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 Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful and Spicy: The bang bang sauce adds a unique kick that elevates the dish.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables or proteins based on what you have.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal with family or friends.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the flavors, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Bang Bang Fried Rice efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Provides enough space for stir-frying and evenly cooking all ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for preparing the bang bang sauce without making a mess.
• Spatula: Ensures easy flipping and stirring of ingredients while cooking.
• Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables and protein quickly and safely.

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)

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• 2 to 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oil (plus more as needed)
• 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 mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

In the same pan used for chicken, pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble them until just set. Remove from heat and set aside with chicken.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Rice

Add cold rice to the pan. Stir-fry on high heat for about 3–4 minutes while breaking up any clumps to allow it to crisp up nicely.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Return cooked chicken and scrambled eggs back into the pan. Stir everything well to combine evenly.

Step 7: Add Soy Sauce

Pour soy sauce over the rice mixture and mix thoroughly until all ingredients are coated with flavor.

Step 8: Mix in Bang Bang Sauce

Finally, pour your prepared bang bang sauce over everything in the pan. Stir until all ingredients are well-coated and heated through.

Step 9: Serve Hot

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

How to Serve Bang Bang Fried Rice

Bang Bang Fried Rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

As a Bowl Meal

• Serve in a deep bowl for a cozy, comforting presentation. This allows the vibrant colors and textures of the fried rice to shine.

With Extra Sauce

• Drizzle additional bang bang sauce over the top for an extra kick. This enhances the flavor and adds a glossy finish.

Topped with Protein

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp on top for added protein. This makes the meal more filling and nutritious.

Accompanied by Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil for a burst of freshness. It brightens up the flavors and adds an aromatic touch.

Served with Lime Wedges

• Include lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of lime juice can add a zesty contrast that complements the sweetness of the sauce.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Fried Rice

To make sure your Bang Bang Fried Rice turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips.

• Use day-old rice: This helps prevent clumping and gives you that desirable texture.
• High heat is key: Cooking on high heat ensures that your ingredients fry quickly and evenly, giving them a nice crispiness.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches if necessary allows each ingredient to sear properly without steaming.
• Customize your veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for variety.
• Adjust spice level: Modify the amount of Sriracha based on your heat preference for a dish that suits your taste buds.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Fried Rice

Pairing side dishes with Bang Bang Fried Rice can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli
   A simple side that adds crunch and nutrients; steam until tender but still vibrant green.

2. Crispy Egg Rolls
   These can provide a delightful crunch; serve them with sweet chili sauce for dipping.

3. Asian Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, sesame oil, and rice vinegar creates a light contrast to the fried rice.

4. Sesame Green Beans
   Quickly sautéed green beans tossed in sesame oil offer both flavor and texture; sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish.

5. Miso Soup
   This warm soup provides comfort and balances out the bold flavors of fried rice perfectly.

6. Spring Rolls
   Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies make for a light and crunchy accompaniment; serve with peanut or hoisin sauce.

7. Thai Mango Salad
   A sweet and tangy salad that complements the richness of fried rice while adding brightness to your plate.

8. Roasted Cauliflower
   Seasoned roasted cauliflower florets are an excellent low-carb option that pairs well with any Asian-inspired dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Bang Bang Fried Rice is simple, but some common mistakes can ruin your dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too moist. Always use day-old rice for the best texture.
• Skipping the sauce: The bang bang sauce is essential for flavor. Don’t forget to mix it well and coat the rice thoroughly.
• Overcooking vegetables: Keep your veggies crisp by sautéing them just until tender. Overcooked veggies lose their vibrant color and crunch.
• Not seasoning properly: Ensure you season each component as you go. It enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Using too much oil: While some oil is necessary, too much can make the fried rice greasy. Use just enough to coat your pan.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Bang Bang Fried Rice

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• It keeps well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Bang Bang Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place rice in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of water, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet, add a bit of oil or water and stir-fry over medium heat until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make Bang Bang Fried Rice vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with tofu or extra vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

What type of rice is best for Bang Bang Fried Rice?

Day-old jasmine or basmati rice works best due to its texture. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too sticky.

How spicy is Bang Bang Fried Rice?

The spice level depends on how much Sriracha you use. Adjust it according to your taste preferences.

Can I customize my Bang Bang Fried Rice?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables or proteins you like, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or shrimp.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Fried Rice?

It pairs well with salads, steamed vegetables, or spring rolls for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Fried Rice is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite proteins and veggies, making it perfect for any night of the week. Try this recipe and experience a delightful twist on traditional fried rice!