If you’re craving a meal that bursts with flavor, color, and that perfect balance of hearty and fresh, then this Hibachi Chicken & Veggies with Fried Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a beautiful fusion of tender chicken pieces seared in savory soy and sesame, crisp-tender vegetables offering a delightful crunch, and fluffy fried rice that’s just begging to be piled onto your plate. This dish packs all the excitement of a hibachi grill right into your own kitchen, making it an instant favorite for weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients come together to create a symphony of tastes and textures that make this dish truly shine. Each item has its role: juicy chicken for protein, colorful veggies for freshness, and perfectly seasoned fried rice to tie everything together.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Tender, bite-sized pieces that soak up all the flavor from the marinade and sauce.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds a rich, salty depth central to hibachi flavor.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Gives a subtle nutty aroma that instantly brings Asian flair.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Delivers a luscious, silky finish to the chicken and veggies.
- 2 cups cooked white rice: Best if cold, to ensure perfect fried rice texture without clumping.
- 2 eggs, beaten: For fluffy, scrambled goodness folded into the rice.
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced: Adds a vibrant green color and light crunch.
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced: For savory umami that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 cup onion, sliced: Offers a sweet and aromatic foundation for your veggies.
- 1 cup carrots, julienned: Adds a pop of bright orange and a tender snap.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided): Perfect for stir-frying chicken, veggies, and rice to golden perfection.
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: Used specifically for seasoning the fried rice, balancing flavor without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with sizzling, aromatic punch.
- 1 tablespoon teriyaki sauce (optional): Adds a slight sweetness and glaze, boosting flavors beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to bring all flavors alive.
- Yum yum sauce (optional): For a creamy, tangy dipping experience that elevates every bite.
How to Make Hibachi Chicken & Veggies with Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Toss in the chicken pieces along with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and butter. Cook the chicken until it’s gorgeously golden and cooked through, usually about 5 to 7 minutes. The combination of soy and sesame oil seals in flavor while the butter adds a silky touch. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside so the next components get their just-right cook time.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the onions, carrots, mushrooms, and zucchini. Stir-fry these beauties for about 4 to 5 minutes so they become tender but still maintain a bit of crunch—the hallmark texture of authentic hibachi cooking. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then remove the veggies and set aside with the chicken. This layering of flavors ensures everything stays vibrant and fresh.
Step 3: Prepare the Fried Rice
Clear space in the pan or work in a separate skillet, then pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. Once fluffy and set, add the cold cooked rice, breaking apart any clumps as you stir. Pour in the low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and if you like, a splash of teriyaki sauce to round out the flavor profile. Stir-fry the rice mixture for 3 to 4 minutes until it’s heated through and just beginning to get that lightly crispy texture that makes fried rice so irresistible.
Step 4: Combine Chicken, Veggies, and Rice
Now bring all the elements back together. Return the cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables to the fried rice pan and toss everything to combine. This final mix ensures every bite is a delightful medley of savory chicken, fresh veggies, and perfectly seasoned rice. Serve hot with your choice of yum yum sauce for an extra layer of indulgence.
How to Serve Hibachi Chicken & Veggies with Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions adds just the right crunch and pop of color, making your dish irresistible. A wedge of lemon or lime on the side brightens the whole experience with a fresh citrus zing that works beautifully with the savory elements.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own, but you can elevate your meal with a small side of miso soup or a crisp cucumber salad. Both options bring a refreshing counterpoint that balances the hearty hibachi chicken and fried rice perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your hibachi feast family-style on a hot griddle or sizzling platter right at the table. Alternatively, arrange the chicken and veggies over a bed of fried rice in colorful bowls and top with your favorite garnishes for a visually stunning presentation that’s both inviting and Instagram-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep nicely for 3 to 4 days, making it a fantastic meal for busy days when you want something quick yet fulfilling.
Freezing
If you want to extend the shelf life, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Just be aware that veggies might lose a bit of their crispness upon thawing, but the flavor remains deliciously intact.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to preserve textures, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to keep everything moist. You can also microwave it, but stir halfway through to ensure even warming without drying out the rice.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just fine; they’re leaner but still soak up the marinade well. Just be careful not to overcook, as they can dry out faster than thighs.
Is it necessary to use day-old rice for the fried rice?
Using day-old or cold rice is ideal because it’s drier and less sticky, which makes for a better texture in fried rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to clump and become mushy during stir-frying.
Can I substitute the vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to swap or add vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers based on what you have on hand or your personal preference. It’s a flexible dish that welcomes variety.
What is yum yum sauce and can I skip it?
Yum yum sauce is a creamy, tangy condiment popular with hibachi meals that brings an extra flavor punch. If you don’t have it or prefer lighter eating, the dish stands strong on its own without any sauce.
How spicy is this Hibachi Chicken & Veggies with Fried Rice Recipe?
This recipe is mild by default but you can easily add a kick with some red pepper flakes, sliced chili, or a drizzle of spicy mayo to match your heat tolerance.
Final Thoughts
This Hibachi Chicken & Veggies with Fried Rice Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, it brings the joy of a hibachi grill straight to your stove with vibrant flavors and comforting textures. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner that everyone asks for again and again.
Print
Hibachi Chicken & Veggies with Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Japanese-American
- Diet: High-Protein
Description
This Hibachi Chicken & Veggies with Fried Rice recipe combines tender, flavorful chicken with fresh vegetables and classic fried rice, all cooked on the stovetop for an authentic Japanese-American stir-fry experience. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it delivers a delicious balance of protein, veggies, and satisfying rice with optional yum yum sauce for an extra touch of flavor.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Vegetables
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup onion, sliced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
Fried Rice
- 2 cups cooked white rice, preferably cold
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (for rice)
- 1 tablespoon teriyaki sauce (optional)
Seasonings and Extras
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Yum yum sauce, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces along with soy sauce, sesame oil, and butter. Cook the chicken until it turns golden brown and is cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same pan. Add sliced onions, julienned carrots, mushrooms, and zucchini. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but retain a slight crispness. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove the vegetables from the pan and set aside with the chicken.
- Prepare the Fried Rice: In the same pan, push the cooked vegetables to the side or use a separate pan. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Then, add the cold cooked rice and stir to combine evenly. Pour in the soy sauce, minced garlic, and optional teriyaki sauce. Stir-fry the mixture for 3 to 4 minutes until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy.
- Combine All Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables to the pan with the fried rice. Toss everything together to combine the flavors thoroughly. Heat through for another minute if needed.
- Serve: Plate the hibachi chicken and veggies with fried rice hot, garnished with optional yum yum sauce for added flavor.
Notes
- Use day-old rice or rice that has been cooled in the refrigerator for the best fried rice texture.
- You can swap or add other vegetables such as broccoli or snap peas based on your preference.
- Adjust the soy sauce quantity to suit your salt preference, especially if using regular soy sauce instead of low-sodium.
- Yum yum sauce adds a creamy, tangy flavor but is optional if you prefer a lighter dish.
