Hibachi Chicken & Rice Skillet Meal – A Flavorful One-Pan Dinner
This Hibachi Chicken & Rice Skillet Meal is the perfect way to bring the flavors of a Japanese steakhouse to your own kitchen. Tender, juicy chicken thighs are seasoned with a savory blend of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, then cooked to perfection alongside fragrant rice. With a simple one-pan method, this dish is both convenient and packed with flavor.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious homemade hibachi-style meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Restaurant-Style Flavor: Enjoy classic hibachi flavors without leaving home.
- One-Pan Meal: Fewer dishes and easy cleanup.
- Simple & Customizable: Adjust seasonings and add vegetables for variety.
- Perfectly Juicy Chicken: Marinated for extra flavor and tenderness.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 2 lbs)
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger powder
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Rice & Skillet:
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 3.5 cups chicken broth
- 1.5 cups extra-long grain white rice
For Serving (Optional):
- ¼ cup Yum Yum sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Chopped green onions for garnish
- Sesame seeds for added crunch
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, mix together soy sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, and ground ginger powder.
- Add the chicken thighs, coating them well in the marinade. Let sit for at least 15-20 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken thighs and sear for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Toss in the sliced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Stir in the extra-long grain white rice, making sure it’s evenly distributed in the pan.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth.
Step 5: Combine & Finish
- Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and return them to the skillet.
- Gently mix everything together and let the flavors meld for about 2 minutes over low heat.
- Drizzle with Yum Yum sauce (if using) and sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish.
Serving Suggestions
This Hibachi Chicken & Rice Skillet is a satisfying meal on its own, but you can serve it with:
- Steamed or sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and carrots.
- A side of miso soup for a complete Japanese-style meal.
- Extra Yum Yum sauce or teriyaki glaze for dipping.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Use Chicken Breast Instead: Swap thighs for chicken breast if you prefer leaner meat. Adjust cooking time as needed.
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for heat.
- Try Brown Rice: For a healthier option, use brown rice, but increase the broth and cooking time.
- Add More Veggies: Stir in peas, bell peppers, or shredded carrots for extra nutrition and color.
- Make It a Complete Hibachi Meal: Serve with a side of hibachi-style shrimp or steak for variety.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice from drying out.
- Freeze: You can freeze portions in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: ~40g
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Fat: ~15g
This Hibachi Chicken & Rice Skillet is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that brings the flavors of a Japanese steakhouse to your home. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to be a hit!