presentation: Serve directly from the wok for an authentic hibachi feel.

How to Perfect Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Achieving the perfect restaurant-style chicken fried rice requires attention to detail and ingredient quality. Here are some essential tips to ensure your dish turns out spectacularly every time.

• Use Day-Old Rice: Freshly cooked rice contains too much moisture. Day-old rice is drier and holds up better in the stir-frying process.
• Get Your Pan Hot: Ensure your skillet or wok is hot before adding ingredients. This helps achieve that desirable smoky flavor.
• Limit Stirring: Allow the chicken and rice to sit without stirring too much. This promotes browning and adds depth of flavor.
• Balance Your Flavors: Don’t rely solely on soy sauce; season with salt and pepper to enhance overall taste without overpowering the dish.
• Incorporate Fresh Veggies: Adding fresh vegetables not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant color and texture.
• Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped herbs right before serving adds a professional touch.

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Best Side Dishes for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Pairing side dishes with your restaurant-style chicken fried rice can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy, vegetable-filled rolls complement the flavors of fried rice beautifully.
2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers a light starter that balances the richness of the rice.
3. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame provides a healthy snack that pairs well with Asian cuisine.
4. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness to your meal.
5. Dumplings: Steamed or pan-fried dumplings filled with pork or vegetables make for a great side option.
6. Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried veggies offer a crispy texture that contrasts nicely with soft fried rice.

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 flavor and texture.

• Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and clumpy. Use cooled or leftover rice for best results.
• Not seasoning enough: Relying solely on soy sauce can lead to blandness. Season generously with salt and pepper for a well-rounded flavor.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much chicken or rice at once can result in uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Skipping the browning step: Not allowing the chicken to brown can lead to a lack of flavor. Let it sear properly before stirring.
• Ignoring vegetable moisture: Adding vegetables directly from the freezer can introduce excess moisture. Thaw them beforehand for better texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread fried rice on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to prevent sticking. Stir until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make my Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice healthier?

You can use more vegetables and substitute the butter with olive oil or avocado oil for a healthier fat option.

What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Day-old, cooled white rice works best as it is drier and prevents clumping during frying.

Can I customize my Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?

Absolutely! You can add different proteins like shrimp or tofu and vary vegetables based on your preference.

How do I store leftovers of Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

What sauces pair well with Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?

Consider adding sweet chili sauce or sriracha for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

This restaurant-style chicken fried rice is not only quick and easy but also highly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious meal right at home!