Savory Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Extravaganza

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken cubes, 2 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar (if using). Stir to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes. If you’re in a rush, even 10 minutes will work.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken cubes and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and browned on the outside. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Fried Rice

1. Cook the Veggies: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
2. Add the frozen peas and carrots, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Add the Rice and Scramble the Eggs

1. Add the Rice: Push the veggies to one side of the skillet. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Drizzle the rice with 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the rice is heated through and lightly crispy.
2. Scramble the Eggs: In the empty side of the skillet, add the beaten eggs and scramble them until cooked through. Once the eggs are cooked, mix them with the rice and veggies.

Step 5: Season the Fried Rice

1. Season: Add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) to taste, and mix well. You can also add a little extra teriyaki sauce for added flavor.

Step 6: Combine Chicken with Rice

1. Add the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and mix everything together. Stir-fry the chicken with the rice and vegetables for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (add more soy sauce, sesame oil, or even a bit of Sriracha for heat).

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Top the fried rice with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of teriyaki sauce. You can also serve it with a side of pickled ginger for added flavor, or a few dashes of Sriracha if you like a little heat.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Serve your Savory Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice hot, and enjoy the sweet and savory combination of flavors in every bite.

Tips for Perfecting Your Savory Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice:

• Day-Old Rice: Using day-old rice is key for achieving the best fried rice texture. Fresh rice tends to be too moist and sticky, while day-old rice is firmer and fries up perfectly.
• Customize the Veggies: You can use any veggies you like or have on hand. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and corn work great in this dish.
• Use a Wok: If you have a wok, use it for the best stir-fry results. The high sides and even heat distribution make it perfect for fried rice.
• Add More Protein: If you want to bulk up the dish, add shrimp, beef, or tofu alongside or instead of the chicken.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you like a sweeter flavor, add more teriyaki sauce or a drizzle of honey over the top. For a savory touch, you can add miso paste to the sauce mix.

Variations of Savory Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice:

• Vegetarian: Make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding tofu or tempeh instead. For extra flavor, marinate the tofu in teriyaki sauce before cooking.
• Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of chili oil for extra heat and spice.
• Tropical Twist: Add pineapple or mango chunks for a tropical, sweet-and-savory flavor that pairs wonderfully with the BBQ chicken.

Final Thoughts

This Savory Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Extravaganza is a flavor-packed, comforting dish that brings the taste of Japanese BBQ into a beloved fried rice. It’s quick, customizable, and delicious—a perfect dish for any occasion. Enjoy this fusion of flavors with your family or serve it at your next gathering for a guaranteed hit!