Amid the hustle and bustle of the week, it’s easy to lose sight of the joy that cooking can bring. When I stumbled upon the concept of Bang Bang Fried Rice, I knew I had discovered not just a meal but a quick escape to flavor town. This one-pan delight marries sweet, spicy, and savory notes with a satisfying crunch that transforms what could be an ordinary dinner into something extraordinary. With customizable options for a satisfying mix of chicken, fluffy scrambled eggs, and vibrant veggies, this recipe makes weeknight dinners not only easy but fun. Plus, you can whip it up in no time, keeping your evenings stress-free and delicious. Ready to spice up your dinner routine? Let’s dive into this vibrant dish that’s sure to become a new favorite!
Why Is Bang Bang Fried Rice Perfect?
Quick, simple, and satisfying: This one-pan meal brings joy back to weeknight cooking, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish!
Customizable goodness: Change up the protein with shrimp or tofu, or add extra veggies for a personal touch.
Delicious crunch: Enjoy crispy rice that holds a trio of tantalizing flavors—sweet, spicy, and savory—all wrapped in a delightful bang bang sauce.
Dairy-free and gluten-free options: Easily adapt the dish to fit dietary needs, making it perfect for everyone at the table.
Crowd-pleaser appeal: Whether it’s family or friends, everyone will love this vibrant dish, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or meal prep.
Serve it alongside a refreshing cool cucumber salad for a balanced meal or pair it with your favorite soup for a cozy night in. Trust me, this Bang Bang Fried Rice will quickly become your go-to recipe for quick dinners!
Bang Bang Fried Rice Ingredients
For the Rice
• Cooked Rice – Day-old rice works best for that perfect crispy texture.
For the Protein
• Chicken Breast – Diced for fast cooking; feel free to swap with shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
For the Eggs
• Eggs – Lightly beaten, they add fluffiness and protein to the dish.
For the Vegetables
• Carrots – Small diced for quick cooking; they offer a sweet crunch.
• Green Peas – Frozen peas are a great, sweet addition that marries perfectly with the savory flavors.
• Garlic – Minced to bring a savory depth to each bite.
• Green Onions – Use them as a fragrant garnish and a stir-fried delight.
For the Flavor
• Soy Sauce – A must for umami; swap for tamari to make this Bang Bang Fried Rice gluten-free.
• Bang Bang Sauce – A tantalizing blend of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar for that addictive flavor.
For Frying
• Oil – Use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable for frying the components seamlessly.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Fried Rice
Step 1: Make Bang Bang Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together ¼ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce, 1 tablespoon Sriracha, and 1 tablespoon rice vinegar until smooth. This tangy mix is the star of your Bang Bang Fried Rice, providing a creamy and spicy kick. Set the sauce aside as you prepare the other components.
Step 2: Cook Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of diced chicken breast seasoned with salt and pepper, stirring occasionally for about 5–6 minutes or until golden and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate, allowing it to rest while you scramble the eggs.
Step 3: Scramble Eggs
Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and pour in the lightly beaten eggs. Scramble them gently for about 2 minutes, until just set and slightly soft. Remove the eggs from the skillet and set them aside with the chicken, as you prepare for the vegetables.
Step 4: Sauté Vegetables
If needed, add a splash more oil to the skillet and increase the heat back to medium-high. Toss in 1 small diced carrot and 2 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until the carrots are softened and vibrant. Add in ½ cup of frozen green peas, cooking for an additional minute until heated through, then remove from heat.
Step 5: Stir-Fry Rice
Increase the heat to high and add 4 cups of cold, day-old cooked rice to the skillet, breaking apart any clumps. Stir-fry the rice for 3–4 minutes, allowing it to crisp up while mixing with the vegetables. The rice should turn a golden-brown color and have a slightly crunchy texture, ensuring a delightful base for your Bang Bang Fried Rice.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the skillet, pouring 2 tablespoons of soy sauce over the mixture. Use a spatula to mix everything together thoroughly, allowing the flavors to meld for about 1–2 minutes on high heat. Ensure the chicken and eggs are well distributed throughout the rice for an even taste.
Step 7: Add Sauce
Pour the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the rice mixture, stirring quickly to coat every segment with the creamy blend. Continue to stir for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to heat thoroughly and infuse the rice with that irresistible sweet and spicy flavor. Your Bang Bang Fried Rice is looking and smelling divine!
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and top your Bang Bang Fried Rice with 2 sliced green onions for an added burst of freshness and color. Serve the dish hot straight from the skillet to your plates, enjoying its vibrant hues and tantalizing aromas. Feel free to pair with a cool cucumber salad for a delightful balance!
Storage Tips for Bang Bang Fried Rice
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it a great option for next-day meals.
Freezer: Freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to help maintain that crispy texture, stirring occasionally for about 5–7 minutes until heated through.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Fried Rice
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Use Day-Old Rice: Cold, day-old rice works wonders for texture. Fresh rice tends to become mushy, ruining that desired crispiness in your Bang Bang Fried Rice.
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Cook in Stages: To prevent sogginess, cook each component separately before combining. This ensures everything stays perfectly crisp and flavorful.
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Customize Wisely: Feel free to swap proteins and veggies! If using tofu or shrimp, keep cooking times in mind for optimal doneness.
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Adjust the Spice: Not everyone loves heat! Taste your Bang Bang sauce before adding Sriracha, and modify it to your family’s preference for spice levels.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If your skillet is too full, the ingredients won’t fry properly, leading to a steamed rather than crisp final product. Cook in batches if necessary.
Bang Bang Fried Rice Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful dish to fit your taste and dietary preferences!
- Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce for tamari to keep the flavors intact while accommodating gluten-free diets.
- Dairy-Free: Omit mayonnaise in the bang bang sauce and replace it with a vegan mayo or mashed avocado for a creamy consistency.
- Extra Heat: Add more Sriracha or toss in some sliced jalapeños for a fiery kick if you love heat!
- Add Seasonal Veggies: Consider incorporating bell peppers, bok choy, or zucchini to celebrate seasonal produce and enhance nutrition.
- Protein Swaps: Go for shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a delightful twist; just adjust cooking times as necessary.
- Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice to create a lighter, low-carb version of your Bang Bang Fried Rice.
- Sweet Surprise: Add pineapple chunks to the mix for a sweet and tangy accent that pairs beautifully with the spicy sauce.
- Nutty Aroma: Toss in a handful of cashews or peanuts at the end for added crunch and a nutty flavor that elevates your meal.
With these delightful variations, your Bang Bang Fried Rice will be a hit every time! If you’re also looking for more delicious recipes, why not try my Bang Bang Shrimp or indulge in a scrumptious Fried Strawberry Cheesecake? Get ready to explore flavors that remind you why home-cooked meals are so cherished!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Fried Rice
This delicious meal deserves delightful companions to elevate your dining experience.
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Cucumber Salad: A crisp, refreshing side that balances the heat of the rice while adding a cool crunch. Toss sliced cucumbers with a touch of rice vinegar for that perfect zing.
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Spring Rolls: Light and crunchy, paired with a tangy dipping sauce, these bites complement the flavors of Bang Bang Fried Rice beautifully. They add that extra element of fun to your meal.
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Miso Soup: Light yet savory, miso soup wraps up your dinner with warmth, soothing the palate and adding a comforting touch. The umami notes harmonize nicely with the fried rice.
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and tender, broccoli provides a nutritious pop of color and texture. Simply steam and drizzle with a bit of sesame oil to tie it all together.
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Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Juicy shrimp with a hint of char perfectly match the dish’s spicy profile. Season with garlic and chili for an extra kick and serve on the side for a delightful protein boost.
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Chilled Soba Noodles: Serve these with a light soy dipping sauce as a delightful contrast to the warm fried rice, offering a refreshing texture and taste. Their earthy flavor brings balance to the meal.
Make Ahead Options
Bang Bang Fried Rice is ideal for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the bang bang sauce and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, cook the chicken and scramble the eggs ahead of time, keeping them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, simply stir-fry the chilled rice with your prepped ingredients, adding the sauce to heat through. Just like that, you’ll have a quick, delicious meal that’s just as flavorful as if you made it fresh!
Bang Bang Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
What kind of rice is best for Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Absolutely! Day-old cooked rice is ideal as its dryness ensures a crisp texture when stir-fried. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and can turn mushy, compromising the delightful crunch you want in this dish. For even better results, chill the rice in the fridge for a few hours before using.
How long can I store leftover Bang Bang Fried Rice in the fridge?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as they meld together, making it a fantastic option for next-day meals.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Very! This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Allow the fried rice to cool completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers or bags. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove for the best texture.
How do I prevent my Bang Bang Fried Rice from becoming soggy?
To prevent sogginess, cook each ingredient separately before combining them. Use cold, day-old rice to maintain the desired crisp texture and avoid overcrowding the pan while cooking. This allows each ingredient to fry properly rather than steam. If you find some ingredients overcrowding your pan, consider cooking in smaller batches.
What dietary modifications can I make for Bang Bang Fried Rice?
You can easily adapt this dish to meet various dietary needs! Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp, and use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option. To make it dairy-free, ensure that the mayonnaise in the Bang Bang sauce is dairy-free as well. Additionally, using cauliflower rice can lower the carb content, making this dish suitable for a keto diet.
Is Bang Bang Fried Rice safe for pets?
It’s best to avoid sharing your Bang Bang Fried Rice with pets. Ingredients like garlic and onions can be harmful to animals. If you want to treat them, consider setting aside some plain cooked rice without any seasoning or added ingredients for your furry friend!
Delicious Bang Bang Fried Rice: Your New Quick Dinner Fix
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together ¼ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce, 1 tablespoon Sriracha, and 1 tablespoon rice vinegar until smooth. Set aside.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of diced chicken breast seasoned with salt and pepper, stirring occasionally for about 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Using the same skillet, reduce the heat and pour in the lightly beaten eggs. Scramble for about 2 minutes until just set.
- Add a splash more oil to the skillet, then toss in 1 small diced carrot and 2 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add in ½ cup of frozen green peas for an additional minute until heated through.
- Increase the heat to high and add 4 cups of cold, day-old cooked rice, breaking apart clumps. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until crisp and golden-brown.
- Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the skillet, pour 2 tablespoons of soy sauce over the mixture, and mix thoroughly for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the rice mixture, stirring to coat every segment. Stir for another 2 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Top your Bang Bang Fried Rice with 2 sliced green onions for an added burst of freshness. Serve hot.
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