Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Jump to Recipe·4 from 63 reviews

If you’re looking for a dish that’s packed with flavor, easy to whip up, and totally satisfying, the Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is your next must-try. This recipe brings together tender, sweet-savory chicken coated in Japanese BBQ sauce with fluffy eggs and perfectly cooked rice, creating a colorful and comforting meal that feels both familiar and exciting. It’s one of those dishes that’s incredibly versatile for weeknight dinners but impressive enough to serve when you want to treat your friends or family to something special.

Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice ingredients arranged on a clean, light wooden surface: diced boneless skinless chicken breast pieces in a small white bowl, a small glass bowl of golden brown Japanese BBQ sauce, two cracked raw eggs in a white ceramic ramekin showing bright yellow yolks and clear whites, a rustic mound of fluffy white cooked rice with scattered grains, a small heap of toasted pale beige sesame seeds on a delicate dish, a tin of vibrant green chopped scallions in a neat pile, a small wooden spoon holding a mix of golden brown vegetable oil, and three small white porcelain bowls each containing finely ground onion powder (off-white), garlic powder (soft beige), and red pepper flakes (deep red with flecks of orange). The brown sugar is showcased in a tiny wooden dish as coarse light brown crystals. The ingredients are evenly spaced with natural, diffused daylight highlighting varying textures—from the glossy BBQ sauce to the matte powders and fluffy rice grains. Soft shadows add depth, and subtle props like a linen napkin edge peek in to enhance warmth. Overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1 this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is simple but plays an important role in achieving the dish’s perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors. From the aromatic spices to the sweet and savory sauce, each element builds a harmonious taste experience.

  • 3 tbsp vegetable oil: Essential for cooking the chicken and frying the rice without sticking or burning.
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (diced): Provides lean protein, absorbing the bold Japanese BBQ flavors beautifully.
  • 1 tsp onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the chicken seasoning.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder: Brings a rich, savory note that complements the BBQ sauce perfectly.
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes: Gives a gentle kick, balancing sweetness with heat.
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar: Sweetens the chicken while promoting a lovely caramelized finish.
  • 2 cups cooked rice: The star base of the dish; using leftover rice helps keep it fluffy and prevents it from getting mushy.
  • 2 eggs: Adds richness and a velvety texture when scrambled into the rice.
  • 3 tbsp Japanese BBQ sauce: The defining flavor, blending sweet, salty, and umami that ties the whole dish together.
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for topping): Provides a nutty crunch and a gorgeous finishing touch.
  • Chopped scallions (optional): Brings a fresh pop of color and a mild onion flavor that brightens every bite.

How to Make Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Flavor and Cook the Chicken

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Toss your diced chicken into the pan along with onion powder, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and brown sugar. Stir everything so the seasonings coat the chicken evenly. Cook this mixture until the chicken is fully cooked through and has a beautiful golden-brown sear, about 10 minutes. This step locks in the spices and sweetness, laying a tasty foundation for the dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Fried Rice and Eggs

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set aside. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same pan, then add your cooked rice. Break apart any clumps and spread the rice evenly. Push it gently into a ring shape around the pan’s edge, creating an open space in the center for the eggs. Crack the eggs into this space and scramble right away, cooking until fully set. This technique infuses the rice with rich, fluffy bits of egg without overcrowding the pan.

Step 3: Combine and Finish the Dish

After the eggs are cooked, stir them into the rice, mixing well so every grain is coated. Next, pour in the Japanese BBQ sauce and stir to combine; this is where the dish really comes alive with tangy and savory notes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, warming it through while blending the flavors. Finally, sprinkle sesame seeds over the top, and if you like, some chopped scallions for a fresh, crisp contrast. Serve it warm and enjoy the melange of tastes and textures.

How to Serve Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Garnishes

A handful of toasted sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch and toasty flavor that brings this Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Recipe full circle. Freshly chopped scallions lift the dish visually and add a mild freshness that balances the rich, saucy meat and the tender rice, making each bite more dynamic.

Side Dishes

This fried rice makes a hearty standalone meal but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed edamame, crisp cucumber salad, or pickled vegetables to add brightness and texture contrast. You could also serve it alongside miso soup to keep things light yet satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Recipe in individual lettuce wraps, letting everyone scoop their own portions. Or, mold the fried rice using a bowl or small ring mold for beautiful, restaurant-style plating. Garnish with extra sesame seeds and scallions arranged in neat patterns for visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or quick lunches.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the fried rice in freezer-safe containers. For best texture and flavor, consume within 1 month. When freezing, separate in portion sizes for easy reheating later.

Reheating

When reheating, add a splash of water or a little oil to prevent the rice from drying out. Warm it over medium heat in a skillet or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly and restore the dish’s delightful texture.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?

Absolutely! Brown rice works well and adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, though the texture will be a bit chewier, so just ensure it’s cooked and cooled properly before frying to avoid sogginess.

Is there a substitute for Japanese BBQ sauce?

If you don’t have Japanese BBQ sauce on hand, a mixture of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and a touch of honey or mirin can mimic its sweet and savory profile. Just adjust quantities to suit your taste.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Swap the chicken for firm tofu or your favorite veggies, and replace eggs with scrambled tofu or omit them entirely. Use a vegan Japanese-style BBQ sauce to keep the flavors true.

What is the best rice to use for fried rice?

Day-old cooked rice works best because it’s drier and less sticky, which helps keep the grains separate and prevents the dish from turning mushy during frying.

How spicy is this Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Recipe?

The dish has a mild kick thanks to the red pepper flakes, but the sweetness of the BBQ sauce balances it perfectly. Feel free to adjust the red pepper flakes to make it spicier or milder according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

There’s something comforting and downright delicious about this Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Recipe that makes it a fast favorite in my kitchen. It’s an easy way to bring vibrant flavors and satisfying textures together without fuss. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving guests, this dish is sure to delight. Give it a try — I promise it will become a go-to for your dinner lineup!

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Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 63 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Japanese
Print Recipe

Description

This flavorful Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice combines tender, seasoned chicken with savory rice and scrambled eggs, all coated in a delicious Japanese BBQ sauce. Topped with nutty sesame seeds and optional scallions, this quick and easy meal is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasonings

  • 3 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 2 eggs
  • 3 tbsp Japanese BBQ sauce

Toppings

  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • Chopped scallions (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken along with onion powder, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and brown sugar. Stir to coat the chicken evenly, then cook until the chicken is fully cooked and browned, about 10 minutes.
  2. Prepare the rice and eggs: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the same pan, then add the cooked rice. Break up any clumps, and push the rice into a ring around the edges of the pan. Crack the eggs into the center and scramble them immediately, cooking until fully set.
  3. Combine and finish: Stir the scrambled eggs into the rice thoroughly, then add the Japanese BBQ sauce and mix until all ingredients are evenly coated. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet to warm through. Finish by sprinkling with sesame seeds and serve warm, optionally topped with chopped scallions.

Notes

  • Use freshly cooked rice or day-old rice that has been refrigerated for best texture.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to taste for spiciness.
  • For a healthier version, use low-sodium Japanese BBQ sauce and reduce oil quantity.
  • Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breast for juicier meat.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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