As I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of sesame oil and garlic wafted through the air, instantly transforming my hectic day into a culinary adventure. This rush of flavors led me to perfect my version of Benihana Fried Rice, a dish that brings together the warmth of home-cooked meals and the vivacious spirit of a hibachi grill. I remember feeling exhausted from the usual takeout routine and craving something fresh, satisfying, and utterly delicious. In just 15 minutes, this air-fried wonder can transport you to a lively Benihana table, minus the wait and the hefty bill. Each bite is packed with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and rich garlic butter, making it an irresistible choice for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering. Are you ready to whip up a bowl of this delightful fusion? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Love Benihana Fried Rice?
Simplicity at its finest: With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
Flavor explosion: The harmonious blend of sesame oil, garlic butter, and fresh veggies makes each bite unforgettable.
Air-fried perfection: Using an air fryer not only saves time but also gives a delightful crispiness without the extra oil.
Versatile dish: Customize it with your favorite proteins or veggies, ensuring every family member enjoys their ideal bowl.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to impress your guests!
Ready to explore more quick and tasty options? Check out our article on easy weeknight dinners.
Benihana Fried Rice Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – use fresh for the best flavor, or substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option.
For the Rice
• Cooked white rice – day-old rice works best, as it’s drier and prevents the dish from becoming mushy.
For the Vegetables
• White onions – add sweetness and depth; yellow onions can also be used if preferred.
• Carrots – fresh carrots provide a nice crunch; feel free to add peas or bell peppers for variety.
• Scallions – garnish for a fresh touch; green onions or chives can be nice alternatives.
For the Flavor
• Sesame oil – gives the dish its signature taste; can be substituted with olive oil in a pinch.
• Soy sauce – enhances the overall flavor; look for low-sodium options if you’re watching salt intake.
• Garlic butter – infuses richness; use regular butter with minced garlic if you’re out of garlic butter.
For the Eggs
• Large eggs – whisk them for a fluffier finish; egg substitutes can be used for a healthier twist.
Enjoy crafting your delectable Benihana Fried Rice!
How to Make Benihana Fried Rice
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Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly crispy texture on your fried rice.
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Combine all ingredients in a large bowl: chilled rice, cooked diced chicken, white onions, diced carrots, beaten eggs, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic butter, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure everything is mixed evenly.
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Transfer the rice mixture to the air fryer basket, spreading it out in a single layer. Air fry for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until you see a lovely golden brown color and a crispy texture emerging.
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Cool the fried rice for a few minutes once it’s done cooking. This rest time helps enhance the flavors. Serve hot, optionally garnished with diced green onions for that fresh finish.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra crunch and visual appeal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Benihana Chicken Fried Rice?
Imagine a table filled with delightful flavors that complement the rich, savory taste of this easy-to-make fried rice.
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Crispy Egg Rolls: These delightful bites bring extra crunch and a savory filling, making them a perfect appetizer to kick off your meal.
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Garlic Broccoli: Steamed or sautéed, the bright green of broccoli adds a fresh contrast that balances the richness of the fried rice beautifully.
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Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Sweet and tangy, these tender chicken skewers provide a juicy counterpart to the fried rice, creating a sushi restaurant vibe at home.
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Miso Soup: A warm and comforting starter, miso soup enhances the umami flavors while keeping the meal light and refreshing.
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Cucumber Salad with Sesame Dressing: Crisp cucumbers drizzled with a sesame dressing add a refreshing crunch, balancing the heartiness of the fried rice.
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Chilled Sake or Green Tea: Pair your meal with a refreshing drink. Sake complements the flavors very well, while green tea offers a clean finish.
With each of these delightful pairings, you’ll create a vibrant, satisfying meal that celebrates the delightful fusion of flavors in Benihana fried rice.
How to Store and Freeze Benihana Fried Rice
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Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures that your Benihana fried rice remains fresh and flavorful.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fried rice in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can last for up to 2 months while maintaining its taste and texture.
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Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat on a stovetop or in the microwave until warmed thoroughly. A splash of soy sauce can revive the flavors!
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Avoid Re-freezing: Try not to refreeze once thawed, as it can compromise the texture and taste of your delicious Benihana fried rice.
Make Ahead Options
These Benihana Fried Rice bowls are a dream for meal prep aficionados! You can chop the chicken, onions, and carrots up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and flavorful. Additionally, you can cook and cool the rice ahead of time, as day-old rice is perfect for this dish. When you’re ready to serve, combine all the prepared ingredients with the beaten eggs, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic butter just before air frying. This way, you’ll have a quick, delicious meal on the table in just 15 minutes, delighting your family with restaurant-quality Benihana Fried Rice that tastes just as good as the day you prepped it!
Benihana Fried Rice Variations
Get ready to make this delicious dish even more exciting by transforming it with your personal flair!
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Vegetable Mix: Swap out carrots for bell peppers and snap peas for a vibrant color and additional crunch.
Add your favorite seasonal veggies for a garden-fresh twist that brightens the dish. -
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili flakes to the mixture for a fiery twist.
This enhances the flavor profile while giving it that nice heat you crave! -
Cauliflower Rice: Use riced cauliflower instead of white rice for a low-carb alternative.
This swap keeps all the wonderful flavors while making it lighter and healthier. -
Shrimp Delight: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood-friendly version.
Just ensure to adjust cooking time since shrimp cooks quickly, creating a delightful contrast to the rice. -
Nutty Flavor: Toss in toasted sesame seeds for a nutty flavor and a bit of crunch.
This simple addition can elevate the overall taste while providing some texture! -
Egg-Free: Replace the eggs with tofu scramble for a vegan option.
Season the tofu well to match the original recipe’s flavors while making it suitable for everyone. -
Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can provide aromatic punch.
Chop and sprinkle on top before serving for a fresh taste experience! -
Sweet Addition: Incorporate pineapple chunks for a sweet and savory flare.
This unexpected pairing adds a tropical twist that’s sure to surprise your taste buds!
Expert Tips for Benihana Fried Rice
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Use Cold Rice: Make sure your rice is cold and preferably a day old. Freshly cooked rice tends to be mushy when air-fried, losing that delightful texture.
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Preheat Air Fryer: Never skip preheating the air fryer. This step is vital for achieving that crispy, golden-brown finish on your Benihana fried rice.
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Cut Uniformly: Dice your vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking. Uneven sizes can lead to some bits being too crunchy while others are overcooked.
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Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. It’s better to cook in batches if necessary, letting each piece crisp up beautifully without steaming.
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Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your Benihana fried rice by adding your favorite proteins or extra veggies. Just remember to adjust cooking time accordingly!
Benihana Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken, opt for boneless, skinless breast meat for the best texture and flavor. Look for chicken that is bright pink, firm, and free from dark spots or any signs of spoilage. Fresh chicken will give your Benihana fried rice a tender, juicy bite that elevates the dish!
What is the best way to store leftover Benihana fried rice?
Very good question! To keep your Benihana fried rice fresh, transfer the leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. It’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days. I like to let it cool slightly before storing to maintain that perfect texture!
Can I freeze Benihana fried rice, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Benihana fried rice, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. A splash of soy sauce after reheating can work wonders!
What should I do if my fried rice turns out mushy?
Mushy fried rice can be a bit of a nuisance, but don’t worry! This usually happens when using freshly cooked rice instead of chilled rice. To prevent this, use day-old rice that’s been cooled and stored in the fridge for a few hours. If you’re in a bind with fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool quickly, and then refrigerate for about 30 minutes before using it.
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you or someone in your family has allergies, ensure to check the labels on your soy sauce, as some contain wheat. You can easily substitute with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option. For a healthier twist, consider using egg substitutes or even adding a protein like tofu. And remember, always keep an eye on portion sizes if calorie intake is a concern!
Can pets eat Benihana fried rice?
Very much! While a small amount may not harm your pets, it’s essential to avoid giving them fried rice that has soy sauce or garlic butter, as these can be harmful to pets. If you’d like to share with your furry friends, create a plain version using cooked rice and chicken without any seasonings. They’ll love a little taste of home-cooked goodness!
Irresistible Benihana Fried Rice Made Easy at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl: chilled rice, cooked diced chicken, white onions, diced carrots, beaten eggs, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic butter, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the rice mixture to the air fryer basket, spreading it out in a single layer. Air fry for 10-15 minutes.
- Cool the fried rice for a few minutes before serving hot, optionally garnished with diced green onions.