Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
This 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.
Servings: 6
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
Instructions
For the Chicken:
- Heat 1 ½ teaspoons sesame oil and 1 tablespoon neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced chicken and let it cook undisturbed for 1 minute to brown.
- Add 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon butter, and 2 teaspoons lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Stir and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Wipe out the skillet to reuse.
For the Fried Rice:
- Heat 1 teaspoon neutral oil in the same skillet. Add diced onion and frozen mixed vegetables. Sauté for 3 minutes until the onions are translucent and the vegetables are tender.
- Push the vegetables to the side. Crack the eggs into the skillet and scramble them until set.
- Add the cooked rice and 3 tablespoons butter. Stir frequently, breaking up clumps of rice, and cook for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in 3 tablespoons soy sauce and cook for another minute to combine flavors.
- Return the chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together and season with additional salt and pepper, if needed. Heat through.
- Serve in bowls, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
Rice Tip: Leftover rice or rice that has been cooled is ideal for fried rice. Fresh rice is too sticky and moist for the right texture.
Protein Boost: Double the chicken to make it a more protein-packed meal.
Vegetable Additions: Add diced bell peppers, scallions, or mushrooms to customize the dish.
Soy Sauce Balance: Avoid using too much soy sauce—season with salt and pepper for a more balanced flavor.
Protein Boost: Double the chicken to make it a more protein-packed meal.
Vegetable Additions: Add diced bell peppers, scallions, or mushrooms to customize the dish.
Soy Sauce Balance: Avoid using too much soy sauce—season with salt and pepper for a more balanced flavor.