Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice: A Homemade Takeout Favorite

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There’s something magical about the sizzling sound of chicken fried rice hitting a hot skillet—it instantly transports you to your favorite hibachi restaurant. The buttery, garlicky aroma, tender bites of chicken, and perfectly seasoned rice create the ultimate comfort food. But what if I told you that you could make this restaurant-style chicken fried rice at home in under an hour?

Forget takeout—this easy, flavor-packed fried rice is just as delicious and even better because you control the ingredients. With a few simple techniques and pantry staples, you’ll be on your way to making the best homemade chicken fried rice that tastes like it came straight from a hibachi grill.

Why You Should Make Chicken Fried Rice at Home

🍽 Better Than Takeout: No need to order in when you can make fresh, flavorful chicken fried rice in less time than delivery takes.

💰 Budget-Friendly: Making homemade fried rice is cheaper than restaurant takeout, and you probably have most of the ingredients in your kitchen already.

🌿 Healthier & Customizable: Control the amount of oil and salt, add extra veggies, or swap ingredients to fit your diet.

🥢 Authentic Hibachi Flavor: This recipe gives you that buttery, garlicky, umami-packed fried rice experience, just like your favorite Japanese steakhouse.

Now, let’s dive into the best chicken fried rice recipe you’ll ever make!

Ingredients for Chicken Fried Rice

Here’s everything you’ll need to make perfect homemade fried rice:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 ½ tsp sesame oil
• 4 tsp neutral oil (avocado or canola), divided
• ¾ lb chicken breast, diced small
• 5 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce, divided
• 4 tbsp butter, divided
• 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• ½ cup diced white onion
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas & carrots)
• 2 large eggs
• 4 cups cooked rice (cooled, leftover rice works best)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1️⃣ Heat 1 ½ tsp sesame oil + 1 tbsp neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2️⃣ Add the diced chicken and cook for 1 minute without stirring to get a nice sear.

3️⃣ Pour in 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp butter, 2 tsp lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 1-3 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink.

4️⃣ Transfer the cooked chicken to a bowl and wipe out the skillet with a paper towel.

Step 2: Make the Fried Rice

1️⃣ Heat 1 tsp neutral oil in the same skillet over medium heat.

2️⃣ Add the diced onion and frozen mixed veggies. Sauté for 3 minutes until softened.

3️⃣ Push the veggies to one side of the pan, then crack in the eggs. Scramble them with a spatula until fully cooked.

4️⃣ Add the cooked rice and 3 tbsp butter to the pan. Stir frequently and cook for 5 minutes to let the flavors develop.

5️⃣ Stir in the remaining 3 tbsp soy sauce and cook for 1 more minute.

6️⃣ Finally, add the cooked chicken back into the pan, season with salt and pepper, and stir until well combined.

Step 3: Serve & Enjoy!

1️⃣ Portion the chicken fried rice into bowls.

2️⃣ Garnish with sesame seeds (optional) for extra texture and flavor.

3️⃣ Serve warm and enjoy your homemade restaurant-style fried rice!

🔥 Pro Tip: Leftover rice makes the best fried rice! Freshly cooked rice is too soft and sticky. If using fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes before cooking.

Variations & Add-Ins for Chicken Fried Rice

Want to make your homemade fried rice even more exciting? Try these variations:

🥩 Beef Fried Rice: Swap chicken for thinly sliced steak.

🦐 Shrimp Fried Rice: Add cooked shrimp in the last 2 minutes of frying.

🌱 Vegetarian Fried Rice: Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.

🌶 Spicy Fried Rice: Stir in ½ tsp chili flakes or drizzle with Sriracha.

🧄 Garlic Butter Fried Rice: Add an extra tablespoon of garlic butter for an even richer flavor.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Fried Rice

✅ Use Leftover Rice: Cold, day-old rice fries up beautifully without getting mushy. ✅ High Heat is Key: A hot skillet ensures a perfect sear and flavor infusion. ✅ Don’t Skimp on Butter: It adds that authentic hibachi-style taste. ✅ Season Gradually: Add soy sauce in stages to control saltiness. ✅ Use a Large Pan: A wok or large skillet gives you enough space to stir-fry properly.

What to Serve with Chicken Fried Rice

Pair your homemade chicken fried rice with these Asian-inspired dishes:

🥢 Egg Rolls – Crispy, golden perfection. 🥢 Teriyaki Chicken – A sweet and savory match. 🥢 Miso Soup – Light and flavorful. 🥢 Steamed Dumplings – A fun and tasty side. 🥢 Garlic Green Beans – A fresh, healthy addition.

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Final Thoughts: Why You Should Make Chicken Fried Rice at Home

Making chicken fried rice at home is easier than you think! With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can recreate the bold, savory flavors of your favorite takeout restaurant while keeping it budget-friendly and customizable.

Once you try this easy homemade fried rice recipe, you’ll never need to order takeout again! So grab your skillet, whip up a batch, and enjoy the best chicken fried rice from your own kitchen.

💬 Have you tried making homemade chicken fried rice? Share your experience in the comments below! 🍚🔥