This Easy Hibachi Chicken is a fun and tasty meal! Juicy chicken strips are cooked with colorful veggies, making it both delicious and pretty. The fried rice adds a nice touch!
Cooking this dish is so quick, you might feel like a chef on a reality show! I love how you can use any veggies you have on hand. It’s a perfect way to clean out the fridge!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, try using thighs instead, as they tend to be juicier. You can also use tofu for a vegetarian version!
Rice: Day-old rice is best for fried rice since it’s drier and prevents clumping. If you don’t have leftover rice, make sure to cool freshly cooked rice thoroughly before using it. Quinoa can be a good substitute for a healthier option.
Veggies: Use any veggies you like! If zucchini and mushrooms aren’t your favorites, carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli work well too. I suggest adding bell peppers for a nice crunch and extra color!
Sauce: The sauce adds a creamy kick to the dish. If you want a lighter option, skip the mayo and just use a mixture of soy sauce and sesame oil. It keeps the flavors but cuts the calories!
How Can You Ensure Perfect Fried Rice?
Fried rice can sometimes turn mushy if not prepared correctly. Here are some tips to get it right:
- Use chilled, day-old rice or allow freshly cooked rice to cool completely before frying.
- Stir-fry over high heat to ensure everything cooks quickly and evenly.
- Make sure to mix the eggs and rice thoroughly so each bite gets a taste of everything.
Following these steps will help you create fried rice that’s flavorful and satisfying every time!
Easy Hibachi Chicken with Fried Rice and Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Hibachi Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Fried Rice:
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old, chilled)
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup chopped onions
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1-2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Veggies:
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup chopped zucchini
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
For the Sauce (optional):
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp lemon juice or rice vinegar
- Pinch of black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious hibachi chicken meal can be prepared in about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes on prep and about 20 minutes cooking, making it a quick and satisfying dish to whip up for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and cooked through, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside.
2. Cook the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of oil if needed. Now add the chopped onions, mushrooms, and zucchini. Stir-fry everything until the veggies are tender but still a bit crisp, which will take around 4 to 5 minutes. Season them lightly with salt and pepper, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Fried Rice:
In the same skillet or wok, heat another tablespoon of oil. Add the chopped onions and diced carrots, cooking them for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften. Now, push the veggies to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs onto the other side. Scramble the eggs until they are fully cooked. Next, add the chilled rice and peas, mixing everything together well. Drizzle the soy sauce over the rice mixture and stir it all to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper as needed, then continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through.
4. Prepare the Sauce (Optional):
If you’d like to add some sauce, in a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, soy sauce, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice (or rice vinegar), and a pinch of black pepper. Ensure it’s smooth and creamy, adjusting the taste as necessary.
5. Assemble the Plate:
On each plate, serve a generous mound of fried rice, then add the cooked chicken and sautéed veggies alongside. For an extra touch, sprinkle some sesame seeds over the veggies if you’d like. Serve the creamy sauce on the side, perfect either for dipping or drizzling over the chicken.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your delightful homemade Easy Hibachi Chicken with Fried Rice and Veggies while it’s hot! It’s a fantastic meal that’s just as good as what you’d find at a hibachi restaurant.
This dish is wonderful to serve fresh, but it also makes tasty leftovers for the next day! Enjoy!
FAQ: Easy Hibachi Chicken with Fried Rice and Veggies
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked chicken, simply skip the cooking step and add the chicken with the vegetables in the second step. Just make sure to heat it through completely for a quick and easy meal.
What If I Don’t Have Soy Sauce?
No problem! You can substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option or even liquid aminos for a similar flavor. If you want a homemade alternative, try mixing balsamic vinegar with a bit of salt.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or quickly warm it in a skillet over low heat until everything is heated through.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Just marinate your protein substitute with soy sauce and follow the same cooking instructions to give it that delicious flavor.
