Name: Bang Bang Fried Rice: Spicy-Sweet Comfort in Every Bite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Cooked Rice (Use day-old rice for optimal crispiness); 1 pound Chicken Breast (Diced into bite-sized pieces); 2 Eggs (Lightly beaten and scrambled); 1 cup Carrots (Diced small); 1 cup Green Peas (Frozen peas are a great time-saver); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced); 4 tablespoons Green Onions (Used as a garnish); 4 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Swap with tamari for gluten-free option); 1/2 cup Bang Bang Sauce (Mix of mayo, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar); 2 tablespoons Oil (Neutral oil like canola or vegetable)

In my quest for weekday meals that bring excitement to the table, I stumbled upon a brilliant formula: a one-pan delight that satisfies both cravings and time constraints. Enter Bang Bang Fried Rice—this vibrant dish manages to pull off an impressive balance of sweet, spicy, and savory in a matter of minutes. Ready in under 30, this recipe not only takes the fuss out of cooking but also transforms leftover rice into a masterpiece, and best of all? It’s customizable! Whether you prefer chicken, shrimp, or tofu, you have full creative control. Perfect for those hectic nights when you dream of your favorite takeout but want something homemade that truly shines. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game?

Why is Bang Bang Fried Rice irresistible?

Simplicity: You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this one-pan meal in under 30 minutes, cutting down on cleanup time.
Customizable: Whether you’re craving chicken, shrimp, or tofu, the recipe adapts perfectly to your protein preferences and dietary needs.
Flavorful: The Bang Bang sauce adds a deliciously creamy twist—just the right amount of sweet and spicy to keep your taste buds dancing!
Healthy and Wholesome: With colorful veggies like carrots and peas, it’s not only satisfying but nourishing too. Serve it with a side salad to create a well-rounded meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. So, say goodbye to boring meals and hello to this vibrant taste sensation!

Bang Bang Fried Rice Ingredients

• You’ll need these for a delicious meal!

For the Rice

Cooked Rice – Use day-old rice for optimal crispiness; fresh rice may turn mushy.

For the Protein

Chicken Breast – Diced into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking; can easily substitute with shrimp or tofu.

For the Eggs

Eggs – Lightly beaten and scrambled to add softness and protein to the dish.

For the Veggies

Carrots – Diced small to cook quickly and provide natural sweetness.
Green Peas – Adds sweetness and balance; frozen peas are a great time-saver.

For the Flavor

Garlic – Minced to enhance the savory flavor throughout the fried rice.
Green Onions – Used as a garnish and sautéed for that aromatic touch.
Soy Sauce – Provides necessary umami flavor; swap with tamari for a gluten-free option.

For the Bang Bang Sauce

Bang Bang Sauce – This delightful mix of mayo, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar adds a creamy, spicy-sweet twist to the dish.

For Cooking

Oil – A neutral oil (like canola or vegetable) is perfect for frying, ensuring nothing sticks.

Now you’re all set to create a wonderful Bang Bang Fried Rice that dazzles both the eyes and the palate!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar until smooth. This creamy Bang Bang sauce adds a delicious spicy-sweet twist to your fried rice. Set the mixture aside while you move on to the next steps; the flavors will meld beautifully as it rests.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the diced chicken, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Stir-fry the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate for later.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
In the same skillet, add a touch more oil if needed, and pour in your beaten eggs. Cook, stirring gently, until the eggs are set but still soft, about 2 to 3 minutes. Carefully remove the scrambled eggs and set them aside with the chicken, keeping them warm while you prepare the vegetables.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies
Add diced carrots and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing them for 2 to 3 minutes until the carrots are tender but still crisp. The garlic should become fragrant during this time. Afterward, stir in the green peas and cook for another minute, releasing their natural sweetness to balance out the flavors in your Bang Bang Fried Rice.

Step 5: Fry the Rice
Now it’s time to make the rice crispy! Increase the heat to high and add the cold, day-old rice to the skillet. Stir-fry the rice for 3 to 4 minutes, carefully mixing to ensure it gets heated through and slightly crispy. This step ensures the rice achieves that perfect texture, keeping all its delicious flavors intact.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the skillet with the rice and vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce, stirring the mixture well to combine all the ingredients evenly. Look for the rice to take on a lovely golden color, making your Bang Bang Fried Rice ready for the next delicious step.

Step 7: Add the Bang Bang Sauce
Drizzle the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the rice mixture, stirring to ensure everything is coated evenly and heated through. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until everything is warmed and well-combined, allowing the creamy sauce to envelop the rice and ingredients with its delicious flavors.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finally, transfer the finished Bang Bang Fried Rice to serving plates. Garnish generously with sliced green onions for a fresh touch, offering a lovely pop of color. Serve hot, and enjoy the mouthwatering explosion of flavors that this vibrant dish brings to your table!

Bang Bang Fried Rice Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Bang Bang Fried Rice—let your taste buds lead the way!

Shrimp Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist. Just sauté until pink and tender for a delightful change.
Tofu Treat: For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu. Press and cube it before stir-frying for that golden, crispy texture everyone loves.
Mixed Veggies: Toss in frozen mixed vegetables for a quick and colorful shortcut. Convenient and nutritious, they add delightful crunch.
Heat It Up: Spice it up with extra Sriracha or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Adjust the heat to your preference for a bold flavor experience.
Dairy-Free Delish: Swap mayonnaise in the Bang Bang sauce for a dairy-free alternative. It’s a great way to keep it creamy without compromising on taste.
Noodle Fusion: Get creative and use rice noodles instead of rice. This change adds a fun twist and changes the texture while still keeping the Bang Bang flavor.
Crispy Garlic Finish: Brown some minced garlic in oil before adding your rice for a delicious, aromatic touch. It elevates the dish, making each bite more enchanting.
Bell Pepper Boost: Add diced bell peppers for a crunchy texture and a pop of color. They enhance the flavor while keeping it fresh and vibrant.

Embrace the possibilities and make this recipe your own! You might also enjoy Pan Fried Garlic for an additional flavorful side or a great way to incorporate more veggies. Happy cooking!

Storage Tips for Bang Bang Fried Rice

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Don’t forget to label the container with the date for easy tracking!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before freezing to avoid ice crystals.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen rice overnight in the fridge. This ensures even reheating and preserves the texture.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil if needed to revive that crispy texture. Stir occasionally to heat evenly, and enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Fried Rice!

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Fried Rice

Rice Matters: Use day-old, cold rice to avoid mushiness. Fresh, warm rice creates steam, making it soggy instead of crispy.
Protein Flexibility: If using shrimp or tofu, adjust cooking times accordingly; shrimp cooks faster, while tofu needs slight pre-pressing for best texture.
Perfect Sauce Balance: Feel free to adjust Sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce to suit your spice level. Start with less and add more to taste!
Sauté Technique: Cook ingredients in stages, ensuring each component retains its texture. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or you’ll end up with steamed veggies.
Flavor Boost: For an extra umami kick, try adding a dash of sesame oil at the end. It elevates the flavor profile of your Bang Bang Fried Rice!

Make Ahead Options

These Bang Bang Fried Rice make-ahead options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep the flavors fresh. Additionally, you can chop all your vegetables and protein (chicken, shrimp, or tofu) up to 3 days ahead—just store them in the fridge to maintain their crispness. When you’re ready to serve, heat the oil in the skillet, sauté the prepped ingredients, and finish by adding the cold, day-old rice and prepared Bang Bang sauce. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort on those hectic weeknights!

What to Serve with Bang Bang Fried Rice

Elevate your dinner experience with delightful accompaniments that perfectly balance flavors and textures.

Cucumber Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers tossed in sesame oil and chili flakes adds a crisp contrast to the dish.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a vibrant green touch and adds healthful fiber to your meal.
Egg Drop Soup: This warm and savory soup enhances the Asian vibes while being a comforting addition to your spread.
Spring Rolls: Crispy, filled with fresh vegetables, and served with dipping sauce—these appetizers offer a satisfying crunch.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this classic Thai sweet treat contrasts nicely with the savory flavors, concluding your meal on a sweet note.
Jasmine Rice: Although Bang Bang Fried Rice shines on its own, a side of fragrant jasmine rice can absorb extra sauce and elevate your plate’s elegance.
Ginger Ale: This fizzy drink complements Bang Bang Fried Rice with a hint of sweetness, while its ginger notes enhance the meal’s flavors.

Bang Bang Fried Rice Recipe FAQs

What type of rice should I use for Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Absolutely, using day-old, cold rice is key! It achieves that desirable crispy texture, while fresh rice can quickly turn mushy when fried. If you find yourself with leftover takeout or plain cooked rice sitting in the fridge, that’s perfect! Just make sure to break up any clumps before frying to ensure even cooking.

How long can I store leftover Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Store your leftover Bang Bang Fried Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to label it with the date to keep track of its freshness. If you don’t think you’ll eat it within that time frame, consider freezing it for up to 2 months instead!

Can I freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Yes, you can freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil if needed to help restore its crispy texture.

What can I substitute if I’m allergic to soy sauce?
Not a problem! You can easily substitute regular soy sauce with tamari, which is gluten-free, or opt for coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative. Both options provide a similar savory flavor without the allergens of traditional soy sauce, allowing everyone to enjoy this delicious Bang Bang Fried Rice!

How can I make Bang Bang Fried Rice less spicy?
Very easy! If you prefer a milder dish, simply adjust the amount of Sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce. Start with a smaller amount, taste, and gradually add more until it meets your spice level. You can also omit Sriracha completely and replace it with a hint of honey for sweetness without the heat.

My fried rice turned out mushy, what did I do wrong?
Ah, that’s a common concern! The main reason fried rice can end up mushy is using fresh, warm rice instead of cold, day-old rice. When rice sits in the fridge overnight, it dries out slightly, making it less likely to clump together and more likely to fry well. If you find yourself in a pinch with fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool, which will help reduce moisture before frying.