This tasty hibachi chicken dish comes with juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and fluffy fried rice. It’s like bringing a fun restaurant experience right into your kitchen!
Honestly, who doesn’t love that sizzle sound? I can hardly wait to dig in! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up. Just toss everything in a pan and enjoy a delicious meal in no time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe because they’re easy to work with. If you prefer, chicken thighs can also be a great choice for added flavor and juiciness.
Vegetable Oil: I often stick with vegetable or canola oil due to their high smoke points. But feel free to use olive oil or sesame oil for a different flavor. Just be cautious of the smoke point with olive oil.
Rice: Day-old rice is best for fried rice because it’s drier and won’t clump together. If you don’t have time to make rice ahead, just spread fresh rice on a baking sheet to cool before using it.
Veggies: I love using zucchini and mushrooms for color and texture, but you can swap them for bell peppers, broccoli, or any favorite veggies you have on hand.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Fried Rice?
Cooking fried rice might seem tricky, but it’s all about technique! Here’s how you can get that perfect texture:
- Use cold, day-old rice when possible. It helps avoid mushiness.
- Heat your pan really well before adding oil. The hot oil will help fry the rice, giving it a nice texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Fry in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
- Keep stirring to prevent sticking and burning, but let rice sit in the pan for a bit to get a crispy bottom if you like.
By using these tips, you’ll have delicious fried rice ready in no time!
Easy Hibachi Chicken with Fried Rice and Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Hibachi Chicken and Sauce:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or canola oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp mirin (optional, for slight sweetness)
- 1 tbsp sake or dry sherry (optional)
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
For the Fried Rice:
- 3 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (thawed)
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Hibachi Veggies:
- 1 cup zucchini, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup mushrooms, halved or quartered
- 1/2 cup onion, coarsely chopped
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard or prepared horseradish (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp lemon juice or rice vinegar
- Pinch of garlic powder and ground black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total: around 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll have everything done in no time and can enjoy a delicious, homemade meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the dipping sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, soy sauce, sesame oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, and pepper. If you like a bit of a kick, throw in the optional Dijon mustard or horseradish. Stir until smooth and then pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to eat.
2. Cook the chicken:
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the chicken cubes with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook it, stirring occasionally, for about 6-8 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through.
3. Add flavor to chicken:
Reduce the heat to medium. Now, add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the soy sauce, mirin, and sake, if you’re using it. Let this cook for another 2 minutes. When done, remove the chicken from the pan and keep it warm.
4. Cook the vegetables:
Using the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of oil. Toss in the chopped zucchini, mushrooms, and onions. Season them with a bit of salt and pepper, and stir-fry for about 5-6 minutes until they’re tender yet still crisp. Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top for garnish and then set the veggies aside.
5. Make the fried rice:
In a clean skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and carrots, sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Push the veggies to the side and pour in the beaten eggs, scrambling gently. Add the cooked rice and peas, stirring frequently to mix everything and heat it through. Finish by stirring in the soy sauce and adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Plate and serve:
Now it’s time to serve! On each plate, arrange a good mound of fried rice, a portion of the sautéed veggies, and a generous helping of hibachi chicken. Don’t forget a small bowl or a drizzle of the delicious dipping sauce next to it!
Enjoy your homemade easy hibachi chicken with fried rice and veggies—a simple, satisfying meal bursting with flavor and texture!
FAQ for Easy Hibachi Chicken with Fried Rice and Veggies
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the quick method of submerging the sealed chicken in cold water for about an hour. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking!
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy sauce substitute, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a sweeter, soy-free alternative. Keep in mind that both options may alter the flavor slightly but will still work well in the dish!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave, gently warming the chicken and rice until heated through. You can add a splash of water to the rice to help it steam and soften while reheating!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the veggies to your liking. Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can all be great additions. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is cooked to your preferred tenderness.
