This Easy Hibachi Chicken pairs juicy chicken with colorful veggies and tasty fried rice. It’s like having your own little grill party at home!
Cooking this dish is so much fun! You get to pretend you’re a chef flipping food like they do in restaurants. I like to load up on veggies for extra crunch and color. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish since they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a substitute, try thighs for more flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Soy Sauce: Essential for flavoring, you can use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake. Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that works just as well.
Rice: Day-old rice is ideal for fried rice because it’s drier and won’t turn mushy. If you don’t have leftover rice, you can cook some fresh rice, spread it out to cool, and then use it.
Veggies: Zucchini and mushrooms add great texture. You can swap for any favorite veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli! Just make sure they cook evenly.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Just Right?
Cooking the chicken properly is key to a delicious hibachi dish. Here’s how to do it:
- First, heat your skillet or wok to medium-high. This is important for a good sear and to keep it juicy.
- Season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper before adding it to the hot oil.
- Stir frequently but let it sit for a bit between stirs to allow browning. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Finish with a splash of soy sauce to lift the flavor and then remove from heat to avoid overcooking.
What’s the Best Way to Make Fried Rice?
Making great fried rice is all about technique and timing. Here’s how to get it right:
- Use day-old rice if possible; fresh rice can be more sticky. If you must use fresh, cool it for 30 minutes before frying.
- Heat oil in your skillet and add onions and garlic first. This builds a flavor base.
- Add your cut veggies and cook until tender. Push them to the side before pouring in the eggs, scrambling them until nearly done.
- Mix in the rice, soy sauce, and seasonings, stirring well to combine. Fry for a few minutes until everything is heated through and you get some crispy bits!
With these helpful tips, you’re set to whip up a delicious hibachi meal at home! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Hibachi Chicken with Fried Rice and Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or hibachi oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Fried Rice:
- 3 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Veggies:
- 1 cup sliced zucchini
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- Water to thin as needed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty hibachi meal can be prepared in about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients, followed by 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and delicious way to enjoy a homemade hibachi experience!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mayonnaise, ketchup, minced garlic, sesame oil, and sugar. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water to make it pourable. Set this flavorful sauce aside for later.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown, about 6-8 minutes. Pour in the soy sauce and toss to coat the chicken evenly. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Fried Rice:
Using the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Sauté the onions and garlic for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the diced carrots and peas, cooking until they’re slightly tender, around 3-4 minutes. Push the veggies to one side of the skillet, then pour the beaten eggs onto the empty side and scramble them until nearly cooked. Finally, add the rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper, mixing everything together well. Let it cook for a few more minutes until heated through and slightly crispy in some spots. Remove from heat and keep warm.
4. Cook the Veggies:
Add a bit more oil to the skillet if needed, and toss in the sliced zucchini, mushrooms, and onion. Stir-fry these veggies until they’re tender yet still have a nice crunch, about 4-5 minutes. Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper for extra flavor, and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a nice touch.
5. Plate and Serve:
To serve, place a generous mound of fried rice on each plate, along with a portion of the hibachi chicken and the stir-fried veggies. Offer some of the prepared sauce on the side or drizzle it over the top for an extra burst of flavor.
Enjoy your homemade hibachi chicken with fried rice and veggies, just like at your favorite restaurant!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely prior to cooking! The best method is to transfer it to the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can thaw it quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning and cooking.
Can I Make the Fried Rice in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the fried rice in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to revive the flavors and moisture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover hibachi chicken, fried rice, and veggies in airtight containers in the fridge. They will be good for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little splash of soy sauce if needed to retain moisture.
What Other Vegetables Can I Use?
Feel free to mix and match your favorite veggies! Bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and baby corn all work well in hibachi dishes. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the vegetables’ firmness—cook longer for harder vegetables!
These FAQs should help you navigate your hibachi cooking experience with ease! Enjoy!
