Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe: A Deliciously Easy Copycat

Craving that iconic Benihana chicken fried rice? Don't worry, you don't need a reservation or a hefty bill to enjoy this deliciousness. This recipe brings the restaurant experience right to your kitchen! We'll break down the key ingredients and techniques to help you recreate this flavorful dish at home. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this authentic-tasting copycat recipe!

Key Ingredients for Authentic Flavor

The magic of Benihana's chicken fried rice lies in the quality of its ingredients and the precise cooking method. Here's what you'll need:

• Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces. Marinate it lightly for extra flavor (soy sauce, ginger, garlic are great options).
• Rice: Day-old rice is crucial! It's drier and will prevent the fried rice from becoming mushy.
• Vegetables: Benihana uses a vibrant mix. Aim for diced carrots, peas, onions, and scallions. Feel free to add your own favorites, such as bell peppers or corn.
• Soy Sauce: This is the foundation of the savory flavor profile. Use a high-quality soy sauce for the best taste.
• Eggs: Scrambled and added to the rice for richness and texture.
• Butter/Oil: A combination of butter and oil (vegetable or canola) is ideal for creating the perfect wok hei (breath of the wok) flavor.
• Ginger & Garlic: Freshly minced ginger and garlic are essential for that authentic Benihana taste.
• Sesame Oil: A dash of sesame oil at the end enhances the aroma and adds a subtle nutty flavor.

Step-by-Step Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Get started: Prep all your ingredients before you begin cooking. This will ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process. Dice your chicken, chop your vegetables, and measure out your seasonings.

1. Cook the Chicken: Stir-fry your marinated chicken in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside.

2. Scramble the Eggs: Add a tablespoon of butter/oil to the wok. Scramble your eggs until just set. Remove from the wok and set aside.

3. Sauté Vegetables: Add another tablespoon of butter/oil to the wok. Sauté the onions, carrots, and other vegetables until slightly tender-crisp.

4. Incorporate the Rice: Add the day-old rice to the wok and break it up with a spatula. Stir-fry for a few minutes until heated through.

5. Season and Combine: Add the soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to the rice. Stir-fry until well combined and the rice is coated with the sauce.

6. Bring it Together: Add the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs back to the wok. Stir-fry gently to combine all the ingredients.

7. Finishing Touches: Stir in a dash of sesame oil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more soy sauce if desired.

Tips for Benihana-Style Perfection

• High Heat: Use medium-high heat throughout the cooking process to achieve that signature wok hei.
• Don't Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the wok. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the final flavor.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as white pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes, to customize your dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Benihana chicken fried rice hot as a main course or side dish. It pairs perfectly with teriyaki chicken, stir-fried vegetables, or even a simple side salad.

This recipe is your ticket to enjoying the deliciousness of Benihana chicken fried rice at home. Enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations and tag us! Happy cooking!