Name: Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Extravaganza
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast; 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar; 2 cups chilled cooked rice; 2 large eggs; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons Japanese BBQ sauce; Chili oil for garnish; Sesame seeds for garnish; Chopped chives for garnish

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Indulge in a flavor-packed meal with this Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Extravaganza. Juicy, caramelized BBQ chicken is stir-fried with chilled rice, eggs, and Japanese barbecue sauce, then finished with bold garnishes like chili oil, sesame seeds, and fresh chives. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a satisfying and colorful one-pan dish perfect for busy nights or lively gatherings.

Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Extravaganza

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish brings together the rich, smoky flavor of Japanese BBQ chicken with the savory satisfaction of fried rice. It’s fast, fuss-free, and made in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze. The texture contrast of tender chicken, fluffy eggs, and crispy rice, plus a hint of spice and crunch from garnishes, creates a truly irresistible meal. It’s also versatile—ideal for meal prep, family dinners, or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
2 cups chilled cooked rice
2 large eggs
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Japanese BBQ sauce
Chili oil, sesame seeds, and chives for garnish

Directions

Dice the chicken and combine it with dark brown sugar and your choice of spices. Toss well and marinate for about 10 minutes.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil. Add the chilled cooked rice and stir-fry until it’s hot and slightly crispy.
Push the rice to the sides of the skillet to create a well in the center. Crack the eggs into the well and scramble them until cooked. Mix the scrambled eggs into the rice.
Stir in the Japanese BBQ sauce and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together and cook for another minute until caramelized.
Serve hot, garnished with chili oil, sesame seeds, and chopped chives.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a spoonful of sriracha or diced chili to the chicken marinade.
Vegetable Boost: Stir in diced bell peppers, peas, or carrots during the stir-frying step.
Swap the Protein: Use shrimp, tofu, or pork instead of chicken for a different take.
Low-Carb Option: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter meal.
Extra Saucy: Add more BBQ sauce or a splash of soy sauce for a stronger flavor punch.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat to retain texture, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or sauce if the rice dries out.

FAQs

What is Japanese BBQ sauce?

Japanese BBQ sauce is typically sweet, savory, and slightly smoky, often made with soy sauce, mirin, and garlic. You can find it in the international aisle or make your own.

Can I use freshly cooked rice?

It’s best to use chilled, day-old rice to avoid a sticky texture. Fresh rice tends to clump and become mushy when stir-fried.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with tofu or a plant-based protein and ensure your BBQ sauce is vegetarian-friendly.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, boneless skinless thighs will work great and add extra juiciness and flavor.

How spicy is this dish?

The base dish isn’t very spicy, but the chili oil garnish adds heat. Adjust according to your preference.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge before warming.

Do I have to marinate the chicken?

Marinating adds flavor and helps caramelize the chicken, but you can skip the step if you’re in a rush.

What spices should I use in the marinade?

Try garlic powder, ginger powder, or a pinch of cayenne to complement the BBQ sauce and sugar.

What oil is best for frying?

Olive oil is used here, but any neutral oil with a high smoke point—like canola or avocado oil—will work well.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, it reheats well and can be made ahead for meal prep. Store the garnishes separately and add them fresh when serving.

Conclusion

Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Extravaganza is your answer to a flavorful, filling meal that’s quick enough for weeknights and special enough for guests. With sweet-savory chicken, crispy fried rice, and bold garnishes, this one-pan dish delivers a delicious punch in every bite. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen rotation.