Mastering Blackstone Chicken Fried Rice: Your Ultimate Guide to Hibachi at Home
Craving the dynamic flavors and excitement of a hibachi grill experience? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will show you how to create the most delicious and authentic Blackstone Chicken Fried Rice right in your own backyard or kitchen. Imagine tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, fluffy eggs, and perfectly crispy rice, all sizzling together on your flat-top griddle. This recipe isn’t just quick and easy; it’s a healthier, more economical, and incredibly fun alternative to takeout, promising minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.
The journey to perfecting homemade hibachi-style dishes began for me after countless cravings for my favorite Japanese teppanyaki restaurant. My daughter introduced me to the magic of making chicken fried rice on a Blackstone griddle, and I was instantly hooked. This method truly delivers all the same mouthwatering flavor and entertaining spectacle without ever needing to leave the comfort of your home. Our version features succulent chicken tenderloins, perfectly scrambled eggs, and a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, all expertly fried on the griddle with aromatic soy sauce and rich sesame oil for that irresistible umami punch.
What makes this Blackstone Chicken Fried Rice recipe truly exceptional is its inherent customizability and effortless preparation. It thrives on using day-old rice, which is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy texture without becoming mushy. Plus, its versatility allows for easy protein swaps, making it just as delightful with shrimp, savory beef, hearty pork chops, or even plant-based options like tofu. The beauty of cooking on a single flat-top griddle is that everything comes together in one glorious sweep, eliminating the need for multiple pans and simplifying cleanup dramatically. Just fire up your Blackstone griddle and get ready to impress!
Table of Contents
Why Choose Blackstone for Fried Rice?
The Blackstone griddle is truly a game-changer when it comes to making fried rice. Its expansive, even cooking surface allows you to spread out all your ingredients, ensuring they cook uniformly and develop that sought-after crispy texture without steaming. This flat-top environment mimics the professional setup of a hibachi chef, allowing you to stir, chop, and mix with ease. The high, consistent heat distribution is perfect for quick searing, locking in flavors, and achieving that signature charred taste that elevates fried rice from good to extraordinary. Moreover, the sheer size of the griddle means you can prepare large batches, making it ideal for family dinners, entertaining guests, or meal prepping for the week.
Why This Recipe Shines
Minimal Prep, Maximum Flavor
One of the standout benefits of this Blackstone Chicken Fried Rice recipe is its minimal preparation time. By utilizing pre-cooked chicken, such as leftover roasted chicken or our recommended boiled chicken tenderloins, you dramatically cut down on cooking steps. The secret to achieving perfectly separated and crispy rice lies in using day-old, chilled rice, which prevents it from becoming sticky or clumpy on the griddle. This thoughtful approach to ingredients means you can enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal with the authentic taste of hibachi in a matter of minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Fast, Fun, and Family-Friendly
From the moment you light up your Blackstone to the first delicious bite, this chicken fried rice is ready in approximately 30 minutes. The interactive nature of griddle cooking makes it a fantastic culinary adventure for the whole family, turning dinner preparation into a lively and engaging event. With all ingredients cooking simultaneously on one large surface, there’s no tedious juggling of multiple pans or waiting for individual components to finish. This streamlined process not only makes cooking a breeze but also ensures that cleanup is incredibly simple, leaving you more time to savor your meal and spend with loved ones.
A Wholesome One-Pan Meal
This recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s a wonderfully balanced and nutritious meal all in one bowl. The combination of lean protein from the chicken, essential vitamins and fiber from a generous array of fresh vegetables, and the binding goodness of eggs creates a satisfying and complete dish. It can stand alone as a robust main course, providing sustained energy and flavor. Alternatively, it serves as an excellent side dish, complementing other Asian-inspired meals like crispy spring rolls, savory stir-fried beef, or perfectly grilled pork chops, adding variety and substance to any spread.
Essential Ingredients and Smart Substitutions
Crafting the perfect Blackstone Chicken Fried Rice begins with high-quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and how you can adapt the recipe to your preferences:
- Bacon: A foundational ingredient, bacon adds a smoky depth and rich fat that flavors the entire dish. Feel free to use either regular pork bacon or a leaner turkey bacon, depending on your dietary preferences. For an even more indulgent flavor, don’t hesitate to add a little extra; the rendered fat will become the base for cooking your vegetables and chicken, infusing them with savory notes.
- Diced Vegetables: The beauty of fried rice lies in its flexibility with vegetables. Choose hearty, seasonal diced veggies that hold up well to griddle cooking. Our favorites include crisp broccoli florets, tender yellow squash and zucchini, earthy sliced mushrooms, vibrant snap peas, and sweet slivered carrots. For ultimate convenience, frozen mixed vegetables are a fantastic option; there’s no need to thaw them beforehand—just add them directly to the Blackstone griddle and cook for a few extra minutes to ensure they are thoroughly heated and tender-crisp.
- Onion: Red onion provides a beautiful color and a pungent, slightly sweet flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients. However, any type of onion you have on hand, such as yellow or white, will work wonderfully and contribute to the aromatic base of the fried rice.
- Garlic Powder: This essential seasoning enhances the savory flavors of the dish. While garlic powder is quick and easy, you can certainly use fresh minced garlic for a more intense garlic punch. If opting for fresh garlic, be sure to add it a few minutes before the other vegetables and chicken to allow it to cook through and release its aroma without burning.
- Oil: Sesame oil is highly recommended for its distinctive nutty aroma and flavor, which is characteristic of authentic fried rice. If you don’t have sesame oil or prefer a different profile, any high-heat, neutral-flavored oil like avocado oil, grapeseed oil, or even a good quality olive oil can be used. Ensure your chosen oil has a high smoke point for griddle cooking.
- Chicken: We’ve used succulent chicken tenderloins for their tenderness and quick cooking time. Chicken breast strips are an excellent alternative. If you have whole boneless, skinless chicken breasts, simply slice them crosswise into uniform 1.5 to 2-inch pieces, similar in size to tenderloins, to ensure even cooking and perfect bite-sized portions.
- Rice: The cornerstone of perfect fried rice is cooked white rice, preferably cooled and refrigerated in advance. Using day-old or even a few-hours-old chilled rice is crucial; the drying process helps the grains separate and become beautifully crispy when fried, rather than clumping together. While white rice like Jasmine or Basmati is traditional, brown rice can also be used for a healthier, nuttier alternative.
- Soy Sauce: This provides the indispensable umami depth and savory-salty flavor that defines fried rice. For those monitoring sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce is a great choice. Alternatively, coconut aminos offer a soy-free, gluten-free option with a similar savory profile.
- Eggs: Scrambled eggs not only add a delicious richness and extra protein but also help bind the ingredients together, contributing a pleasant texture throughout the dish. They are an integral part of the classic fried rice experience.
Unleash Your Creativity: Recipe Variations
This Blackstone Chicken Fried Rice recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to easily adapt it to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
- Protein Swaps: Don’t limit yourself to chicken! Experiment with other proteins such as succulent shrimp, thinly sliced beef (like sirloin or flank steak), diced pork chops, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times based on your chosen protein.
- Low-Carb Version: For a lighter, keto-friendly twist, swap out traditional white rice for cauliflower rice. Ensure the cauliflower rice is thoroughly drained and patted dry to prevent excess moisture on the griddle.
- Flavor Boost: Amp up the aromatic profile by adding freshly minced ginger, a dash of chili flakes for a subtle kick, or a splash of rice vinegar for brightness. A hint of oyster sauce can also deepen the savory notes.
- Veggie Upgrade: Enhance the nutritional content and visual appeal by tossing in additional stir-fry favorites. Green onions, colorful bell peppers, frozen peas, or finely shredded carrots are all excellent additions that cook quickly and add flavor and texture.
- Oil Options: While sesame oil provides a distinct Asian flavor, you can use avocado oil or olive oil for a milder taste profile. Avocado oil is particularly good for high-heat cooking and has a neutral flavor that lets other ingredients shine.
Tools for Griddle Greatness
To ensure a seamless and enjoyable cooking experience when making your Blackstone Chicken Fried Rice, having the right equipment is key. While the recipe is adaptable, these tools will help you achieve authentic results:
- Blackstone Griddle (or any flat-top griddle): The star of the show! A flat-top griddle provides the expansive, uniform heating surface necessary for properly frying the rice, searing proteins, and sautéing vegetables without overcrowding. Its even heat distribution is crucial for that consistent hibachi-style cook.
- Hibachi Spatulas: These large, flat spatulas are ideal for griddle cooking. They allow you to easily scrape, flip, chop, and mix ingredients across the broad surface, mimicking the swift movements of a professional hibachi chef. Their sturdy design is perfect for breaking up rice clumps and scrambling eggs efficiently.
Expert Tips for Perfect Fried Rice
Achieving restaurant-quality Blackstone Chicken Fried Rice is simple with a few insider tricks:
- The Cold Rice Rule: For the crispiest, most flavorful fried rice, always use rice that has been cooked, cooled, and refrigerated a day in advance. The colder and drier the rice grains are, the less likely they are to clump and the more likely they are to fry beautifully on the hot griddle, developing an incredible texture and absorbing flavors more effectively.
- Batch Cooking Rice: To ensure you always have ideal rice on hand, consider cooking 2-3 batches at once. Enjoy a portion fresh, and then allow the remaining rice to cool completely to room temperature before storing it in airtight containers in the refrigerator or freezer. This convenient practice ensures you’re always ready for a quick fried rice meal, minimizing prep time even further.
- Mastering Your Heat Zones: A Blackstone griddle often has different heat zones. Utilize a hotter zone for searing meats and crisping rice, and a slightly cooler zone for gently sautéing vegetables or scrambling eggs, allowing you to manage multiple components simultaneously for perfect results.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Griddle: While the Blackstone is large, avoid piling too many ingredients in one area. Giving everything space allows for proper frying and browning, preventing the ingredients from steaming. Work in sections if necessary, especially with larger quantities.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Blackstone Chicken Fried Rice
Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping chicken fried rice on your Blackstone griddle:
- Prepare Your Griddle and Bacon: Begin by preheating your Blackstone griddle to a high heat setting. While it’s heating up, cut your bacon into small, bite-sized pieces. Once the griddle is hot, reduce the heat to medium, add the bacon, and cook it until it’s about halfway done. This initial cooking phase allows the bacon to start rendering its flavorful fat, which will infuse the entire dish.
- Add Vegetables and Chicken: To the partially cooked bacon, add your chopped vegetables and onion. Sprinkle generously with garlic powder for an aromatic boost. Next, introduce the sesame oil and your chicken tenderloin strips to the griddle. Continue to cook, stirring and flipping, until the chicken is lightly golden and cooked through, the vegetables have softened to a tender-crisp texture, and the bacon is perfectly rendered and crispy. If you prefer smaller pieces of chicken, remove it from the griddle, chop it, and then return it to the cooking area with the other ingredients.
- Incorporate Rice and Sauce: Create a clear space or “well” in the middle of your bacon, chicken, and vegetables. Add the butter to this well and let it melt until it sizzles. Once melted, add your cooled, day-old rice directly into the butter, using your spatula to break up any clumps. Stir the rice vigorously with the vegetables and bacon, then drizzle with soy sauce or coconut aminos. Continue to mix and toss until the rice is evenly coated and lightly colored to your preferred taste, ensuring every grain is infused with flavor.
- Scramble the Eggs: Push the rice mixture to one side of the griddle, creating another open area. Break the eggs directly onto this clear space and quickly stir them to scramble. Use your flat spatula to chop the scrambled eggs into small, bite-sized pieces as they cook. Once the eggs are fully cooked, integrate them into the rice and vegetable mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste your chicken fried rice on Blackstone and season with salt and pepper as needed. Sometimes a little extra soy sauce or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can enhance the flavor. Once perfectly seasoned and piping hot, it’s ready to be served immediately.
Serving Suggestions & Pairing Ideas
Your freshly prepared Blackstone Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful meal on its own, best served piping hot straight off the griddle. Elevate its presentation and flavor with a sprinkle of fresh green onions, a drizzle of extra soy sauce, or a fiery touch of sriracha for those who love a bit of heat. For a more elaborate feast, consider pairing it with classic Asian appetizers like crispy egg rolls, steamed dumplings, or a refreshing fresh cucumber salad. This versatile dish also makes an excellent foundation for a bigger meal; simply add stir-fried shrimp, teriyaki-glazed beef, or grilled pineapple on the side. The best part? Leftovers reheat beautifully, often tasting even better the next day, making it a fantastic option for packed lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. Enjoy the flexibility and incredible flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The best vegetables are typically hearty ones that stand up well to high heat. We highly recommend a vibrant mix of seasonal veggies such as broccoli florets, yellow squash, zucchini, slivered carrots, sliced mushrooms, and crisp snap peas. Feel free to use your personal favorites or whatever you have on hand for a customizable dish!
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables work wonderfully in this recipe and add incredible convenience. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand; simply add your chosen frozen veggies directly to the hot Blackstone griddle. Just remember to increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes to ensure they are heated through and reach a tender-crisp consistency.
For optimal results, this recipe is best prepared with chicken tenderloin strips due to their lean nature and quick cooking time. Alternatively, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used by slicing them into uniform strips, approximately 1.5 to 2 inches wide, to ensure even cooking and a texture similar to tenderloins.
Blackstone chicken fried rice is excellent for meal prepping and stores very well. Once cooked, allow any leftovers to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, a microwave or a quick toss back on the griddle will bring it back to life.
We hope you thoroughly enjoy this Blackstone chicken fried rice recipe and the delicious hibachi experience it brings to your home. If you tried this recipe or any other on our website, please share your thoughts! Your feedback is always appreciated. Happy cooking!
Blackstone Chicken Fried Rice
Renae Gerhardstein
Pin Recipe
Equipment
- flat top griddle
- spatula
Ingredients
- 8 ounces bacon (1/2 pound; feel free to add more for extra flavor!)
- 3 cups chopped vegetables (a variety of broccoli, yellow squash, zucchini, slivered carrots, mushrooms, snap peas, or whatever is in season)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon sesame seed oil
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins (chicken strips; can substitute 2 chicken breasts cut into strips, see notes below)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups white rice (like Jasmine or Basmati, cooked and cooled; if time allows, refrigerate rice for 1-2 hours, see notes below)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a soy-free option)
- 3 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat the griddle to high heat. While the griddle is heating, carefully cut the bacon into bite-size pieces. Once the griddle is hot, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped bacon. Cook until the bacon is about halfway done, starting to render its fat and crisp up.
- Add the desired cut vegetables and chopped onion directly to the griddle alongside the bacon. Season with garlic powder. Next, add the sesame oil and the chicken tenderloin strips. Continue cooking and stirring all ingredients together until the chicken is lightly golden and fully cooked, the vegetables have softened to your liking, and the bacon is crispy. If you prefer your chicken to be in smaller, bite-sized pieces, remove it from the griddle, chop it, and then return it to the cooking mixture.
- Create a clear well in the middle of the bacon, chicken, and vegetables on the griddle. Add the butter to this open space and allow it to melt completely. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add your cold, cooked rice, using your spatula to break up any clumps. Stir the rice and vegetables together, then drizzle generously with coconut aminos or soy sauce. Continue to mix and toss until the rice is evenly coated and lightly colored to your taste preference, ensuring all flavors are well combined.
- Push the rice mixture to one side of the Blackstone griddle, creating an empty area. Break the eggs onto this open section and quickly stir them to scramble until cooked through. Use a flat spatula to chop the scrambled eggs into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Once cooked, thoroughly stir the scrambled eggs into the fried rice mixture, distributing them evenly.
- Taste the fried rice and season with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve your delicious Blackstone Chicken Fried Rice warm, garnished with green onions or a drizzle of sriracha if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- The Key to Crispy Rice: For the most flavorful and perfectly textured hibachi fried rice, it is crucial that your rice is cold. My experience shows that the colder the rice, the better it fries! If time allows, refrigerate your cooked rice for at least 1-2 hours, or even overnight, before cooking on your griddle. This helps the grains dry out slightly, which prevents clumping and allows them to achieve that desired crispy exterior.
- Chicken Preparation: If using whole boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of tenderloins, slice them crosswise into uniform 1.5-inch by 2-inch strips. This ensures they cook evenly and match the size of tenderloins, integrating seamlessly into the fried rice.
- Efficient Rice Management: Consider cooking larger batches of rice (2-3 times the amount needed for one meal) at once. This way, you have fresh rice for immediate enjoyment and extra portions that can be cooled to room temperature and then stored in airtight containers for later use. This ensures you always have ready-to-use cold rice on hand for future fried rice cravings or other recipes requiring cooked rice.
Recipe Variations:
- Protein swaps: Get creative! Substitute chicken with shrimp, thinly sliced beef, diced pork chops, or even firm tofu for a delicious plant-based option.
- Low-carb version: For a lighter, keto-friendly alternative, replace white rice with thoroughly drained and dried cauliflower rice.
- Flavor boost: Elevate the taste with additions like fresh minced garlic or ginger, a pinch of chili flakes for heat, or a dash of rice vinegar.
- Veggie upgrade: Enhance the dish with extra stir-fry favorites like sliced green onions, colorful bell peppers, frozen peas, or shredded carrots.
Storing Instructions:
- Blackstone chicken fried rice makes excellent leftovers and will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Always allow the fried rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store refrigerated and reheat gently.