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Caught up in a whirlwind of weeknight chaos, I found myself staring at a half-empty fridge and a craving for something delicious. Enter Bang Bang Fried Rice—my go-to culinary lifesaver! This 30-minute delight is a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, featuring crispy rice alongside tender chicken and fluffy scrambled eggs. Not only is this dish remarkably quick to whip up, but it’s also incredibly versatile, letting you tailor the spice levels and swap in your favorite proteins—whether it’s tofu for a vegan twist or simply more veggies to amp up the nutrition. It’s comfort food that transforms your kitchen into a satisfying takeout shop without the grease or guilt. Are you ready to bring a little excitement to your dinner table with this irresistible recipe?
Why Is Bang Bang Fried Rice a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this flavorful dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable to Your Taste: Easily adapt the recipe by swapping proteins or adjusting spice levels to suit your family’s preferences. Whether you prefer shrimp, beef, or a veggie-only version, the options are endless!
One-Pan Wonder: Less time cleaning up means more time enjoying your meal—this recipe is cooked entirely in one pan.
Deliciously Balanced: The combination of sweet and spicy flavors creates a mouthwatering experience that keeps everyone coming back for more. Pair it with a crunchy cucumber salad or a light soup to complete your meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: This Bang Bang Fried Rice is a hit for kids and adults alike, quickly becoming a family favorite. Don’t forget to check out more amazing customizable weeknight recipes to keep your dining exciting!
Bang Bang Fried Rice Ingredients
For the Rice
• Cooked Rice – Essential for fluffiness; day-old rice preferred for better texture. Substitution: Jasmine, long-grain white, brown, or cauliflower rice.
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For the Protein
• Chicken Breast – Diced for quick cooking and tenderness. Substitution: Shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Eggs – Lightly beaten and scrambled for creaminess.
For the Vegetables
• Carrots – Diced for sweetness and color. Note: Use small dice for quick cooking.
• Green Peas – Adds a pop of sweetness; frozen peas work well.
• Garlic – Minced to enhance savory depth.
• Green Onions – Used as a garnish and stir-fried for extra aroma.
For the Flavor
• Soy Sauce – Provides salty umami flavor. Substitution: Tamari for gluten-free options.
• Bang Bang Sauce – Made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar—adds a creamy, spicy-sweet glaze.
For Cooking
• Oil – Neutral oil (e.g., canola or vegetable) used for frying.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Fried Rice
Step 1: Prepare Bang Bang Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together ¼ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce, 1 tablespoon Sriracha, and 1 tablespoon rice vinegar until smooth. The sauce should be creamy with a hint of tang. Set the sauce aside to allow the flavors to meld while you move on to the next steps.
Step 2: Cook Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of diced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5–6 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it to keep warm while you use the same skillet for the next steps.
Step 3: Scramble Eggs
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Pour in the lightly beaten eggs and let them sit for a few seconds before gently scrambling with a spatula. Cook until the eggs are just set but still creamy, about 2–3 minutes. Remove the eggs from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
Step 4: Sauté Vegetables
Add a little more oil to the skillet if necessary, then toss in 1 cup of diced carrots and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the carrots soften and the garlic is fragrant. Next, add 1 cup of frozen green peas to the skillet and stir, cooking another minute until heated through.
Step 5: Stir-Fry Rice
Increase the heat to high and add 4 cups of cold, cooked rice to the skillet. Use a spatula to break apart any clumps and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes. The rice should begin to crisp up slightly and showcase a beautiful golden color as you mix everything well, giving it that perfect texture for the Bang Bang Fried Rice.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs back into the skillet, followed by 3 tablespoons of soy sauce. Toss everything together to combine evenly, cooking for an additional minute to ensure the chicken and eggs are heated through and flavors meld beautifully into the fried rice.
Step 7: Add Sauce
Drizzle the prepared Bang Bang Sauce over the rice mixture. Stir well to coat the rice, chicken, and vegetables evenly with the creamy, spicy-sweet glaze, and cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything is heated through. The rice should be glossy and fragrant, showcasing the delightful blend of flavors.
Step 8: Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your your Bang Bang Fried Rice with sliced green onions. Serve hot for an inviting, comforting meal that’s bursting with flavors, inviting everyone to gather around the table for this delicious dish!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Fried Rice
Transform your easy dinner into a mouthwatering feast with delightful complements that tantalize your taste buds!
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Cucumber Salad: A light and refreshing side, this crunchy salad adds a cool contrast to the spicy-sweet rice. Toss sliced cucumbers with sesame oil, rice vinegar, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a quick prep.
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Spring Rolls: Crisp and filled with fresh veggies, these spring rolls offer a satisfying bite and pair perfectly with the richness of Bang Bang Fried Rice. Serve with a tangy dipping sauce for added flavor!
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Stuffed Bell Peppers: Packed with grains and spices, these bright and colorful peppers offer a unique twist and a healthy side. They can be filled with quinoa and veggies for a fiber boost.
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Miso Soup: Warm and comforting, miso soup complements this dish with its umami flavor profile. Lightly garnished with green onions and tofu, this soup enhances the overall dining experience.
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Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Sweet and savory, glazed chicken skewers add a tasty and fun element to your meal. Their charred exterior pairs well with the creamy notes of the fried rice!
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Steamed Broccoli: Nutritious and vibrant, steamed broccoli is rich in vitamins and serves as a crunchy counterbalance. Drizzle with a bit of soy sauce to tie the flavors together.
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Chili-Garlic Edamame: A quick, protein-packed snack that delivers a delightful kick! Toss steamed edamame with chili flakes and garlic for an addictive interplay of textures and tastes.
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Mango Sticky Rice: Satisfy your sweet tooth with this traditional dessert. The creamy coconut rice juxtaposes with juicy mango for a refreshing close to your meal.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: For drinks, a citrusy lemonade or chilled iced tea revitalizes the palate, creating a perfect balance to the spiced flavors of the fried rice.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Fried Rice
Cold Rice: Use cold, day-old rice for the best texture; it prevents mushiness and helps achieve that perfect crispiness.
Cook in Stages: Sautéing ingredients in stages maintains distinct textures, preventing sogginess in your Bang Bang Fried Rice.
Adjust Spice: Feel free to tweak the amount of Sriracha in your Bang Bang Sauce to suit your family’s heat preference and taste buds.
Substitution Savvy: Don’t hesitate to try different proteins like tofu or shrimp, and experiment with veggies to enhance nutrition and flavor.
Flavor Balance: Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving; sometimes a little extra soy sauce can elevate the dish into a culinary masterpiece!
Bang Bang Fried Rice Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to reinvent this delightful dish and make it truly yours with some exciting twists and swaps!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute mayonnaise with an avocado or cashew-based dressing for a creamy texture without dairy.
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Spicy Vegan: Use sriracha and omit the chicken, swapping in tempeh or chickpeas to amp up protein while keeping it plant-based. A blend with crunchy cashews will elevate it further!
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Gluten-Free: Use tamari in place of soy sauce to keep your Bang Bang Fried Rice gluten-free without sacrificing that delicious umami flavor.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli florets for added nutrition and vibrant colors that will make your plate pop!
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Protein Boost: For a heartier version, swap in diced beef or add edamame, providing loads of protein that complements those crispy rice bites beautifully.
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Herbs & Citrus: Fresh cilantro or basil leaves can uplift your dish, offering a burst of freshness, or squeeze a little lemon for a zingy twist that brightens up every mouthful.
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Nutty Flavor: Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or drizzle with sesame oil to introduce a warm, nutty aroma that brings everything together.
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Asian Fusion: Add a dash of oyster sauce or hoisin for a more profound flavor profile that brings another layer of deliciousness, reminiscent of your favorite takeout place.
Don’t forget to explore more quick meal ideas like this customizable weeknight recipe to keep your dinners exciting!
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Fried Rice are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the Bang Bang Sauce and chop all your vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, cook your chicken and rice ahead; they can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your fried rice, simply stir-fry the prepped ingredients in the skillet, add the cold rice, and heat through. Drizzling in the prepared sauce at the end will keep the dish just as delicious and flavorful, allowing you to have a satisfying meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Portion into smaller servings for easy future meals.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to revive the textures. Flip and stir until heated through.
Leftover Tips: If you notice any clumps when reheating, gently break them apart with a spoon for an even recovery of flavors and consistency.
Bang Bang Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of rice is best for Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Absolutely! For the best texture, use cold, day-old rice. This allows the grains to stay fluffy and prevents mushiness during cooking. Jasmine rice or long-grain white rice works wonderfully, but you can also use brown or cauliflower rice if you prefer a healthier option.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to preserve the flavors. When reheating, I recommend adding a splash of water or soy sauce in a skillet over medium heat to bring back the rice’s vibrant texture.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Very! You can freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice for up to 2 months. Transfer the cooled rice to a freezer-safe container or bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. For easy meal prep, consider portioning it into individual servings.
What are common issues I might encounter when making Bang Bang Fried Rice?
One common issue is soggy rice, which can occur if you use freshly cooked rice. To avoid this, ensure you use cold, day-old rice. Another tip is to sauté ingredients in stages, which helps maintain distinct textures and flavors. If your rice clumps together, breaking it apart with a spatula while stir-frying can help achieve a beautiful, separated texture.
Are there any dietary considerations with the ingredients?
Absolutely! This recipe can be easily adapted for dietary restrictions. If you’re concerned about gluten, you can substitute regular soy sauce with tamari. For vegans, simply swap out the chicken for tofu and omit the eggs. Always check the ingredients in sauces and dressings for allergens, especially if cooking for someone with food sensitivities.
Quick Bang Bang Fried Rice: Flavor-Packed in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together ¼ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce, 1 tablespoon Sriracha, and 1 tablespoon rice vinegar until smooth. Set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of diced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5–6 minutes.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Pour in the lightly beaten eggs and get progressively scrambling. Cook for 2–3 minutes until set but creamy.
- Add more oil if necessary, toss in 1 cup of diced carrots and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the carrots soften.
- Increase heat to high, add 4 cups of cold, cooked rice, and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until slightly crispy.
- Add the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs back, then add 3 tablespoons of soy sauce. Toss to combine and cook for an additional minute.
- Drizzle the prepared Bang Bang Sauce over the mixture, stir well and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve hot.
