Skip the takeout and make this restaurant-style Chicken Fried Rice right at home in under 30 minutes! Inspired by hibachi-style cooking, this recipe features tender chicken, perfectly seasoned fried rice, and savory veggies—all made in one skillet. It’s simple, satisfying, and family-approved!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hibachi Flavor at Home – This fried rice tastes just like your favorite Japanese steakhouse version.
- Quick & Easy – On the table in about 20 minutes with minimal cleanup.
- One-Pan Wonder – All the cooking happens in a single skillet or wok.
- Customizable – Add more chicken, swap in shrimp or pork, or go meatless with just veggies and egg.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 1 ½ tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp neutral oil (like avocado or canola)
- ¾ lb chicken breasts, diced small
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Fried Rice:
- 1 tsp neutral oil
- ½ cup diced white onion
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups cooked, cooled rice (see tips)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
How to Make Chicken Fried Rice
1. Cook the Chicken:
Heat sesame oil and 1 tbsp of neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and let it sear for 1 minute. Stir in soy sauce, butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 2–3 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and wipe out the skillet.
2. Sauté Veggies and Eggs:
In the same pan, heat 1 tsp oil. Add onions and frozen veggies, and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Push veggies to one side. Crack in the eggs and scramble until set.
3. Add Rice and Sauce:
Stir in cooked rice and 3 tbsp butter. Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring often. Add soy sauce and stir well to coat everything.
4. Combine & Serve:
Return the chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together, season with salt and pepper to taste, and heat until warmed through. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired and serve hot.
Pro Tips for the Best Fried Rice
- Use Cold, Leftover Rice: Fresh rice is too moist—day-old rice gives that perfect fried texture.
- Season Beyond Soy Sauce: Don’t overdo it with soy sauce. Salt and pepper add depth without making the rice soggy.
- Customize It: Swap the chicken for shrimp, pork, or tofu. Or leave it out for a veggie-only version.
- No Need to Thaw Veggies: Toss frozen veggies straight into the skillet!
What to Serve With Chicken Fried Rice
Pair your fried rice with:
- Hibachi Chicken
- Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Egg Drop Soup
- Asian Cucumber Salad
- Air Fryer Egg Rolls
Storage & Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warm. Add a splash of water or soy sauce if the rice is dry.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Fried Rice is everything you love about takeout—bold flavor, tender chicken, and savory vegetables—all made right at home with pantry staples. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a meal prep go-to, this recipe delivers every time!