As I leaned over the stove, a burst of spicy-sweet scent whisked me back to bustling markets where vibrant flavors dance in harmony. That’s the magic of Bang Bang Fried Rice—a quick and zingy dish that transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re balancing a busy weeknight or craving a personalized meal, this one-pan wonder doesn’t just deliver on flavor; it’s endlessly customizable. Imagine swapping chicken for tofu or adding extra veggies—whatever your heart desires! Join me in creating this protein-packed, gluten-free delight that will leave everyone at the table craving more. Ready to dive into flavor town? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Bang Bang Fried Rice a Must-Try?
Quick and Convenient: This dish is ready in under 30 minutes, making it your go-to for busy weeknights.
Endlessly Customizable: Whether you prefer chicken, shrimp, or tofu, you can easily adapt the protein to fit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
Bursting with Flavor: The mix of sweet chili, Sriracha, and soy sauce creates a robust flavor profile that will please even the pickiest of eaters.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and vegetables, this one-pan meal is a wholesome choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Easy Clean-Up: Since everything cooks in one pan, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal—perfect to pair with a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete experience!
This recipe offers the vibrant taste shift you need, just like our Freakin Fried Rice or Pan Fried Cabbage. Get inspired and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
Bang Bang Fried Rice Ingredients
• Dive into the delightful components of your next favorite dish!
For the Rice
- Cooked Rice – Essential for structure; preferably day-old for the best texture.
For the Protein
- Chicken Breast – Provides protein and should be diced into bite-sized pieces; shrimp or tofu make excellent substitutes.
- Eggs – Lightly beaten to add texture and additional protein.
For the Vegetables
- Carrots – Diced small to add sweetness and color; ensure they cook quickly.
- Green Peas – Frozen peas contribute sweetness and balance; fresh can also be used.
- Garlic – Minced to enhance the dish’s savory depth.
- Green Onions – Sliced for garnish and aroma.
For Flavor
- Soy Sauce – Adds umami flavor; use tamari for a gluten-free version.
- Bang Bang Sauce – A creamy, spicy-sweet glaze made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar; adjust spice level to your liking.
For Cooking
- Oil – Use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable for frying.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Fried Rice
Step 1: Make Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar until smooth and well combined. Set the Bang Bang sauce aside, allowing the flavors to meld while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. This sweet and spicy glaze will be the perfect finishing touch for your delicious fried rice.
Step 2: Cook Chicken
Heat a large skillet or a wok over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the diced chicken breast and sauté for about 5–6 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Use a spatula to stir occasionally for even cooking, then remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Scramble Eggs
In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and pour in a bit more oil if necessary. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until they are just set and slightly soft, about 2–3 minutes. Once done, quickly transfer the scrambled eggs to the plate with the chicken to keep them warm and prevent them from overcooking.
Step 4: Sauté Veggies
Add a small amount of oil to the skillet, then toss in the diced carrots and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 2–3 minutes until the carrots start to soften, showcasing their vibrant color. Add the frozen green peas and cook for an additional minute until heated through, infusing the mixture with sweetness.
Step 5: Cook Rice
Raise the heat to high and add the cold, day-old rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Stir-fry the rice for about 3–4 minutes until it becomes slightly crispy and heated through. Let the rice sit for a moment between stirs to develop a bit of texture, ensuring that your Bang Bang Fried Rice has the perfect bite.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables and rice. Drizzle the soy sauce over the mixture, tossing everything together gently to combine. Stir-fry everything for another minute, making sure that every grain of rice is coated with flavor and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 7: Add Bang Bang Sauce
Pour the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the stir-fried mixture and continue to stir until everything is evenly coated and heated through. This should take about 1–2 minutes, allowing the sweet and spicy flavors to infuse the rice completely. Make sure to scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet for added flavor.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is well mixed and heated, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your vibrant Bang Bang Fried Rice with sliced green onions for added brightness and a pop of color. Serve hot, and enjoy this hearty, flavorful meal that’s sure to delight everyone at the table.
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Fried Rice are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sauce and chop your vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and saving you time during the week. Additionally, you can cook and cool the chicken, then store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the rice from becoming mushy, use day-old rice or cook and cool it before storing. When you’re ready to whip up this delicious dish, simply sauté the prepped ingredients, add the rice, and pour in the Bang Bang sauce to finish. This ensures you’ll have a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Looking to create a delightful full meal experience alongside this vibrant dish?
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Cool Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad provides a crisp contrast to the rich flavors, enhancing the overall experience. The coolness of cucumbers perfectly balances the spice of the fried rice.
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Steamed Bok Choy: Tender bok choy adds a delightful crunch and a mild flavor, offering an earthy complement to the dish. Lightly seasoned with soy sauce, it can elevate your meal’s healthiness.
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Miso Soup: A warm, savory miso soup is the ideal light side, grounding the meal with its umami taste. The simplicity of this soup allows the flavors of the fried rice to shine brightly.
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Green Papaya Salad: The tangy and crunchy green papaya salad introduces a refreshing zest, creating a delightful dance of textures with the fried rice. It’s a fantastic way to embrace fresh flavors and a hint of spice.
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Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with veggies or shrimp add an enjoyable crunch and a burst of flavor. Their lightness balances the heartiness of Bang Bang Fried Rice, making for a delightful bite.
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Chardonnay or Sparkling Water: Pair with a chilled glass of Chardonnay to complement the spiciness, or enjoy a refreshing sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon for a light touch.
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Chocolate Mousse: Finish off your meal on a sweet note with velvety chocolate mousse. Its rich creaminess serves as the perfect contrast to the spicy and savory elements in your fried rice.
Storage Tips for Bang Bang Fried Rice
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors of the Bang Bang Fried Rice will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious when reheated!
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Freezer: You can freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, ensuring you leave space at the top for expansion.
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Reheating: Reheat directly from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge. Use the microwave or skillet to warm it up, adding a splash of soy sauce if needed to regain moisture.
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Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Bang Bang Fried Rice at room temperature for more than 2 hours to keep it safe for consumption.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Fried Rice
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Use Day-Old Rice: Day-old rice is essential for achieving the perfect texture. Freshly cooked rice can turn mushy, ruining your fried rice’s consistency.
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Sauté in Stages: Cooking chicken, eggs, and veggies separately maintains their distinct textures and prevents sogginess, resulting in a vibrant and flavorful onion.
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Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the Bang Bang sauce to meld a few minutes before mixing it in. This enhances the flavor profile of your dish!
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Customize to Taste: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spice level of your Bang Bang Fried Rice. Start with less Sriracha and gradually increase to fit your palate.
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Prep Your Ingredients: Having everything prepped and laid out before starting will streamline the cooking process and make your meal come together beautifully!
Bang Bang Fried Rice: Bold Flavor Options
Embrace the joy of personalizing your meal with these fun variations to make your Bang Bang Fried Rice truly your own!
- Gluten-Free: Opt for tamari instead of soy sauce to enjoy a gluten-free version without sacrificing flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Swap the mayo in the Bang Bang sauce for vegan mayo, while still achieving that creamy goodness.
- Spicy: Add extra Sriracha or a dash of chili flakes for those who crave more heat—fire up your taste buds!
- Vegetable-Packed: Throw in your favorite veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and color.
- Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for a delightful twist that accommodates various dietary preferences.
- Crispy Rice: Let the rice sit longer in the pan for an extra crispy texture—a satisfying contrast to the other tender ingredients.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, try using cauliflower rice, which still soaks up the delicious Bang Bang sauce.
- Savory Upgrade: Incorporate cooked bacon or sausage for a rich, savory element that will elevate your dish to new gourmet heights.
Dive into your vibrant creations, and if you’re looking for more inspiration, explore our Bang Bang Salmon or Korean Rice Balls for additional flavors to spice up your dinners!
Bang Bang Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of rice is best for Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Absolutely, day-old rice is ideal for this recipe! It’s drier and firmer, which helps achieve that perfect crispy texture when stir-frying. If you don’t have day-old rice, you can use fresh rice that has been cooled completely, but keep in mind that it may become a bit mushy during cooking.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will even intensify overnight, making it a more delicious option for your next meal! For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container, leaving a bit of space for expansion.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Yes! Freezing Bang Bang Fried Rice is a great option. To do so, let it cool completely first, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat directly from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge. A quick stir in a hot skillet with a splash of soy sauce can help bring it back to life!
What are some common issues when making fried rice?
One common issue is ending up with mushy rice. This happens when fresh rice is used without being cooled properly. To avoid this, ensure your rice is fully chilled or day-old. Another tip is to sauté your ingredients in stages; cooking everything together can lead to sogginess.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Certainly! This Bang Bang Fried Rice can be easily customized to cater to various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, simply substitute soy sauce with tamari. If you’re aiming for a dairy-free version, using vegan mayo in the Bang Bang sauce is a fantastic choice. Don’t forget to check any vegetarian or allergy concerns regarding the ingredients used, especially the sauces.
Can pets share this dish too?
While the ingredients of Bang Bang Fried Rice are generally safe for pets, such as chicken and vegetables, it’s best to skip the soy sauce and Bang Bang sauce when feeding it to them. These contain ingredients that can be harmful in larger quantities, including salt and spices. Always consult with your vet for the best options!
Bang Bang Fried Rice: Quick, Flavorful Comfort in a Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Make Bang Bang Sauce by whisking mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, then sauté diced chicken for 5–6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, lower heat and scramble beaten eggs until just set, about 2–3 minutes. Transfer to the plate with the chicken.
- Add oil if necessary, toss in diced carrots and minced garlic, sauté for 2–3 minutes until carrots soften. Add green peas; cook for an additional minute.
- Increase heat to high, add cold rice, breaking any clumps. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until slightly crispy.
- Combine cooked chicken and scrambled eggs with sautéed vegetables and rice. Drizzle soy sauce, tossing gently to combine.
- Pour Bang Bang sauce over the mixture, stirring until everything is coated and heated through for about 1–2 minutes.
- Remove from heat, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve hot.
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