The sizzling sound of high-heat cooking can transport you straight to a bustling Japanese steakhouse, and I’ve found a way to recreate that magic at home with my Perfect Benihana Hibachi Chicken recipe. This dish showcases tender marinated chicken, infused with the incredible flavors of garlic and ginger, all cooked to perfection in no time at all. Not only is this recipe incredibly quick to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights, but it’s also highly customizable—swap in your favorite proteins or seasonal vegetables for a personal touch! So why not roll up your sleeves and bring a taste of Benihana right into your kitchen? What exciting twists will you add to make it your own?
Why is Homemade Hibachi Chicken the Best?
Deliciously Authentic: Experience genuine Japanese flavors right at home with this Hibachi Chicken, perfect for satisfying your cravings!
Quick and Easy: Whip up this meal in under 30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Customizable: Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp, steak, or tofu, tailored to your personal taste!
Family-Friendly: This dish is loved by all ages, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Saves Money: Enjoy restaurant-quality fare without breaking the bank—your wallet will thank you!
And if you’re looking for more enticing dishes, try pairing this with my Cajun Chicken Garlic for a flavorful fusion or indulge in a comforting bowl of Ginger Scallion Chicken.
Benihana Hibachi Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – This is your primary protein for a juicy and tender base; consider using chicken thighs for additional moisture.
- Soy Sauce – Adds umami depth to your dish, enhancing the flavor of the Benihana Hibachi Chicken.
- Hoisin Sauce – Provides a slight sweetness; feel free to substitute with more soy sauce or teriyaki if desired.
- Rice Wine Vinegar – Introduces a tangy note; white vinegar can be a good alternative if you don’t have rice wine vinegar on hand.
- Fresh Garlic & Ginger – These fresh ingredients intensify the aroma and overall flavor; powdered versions can work, but fresh is best for this recipe.
- Toasted Sesame Oil – Adds a distinct nuttiness to the dish; swap it out with vegetable oil for a milder flavor if needed.
For High-Heat Cooking
- Peanut Oil – Perfect for high-heat frying due to its high smoke point; avocado or grapeseed oil can also be used in its place.
For the Vegetables
- Mixed Vegetables – Choose a mix that adds color and texture; zucchini, bell peppers, and broccoli are great options, but feel free to customize based on your preferences.
For Fried Rice
- Egg – Essential for the classic fried rice side; you can also use leftover rice for convenience, making this meal faster to prepare.
- Fried Rice Ingredients – Include garlic and onions for added flavor when cooking up your rice!
This Benihana Hibachi Chicken is not only a delightful dish but also a canvas for your creativity in the kitchen—let’s get cooking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Benihana Hibachi Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by cubing the boneless skinless chicken breasts into 1-2 inch pieces. In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice wine vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and toasted sesame oil. Toss the chicken in this marinade, ensuring it’s well-coated, and let it sit for at least 20 minutes or up to 4 hours in the fridge to enhance the flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Cooking Surface
While the chicken marinates, heat a cast iron skillet or flat-top griddle over high heat. Add about 2 tablespoons of peanut oil, ensuring it covers the cooking surface evenly. Allow it to heat for 3-5 minutes until the oil shimmers and creates a light haze, signaling it’s ready for cooking the chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until a golden-brown crust develops. Then, stir and continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s fully cooked through.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add a mix of your chosen vegetables, such as zucchini and bell peppers, to the remaining oil and stir-fry them for about 4-5 minutes. Cook until they are tender yet still retain some crunch, allowing them to absorb the flavorful residue left from the chicken, enhancing the delicious notes of the Benihana Hibachi Chicken.
Step 5: Make the Fried Rice
Next, move the vegetables to one side of the skillet and crack an egg onto the other side. Scramble the egg quickly, incorporating minced garlic and diced onions as it cooks. Once the egg is fully cooked, stir in 2 cups of leftover rice, mixing everything together and letting it fry undisturbed for the first 3 minutes, then stirring for an additional 10 minutes until crispy. Finish with a splash of soy sauce to infuse the fried rice with flavor.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Now, your perfect Benihana Hibachi Chicken is ready to be served. Plate the sautéed chicken and vegetables alongside the fried rice. For an extra touch, drizzle some additional soy sauce over the top and garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy your homemade hibachi experience!
Storage Tips for Benihana Hibachi Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Benihana Hibachi Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful while preventing it from drying out.
Freezer: You can freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container, and label it for easy identification later.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, a microwave can be used, but be careful not to overheat.
Leftover Fried Rice: Store fried rice separately in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop, allowing it to crisp up again for a delightful texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Benihana Hibachi Chicken preparations are perfect for busy weeknights, saving you precious time while still delivering delicious results! You can marinate the chicken in the flavorful mixture for up to 24 hours in advance to enhance its taste. Prepping vegetables can also be done up to 3 days ahead—simply slice and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, follow the final steps by heating your skillet and cooking the chicken, then tossing in the sautéed vegetables and fried rice. This approach not only streamlines your cooking time, but ensures that every bite of your Benihana Hibachi Chicken remains just as delightful and fresh!
Helpful Tricks for Benihana Hibachi Chicken
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Maintain High Heat: Always preheat your skillet or griddle thoroughly to achieve that signature restaurant sear on your Benihana Hibachi Chicken.
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Batch Cooking: If making a larger quantity, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of searing.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor—if using powdered versions, reduce the quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.
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Perfect Fried Rice: Don’t stir the fried rice constantly. Let it sit undisturbed for a few minutes to develop that coveted crispy texture!
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Customize Veggies: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or your family favorites for a vibrant and personalized dish.
Benihana Hibachi Chicken Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this recipe your own with delightful twists and swaps!
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Tofu Swap: Use firm tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian option that’s just as filling and delicious.
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Shrimp Town: Substitute fresh shrimp for chicken; the seafood cooks quickly and adds a fabulous, savory flavor.
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Beef It Up: Use thinly sliced steak instead of chicken for a heartier, meaty flavor that won’t disappoint.
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Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the vegetables for a little heat that elevates the dish.
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Sweet & Savory: Incorporate pineapple chunks in the stir-fry for a sweet burst that beautifully contrasts with the savory elements.
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Zucchini Noodles: Substitute fried rice with zucchini noodles for a low-carb, deliciously fresh twist that keeps things light.
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Flavor Boost: Mix in a splash of citrus juice, like lime or orange, to brighten up the dish and elevate those umami flavors.
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Vegan Style: Opt for a plant-based substitute for egg in the fried rice, utilizing tofu or chickpea flour to keep it vegan-friendly.
These variations can help you tailor the Benihana Hibachi Chicken to meet your cravings or dietary preferences! And if you enjoy experimenting with flavors, don’t forget to check out my delightful Cowboy Butter Chicken or my comforting Crockpot Chicken Pot for even more culinary inspiration.
What to Serve with Benihana Hibachi Chicken
A delightful dinner awaits as you elevate your hibachi chicken experience with these perfect pairings.
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Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup lightens the meal while adding an umami depth that complements the savory flavors of the chicken.
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Cucumber Salad: This refreshing side adds a crunchy texture and brightens the dish with its citrusy dressing, balancing the dinner perfectly.
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Steamed Edamame: Lightly salted edamame pods provide a fun and interactive appetizer, with a naturally satisfying pop that engages the palate.
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Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy and fresh, these rolls offer a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of hibachi chicken, making for a balanced bite.
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Sushi Rolls: Sushi rolls featuring fresh fish or veggies bring a delightful twist, enhancing your Japanese dining experience all within the comfort of your home.
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Sake: A chilled glass of sake pairs well with hibachi chicken, enhancing the meal’s umami and providing a refined touch of tradition.
These pairings create a harmonious meal that captures the essence of a Benihana dining experience at home!
Benihana Hibachi Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the Juiciest results, I recommend using boneless skinless chicken breasts as they tend to cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer richer flavors, chicken thighs can be a fantastic substitute. Always look for chicken that is firm to the touch and free of any dark spots or discoloration.
How should I store leftover Benihana Hibachi Chicken?
You can store your leftover Benihana Hibachi Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful! To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet on medium heat with a splash of water or broth. This prevents it from drying out while keeping it delicious.
Can I freeze my hibachi chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze Benihana Hibachi Chicken for up to 2 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remember to label the container with the date for easy identification later! When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop for best results.
What if my chicken isn’t cooked through?
If your chicken isn’t fully cooked, no worries! Simply return it to the pan, monitoring the heat to ensure it doesn’t burn. Continue cooking until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also slice the chicken into smaller pieces to help it cook evenly and more quickly.
Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, definitely! The traditional ingredients in Benihana Hibachi Chicken include soy sauce, which contains gluten, so look for a gluten-free soy sauce variant if needed. Additionally, if anyone in your household has allergies to peanuts, you can substitute peanut oil with avocado or grapeseed oil for high-heat cooking. Always check ingredient labels when working with sauces or marinades to ensure they’re allergy-safe.
How do I freeze the fried rice correctly?
Freezing fried rice is simple! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It’s best to portion it out for individual servings to make reheating easier. Frozen fried rice can last for up to 2 months—just remember to label for easy identification! To reheat, you can use a skillet over medium heat, allowing it to crisp up again for delightful texture.
Savory Benihana Hibachi Chicken Made Easy at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by cubing the boneless skinless chicken breasts into 1-2 inch pieces. In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice wine vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and toasted sesame oil. Toss the chicken in this marinade, ensuring it's well-coated, and let it sit for at least 20 minutes or up to 4 hours in the fridge.
- While the chicken marinates, heat a cast iron skillet or flat-top griddle over high heat. Add about 2 tablespoons of peanut oil and allow it to heat until shimmering, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer and let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Stir and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- In the same pan, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes or until they are tender yet retain some crunch.
- Move the vegetables to one side and crack an egg onto the other side. Scramble the egg quickly, incorporating minced garlic and diced onions. Once fully cooked, stir in the leftover rice and mix everything together, letting it fry undisturbed for the first 3 minutes.
- Plate the sautéed chicken and vegetables alongside the fried rice. Drizzle some soy sauce over the top if desired and garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions.
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