Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

This restaurant-style chicken fried rice is packed with flavor, featuring tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and perfectly seasoned rice. Inspired by hibachi-style cooking, this dish is quick, easy to make, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. Whether you’re craving takeout or looking for a delicious homemade alternative, this recipe delivers on taste and simplicity.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick cooking time.
• Better than Takeout – Homemade, fresh, and customizable.
• Great for Meal Prep – Perfect for leftovers and busy weeknights.
• Full of Flavor – Rich umami taste from soy sauce, butter, and sesame oil.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok – Provides even heat distribution and enough space for frying.
• Spatula or wooden spoon – Helps stir and mix ingredients efficiently.
• Sharp knife – Necessary for dicing chicken and vegetables.
• Cutting board – For prepping ingredients safely.
• Measuring spoons and cups – Ensures accurate seasoning and portion sizes.

Preparation Tips

• Use day-old rice – Fresh rice is too moist and can become mushy when fried. Refrigerate cooked rice overnight for the best texture.
• Dice ingredients evenly – Ensures even cooking and a well-balanced bite.
• Pre-measure sauces and seasonings – This prevents over-seasoning and allows for a smooth cooking process.
• Cook on high heat – A hot pan creates the signature fried rice texture and flavor.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ teaspoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon neutral oil (e.g., avocado or canola oil)
• ¾ pound chicken breasts, diced into small pieces
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• Salt and 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 (see Notes)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Directions

For the Chicken:

1. Heat sesame oil and neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced chicken and cook undisturbed for 1 minute to brown.
3. Stir in soy sauce, butter, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2–3 more minutes until the chicken is browned and fully cooked.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Wipe out the skillet for reuse.

For the Fried Rice:

5. Heat neutral oil in the same skillet. Add onion and frozen vegetables. Sauté for 3 minutes until the onions are translucent and the vegetables are tender.
6. Push the vegetables to the side. Crack the eggs into the skillet and scramble them until set.
7. Add cooked rice and butter. Stir frequently, breaking up clumps of rice, and cook for 5 minutes.
8. Stir in soy sauce and cook for 1 more minute to combine flavors.
9. Return the chicken to the skillet, stir everything together, and season with additional salt and pepper, if needed. Heat through.
10. Serve in bowls, garnished with sesame seeds, if desired.

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Notes & Variations

• Rice Tip: Leftover rice or cooled rice is ideal for fried rice. Freshly cooked rice is too sticky and moist, leading to a mushy texture.
• Protein Boost: Double the chicken or swap it for shrimp, beef, or tofu.
• Vegetable Additions: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or scallions for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Soy Sauce Balance: Avoid using too much soy sauce—season with salt and pepper for a well-balanced flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This restaurant-style chicken fried rice is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with side dishes can elevate the experience. Here are some excellent options:

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Fried Rice

1. Egg Rolls – A crispy and flavorful classic appetizer.
2. Spring Rolls – Lighter than egg rolls, with a fresh crunch.
3. Miso Soup – A warm and savory soup that balances the meal.
4. Steamed Dumplings – Soft and flavorful, perfect for dipping.
5. Garlic Green Beans – A simple, garlicky vegetable side.
6. Spicy Cucumber Salad – Refreshing and tangy, balancing the rich flavors.
7. Hot and Sour Soup – A bold and flavorful complement to the dish.
8. Kimchi – Fermented, tangy, and packed with umami.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Making restaurant-style chicken fried rice at home is simple, but a few common mistakes can impact the texture and flavor. Here’s how to get it right every time.

Common Mistakes & Fixes

• Using Fresh Rice – Freshly cooked rice is too moist and clumpy. Use day-old rice for the best texture.
• Overcrowding the Pan – Cooking everything at once can lead to steaming rather than frying. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Skipping the Butter – Butter adds depth of flavor similar to hibachi-style fried rice. Do not skip it.
• Too Much Soy Sauce – Overusing soy sauce can make the dish overly salty and heavy. Season gradually and taste as you go.
• Not Cooking at High Heat – High heat is essential for achieving the classic fried rice texture. If the pan is not hot enough, the rice may turn out mushy.
• Adding Too Many Ingredients at Once – Layering flavors by cooking ingredients separately ensures better texture and taste.
• Neglecting to Stir-Fry – Proper stir-frying helps coat the rice with sauce and enhances the smoky, authentic flavor.

How to Make It Even Better

• Use Jasmine or Long-Grain Rice – These types hold up best for frying.
• Let the Rice Dry Out Slightly – Spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate for a few hours if you don’t have leftover rice.
• Cook Proteins and Veggies Separately – This ensures even cooking and avoids overcrowding.
• Add a Dash of Oyster Sauce or Hoisin Sauce – A small amount deepens the umami flavor.
• Top with Fresh Scallions – Adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, savory flavors.

Recipe Tips & Variations

• Use Different Proteins – Swap chicken for shrimp, beef, pork, or tofu.
• Extra Vegetables – Add bell peppers, mushrooms, bok choy, or baby corn.
• Make It Spicy – Stir in sriracha, red pepper flakes, or chili oil.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Lower-Carb Alternative – Substitute cauliflower rice for regular rice.
• Boost the Umami Flavor – Add a small amount of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce.
• Try a Wok for Cooking – A wok distributes heat evenly and creates an authentic fried rice texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storage:

• Store leftover chicken fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat with a small amount of butter or oil. Stir-fry for a few minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
• From Frozen: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Day-old jasmine or long-grain rice works best. Freshly cooked rice is too moist and can become sticky.

2. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken?

Yes. Simply shred the cooked chicken and add it at the end to heat through.

3. How do I make it vegetarian?

Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian version.

4. What is the secret to making restaurant-style fried rice?

Using high heat, butter, day-old rice, and cooking ingredients separately before combining them helps achieve an authentic restaurant-style texture and flavor.

5. Can I freeze chicken fried rice?

Yes. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop for the best texture.

6. Why is my fried rice mushy?

This usually happens when using freshly cooked rice or overcrowding the pan. Use day-old rice and cook in batches if necessary.

7. Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes. Fried rice reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep. Store in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.

8. Can I make fried rice without soy sauce?

Yes. You can use tamari, coconut aminos, or a mix of salt and a dash of vinegar for a different flavor profile.

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Conclusion

This restaurant-style chicken fried rice is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that rivals your favorite takeout. Packed with tender chicken, perfectly seasoned rice, and vibrant vegetables, it is a go-to meal for busy weeknights or meal prep. By following key techniques like using day-old rice, cooking over high heat, and balancing flavors, you can create the perfect fried rice at home. Try this recipe today and enjoy a homemade version of a classic favorite.