Delicious Homemade Hibachi Chicken: A Perfect Benihana Copycat Recipe

Craving the sizzling flavors of your favorite Japanese steakhouse? This incredible Hibachi Chicken recipe is designed to bring that authentic Benihana experience right into your kitchen. It’s a mouthwatering Japanese-inspired dish, complete with perfectly cooked chicken, savory fried rice, and tender-crisp sautéed vegetables, all made easily at home.

My family and I absolutely adore the lively atmosphere and delectable food at Benihana, especially for celebrating birthdays and special milestones. However, waiting for these special occasions to enjoy such a fantastic meal became unbearable, leading me on a quest to recreate this beloved dish at home. After much experimentation, I’m thrilled to share my perfect copycat version of Hibachi Chicken that captures all the magic of the restaurant, but in the comfort and convenience of your own home.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Hibachi Chicken Recipe

Discovering how simple it is to whip up this restaurant-quality meal has been a game-changer. Here’s why this homemade hibachi chicken will quickly become a new favorite in your recipe rotation:

• An Authentic Benihana Copycat: This recipe delivers on flavor, mimicking the delicious taste of the hibachi chicken you enjoy at Benihana. You’ll be amazed at how accurately it replicates the savory, slightly sweet, and umami-rich notes, making every bite feel like a special dining experience without ever leaving your house.
• No Special Equipment Required: Forget about needing an expensive hibachi grill or a professional teppanyaki setup. This recipe is designed for accessibility, utilizing a simple large skillet or wok that you likely already have in your kitchen. This makes it incredibly easy for anyone to prepare, regardless of their kitchen gadget collection.
• A Healthier Alternative: When you cook at home, you’re in complete control of your ingredients. This allows you to choose leaner cuts of chicken, use less oil, and manage sodium levels, making it a significantly healthier option than typical restaurant versions. You can also load it up with fresh vegetables, boosting its nutritional value and fiber content.
• Budget-Friendly Dining: Dining out at a Japanese steakhouse can be quite expensive, especially for a family. Making hibachi chicken at home is incredibly cost-effective, allowing you to enjoy this gourmet meal frequently without breaking the bank. It’s an economical way to satisfy those restaurant cravings.
• Customizable to Your Taste: One of the greatest advantages of cooking at home is the ability to tailor everything to your preferences. Want more garlic? Add it! Prefer different vegetables? Swap them in! You can adjust seasonings, spice levels, and ingredients to perfectly suit your family’s palate.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. You can cook larger batches of chicken, rice, and vegetables, then portion them out for quick and easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. It reheats beautifully, maintaining its delicious flavor and texture.
• Impress Your Guests: Serving this vibrant and flavorful hibachi chicken will undoubtedly impress your friends and family. It looks sophisticated and tastes fantastic, making it ideal for casual dinner parties or a fun family night in.

Essential Ingredients and Smart Substitutions for Hibachi Chicken

Creating this authentic hibachi chicken at home requires a few key ingredients, but don’t worry – I’ve included some excellent substitution options for flexibility. Fresh, high-quality ingredients make a noticeable difference in the final flavor of your dish.

For the Flavorful Hibachi Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces, are ideal for quick cooking and even distribution of flavor. For a richer, juicier texture, **chicken thighs** can be used as an excellent alternative. They hold up well to cooking and absorb marinades beautifully.
• Sesame Oil: This oil provides that distinctive nutty, toasted Asian flavor crucial for hibachi. While **olive oil** can be used, it has a much milder flavor, so you might miss some of that authentic depth. A blend of neutral oil and a tiny bit of sesame oil could be a good compromise.
• Soy Sauce: The cornerstone of many Asian dishes, soy sauce adds a deep umami and salty flavor. For dietary needs or different flavor profiles, consider **coconut aminos** (a paleo, soy-free, gluten-free alternative with a slightly sweeter taste) or **tamari** (a gluten-free soy sauce with a richer, less salty flavor). Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.
• Hoisin Sauce: A thick, fragrant sauce used in Chinese cuisine, hoisin brings sweetness, tang, and a hint of spice. If you don’t have it on hand, you can add some **extra soy sauce** along with a touch of honey or brown sugar and a dash of rice vinegar to mimic its complex profile.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best, most pungent flavor. However, if time is of the essence, **jarred minced garlic** is a convenient substitute in a pinch, though the flavor may be slightly less vibrant.
• Ginger: Freshly minced ginger offers a bright, zesty kick that’s hard to beat. If fresh ginger is unavailable, **ginger paste** is a fantastic substitute, delivering a similar intense flavor. Ground ginger powder can also work, but use it sparingly as its flavor is highly concentrated.

For the Zesty Mustard Sauce

• Light Mayo: Forming the creamy base of our dipping sauce, light mayonnaise helps keep the calories down without sacrificing texture. **Regular mayo** will also work perfectly if you prefer a richer sauce or don’t have light mayo.
• Soy Sauce: Again, soy sauce adds that essential umami to the sauce. Feel free to use **coconut aminos or tamari** for gluten-free or soy-free options.
• Rice Vinegar: This mild, slightly sweet vinegar is key for balancing the richness of the mayo. **Apple cider vinegar** or **champagne vinegar** can be used as suitable substitutes, offering similar acidity and a pleasant tang.
• Dijon Mustard: Dijon provides a sharp, tangy, and slightly spicy note to the sauce. For those who love heat, **Japanese hot mustard** will make the sauce exceptionally spicy, adding an exciting kick that contrasts beautifully with the other flavors.

For the Crisp Sautéed Vegetables

• Olive Oil: A good quality **olive oil** is perfect for sautéing, offering a pleasant base flavor. Any other neutral cooking oil such as **avocado oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil** can be used interchangeably.
• Carrots, Mushrooms, Onion, and Zucchini: This combination provides a colorful and flavorful medley. Feel free to customize with **any vegetables of your choice**. Broccoli florets, bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), snap peas, bok choy, green beans, or even water chestnuts would be delicious additions. Just adjust cooking times as needed for different densities.
• Soy Sauce: Used to season the vegetables, ensuring they absorb that savory umami flavor. As with the chicken, **coconut aminos or tamari** are excellent gluten-free alternatives.

For the Irresistible Fried Rice

• Cooked White Rice: The secret to perfect fried rice is using **leftover rice**, ideally rice that has been cooked a day in advance and chilled. This prevents it from becoming mushy when stir-fried. For a low-carb option, readily make cauliflower rice by ricing cauliflower and cooking it similarly. Brown rice can also be used for a healthier, nuttier flavor.
• Butter: Butter adds a rich, luxurious flavor and helps the rice achieve that characteristic golden-brown crust. **Margarine** or **olive oil** are good substitutes if you prefer.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is highly recommended for its potent aroma and taste. **Jarred minced garlic** can be used as a convenient backup.
• Soy Sauce: Essential for seasoning the fried rice. Again, **coconut aminos or tamari** work well as substitutes.
• Egg: The scrambled egg adds protein and texture to the fried rice. If you’re not a fan of egg or have an allergy, feel free to **leave it out**.
• Green Onions: Also known as spring onions or scallions, these add a fresh, pungent finish. **Chives** would also work as a milder alternative.

How to Master Homemade Hibachi Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Recreating the magic of hibachi chicken at home is simpler than you think. Follow these clear steps to achieve a restaurant-quality meal.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

In a medium bowl, combine all the hibachi chicken ingredients – diced chicken breasts, sesame oil, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, minced garlic, and fresh minced ginger. Toss everything together until the chicken is thoroughly coated. For the best flavor penetration and tender chicken, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20-30 minutes at room temperature, or for an even deeper flavor, refrigerate for 1-4 hours. This marinating step is crucial for infusing the chicken with that signature hibachi taste.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and its sauce to the pan. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and a beautiful golden-brown sear on all sides. The chicken should be fully cooked through and slightly caramelized. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate. Briefly wipe the pan clean with a paper towel to prepare it for the next steps.

Step 3: Whip Up the Zesty Mustard Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, prepare your mustard sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the light mayo, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary – you might want a bit more tang from the vinegar or an extra kick from the Dijon. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to serve. This sauce provides a delightful creamy and tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken and rice.

Step 4: Sauté the Vibrant Vegetables

Return the clean skillet to medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once shimmering, add the carrots, mushrooms, onion, and zucchini. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender-crisp. You want them to retain a slight bite, not become overly soft. Season them with a tablespoon of soy sauce, along with salt and pepper to taste, to enhance their natural flavors. Once cooked, remove the sautéed vegetables from the pan and set them aside with the chicken.

Step 5: Craft the Perfect Fried Rice

Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the cooked white rice (preferably day-old and chilled) and the soy sauce. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps and ensuring the rice is thoroughly heated and lightly browned. Push the rice to one side of the pan to create a clear space. Crack the egg directly into this space and scramble it until it’s just set. Then, incorporate the scrambled egg into the rice, tossing to combine. Finally, stir in the sliced green onions for freshness, then remove the pan from the heat.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve Your Hibachi Feast

Now for the best part – assembly! Divide the freshly cooked fried rice among serving plates. Arrange generous portions of the hibachi chicken and sautéed vegetables alongside the rice. Serve with the delicious mustard sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with additional green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your homemade Benihana-style hibachi chicken!

Frequently Asked Questions About Hibachi Chicken

Here are some common questions about hibachi chicken, answered to help you master this delicious dish.

What exactly is hibachi chicken?

In North America, “hibachi” generally refers to a style of Japanese cooking, specifically teppanyaki, where food is grilled on a large, open iron griddle (a “teppan”) in front of the guests. Hibachi chicken is simply a dish that is cooked using this exciting, interactive method. It typically features chicken pieces cooked with a savory sauce, often served alongside a medley of sautéed vegetables and fluffy fried rice, creating a complete and satisfying meal.

Do I need a special hibachi grill to make this recipe?

Absolutely not! While traditional hibachi restaurants use specialized grills, this copycat recipe is specifically designed for home cooks. You can achieve fantastic results using a standard large skillet or a wok on your stovetop. The key is to get your pan nice and hot to mimic the searing effect of a hibachi grill, allowing the chicken and vegetables to develop a delicious caramelized crust.

How many calories are in this homemade hibachi chicken recipe?

My homemade hibachi chicken is a lighter alternative to restaurant versions, coming in at approximately 499 calories per serving. This is a significant difference compared to the typical 1,000+ calories you might consume at a Benihana or Teppanyaki restaurant, where larger portions and more oil are often used. By making it at home, you have full control over the ingredients, allowing you to manage fat, sodium, and portion sizes to fit your dietary needs.

Can I make this hibachi chicken recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, absolutely! To make this recipe vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken with firm tofu (pressed and cubed), tempeh, or a hearty mushroom medley. For a vegan version, ensure you use a plant-based mayo for the mustard sauce, omit the egg from the fried rice (or use a vegan egg substitute), and verify that all sauces (soy, hoisin) are vegan-friendly.

Is this hibachi chicken dish spicy?

The base recipe for this hibachi chicken is not inherently spicy. The hoisin sauce provides a slight warmth, but it’s generally mild and savory. If you enjoy heat, you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade, a dash of sriracha to the mustard sauce, or serve with chili garlic sauce on the side for an extra kick.

Storing and Reheating Your Homemade Hibachi Chicken

This hibachi chicken recipe is not only delicious but also fantastic for meal prep, making your weeknights easier. Proper storage and reheating will ensure your leftovers taste just as good as the freshly cooked meal.

Prep Ahead: To save time on cooking day, you can prepare several components in advance. Cook the white rice up to 2-3 days ahead and store it in the fridge (chilled, day-old rice is actually better for fried rice!). You can also mix together the mustard sauce ingredients and refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Chop all your vegetables and dice the chicken the day before, keeping them separated in airtight containers in the refrigerator.

Storing Leftovers: Once cooled, store any leftover hibachi chicken, fried rice, and sautéed vegetables in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keeping them separate helps maintain their individual textures and flavors. The mustard sauce should also be stored in a separate airtight container in the fridge.

Freezing for Later: Both the cooked hibachi chicken and the fried rice freeze wonderfully. Allow them to cool completely, then store them separately in freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. For best results, avoid freezing the sautéed vegetables as they can become watery and lose their texture upon thawing. Thaw frozen components overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Instructions:

• Stovetop (Recommended for Crispy Results): For the best texture, especially for the chicken and fried rice, reheat everything in a pan on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a tiny splash of water or oil if needed. Stir occasionally until heated through and the chicken and rice regain some crispiness.
• Microwave: If you’re short on time, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place the chicken, rice, and vegetables on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until thoroughly warmed. Be aware that the textures may be softer compared to stovetop reheating.

Recommended Meal Prep Tools for Effortless Cooking

Having the right tools can make your cooking and meal prepping experience much smoother and more enjoyable. Here are a few essentials I highly recommend:

• Grab some glass meal prep bowls if you plan on turning this delicious dinner into convenient leftovers. Glass containers are excellent because they don’t absorb odors or stains, are microwave and oven safe, and are more durable than plastic.
• I source all my high-quality, free-range chicken from Butcher Box. Their convenient delivery service ensures I always have premium, ethically-sourced meats readily available in my freezer, making meal planning a breeze.
• Invest in a reliable meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is always cooked perfectly to a safe internal temperature, preventing undercooked or overcooked, dry meat. This is a crucial tool for food safety and achieving optimal texture.
• A high-quality, large **skillet or wok** with a good non-stick surface is indispensable for this recipe. It allows for even cooking and prevents sticking, especially when stir-frying the rice and vegetables.
• Sharp knives and a sturdy cutting board will make your prep work faster and safer, allowing you to quickly dice chicken and chop vegetables with ease.