Fried Rice Recipe

This simple hibachi-inspired fried rice is packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make. With cold rice, butter, soy sauce, eggs, and a mix of vegetables, this dish delivers the signature taste of restaurant-style Japanese fried rice.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a delicious side dish, or a way to use up leftover rice, this recipe is the perfect solution. Plus, it’s highly customizable—swap in your favorite vegetables or add protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more filling meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Better than takeout – Rich, savory flavors with restaurant-quality taste.
• Quick and easy – Ready in just 35 minutes.
• Versatile – Works as a main dish or side with added protein.
• Perfect for meal prep – Stores well for a fast, reheatable meal.

---

Preparation Phase & Essential Tools

Before starting, having the right tools makes cooking easier and ensures the best results.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large wok or skillet – Ensures even cooking and prevents overcrowding.
• Spatula or wooden spoon – Helps stir ingredients without damaging cookware.
• Mixing bowls – For prepping eggs, butter-soy sauce, and vegetables.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures precise ingredient amounts.

Using a wok is ideal for its ability to distribute heat evenly and handle large volumes of food. If using a skillet, opt for a wide, heavy-bottomed pan to avoid sticking and burning.

---

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

• 4 cups cooked short-grain white rice (or jasmine/long-grain rice)
• ½ cup chopped carrots (fresh or frozen)
• ½ cup frozen peas
• ½ cup chopped white onion
• 1 large egg, whisked and scrambled
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 2–3 tbsp peanut, canola, or vegetable oil
• 2 tsp sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)

Optional Add-Ins

• Garlic (minced) – Enhances depth of flavor.
• Protein – Chicken, shrimp, tofu, or beef for a heartier dish.
• Extra vegetables – Bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or green onions.
• Chili flakes or sriracha – Adds heat for a spicier version.

---

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. Let it cool completely, then refrigerate for at least one hour (preferably overnight). This prevents the rice from becoming sticky or mushy during frying.

Step 2: Make the Butter-Soy Sauce Mixture

1. Allow the butter to soften at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds.
2. Mash the butter with a fork and mix in the soy sauce. It is fine if it does not fully combine.

Step 3: Cook the Egg

1. Heat a small amount of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Pour in the whisked egg and scramble, breaking it into small chunks.
3. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add another splash of oil to the skillet.
2. Toss in the carrots, peas, and onions, cooking for about four minutes until softened.
3. Remove and set aside with the egg.

Step 5: Fry the Rice

1. Add another splash of oil to the pan and add the cold rice.
2. Stir continuously for about four to five minutes, ensuring even cooking. This step gives the rice its signature fried texture.

Step 6: Add Flavor

1. Drizzle the butter-soy sauce mixture over the rice, stirring well.
2. Continue cooking until all grains are evenly coated, and no white grains remain.

Step 7: Combine & Finish

1. Add the cooked vegetables and scrambled egg back into the skillet.
2. Drizzle with sesame oil, if using, and stir to combine.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with more soy sauce if needed. Serve hot.

---

Pro Tips for the Best Fried Rice

• Always use cold, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice is too soft and clumps together.
• Avoid using too much soy sauce at once. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
• Keep ingredients moving. Constant stirring prevents burning and ensures even cooking.
• Do not overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary for the best texture.
• Use high-heat oil. Oils like peanut, canola, or vegetable work best for frying.

What to Serve with Fried Rice

This fried rice can stand alone, but pairing it with complementary flavors makes for a well-balanced meal. Here are some excellent serving ideas:

Main Dishes

1. Teriyaki Chicken – The sweet and savory glaze of teriyaki chicken perfectly complements the buttery, soy-infused flavors of fried rice.
2. Garlic Butter Shrimp – A quick and easy protein option that adds a rich, garlicky taste.
3. Japanese Hibachi Steak – A classic restaurant-style pairing with tender, juicy steak and fried rice.
4. Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry – A great vegetarian choice with a crispy texture and bold flavors.

Side Dishes

5. Miso Soup – A light and flavorful broth that balances the richness of fried rice.
6. Gyoza (Japanese Dumplings) – Crispy on the outside and juicy inside, these dumplings pair well with the dish.
7. Cucumber Sunomono Salad – A refreshing and tangy cucumber salad that cuts through the richness of the rice.
8. Spring Rolls – A crunchy and fresh appetizer that adds texture contrast to the meal.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making perfect fried rice requires a few key techniques. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your dish turns out flavorful, light, and restaurant-quality.

1. Using Freshly Cooked Rice

Mistake: Cooking the rice and using it immediately results in mushy, sticky fried rice.
Solution: Always use cold, day-old rice. Refrigerating the rice removes excess moisture and helps create the right texture.

2. Overloading the Pan

Mistake: Adding too many ingredients at once prevents proper frying and results in steaming instead.
Solution: Cook in batches if necessary to allow all ingredients to fry evenly.

3. Not Stirring Enough

Mistake: Leaving the rice undisturbed for too long causes it to stick and burn.
Solution: Keep ingredients moving in the pan to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

4. Using the Wrong Pan

Mistake: A small pan does not distribute heat evenly, leading to unevenly cooked rice.
Solution: A large wok or skillet provides ample space and high heat distribution for proper frying.

5. Adding Too Much Soy Sauce

Mistake: Over-seasoning the rice makes it too salty and darkens its color.
Solution: Start with two tablespoons of soy sauce, then adjust to taste. You can always add more later.

6. Not Cooking at High Heat

Mistake: Low heat causes the rice to become soggy rather than crisp.
Solution: Use medium-high to high heat to fry the rice properly and develop the right texture.

7. Skipping the Butter-Soy Sauce Mixture

Mistake: Directly pouring soy sauce onto the rice instead of mixing it with butter results in an unevenly seasoned dish.
Solution: Pre-mixing butter and soy sauce ensures even coating and depth of flavor.

---

How to Perfect the Recipe

Use the Right Oil

Choose an oil with a high smoke point to withstand high heat without burning. The best options include:

• Peanut oil
• Canola oil
• Vegetable oil

Avoid olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point and a distinct flavor that does not complement fried rice.

Prep All Ingredients in Advance

Fried rice cooks quickly, so having all ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go prevents overcooking and allows smooth cooking.

Add Protein for a Complete Meal

For a heartier dish, consider these proteins:

• Chicken – Dice and cook it before adding to the rice.
• Shrimp – Cooks quickly and pairs well with the soy-based flavors.
• Tofu – Crispy tofu adds texture and is a great vegetarian option.
• Beef – Thinly sliced beef cooked with garlic and soy sauce enhances the dish.

Season to Taste

Start with a basic amount of soy sauce and sesame oil, then taste and adjust. If you need more seasoning, add in small amounts to avoid overpowering the dish.

Use High Heat for a Smoky Flavor

Cooking fried rice over high heat develops a slight smoky aroma, similar to restaurant-style hibachi fried rice. Keeping the ingredients moving prevents burning while allowing the rice to crisp up.

Expert Tips for the Best Fried Rice

1. Use Day-Old Rice for the Perfect Texture

Freshly cooked rice is too moist and sticky for frying. Storing cooked rice in the refrigerator for at least a few hours—or preferably overnight—removes excess moisture and gives it a firmer texture, making it ideal for frying.

2. Cook Ingredients in Stages

Adding everything to the pan at once can result in uneven cooking. Instead, cook each ingredient separately—starting with eggs, then vegetables, followed by rice—before combining them. This ensures that every component is perfectly cooked.

3. Avoid Overcrowding the Pan

A crowded pan prevents proper frying and can lead to steaming rather than crisping. Using a large wok or skillet allows for even heat distribution and gives the rice enough room to fry properly.

4. Stir Constantly but Let the Rice Crisp Occasionally

While it is important to stir the ingredients to prevent burning, allowing the rice to sit undisturbed for short periods helps develop a slightly crispy texture, adding depth to the dish.

5. Adjust Seasoning to Taste

Start with a small amount of soy sauce and sesame oil, then adjust as needed. Over-seasoning at the beginning can make the dish too salty, so taste as you go.

---

How to Store and Reheat Fried Rice

Storing Leftovers

Fried rice stores well and can be easily reheated for another meal. Follow these steps for proper storage:

• Allow the fried rice to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container to prevent moisture buildup.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to four days.

For longer storage, fried rice can be frozen:

• Place the cooled rice in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Freeze for up to three months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Best Ways to Reheat Fried Rice

1. Stovetop (Recommended Method)
   • Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
   • Add the rice and stir frequently for 3–5 minutes until heated through.
   • If the rice is dry, add a splash of water or soy sauce to rehydrate it.
2. Microwave (Fastest Method)
   • Place the rice in a microwave-safe dish and sprinkle a few drops of water over it.
   • Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
   • Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully warmed.
3. Air Fryer (For a Slightly Crispy Texture)
   • Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
   • Spread the rice in a thin layer inside the basket.
   • Heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Avoid reheating fried rice multiple times, as it can become dry and lose its texture.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Type of Rice Works Best for Fried Rice?

Short-grain, medium-grain, or jasmine rice is ideal. Short-grain rice is slightly sticky, while jasmine rice offers a fragrant, slightly drier texture. Always use cold, day-old rice for the best results.

2. Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes. Simply substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to keep the dish gluten-free.

3. Can I Make This Dish Vegan?

Absolutely. Omit the egg and replace the butter with plant-based butter or sesame oil for a vegan-friendly version.

4. What Oil Is Best for Cooking Fried Rice?

Use high-smoke-point oils such as:

• Peanut oil
• Canola oil
• Vegetable oil

Avoid olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point and can alter the flavor.

5. Can I Add Protein to This Recipe?

Yes. Common protein additions include:

• Chicken – Dice and cook before adding to the rice.
• Shrimp – Quick-cooking and pairs well with the soy-based flavors.
• Tofu – Provides a crispy, plant-based alternative.
• Beef – Thinly sliced and cooked with garlic and soy sauce for added flavor.

6. Why Is My Fried Rice Mushy?

This usually happens when freshly cooked rice is used instead of day-old rice. Fresh rice retains too much moisture, making it soft rather than crispy. Refrigerated rice removes excess moisture and improves texture.

7. How Can I Make My Fried Rice Spicier?

To add heat, consider:

• Sriracha or chili sauce
• Red pepper flakes
• Diced jalapeños or Thai chilies

Adjust the spice level to taste.

---

Final Thoughts

Hibachi-style fried rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that is easy to make at home with the right techniques. Whether you are preparing it as a side or a main dish, using cold, day-old rice, cooking at high heat, and seasoning carefully ensures the best results.

With its quick preparation time and endless customization options, this recipe is perfect for weeknight meals, meal prep, or a satisfying way to use up leftover rice. By avoiding common mistakes and following expert tips, you can achieve a restaurant-quality dish every time.

For an even more flavorful meal, pair this fried rice with teriyaki chicken, hibachi-style steak, or a light miso soup. Store leftovers properly, and reheat them using the recommended methods to maintain their taste and texture.

Mastering fried rice is all about the right ingredients, proper technique, and a little practice. Once you get the basics down, you can experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own variations.