Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of hibachi-style cooking right to your kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, this recipe showcases tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice. Quick to prepare and better than takeout, it’s a meal that satisfies everyone at the table.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Cook the Fried Rice
• Step 3: Serve
• How to Serve Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Family Style
• Individual Bowls
• With Chopsticks
• Accompanying Sauces
• Salad Pairing
• Hot Soup
• How to Perfect Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Best Side Dishes for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Reheating Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How can I customize my Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?
• Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
• What type of rice is best for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?
• Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
• What should I serve with Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, and fresh lemon juice creates a rich flavor profile that elevates every bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting dish, making it a family favorite.
• Leftover Friendly: Great for using up leftover rice and veggies, reducing food waste.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with this recipe, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space for cooking ingredients evenly and allows for easy stirring.
• Spatula: Perfect for scrambling eggs and mixing everything together without breaking the rice.
• Medium bowl: Ideal for holding cooked chicken while you prepare the fried rice.

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: Prepare the Chicken

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

Step 2: Cook the Fried Rice

1. Heat 1 teaspoon neutral oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and frozen mixed vegetables; sauté for about 3 minutes until onions are nearly translucent.
3. Push vegetables to one side of the skillet. Crack in eggs and scramble until fully cooked.
4. Stir in cooked rice and 3 tablespoons butter; cook while stirring frequently for about 5 minutes.
5. Add in 3 tablespoons soy sauce and continue cooking for an additional minute.
6. Incorporate the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper; stir until well combined and heated through.

Step 3: 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 your restaurant-style chicken fried rice can elevate the dining experience at home. Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner or hosting friends, presentation and pairing can make your dish stand out.

Family Style

• Serve the chicken fried rice in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a communal atmosphere and encourages sharing.

Individual Bowls

• For a more polished look, serve portions in individual bowls. Garnish each bowl with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and color.

With Chopsticks

• Offer chopsticks alongside standard utensils. This adds an authentic touch and enhances the dining experience, making it feel like a night out at a hibachi restaurant.

Accompanying Sauces

• Provide soy sauce, sriracha, or sweet chili sauce on the side. Guests can customize their flavors and spice levels according to their preferences.

Salad Pairing

• Serve with a light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar for a refreshing contrast to the savory fried rice.

Hot Soup

• Consider serving a small bowl of hot miso soup as an appetizer. It complements the fried rice beautifully and warms up the palate.

How to Perfect Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Achieving perfect restaurant-style chicken fried rice at home takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is delightful every time.

• Use day-old rice: Freshly cooked rice tends to be too sticky. Use cooled leftover rice for the best texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches helps achieve that desirable char on the chicken and vegetables instead of steaming them.
• Adjust seasoning wisely: Add salt and pepper gradually until you reach your desired flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Cook on high heat: This helps achieve that signature wok hei (breath of the wok) flavor, giving your fried rice that sought-after taste.
• Add ingredients in stages: Introduce ingredients one at a time to maintain their individual flavors and textures, ensuring everything is cooked perfectly.
• Garnish creatively: Adding fresh herbs or toasted nuts as a garnish can enhance both flavor and presentation.

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Best Side Dishes for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Pairing side dishes with your chicken fried rice can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement the flavors of this dish perfectly.

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables or meat provide an excellent crunchy contrast.
2. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame pods offer protein-rich snacking that’s easy to prepare.
3. Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness to your plate.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting appetizer before diving into your main course.
5. Dumplings: Steamed or pan-fried dumplings filled with pork or vegetables are always a crowd favorite.
6. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Grilled skewers brushed with teriyaki sauce enhance the meal’s Asian-inspired theme.
7. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar balances out the savory notes of the fried rice.
8. Pickled Vegetables: These add zing to your meal while providing a nice crunch alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes while cooking restaurant-style chicken fried rice. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and clumpy, leading to soggy fried rice. Always use cooled, leftover rice for the best texture.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much at once can lower the heat and result in steaming rather than frying. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
• Neglecting seasoning: Relying solely on soy sauce for flavor can make your dish one-dimensional. Use salt, pepper, and other spices to enhance the overall taste.
• Not letting chicken brown: Stirring the chicken too often prevents it from developing a nice sear. Allow it to cook undisturbed for a minute before stirring.
• Skipping the prep: Failing to have all ingredients ready can lead to rushed cooking and uneven results. Always prep your ingredients beforehand for smooth cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

• Use freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Store for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s cooled before freezing.

Reheating Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making restaurant-style chicken fried rice.

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

You can add various proteins like shrimp or tofu, or include different vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli based on your taste preferences.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and substitute it with tofu or additional vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for extra flavor.

What type of rice is best for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?

Day-old jasmine or basmati rice works best because it’s drier and less sticky. This helps achieve that perfect fried texture.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Restaurant-style chicken fried rice stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it a great option for meal prep throughout the week.

What should I serve with Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?

This dish pairs well with spring rolls, dumplings, or a light salad to balance out flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

Restaurant-style chicken fried rice is not just quick and easy; it’s also a versatile dish that you can customize according to your preferences. Whether you want extra veggies or different proteins, feel free to experiment! Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious homemade meal that rivals any takeout!

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