This Easy Homemade Hibachi Chicken is a tasty mix of tender chicken pieces with a lovely garlic-soy sauce. It’s a fun dish to enjoy right at home!
Using just one pan, I whip this up in no time! Pair it with rice and some veggies, and you’ve got a meal that feels special without the fuss. Who’s ready for hibachi night? 🍳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to for this dish. If you prefer, chicken thighs can work too for additional flavor and juiciness.
Vegetables: Zucchini and mushrooms add great texture. You can switch them out for bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas depending on your taste or what you have on hand.
Rice: Day-old rice is best for fried rice because it’s drier. Freshly made rice can be used, but be sure to cool it a bit first. Quinoa or cauliflower rice are good alternatives for a low-carb option.
Oyster Sauce: This adds a delicious depth. If you’re vegan or allergic, you can use a mushroom-based sauce or simply skip it. The dish will still taste great!
How Can You Make Perfect Fried Rice?
Cooking fried rice is all about technique. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use cold rice: It keeps the grains separated, preventing mushiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if needed. This helps each grain to fry properly.
- High heat is key: It gives a nice fried texture and flavor.
- Scramble the egg first: This adds extra protein and flavor, blending perfectly into the rice.
Following these tips will help you create fried rice that’s both delicious and visually appealing. Enjoy your hibachi night!
Easy Homemade Hibachi Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into sticks
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 small onion, sliced
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old for best texture)
- 1 egg (for fried rice)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (plus more to taste)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (for glaze)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1 green onion, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total: 10-15 minutes for marinating the chicken and prepping your ingredients, and around 15 minutes for cooking everything. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, sugar (or honey), and black pepper. Toss well to coat and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until they are browned and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add the butter, followed by the sliced zucchini, mushrooms, and onions. Stir-fry these vegetables for about 4-5 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste, then remove them from the pan and set aside with the chicken.
4. Make the Fried Rice:
In the same pan, add a splash more oil if necessary. Crack the egg into the pan and scramble it until just set. Then add the cooked rice, breaking up any lumps as you go. Pour in the remaining soy sauce and the optional oyster sauce. Stir-fry everything together for about 3-4 minutes until heated through. Feel free to add in carrots, peas, or any other veggies you enjoy for extra flavor!
5. Combine and Glaze:
Now, return the cooked chicken and veggies back to the pan with the fried rice. Toss everything together, adding the minced garlic and sesame oil if you’re using it. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld and caramelize the chicken slightly.
6. Serve:
Plate the hibachi chicken alongside the stir-fried veggies and rice. You can garnish with chopped green onions if you like. Dig in and enjoy your delicious homemade hibachi meal!
This recipe beautifully captures the flavor and essence of hibachi chicken, all while being quick and easy to make at home. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
FAQ for Easy Homemade Hibachi Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw it first! The best way to thaw is to leave it in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option. Pat dry before marinating to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to prevent the rice from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prep the vegetables in advance. Just store them separately and cook everything on the day you plan to serve it. Fried rice is best made fresh, but you can prepare it earlier; just reheat it gently before combining with the chicken and veggies.
What Are Some Good Add-ins for the Fried Rice?
Feel free to customize the fried rice by adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or corn. You can also toss in some cooked shrimp or beef for extra protein, or even some pineapple chunks for a sweet twist! Just make sure any add-ins are pre-cooked before mixing them in.
