Benihana Fried Rice

If you’ve ever dined at a Japanese steakhouse like Benihana, you’ve probably fallen in love with their signature fried rice—hot off the teppanyaki grill, full of savory goodness, and just the right balance of simple and satisfying. Now you can make that same Benihana Fried Rice right at home! With day-old rice, scrambled eggs, garlic butter, veggies, and soy sauce, this easy dish brings hibachi-style flavor straight to your kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Restaurant-Style at Home – Recreates the authentic taste of Benihana’s fried rice.
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with just a few ingredients.
Versatile – Add your favorite protein or veggies to customize.
Great Use for Leftover Rice – Day-old rice gives perfect texture.
Family Favorite – Mild, savory, and crowd-pleasing every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Fried Rice:
• 4 cups cooked white rice (preferably cold and day-old)
• 2 tbsp sesame oil or vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• ½ cup frozen peas and carrots (thawed)
• ¼ cup chopped onion
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (more to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

For the Garlic Butter (Benihana-style):
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• ½ tsp soy sauce
• ¼ tsp lemon juice
• Pinch of salt (optional)

Optional Add-ins:
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, steak, or tofu
• Extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bean sprouts

Tools You’ll Need
• Large non-stick skillet or wok
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board
• Small bowl for garlic butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
Stir until smooth and well combined. Set aside at room temperature.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
Heat 1 tsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked.
Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Veggies
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil.
Add chopped onions and sauté for 1–2 minutes until slightly translucent.
Add thawed peas and carrots, and cook for another 1–2 minutes.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Rice
Increase heat to high and add the cold, cooked rice.
Break up clumps with a spatula and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
Add the garlic butter and soy sauce, stirring to coat the rice evenly.
Return scrambled eggs to the pan and stir until fully combined.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more soy sauce if needed.
Sprinkle sliced green onions on top.
Serve hot, as a side or a main dish.

Tips for the Best Benihana Fried Rice
Use Cold Rice – Day-old rice gives the best texture and prevents mushiness.
Don’t Skimp on Garlic Butter – It’s key to that signature Benihana flavor.
Cook Hot & Fast – Stir-frying over high heat keeps everything crisp and flavorful.
Customize It – Add cooked protein or extra veggies to make it a complete meal.
Use a Large Pan – Gives ingredients room to fry instead of steam.

Serving Suggestions
• With Hibachi Chicken or Steak – Just like at the restaurant.
• Alongside Grilled Teriyaki Tofu or Salmon
• As a Base – Top with fried eggs, kimchi, or avocado.
• With Yum Yum Sauce – For a creamy, tangy dip.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Cool completely and freeze in portions for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
• Skillet: Reheat with a splash of oil or water over medium-high heat.
• Microwave: Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes! Brown rice adds extra fiber and a nuttier flavor—just make sure it’s fully cooked and chilled.

2. What’s the difference between this and regular fried rice?
The garlic butter and simplicity of ingredients make it distinctively “Benihana-style.”

3. Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely—omit the eggs and use plant-based butter for the garlic spread.

4. Is it gluten-free?
Use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.

5. Can I make it spicy?
Sure! Add sriracha, chili flakes, or chopped jalapeños while stir-frying.

Final Thoughts
Benihana Fried Rice is one of those comforting, flavorful dishes that never goes out of style. With buttery garlic, tender rice, and simple seasonings, it’s a fast and delicious way to bring Japanese steakhouse magic into your kitchen. Whether served as a main course or a savory side, it’s always a hit.

Try it tonight and enjoy your own hibachi experience at home. Don’t forget to leave a review or tag your homemade version online!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Japanese-American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 310 | Protein: 8g | Carbohydrates: 35g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 580mg

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