Name: Irresistibly Easy Bang Bang Fried Rice for Busy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked rice (Day-old rice is perfect for achieving crispy texture.); 1 pound chicken breast (Diced to cook quickly.); 2 large eggs (Scrambled for creaminess.); 1 cup carrots (Diced small.); 1 cup green peas (Fresh or frozen.); 3 cloves garlic (Minced.); 2 stalks green onions (Chopped for garnish.); 4 tablespoons soy sauce (Use tamari for gluten-free.); 1/2 cup Bang Bang Sauce (A blend of mayonnaise, Sriracha, sweet chili sauce, and rice vinegar.); 2 tablespoons oil (Neutral oil for frying.)

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There’s something exhilarating about turning simple ingredients into a colorful, flavor-packed dish that gets everyone excited about dinner. I had a particularly busy week recently and found myself longing for something satisfying yet quick, so I whipped up a batch of Bang Bang Fried Rice. With its delightful balance of sweetness, spice, and savory depth, it felt like I’d unlocked a secret takeout treasure right in my own kitchen.

In under 30 minutes, I transformed day-old rice into a vibrant one-pan wonder, brimming with crispy rice, tender chicken, and an addictive creamy Bang Bang sauce. The best part? This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing me to customize it with whatever proteins and veggies I had on hand. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or looking to impress some guests, this Bang Bang Fried Rice is here to elevate your cooking game—anytime, any day!

Why is Bang Bang Fried Rice a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This dish is a lifesaver for busy weeknights, taking under 30 minutes to whip up a delicious dinner.
Flavor Explosion: The harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors makes every bite crave-worthy.
Endlessly Customizable: Use any proteins or veggies you have on hand, like shrimp or tofu, for a personalized touch.
One-Pan Wonder: Simplify cleanup with this easy, all-in-one meal that reduces kitchen chaos.
Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, it’s a nutritious alternative to takeout.
You can even try pairing it with a light cucumber salad to bring a refreshing crunch to your meal!

Bang Bang Fried Rice Ingredients

For the Base
• Cooked Rice – Day-old rice is perfect for achieving that satisfying crispy texture. Substitution: You can use brown rice or cauliflower rice if desired.
• Chicken Breast – Diced to cook quickly and add protein to the dish. Substitution: Shrimp or tofu works wonderfully for a different flavor profile.
• Eggs – Scrambled eggs add creaminess and extra protein to the meal.

For the Veggies
• Carrots – Diced small to add sweetness and vibrant color. Substitution: Feel free to swap in quick-cooking vegetables like bell peppers.
• Green Peas – Fresh or frozen, these add a delightful pop of sweetness.

For Flavor
• Garlic – Minced to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Green Onions – Sprinkle on top for a fresh crunch and burst of flavor.
• Soy Sauce – This salty, umami-rich base ties everything together. Substitution: Use tamari for a gluten-free version.

For the Sauce
• Bang Bang Sauce – A creamy blend of mayonnaise, Sriracha, sweet chili sauce, and rice vinegar that provides a signature kick. Substitution: Replace regular mayo with vegan mayo for a dairy-free option.

For Cooking
• Oil – A neutral oil is essential for frying and creating that perfect golden texture.

This delicious Bang Bang Fried Rice recipe will surely become a weeknight favorite, delighting your family with each flavorful bite!

How to Make Bang Bang Fried Rice

Prepare Bang Bang Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar. Stir until smooth and set this addictive sauce aside for later.
Cook Chicken: Heat a splash of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken breast with your favorite spices and sauté until browned (about 5-6 minutes). Remove it from the skillet and set aside.
Scramble Eggs: In the same skillet, pour in the beaten eggs. Gently scramble until they’re just set, then take them out and keep them with the cooked chicken.
Sauté Vegetables: Add a touch more oil if needed, then toss in the diced carrots and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the carrots soften, then add the green peas and cook for another minute.
Fry Rice: Next, add your cold cooked rice to the pan. Stir-fry on high heat for about 3-4 minutes until the rice is crispy and heated through.
Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce, mixing thoroughly to incorporate all the flavors.
Add Sauce: Drizzle the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the rice mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
Garnish and Serve: Serve your delicious Bang Bang Fried Rice hot, topped with a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a fresh finish.

Optional: Add a dash of sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Bang Bang Fried Rice

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; the flavors will intensify as they meld together overnight.

Freezer: Freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating: To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to help steam the rice back to life. Stir until heated through.

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Fried Rice

Use Day-Old Rice: Opt for refrigerated, day-old rice to prevent mushiness; freshly cooked rice can become soggy when stir-fried.
Cook in Stages: Sauté chicken, eggs, and vegetables separately to ensure each ingredient retains its ideal texture and flavor.
Adjust Heat Level: Customize the Bang Bang sauce according to your taste; reduce Sriracha for a milder dish or add more for a fiery kick.
Experiment with Veggies: Don’t hesitate to swap in your favorite veggies—like bell peppers or snap peas—for added color and nutrition in your Bang Bang Fried Rice.
Essential Oil: Use a neutral oil for frying—this helps achieve that perfect golden crisp on the rice without overpowering the flavors.

Bang Bang Fried Rice Variations

Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these delicious twists!

Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas for a hearty, plant-based option that’s still protein-packed.
Seafood Sensation: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a fresh, ocean-inspired take on this classic dish. The natural sweetness of shrimp pairs beautifully with the Bang Bang sauce, elevating your fried rice.
Spicy Kick: Add freshly chopped chili peppers or extra Sriracha to the Bang Bang sauce for a fiery twist that spice lovers will crave.
Veggie Explosion: Throw in quick-cooking vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for an added crunch and color boost. They not only enhance the dish visually but also bring in playful textures that make every bite interesting.
Coconut Joy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk along with the soy sauce for a subtle sweetness and creaminess that brings a delightful tropical flair. Imagine how the coconut flavor melds with the spicy sauce—pure bliss!
Cauliflower Rice: For a lower-carb version, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice, and enjoy a lighter yet just as tasty meal. It’s a sneaky way to add more vegetables without sacrificing flavor or enjoyment.
Quinoa Twist: Substitute cooked quinoa for rice for a protein boost and wonderful nutty flavor that transforms the dish. Quinoa adds a chewy texture that’s irresistible and pairs well with the Bang Bang sauce.
Noodle Fusion: For a fun noodle twist, replace the rice with cooked rice noodles for a unique take that’s reminiscent of pad Thai. The chewy noodles soak up the flavor beautifully, giving you a completely new experience!

What to Serve with Bang Bang Fried Rice?

Create a delightful dining experience by pairing your Bang Bang Fried Rice with complementary sides and flavors that enhance this vibrant dish.

Light Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the fried rice.
Tangy Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage and carrots adds texture and a zesty note that balances the creaminess of the Bang Bang sauce. Enjoy the crunch with every bite!
Steamed Bok Choy: Tender, steamed bok choy adds a delicate, slightly earthy flavor, enhancing the meal’s appeal while providing a nutritious boost.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers: These offer a smoky, savory addition, harmonizing perfectly with the rice’s spiciness and creating an eye-catching presentation on the plate.
Mango Salsa: Sweet and spicy mango salsa introduces a fruity brightness that elevates the overall flavor profile of the meal. Its sweet tang is irresistible!
Chili Lime Corn: Charred corn tossed with lime juice and chili powder adds a sweet yet tangy flavor that perfectly complements the spices in the rice.
Iced Green Tea: This refreshing drink is a soothing complement, offering a light contrast to the rich flavors. Perfect for cleansing the palate between bites!
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with this creamy, rich dessert. It’s indulgent yet healthy, echoing the Bang Bang fried rice’s creativity!

Bang Bang Fried Rice Recipe FAQs

What type of rice works best for Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Absolutely! Day-old, chilled rice is ideal as it ensures the perfect crispy texture. If you don’t have any, use fresh rice that’s been cooled to room temperature, but watch out as it can become mushy when fried. Alternatively, brown rice or cauliflower rice can be delicious substitutions, although they may slightly alter the flavors.

How should I store leftovers from Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Store your leftover Bang Bang Fried Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get better as they meld together overnight! If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Yes, you can freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice! To do this, let it cool completely and transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It’s best to eat it within 2 months for optimal taste. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in a skillet, adding a splash of water to ensure it’s moist.

What if my Bang Bang Fried Rice turns soggy?
If your rice ends up soggy, don’t worry! To troubleshoot, try stir-frying it over high heat for a longer time to help evaporate excess moisture and gain some crispiness. You can also add a bit of soy sauce or other seasoning to help enhance flavor. To prevent this in the future, use day-old rice that has been refrigerated to reduce moisture content.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind with this recipe?
Very! For a gluten-free option, simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, replace mayonnaise in the Bang Bang sauce with vegan mayo. For allergies, make sure to check labels for any ingredients like mayonnaise that may contain allergens. Feel free to use proteins like tofu or shrimp to accommodate more dietary preferences too!

Can I customize the veggies in Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Yes, the more the merrier! You can substitute carrots and peas with your favorite quick-cooking veggies, such as bell peppers, snap peas, or even broccoli. Just remember to chop them small to ensure they cook quickly and evenly. This flexibility makes Bang Bang Fried Rice a fun dish to experiment with!