Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of hibachi cooking right into your kitchen. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family. With its savory chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy rice, this recipe is not only quick and easy but also better than any takeout option. Enjoy the joy of cooking while impressing your loved ones with this delicious meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish can be made in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Each bite bursts with the umami taste of soy sauce and the freshness of lemon juice.
• Customizable: You can easily add more veggies or switch proteins according to your preference.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or parties, everyone will love this comforting dish.
• Better Than Takeout: Enjoy restaurant-quality fried rice without leaving home.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect restaurant-style chicken fried rice, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Spatula
• Medium bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space for cooking the chicken and frying the rice evenly.
• Spatula: Helps in stirring ingredients without breaking them apart, ensuring even cooking.
• Medium bowl: Useful for transferring cooked chicken and mixing ingredients.

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)

How to Make Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 ½ teaspoons sesame oil and 1 tablespoon neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Once 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 until no longer pink (approximately 1-3 minutes), stirring minimally to allow browning.
Transfer cooked chicken to a medium bowl and set aside. Wipe out the skillet.

Step 2: Prepare the Fried Rice

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

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

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

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add cooked rice and 3 tablespoons butter to the skillet. Stir frequently and cook for about 5 minutes.
Stir in 3 tablespoons soy sauce and cook for an additional minute.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

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

Step 6: Serve

Portion 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 meal and make it feel like a special occasion. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish that will impress your family and guests.

Family-Style Platter

• Serve the chicken fried rice in a large platter for everyone to share. This communal approach encourages conversation and a relaxed dining experience.

Individual Bowls

• Portion the fried rice into individual bowls for each guest. This not only looks appealing but also makes serving easy, especially for larger gatherings.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or chopped green onions on top of each serving. This brightens the dish and adds a pop of color that enhances its visual appeal.

Pair with Extra Protein

• Serve alongside grilled shrimp or teriyaki chicken skewers. This adds a delightful variety and can cater to different tastes within your group.

Accompany with Dipping Sauces

• Provide small dishes of soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or sriracha on the side. Guests can customize their flavor experience according to their preferences.

Complement with Crispy Spring Rolls

• Pair the chicken fried rice with crispy spring rolls for added texture and flavor contrast. These make for a perfect appetizer or side dish.

How to Perfect Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

To achieve the best restaurant-style chicken fried rice, keep these tips in mind. They will help enhance flavors and improve texture for an authentic experience.

• Use Day-Old Rice: Leftover rice is ideal since it’s drier and won’t clump together during cooking.
• Preheat Your Pan: Ensure your skillet or wok is hot before adding ingredients to achieve that signature fried taste.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying.
• Add Ingredients in Stages: Introduce veggies, eggs, and rice at different times for optimal cooking and flavor integration.
• Season as You Go: Layer flavors by seasoning each component (chicken, veggies) rather than just the final dish.
• Keep It Moving: Stir frequently while cooking to prevent sticking and promote even heating throughout the fried rice.

Best Side Dishes for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

When planning a meal around restaurant-style chicken fried rice, consider these side dishes that complement its flavors beautifully. Each option provides variety and enhances the overall dining experience.

1. Crispy Spring Rolls: Lightly fried rolls filled with vegetables or meat offer a crunchy counterpart to the soft rice.
2. Steamed Edamame: Lightly salted edamame pods provide a healthy, protein-packed snack that aligns well with Asian cuisine.
3. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup brings comfort and pairs nicely as a light starter before the main event.
4. Asian Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad features cucumbers tossed in vinegar, sesame oil, and spices for a zesty kick.
5. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Grilled chicken marinated in teriyaki sauce adds sweetness and depth that complements the savory fried rice.
6. Vegetable Tempura: Lightly battered veggies provide crunch and are perfect for dipping in sauces alongside your meal.
7. Kimchi: This fermented side dish adds heat and tanginess that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy flavors of fried rice.
8. Garlic Broccoli Stir-Fry: Quickly sautéed broccoli drizzled with garlic gives you nutritious greens alongside your hearty main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Using Freshly Cooked Rice: Fresh rice is often too moist and clumpy. Use leftover or cooled rice for the best texture.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it tough. Aim for just 1-3 minutes until it’s no longer pink.
• Skipping Seasoning: Relying solely on soy sauce can lead to bland fried rice. Don’t forget to add salt, pepper, and other seasonings.
• Crowding the Pan: Too many ingredients can steam rather than fry your rice. Cook in batches if needed for even cooking.
• Not Heating the Skillet Enough: A hot skillet is crucial for achieving that delicious fried rice flavor. Preheat thoroughly before adding ingredients.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or oil and sauté over medium heat until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make restaurant-style chicken fried rice taste authentic?

To achieve an authentic flavor, use high-quality soy sauce and fresh ingredients. Don’t forget to use sesame oil as it adds depth.

Can I customize restaurant-style chicken fried rice?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins like shrimp or tofu for a unique twist.

What is the best rice for this recipe?

Day-old, cooled white rice works best. Jasmine or basmati varieties are excellent choices due to their texture.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

This restaurant-style chicken fried rice is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. Its rich flavors allow for customization, making it perfect for any palate. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious meal that rivals your favorite takeout!