There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a quick and flavorful meal that lights up your kitchen and warms the heart. If you’re like me, busy weeknights often leave you reaching for takeout menus, but what if I told you there’s an easier, healthier option? Enter Bang Bang Fried Rice—a delightful mix of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that transforms the classic fried rice into a crowd-pleasing one-pan dish.
The beautiful thing about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it with your choice of protein—think tender chicken, succulent shrimp, or even tofu for a satisfying plant-based version. Plus, with the crunch of day-old rice and vibrant vegetables, every bite is a perfect balance of texture and taste. Best of all, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to solution for those last-minute dinner dilemmas.
So dust off that skillet and let’s dive into a recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Because who doesn’t want a delicious dinner that feels like a treat without the takeout fuss?
Why is Bang Bang Fried Rice a Must-Try?
Delicious Fusion: This dish combines sweet, spicy, and savory elements, creating a flavor explosion that’s sure to delight your taste buds.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying without the hassle of takeout.
Customizable Options: Whether you prefer chicken, shrimp, or tofu, you can easily adapt the recipe to fit your taste and dietary needs.
Crispy Texture: Utilizing day-old rice gives you that irresistible crispy edges that make every bite enjoyable.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Ideal for leftovers, this dish can be stored for up to three days, intensifying in flavor—great for lunches or future dinners.
Unlock the full potential of weeknight meals with this simple yet rewarding recipe!
Bang Bang Fried Rice Ingredients
For the Rice
• Cooked Rice – Essential for the texture; ideally use day-old and chilled rice for crispiness.
• Oil – A neutral oil like canola or vegetable is perfect for frying the ingredients.
For the Protein
• Chicken Breast – Diced into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking; this is your protein base, but feel free to substitute.
• Eggs – Lightly beaten and scrambled, adding creaminess and extra protein; a must for texture.
For the Vegetables
• Carrots – Diced small for quick cooking and sweetness; they add a pop of color to the dish.
• Green Peas – For a touch of sweetness and texture balance; frozen peas are a great, convenient option.
• Garlic – Minced for an aromatic flavor boost that enhances the overall taste.
• Green Onions – Sliced to garnish, adding a fresh aroma and beautiful presentation.
For the Sauce
• Soy Sauce – Adds rich umami flavor; tamari can be used as a gluten-free alternative.
• Bang Bang Sauce – A combination of mayonnaise, Sriracha, sweet chili sauce, and rice vinegar gives the dish its signature spicy glaze.
Unlock the delightful flavors of Bang Bang Fried Rice with these simple ingredients, making a meal that’s both satisfying and customizable!
How to Make Bang Bang Fried Rice
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Whisk Together: Start by combining the bang bang sauce ingredients—mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar—in a bowl. This creamy, spicy blend will coat your rice beautifully.
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Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook it until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Once done, remove it from the pan and set aside.
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Scramble the Eggs: In the same pan, scramble your beaten eggs until just set. This should take about 2 minutes. Remove them from the pan and set aside alongside the chicken.
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Sauté the Veggies: If necessary, add a bit more oil and toss in the diced carrots and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened, then add the green peas and cook for another minute.
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Stir-Fry the Rice: Increase the heat slightly and add the cold, day-old rice to the pan. Stir-fry it for 3–4 minutes, breaking up the clumps until the edges are crispy and golden.
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Combine Chicken and Eggs: Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the pan. Pour in the soy sauce and stir everything together, making sure the flavors meld beautifully.
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Add the Bang Bang Sauce: Pour the prepared bang bang sauce over the rice mixture, ensuring it gets evenly coated. Stir well, allowing it all to heat through and adjust seasoning if needed.
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Garnish and Serve: Finish off the dish by garnishing with sliced green onions. Serve your Bang Bang Fried Rice hot and enjoy!
Optional: Serve with a cool cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Fried Rice
• Day-Old Rice: Always use cold, day-old rice for the best texture. Fresh rice tends to become mushy during cooking.
• Ingredient Staging: Cook ingredients in stages, as this helps prevent sogginess. Remove each item as soon as it’s cooked before adding the next.
• Customize Spice Level: Adjust the Sriracha in the bang bang sauce according to your spice tolerance. A little less is perfect for a milder kick.
• Use Fresh Veggies: Fresh vegetables provide better flavor and crispness. When possible, opt for fresh over frozen, but don’t hesitate to use what you have!
• Tweak the Sauce: Feel free to modify the bang bang sauce’s ingredients. Try adding lime juice for a citrusy zing or honey for more sweetness.
Elevate your Bang Bang Fried Rice experience with these helpful tips and enjoy a delightful meal tailored just for you!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Create a delightful dining experience that perfectly complements the comforting flavors of this spicy dish.
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Cucumber Salad: A cool, refreshing side that adds crunch and balances the heat. Tossed in a light vinegar dressing, it perfectly completes the meal.
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Miso Soup: This warm, savory soup brings umami notes, enhancing the rich flavors of the fried rice while offering a soothing experience.
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Steamed Broccoli: Tender and vibrant, the slight bitterness of broccoli adds a healthy touch, providing a fresh contrast to the dish’s sweetness.
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Spring Rolls: Crispy and stuffed with fresh vegetables, these rolls offer a delightful texture and can be dipped in sweet and sour sauce for an extra kick.
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Fruit Salad: A light, fruity side with sweet and tart notes can cleanse the palate and bring a burst of freshness to the table.
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Green Tea: Pair your meal with this fragrant drink that calms the palate, enhancing the overall dining experience with its gentle warmth and flavor.
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Honey Lime Sorbet: For dessert, a light, tangy sorbet provides a sweet, refreshing finish after the savory, spicy meal—an indulgent yet guilt-free way to end your feast.
Bang Bang Fried Rice Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this dish with these exciting twists!
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Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp or firm tofu for a delightful change that suits your preferences.
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Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, snow peas, or broccoli to intensify the texture and flavor. The more, the merrier!
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Heat Level: Decrease Sriracha for a milder version or double the amount for an exhilarating spicy kick. Milder or hotter, it’s all your choice!
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Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice. It still delivers on texture and flavor!
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Brown Rice: Choose brown rice for added fiber and nutrients—plus, it gives a nutty flavor that beautifully complements the dish.
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Vegan Version: Use vegan mayo in the bang bang sauce and replace eggs with silken tofu for a satisfying plant-based option that anyone will love.
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Seasoning Variations: Experiment with adding sesame oil or fresh ginger to the mix for an extra layer of aromatic flair.
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Sauce Experimentation: Try adding hoisin sauce or a splash of lime juice to the bang bang sauce for a twist that brightens up the flavor profile.
These variations will keep your Bang Bang Fried Rice fresh and fun, making it a dish you can enjoy in a new way every time!
Storage Tips for Bang Bang Fried Rice
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making the next-day meal even more delicious.
Freezer: Freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice for up to 2 months in a sealed container or freezer bag. Portion it out for easy meal prep.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil if needed to prevent sticking. Stir until heated through.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving out at room temperature for over 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Fried Rice is perfect for meal prep and can save you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the bang bang sauce, cook the chicken, and dice the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, storing everything separately in the refrigerator. The rice can be cooked and chilled up to 3 days ahead—just make sure it’s cold to prevent mushiness. When you’re ready to serve, simply stir-fry the rice with the prepped ingredients, adding the sauce just before finishing to maintain its delightful creaminess. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavor with minimal effort, making dinner time a breeze!
Bang Bang Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best rice for Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Absolutely! For the best texture, use day-old, chilled rice as it holds up better during cooking and gives a wonderful crispness. Fresh rice tends to be too moist and may become mushy. If you don’t have day-old rice, you can cook some fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet, and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before using.
How can I store leftover Bang Bang Fried Rice?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually intensify overnight, making your next meal even more delicious! If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Just remember to portion it out for easy meal prep.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Yes, indeed! To freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Label it with the date and try to use it within 2 months for the best quality. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil if necessary to loosen it up.
What should I do if my fried rice turns out soggy?
Very good question! If your fried rice is soggy, it may be due to using fresh rice or adding too much liquid. Next time, ensure to use day-old rice for the right texture, and cook items in stages. If you’re faced with soggy rice already, try spreading it out on a baking sheet and baking it at a low temperature (about 300°F) for 10-15 minutes to dry it out a bit.
Is Bang Bang Fried Rice safe for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! You can easily make this dish gluten-free by substituting regular soy sauce with tamari, which is typically gluten-free. Always check your sauces and ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs, as some products can vary. Enjoy your flavorful meal without worries!
Bang Bang Fried Rice: Quick Comfort with a Spicy Kick
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together the bang bang sauce ingredients in a bowl.
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Cook the chicken in oil until browned, then set aside.
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Scramble the beaten eggs in the same pan, then set aside with the chicken.
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Sauté the diced carrots and minced garlic until softened, then add green peas.
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Stir-fry the cold rice until crispy and golden.
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Combine chicken and eggs with the rice, adding soy sauce.
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Pour the bang bang sauce over the mixture and heat through.
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Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.