Benihana Hibachi Chicken : Easy Homemade Version

Craving that signature Japanese steakhouse flavor without leaving the comfort of your home? This Benihana Hibachi Chicken recipe brings the sizzling experience of hibachi grilling straight to your stovetop. With juicy marinated chicken, perfectly sautéed vegetables, and flavorful fried rice, it’s a complete meal that’ll rival your favorite takeout spot.

In this article, you’ll learn how to master each component of this iconic dish with step-by-step instructions, time-saving tips, and flavor-packed substitutions. Whether you’re cooking for the family or looking to impress guests, this guide has everything you need. Don’t miss our Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe if you want a cozy starter that pairs beautifully with hibachi-style meals.

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Why You’ll Love This Benihana Hibachi Chicken Recipe

Inspired by the Iconic Japanese Steakhouse Flavor

Benihana-style chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a full sensory experience. The sizzle of the skillet, the savory-sweet aroma of garlic and soy, and the satisfying umami punch from hoisin sauce all combine to deliver unforgettable flavor. This recipe captures that magic, using easy-to-find ingredients that mimic the Benihana marinade exactly.

All-in-One Meal: Chicken, Veggies, and Fried Rice

You won’t need side dishes or complicated pairings—this is a complete plate. The recipe includes tender marinated chicken, crisp-tender vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and mushrooms, and perfectly seasoned jasmine fried rice with scrambled egg and green onions. Each element works together to deliver a balanced, hearty dish that feels indulgent but is easy enough for weeknights.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Chicken and Noodles Recipe for another family-friendly comfort food option.

Quick Weeknight Dinner or Special Occasion Dish

Don’t let the restaurant-quality flavor fool you—this recipe is weeknight-friendly. With a little prep, everything comes together in under 45 minutes. But it’s also impressive enough for date night or hosting. Want to add a twist? Turn the hibachi mix into flavorful tacos or grain bowls for lunch the next day.

Key Ingredients for Authentic Flavor

Hibachi Chicken Marinade Essentials

The flavor starts in the marinade. Here’s what you’ll need for that signature Benihana taste:

• Low-sodium soy sauce – balances salt without overpowering
• Hoisin sauce – adds sweet and savory depth
• Fresh garlic and ginger – a must for that punchy, aromatic profile
• Toasted sesame oil – subtle smokiness with nutty finish
• Rice wine vinegar & sugar – brings brightness and balance

Let the chicken marinate for at least 15–30 minutes for maximum flavor infusion. If you’re tight on time, even 10 minutes will help. Prefer dark meat? Chicken thighs work just as well. Check out this tip in our Slow Cooker Mississippi Chicken for flavor-packed chicken cooking techniques.

The Best Vegetables for Stir-Frying Like Benihana

The Benihana veggie mix is always a star. This copycat recipe calls for:

• Carrots – cut into thin half circles for quick cooking
• Yellow onions – bring natural sweetness when sautéed
• Zucchini – softens slightly while staying crisp
• Mushrooms – baby bella or button mushrooms soak up sauce beautifully

Feel free to add broccoli, snap peas, or squash based on the season. Just keep everything bite-sized and cook on high heat to avoid steaming.

How to Make Flavorful Fried Rice at Home

Skip the takeout container. This hibachi-style fried rice is made with:

• Day-old jasmine rice – for the best texture, not mushy
• Scrambled egg – classic addition for protein and richness
• Grated garlic and green onions – for that authentic aroma
• Soy sauce – just enough to season, not drench

Use a large skillet or wok and let the rice crisp in the pan before stirring—it’s the secret to that golden, restaurant-style finish.

Discover great ideas like this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rice Casserole for more rice-based meals your family will love.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Benihana Hibachi Chicken at Home

Bringing the Benihana experience to your kitchen is easier than you think. With just two skillets, simple ingredients, and the right timing, you’ll have a flavorful, sizzling dish ready to impress. Here’s how to do it right.

Prep the Marinade and Chicken Pieces

Start by creating the base of your hibachi chicken—the marinade. In a small bowl, combine:

• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp each fresh grated garlic and ginger
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar

Cube 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1–2 inch pieces and toss them in the sauce. Let it sit while you prep the other ingredients.

Pro Tip: Let the chill come off the chicken before cooking. Cold meat drops the pan’s temperature and can make it steam instead of sear.

Don’t miss our Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites for another way to achieve rich, savory meat without overcomplication.

Sauté Vegetables to Crisp-Tender Perfection

In the same pan you’ll cook the chicken in, sauté the veggies after draining any leftover liquid. Heat 1 tbsp peanut oil over medium-high. Add:

• 1 cup carrots
• 1½ cups sliced yellow onions

Cook for 2–3 minutes, then add:

• 2 cups mushrooms, quartered
• 2 cups zucchini, sliced into half-moons

Cook everything for 3–5 more minutes until crisp-tender. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.

Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding your skillet—it traps moisture and makes veggies soggy. Cook in batches if needed.

Looking for more veggie-forward dishes? Check out this Roast Root Vegetables Recipe—simple, colorful, and perfect for pairing.

Mastering Hibachi-Style Fried Rice on the Stovetop

Now for the fried rice. In a second skillet, heat ¼ cup peanut oil over medium-high. Add 1 scrambled egg and cook for about 20–30 seconds. Stir in:

• 1 tbsp grated garlic
• ¼ cup chopped green onions

Next, add 3 cups of pre-cooked and cooled jasmine rice. Spread the mixture evenly and let it sit undisturbed for 3 minutes. This allows it to crisp—just like at the restaurant.

Stir every 2–3 minutes for a total of 10 minutes, then pour in ¼ cup soy sauce. Mix well and cook for another 4–5 minutes until everything is well fried.

Pro Tip: Always use cooled rice. Freshly cooked rice is too soft and will clump instead of crisp.

Assembling Your Restaurant-Style Plate

To serve, grab a plate and keep each component separate:

• ¾ cup fried rice
• ¾ cup sautéed vegetables
• ¾–1 cup hibachi chicken

Add a side of Yum Yum sauce or sriracha mayo in a small dipping bowl. Garnish with extra green onions for color and crunch.

Bonus Idea: Turn leftovers into hibachi tacos with small tortillas and a drizzle of teriyaki or hoisin sauce. It’s a fusion twist your family will love.

Don’t miss our Crockpot Cilantro Lime Chicken for another make-at-home meal packed with zesty flavor.

Tips, Substitutions & Variations

Make your Benihana Hibachi Chicken recipe even more personalized with these tested tweaks and pro suggestions.

Ingredient Swaps for Different Dietary Needs

• Low-carb or keto? Replace jasmine rice with cauliflower rice or shirataki noodles.
• Gluten-free? Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Ensure your hoisin sauce is labeled gluten-free.
• No peanut oil? Substitute with avocado oil or sesame oil for a deeper roasted taste.
• No chicken? Try firm tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or pescatarian variation.

Don’t miss our Slow Cooker Beef Barbacoa Recipe for another protein-packed main dish perfect for rice bowls or wraps.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Ideas

• Marinate Ahead: The chicken can be marinated up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor.
• Prep Veggies: Chop your onions, carrots, mushrooms, and zucchini the night before.
• Cook Rice in Advance: Day-old rice works best for fried rice—store it in the fridge in a sealed container.

Pro Chef Tips for Perfect Sear and Flavor

• Use a cast-iron or enamel-coated skillet for even heat and great browning.
• Let the pan get very hot before adding the chicken. That’s how you get that signature caramelization.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary to keep everything crisp, not soggy.

How to Serve Benihana Chicken Like a Pro

Presentation plays a huge part in the hibachi experience. Here’s how to nail it at home.

Plating Tips for Visual Appeal

• Use a wide, shallow bowl or large plate.
• Keep rice, veggies, and chicken separated just like in the restaurant.
• Add a drizzle of sauce around the edges or in a ramekin.

Sauce Suggestions: Yum Yum, Ginger, or Spicy Mayo

• Yum Yum Sauce: Classic Benihana-style dip—sweet, tangy, and creamy.
• Ginger Sauce: Zesty and fresh, great with veggies.
• Spicy Mayo: A kick of heat balances the richness of the chicken.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Crescent Roll Breakfast Recipe for another creative, easy-to-assemble plate.

Creative Ways to Reuse Leftovers

• Fried rice stir-fry: Toss leftovers into a hot wok with more veggies.
• Hibachi wraps: Wrap chicken, rice, and sauce in a tortilla or lettuce leaf.
• Rice bowls: Add avocado, edamame, or a fried egg for a modern take.

Storage, Reheating & Freezing Instructions

Best Practices for Keeping Leftovers Fresh

• Store components separately in airtight containers.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Keep sauces in a small jar or sealed condiment cup.

How to Freeze and Reheat Without Losing Texture

• Freeze chicken, veggies, and rice separately for up to 3 months.
• Reheat from thawed in a hot skillet or microwave with a splash of water to revive moisture.
• Avoid overcooking during reheat to preserve texture.

Batch Cooking and Family Meal Planning

• Double the recipe and store in pre-portioned containers.
• Perfect for meal prep lunches and freezer-friendly dinners.
• Prep sauces in bulk and refrigerate for up to a week.

FAQs About Benihana Hibachi Chicken

Conclusion: Recreate Benihana at Home Any Night of the Week

With this simple, flavor-packed Benihana Hibachi Chicken recipe, you don’t have to go out to enjoy your favorite Japanese steakhouse meal. From juicy, marinated chicken to perfectly crisped veggies and fried rice, this dish is a winner every time. It’s family-approved, budget-friendly, and surprisingly easy to pull off at home.

Ready to try more Asian-inspired meals? Check out our Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe for another irresistible takeout favorite made simple.

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