There’s something exhilarating about transforming humble ingredients into a dish that feels like a celebration on a plate. When my cravings for takeout hit, rather than reaching for the phone, I’ve found a delightful alternative: Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice. This dish showcases tender pieces of chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and vibrant veggies, all enveloped in a creamy, spicy sauce that dances on your taste buds.
After a particularly hectic week, I found myself yearning for the comfort of homemade food, something that could bring my family around the dinner table with smiles and satisfaction. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its robust flavor but also in its simplicity. With a handful of ingredients and a quick cooking method, it’s perfect for those evenings when fresh fast food feels too tempting.
Get ready to impress your loved ones or simply treat yourself with this quick and delicious Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice, which combines both ease and indulgence in every mouthful!
Why is Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: This dish brings a delightful kick with its creamy bang bang sauce that elevates the ordinary fried rice experience.
Quick to Prepare: You can whip this up in no time, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins, creating a new twist each time you make it.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a surefire hit for family dinners or gatherings, making everyone return for seconds!
Comfort Food Redefined: Combining savory chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh veggies, this recipe is both comforting and satisfying.
Treat yourself to an irresistible meal that rivals your favorite takeout, and don’t forget to explore more homemade recipes like vegetable fried rice to diversify your dinner routine!
Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts – 1 ½ pounds, cut into bite-sized cubes for juicy bites.
• Vegetable oil – 1 tablespoon, helps achieve a perfect sear while cooking.
• Paprika – 1 teaspoon, adds a subtle smokiness to the dish.
• Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon, infuses a warm garlic flavor throughout the chicken.
• Kosher salt – 1 teaspoon, enhances the overall taste of your Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice.
• Black pepper – ½ teaspoon, offers a hint of warmth and spice.
For the Sauce and Eggs
• Bang bang sauce – 1 cup, divided, provides that signature creamy spice kick!
• Sesame oil – 2 tablespoons, adds a nutty flavor that complements the fried rice.
• Large eggs – 4, beaten for fluffy scrambled additions to the dish.
• Kosher salt – ½ teaspoon, to season the eggs perfectly.
For the Veggies
• Carrots – 2 large, diced for a sweet crunch in every bite.
• White onion – 1 large, diced to add depth and sweetness to the mix.
• Green onions – ¼ cup diced, plus extra for garnish, offering a fresh burst of flavor.
• Garlic – 1 teaspoon, minced for that aromatic richness.
For the Rice
• Long-grain white rice – 4 cups, cooked and cooled, forming the hearty base of your fried rice.
• Unsalted butter – ¼ cup, melted, adding richness to the final dish.
• Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon, brightens the flavors beautifully.
• Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons, providing savory umami notes.
• Frozen peas – ⅓ cup, sweet little pops of flavor to finish off your dish.
Now that you have all the essential Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice ingredients, let’s dive into the cooking process and make a meal that will leave everyone satisfied!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice
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Coat the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the cubed chicken with vegetable oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper until the chicken is evenly coated and ready for a delicious fry.
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Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F. Once preheated, place the marinated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 11–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through—an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Keep Chicken Warm: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a medium bowl. To keep it warm and juicy, tent it with aluminum foil and set aside while you prepare the rest of your dish.
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Scramble the Eggs: In a large skillet over high heat, add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. When hot, pour in the beaten eggs and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Scramble gently until just set into soft curds, then transfer to a plate and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Lower the heat to medium-high. Add the remaining sesame oil, diced carrots, onion, and green onions. Cook for about 5 minutes until the carrots are tender, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
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Fry the Rice: Add the cooled rice to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up and stir into the vegetables. Allow it to cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and nicely combined.
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Combine Everything: Gently fold in the scrambled eggs, melted butter, lemon juice, soy sauce, and frozen peas. Stir well and cook for another 2–3 minutes until everything is hot and evenly coated with flavor.
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Mix with Bang Bang Sauce: Just before serving, toss the cooked chicken with ½ cup of Bang Bang Sauce until well coated and that irresistible flavor shines through.
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Serve and Enjoy: To serve, beautifully layer the fried rice on plates and top with the bang bang chicken. Drizzle with additional Bang Bang Sauce if desired, and sprinkle with extra green onions for that fresh crunch.
Optional: For an extra kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice are ideal for meal prep, so you can enjoy them with minimal effort on busy nights! You can marinate the chicken and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, ensuring it’s flavorful and ready to cook. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables and whisk the eggs in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the fridge for freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply air fry the marinated chicken, sauté the prepped veggies, and stir everything together. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal that retains its quality and taste, making your weeknight dinners just as delightful as a fresh takeout!
Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Variations
Feel free to get creative with your dish, bringing new flavors and textures that excite your taste buds!
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Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or chili flakes for an added kick that elevates the heat profile.
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Vegan Delight: Swap the chicken for firm tofu or chickpeas, and use a plant-based bang bang sauce for a wholesome meatless option.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped peanuts or cashews for a crunchy texture that plays beautifully with the soft rice and chicken.
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Coconut Creamy: Use coconut milk instead of butter, creating a rich, tropical flavor that pairs wonderfully with the bang bang sauce.
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Extra Veggies: Bulk up the dish with additional vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or baby corn for added color and nutrition.
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh basil or cilantro just before serving to brighten up the dish and add a refreshing aromatic boost.
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Cheesy Addition: Finish with shredded cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, while the meal is still warm, creating a deliciously melty topping.
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Quinoa Swap: Replace white rice with cooked quinoa for a protein-packed version that remains hearty and satisfying.
Each variation opens the door to a new delightful experience with your Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice?
When it’s time to elevate your dinner experience, a side or drink can perfectly complement the sensational flavors of your main dish.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: These golden delights offer a crunchy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the soft textures of fried rice.
- Garlic Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans bring vibrancy and freshness, adding a healthful touch that balances the richness of the chicken.
- Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad: A refreshing, tangy salad creates a bright note, stimulating the palate while keeping your meal light and lively.
- Thai Iced Tea: This creamy and sweet beverage complements the spiciness of the bang bang sauce beautifully, enhancing your dining experience.
- Mango Sticky Rice: Indulge in this sweet dessert for a delightful mix of warm coconut milk and tropical fruit that rounds out your meal with sweetness.
- Egg Drop Soup: Warm, comforting, and lightly seasoned, this soup provides a soothing start to your meal before diving into the vibrant flavors of your fried rice.
- Lemon Lime Sparkling Water: The tart bubbles cleanse the palate, brightening up your taste buds for each luscious bite of the Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice.
- Peanut Sauce Dipping Station: Serve alongside rice crackers or fresh veggies; it’s a fun twist that echoes the sauce of the main dish while adding extra texture.
- Chili Garlic Tofu: For a vegetarian option, this spicy tofu dish injects bold flavors that harmonize with the chicken’s bang bang profile.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice
Perfect Chicken: Ensure the chicken is cut into even 1-inch cubes for consistent cooking and tenderness throughout.
Air Fryer Precision: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Space allows hot air to circulate, giving the chicken that desirable crispiness.
Rice Quality: Use long-grain white rice that’s cooked and cooled beforehand. Fresh rice may clump and affect the texture of your Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice.
Flavor Balance: Adjust the amount of bang bang sauce to your liking. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice and build it up to suit your taste!
Veggie Varieties: Feel free to mix in different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. Just remember not to overcook them since they should retain some crunch.
Egg Scrambling: Scramble the eggs gently and promptly remove them from the pan to prevent overcooking; they should be soft and fluffy when added back to the rice.
Storage Tips for Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice
Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fried rice in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Divide into portions for easy reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water for moisture, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Avoid Freezing: It’s best to keep the scrambled eggs separate when freezing. They can become rubbery upon reheating, so consider adding fresh eggs during the final cooking step instead!
Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe vegetables for the Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice?
Absolutely! For this dish, select carrots that are bright orange and firm to the touch. Look for onions that are heavy, with tight, dry skins and no dark spots, as these indicate freshness. Green onions should have vibrant green tops without wilting. Choosing fresh ingredients greatly enhances the overall flavor!
What’s the best way to store leftover Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice?
Very! Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to spoilage. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing it for an even longer-lasting option.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice? How should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze, first let your Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. This prevents clumping and makes reheating easier. Make sure to remove excess air from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave until piping hot.
What if my rice becomes mushy during cooking?
Oh no! If your rice is mushy, it might be due to overcooking or using freshly cooked rice instead of cooled rice. To avoid this, ensure that you use cooked and cooled long-grain white rice, and avoid stirring too much once combined with the vegetables to keep its texture. If your fried rice is already mushy, you can try spreading it out on a baking sheet to cool and firm up a bit before reheating.
Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider with this recipe?
Very! If you or others have allergies, particularly to gluten or soy, you may want to substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative, like tamari. Additionally, if you have pets, try to keep this dish away from them, especially given the spices and rich sauces, as they may not be suitable for their diets. Always best to keep food for your loved ones separate!
How can I make this dish healthier?
For a healthier twist on Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice, consider using brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. You can also increase the amount of fresh veggies by adding bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrients and fiber. Making these adjustments allows you to enjoy the flavors while incorporating healthier ingredients!
Savory Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice for Ultimate Flavor Boost
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, toss the cubed chicken with vegetable oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Place the marinated chicken in a single layer in the basket and air fry for 11-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a medium bowl. Tent with aluminum foil to keep warm.
- In a skillet over high heat, add sesame oil. Pour in the beaten eggs, sprinkle with kosher salt, and scramble until just set. Transfer to a plate.
- Lower heat to medium-high, add remaining sesame oil, carrots, onion, and green onions. Cook for about 5 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add the cooled rice to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Fold in scrambled eggs, melted butter, lemon juice, soy sauce, and frozen peas. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Toss cooked chicken with ½ cup of Bang Bang Sauce until well coated.
- Serve by layering the fried rice on plates, topping with the bang bang chicken, and drizzling with additional Bang Bang Sauce.