Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is the perfect dish for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a comforting bowl of flavorful rice, this recipe delivers. With its vibrant colors and delicious blend of chicken, veggies, and perfectly seasoned rice, it feels like dining at your favorite hibachi restaurant—all from the comfort of your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience.

• Quick and Easy: You can whip up this dish in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful & Satisfying: Bursting with savory chicken and fresh veggies, every bite is packed with flavor.
• Versatile: Customize your fried rice by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins.
• Kid-Friendly: A great way to get kids involved in cooking while enjoying a dish they love.
• Better Than Takeout: Enjoy the taste of restaurant-quality food without the takeout costs.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Below are some essential tools you’ll need to make this dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Spatula
• Medium bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Ideal for even cooking and allows for plenty of space to stir-fry your ingredients without overcrowding.
• Spatula: Perfect for flipping and mixing ingredients evenly to ensure everything is cooked thoroughly.

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)

For Garnish

• Sesame seeds (optional)

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How to Make Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare 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, add the chicken pieces and let cook for 1 minute without stirring.
Add 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon butter, 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken until it is no longer pink (approximately 1-3 minutes), stirring no more than once or twice to allow the chicken to brown nicely.
Transfer the cooked chicken to a medium bowl and set aside. Wipe out the skillet or wok to use again.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat 1 teaspoon neutral oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the diced onion and frozen mixed vegetables. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onions are almost translucent.

Step 3: Scramble Eggs

Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Crack the eggs into the skillet and scramble them with a spatula until fully cooked.

Step 4: Add Rice

Add the cooked rice and 3 tablespoons butter to the skillet. Stir frequently and cook for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Season Fried Rice

Stir in 3 tablespoons soy sauce and cook for an additional minute.

Step 6: Combine Chicken with Fried Rice

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, then stir everything together until well combined and heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Portion the fried rice into bowls, garnish with sesame seeds if desired, and serve warm.

Enjoy your homemade Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice!

How to Serve Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Serving restaurant-style chicken fried rice can elevate your dining experience and impress your family or guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will enhance the flavors and presentation of this delicious dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Adds a fresh, aromatic touch that brightens the dish.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

Pair with Sauces

• Sweet Soy Sauce: Drizzle for an extra layer of flavor.
• Sriracha: Offer for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

Create a Platter

• Serving Bowl: Present the fried rice in a large bowl for a communal feel.
• Individual Plates: Serve portions in individual bowls for an elegant touch.

Add Protein Variations

• Shrimp or Tofu: Provide options for those who prefer seafood or vegetarian choices.
• Eggs on Top: Serve with a fried egg on top for added richness.

How to Perfect Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

To achieve the best results with your restaurant-style chicken fried rice, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is flavorful and satisfying every time.

• Use Day-Old Rice: Using rice that’s been refrigerated overnight prevents it from becoming mushy during cooking.
• High Heat Cooking: Cooking on high heat allows for better browning and enhances the flavors.
• Minimal Stirring: Stirring less while cooking chicken helps achieve golden-brown pieces, adding depth to the taste.
• Season Each Layer: Season the chicken, vegetables, and rice separately to build layers of flavor throughout the dish.
• Add Fresh Ingredients Last: Incorporate herbs or delicate vegetables at the end to retain their freshness and crunchiness.

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Best Side Dishes for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

To complement your restaurant-style chicken fried rice, consider pairing it with these delightful side dishes. They will enhance your meal and provide variety.

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy and filled with veggies, spring rolls add a crunchy contrast.
2. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame pods are nutritious and perfect as finger food.
3. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers a comforting balance to the meal.
4. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles provide a refreshing side option packed with flavor.
5. Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw made with cabbage and carrots adds crunch and brightness.
6. Fried Dumplings: These savory bites are perfect for dipping into soy sauce or chili oil.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making restaurant-style chicken fried rice, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Freshly Cooked Rice: Fresh rice can be too moist and clumpy. Always use cooled, leftover rice for the best texture.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can lead to dryness. Aim for just enough time to cook it through while keeping it tender.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Relying only on soy sauce can make your dish overly salty. Use salt and pepper generously for balanced flavor.
• Skipping the Vegetables: Omitting vegetables reduces nutritional value and flavor. Include a mix of colorful veggies for a more vibrant dish.
• Not Prepping Ingredients First: Failing to chop ingredients beforehand can slow you down during cooking. Prepare everything in advance for smoother cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the fried rice in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze the fried rice in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the fried rice on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Place a portion of fried rice in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil or water, and stir-fry until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef for different flavors and textures.

What vegetables work best in restaurant-style chicken fried rice?

Vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas add great color and nutrition. You can customize based on what you have on hand!

How do I make vegetarian restaurant-style chicken fried rice?

Simply replace the chicken with tofu or skip it entirely. Add more vegetables for added flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as an alternative to regular soy sauce.

How can I customize my restaurant-style chicken fried rice?

You can adjust the seasonings or add different spices. Experiment with sauces like oyster sauce or hoisin for unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

This restaurant-style chicken fried rice is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by changing proteins or adding your favorite vegetables. Give this quick and easy recipe a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends!