Bang Bang Fried Rice

Looking for a quick dinner that hits every craving? This Bang Bang Fried Rice is your next go-to! Packed with juicy chicken, fluffy scrambled eggs, colorful veggies, and coated in a spicy-sweet bang bang sauce, it’s everything you want in a fast, one-pan meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Great as a quick dinner, easy recipe, or bold twist on fried rice—it’s customizable, family-friendly, and better than takeout. If you’re browsing for dinner ideas, easy food ideas, or just something to wake up your usual rotation, this one delivers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of sweet chili sauce and Sriracha creates a deliciously unique flavor profile.
• Customizable: Add any veggies or proteins you have on hand to make it your own.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal with family or friends.
• Kid-Friendly: With its mild heat and vibrant colors, this dish appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Gather these essential items before you begin.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space for stir-frying ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for preparing the bang bang sauce before adding it to the rice mixture.
• Spatula: Perfect for flipping and stirring ingredients to prevent sticking while cooking.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurements of sauces and oils for consistent flavors.

Ingredients

For the Fried Rice

• 1 1/2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 chicken breast, diced
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 1/3 cup green peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• 2 to 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oil (plus more as needed)

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar

How to Make Bang Bang Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

In the same pan used for the chicken, scramble the beaten eggs until just set. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Add another drizzle of oil if needed. Sauté diced carrots and minced garlic for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the green peas and cook for another minute.

Step 5: Stir-Fry Rice

Add cold rice to the pan. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes on high heat, breaking up clumps of rice and allowing some grains to crisp up slightly.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs back into the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly. Add soy sauce over the mixture.

Step 7: Add Bang Bang Sauce

Pour the prepared bang bang sauce over the rice mixture. Stir thoroughly until everything is well-coated with sauce and heated through.

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Garnish with sliced green onions before serving hot. Enjoy your flavorful Bang Bang Fried Rice!

How to Serve Bang Bang Fried Rice

Bang Bang Fried Rice is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Salad

• Crisp Garden Salad – Pair your fried rice with a refreshing garden salad topped with your favorite dressing for a crunchy contrast.
• Asian Slaw – A tangy Asian slaw adds a zesty flavor and texture that complements the fried rice beautifully.

As a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps – Scoop the fried rice into large lettuce leaves for an exciting and low-carb way to enjoy your meal.
• Nori Rolls – Use nori sheets to wrap the rice, adding an extra layer of flavor with a touch of umami.

Topped with Protein

• Grilled Chicken or Beef – Serve additional grilled chicken or beef on top for those who want more protein in their meal.
• Shrimp Skewers – Add skewered shrimp for a delightful seafood twist that pairs well with the flavors of Bang Bang Fried Rice.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Fried Rice

Creating the perfect Bang Bang Fried Rice is all about technique and ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure you nail this dish every time.

• Use Day-Old Rice – Day-old rice is drier and less sticky, making it ideal for stir-frying and achieving that perfect texture.
• High Heat Cooking – Cooking on high heat helps achieve crispy rice while preventing it from becoming mushy.
• Properly Dice Ingredients – Uniformly diced vegetables ensure even cooking and a balanced bite in every spoonful.
• Customize Your Veggies – Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or corn for added color and nutrition.
• Adjust Sauce Spice Level – Modify the Sriracha amount according to your heat preference; start small if you’re unsure!
• Garnish Generously – Fresh green onions not only add color but also bring a fresh crunch that enhances the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Fried Rice

Enhance your meal by pairing it with these delicious side dishes that complement the flavors of Bang Bang Fried Rice.

1. Spring Rolls – Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables make for an excellent crunchy appetizer.
2. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup offers comfort and balances the richness of the fried rice.
3. Edamame – Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt provides a healthy and satisfying snack option.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and nutrition while enhancing presentation on your plate.
5. Sesame Cucumber Salad – A light sesame cucumber salad offers refreshing crunch and acidity, balancing out the meal’s richness.
6. Kimchi – Spicy kimchi brings an exciting fermentation element that pairs well with the sweet-spicy bang bang sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Bang Bang Fried Rice even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Fresh Rice: Freshly cooked rice tends to be sticky and clumps together. Use day-old rice for the best texture.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many ingredients at once can lead to steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Skipping seasoning can result in bland fried rice. Ensure to season your chicken and vegetables properly.
• Not Heating the Pan Enough: A hot pan is crucial for crispy fried rice. Preheat the skillet or wok before adding ingredients.
• Skipping the Sauce: The bang bang sauce adds essential flavor. Don’t skip this step or you’ll miss out on the dish’s signature taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Bang Bang Fried Rice in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Bang Bang Fried Rice

• Portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Bang Bang Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), spread the rice on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place rice in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth to a skillet, heat on medium, and stir until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Bang Bang Fried Rice:

Can I use other proteins in Bang Bang Fried Rice?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or even tofu for a plant-based option.

What is Bang Bang Sauce made of?

Bang bang sauce is typically made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar blended together for a spicy-sweet flavor.

How do I customize my Bang Bang Fried Rice?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies such as bell peppers, corn, or broccoli. You can also adjust the spiciness by altering the amount of Sriracha.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and reheats easily, making it perfect for meal prepping ahead of time.

What can I serve with my Bang Bang Fried Rice?

This fried rice pairs beautifully with side dishes like steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Fried Rice is not just a quick dinner; it’s versatile enough to adapt to your tastes. Whether you’re craving something spicy or want to use up leftover veggies, this dish has got you covered. Try it today and enjoy customizing it to fit your preferences!