There’s something truly special about transforming everyday ingredients into a feast that packs a punch of flavor. That’s exactly how I felt the first time I put together this Bang Bang Fried Rice. The incredible aroma of sautéing garlic and tender chicken fills the kitchen, turning a simple weeknight dinner into a culinary adventure.
This dish is not just quick to prepare—taking less than 30 minutes—it’s also wholly customizable to suit any palate. Whether you’re craving spicy shrimp or a heart-healthy tofu option, this vibrant meal can be adjusted in countless ways. Picture a perfect blend of fluffy rice, vibrant veggies, and a creamy Bang Bang sauce that dances on your taste buds.
Perfect for those of us who are weary of fast food, this Bang Bang Fried Rice is your go-to solution for an easy, satisfying dinner that feels like a treat without the calories of takeout. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and unleash your inner chef!
Why Is Bang Bang Fried Rice So Great?
Bang Bang Fried Rice is a standout meal you’ll adore for many reasons!
- Quick Preparation: Whipping this dish up takes less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable Options: Mix and match proteins like shrimp or tofu, plus adjust spice levels to fit everyone’s tastes.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The creamy and zesty Bang Bang sauce brings an irresistible punch that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Nutritionally Balanced: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s healthier than your average takeout!
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal clean-up means more time to enjoy your delicious creation.
If you’re in the mood for another quick recipe, try Savory Bang Bang for a delightful twist.
Bang Bang Fried Rice Ingredients
• Here’s everything you’ll need to create this culinary delight!
For the Rice Base
- Cooked Rice – Use day-old rice for better texture; however, brown or cauliflower rice works wonderfully too.
- Oil – A neutral oil, like canola or vegetable, is best for frying without altering flavors.
For the Protein
- Chicken Breast – Diced for quick cooking and adds heartiness to the dish; try substituting with shrimp or tofu for variety.
- Eggs – Lightly beaten to enhance creaminess and protein content; omit for a vegan option.
For the Vegetables
- Carrots – Adds a sweet crunch; small diced is recommended, though frozen mixed vegetables will suffice.
- Green Peas – Balances the dish with sweetness; frozen peas are perfect for convenience.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic is essential for a savory flavor boost; never skip it!
- Green Onions – Use as garnish for aromatic flair; sauté for an added layer of flavor.
For the Sauce
- Soy Sauce – Provides a salty umami kick; for a gluten-free option, simply use tamari.
- Bang Bang Sauce – This creamy blend of mayonnaise, Sriracha, sweet chili sauce, and rice vinegar gives the dish its unique zest!
With these ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from enjoying a warm plate of Bang Bang Fried Rice that’s delicious and entirely customizable!
How to Make Bang Bang Fried Rice
- Prepare Bang Bang Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar until smooth and creamy; set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Cook Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté diced chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Scramble Eggs: In the same pan, add a touch more oil if needed, and pour in the lightly beaten eggs. Scramble until just set but still creamy; then, set aside with the chicken.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add more oil if necessary, then toss in diced carrots and minced garlic. Sauté everything until the carrots are tender, about 2–3 minutes. Add green peas and cook for another minute.
- Fry Rice: Increase the heat to high, and add the cold, day-old rice to the pan. Stir-fry, breaking up any clumps, until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy, about 3–4 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the skillet with the rice. Pour in soy sauce and mix until everything is evenly combined and heated.
- Add Sauce: Pour the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the rice mixture, gently stirring until every grain is coated and the mixture is heated through.
- Garnish & Serve: Top your creation with sliced green onions for a fresh finish, then serve hot and watch everyone smile!
Optional: Drizzle extra Bang Bang sauce over individual servings for an added kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Fried Rice
- Use Day-Old Rice: Cold, day-old rice is crucial for achieving that perfect texture; fresh rice can become mushy.
- Cook in Batches: To avoid sogginess, cook proteins and vegetables separately before combining them with the rice.
- Adjust the Spice: Balance the Bang Bang sauce according to your preference; add more Sriracha for heat or honey for sweetness.
- Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to replace the carrots and peas with bell peppers, broccoli, or any seasonal vegetables you love.
- Season to Taste: Always taste as you go, allowing for adjustments in soy sauce and seasoning when combining—the goal is a harmonious flavor profile in your Bang Bang Fried Rice!
Bang Bang Fried Rice Variations
Feel free to mix things up and let your culinary creativity shine with these delightful variations!
- Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp or tofu to cater to different dietary preferences and tastes.
- Vegan Option: Omit eggs for a fully vegan dish and introduce additional veggies for added nutritional value.
- Heat Boost: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the Bang Bang sauce for an extra kick.
- Veggie Medley: Incorporate bell peppers, mushrooms, or edamame instead of carrots and peas for a vibrant twist.
- Brown Rice: Swap in brown rice for a heartier option, offering more fiber and a nuttier flavor.
- Coconut Cream: For a creamy layer, add a dollop of coconut cream to the sauce, giving it a tropical flair.
- Sweet & Tangy: Mix in pineapple chunks for a sweet contrast against the savory elements of the dish.
- Pineapple Fried Rice: Replace fresh peas with pineapple for a refreshing burst of sweetness in each bite.
Let your imagination run wild and create a Bang Bang Fried Rice that perfectly suits your palate!
Make Ahead Options
Busy home cooks will find that Bang Bang Fried Rice is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce and chop vegetables (like carrots and green onions) up to 24 hours in advance; this not only saves time but allows the flavors to deepen overnight. Cooked chicken can also be diced and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring all components are ready to go. When it’s time to serve, just heat a splash of oil in a skillet, add your cold rice, and stir-fry until crispy. Combine everything with the prepped sauce, and you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Enjoying Bang Bang Fried Rice is delightful on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate your meal!
- Cool Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers dressed in sesame oil provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, flavorful rice. The lightness enhances the richness of the Bang Bang sauce.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is the perfect way to balance flavors. Its umami notes complement the dish beautifully while adding a cozy element.
- Spring Rolls: These crunchy delights are great for adding texture to your meal. Filled with fresh veggies and served alongside a sweet chili dipping sauce, they’ll keep the flavor train rolling!
- Steamed Broccoli: Nutritious and lightly seasoned, steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and balances the richness of the fried rice. Simple yet effective!
- Chilled Edamame: This snack adds a fun element to your meal. Lightly salted edamame is not only healthy but offers a satisfying crunch between bites of rice.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: A chilled drink can refresh your palate. Lemonade’s acidity brightens the flavors, while iced tea complements the meal’s spice perfectly.
With these suggestions, you can craft an unforgettable dining experience around your flavorful Bang Bang Fried Rice!
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice
- Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Fried Rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to enhance after being refrigerated overnight.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. This helps preserve the meal’s taste and texture.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to regain moisture and flavor.
- Avoid Mushiness: If using a microwave to reheat, cover the dish and use short intervals, stirring often to prevent overcooking and sogginess.
Bang Bang Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of rice is best for Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Absolutely! Day-old cooked rice is ideal for this dish. It has the right texture to ensure it doesn’t become mushy during cooking. If you don’t have day-old rice, consider spreading freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool, then refrigerate for about 30 minutes before using. Alternatively, brown rice or cauliflower rice can also work beautifully in this recipe!
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. I often find that the flavors improve overnight as they meld together, making it even more delicious on the second day. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before enjoying it again!
Can I freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Yes, you can freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice! Pour individual portions into airtight containers or freezer bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat and bring back that delightful texture, heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce—this helps revive the rice and keep it from drying out.
What if my rice turns out mushy while cooking?
Very common! To prevent mushy rice, ensure that you’re using cold, day-old rice. Cooking the ingredients separately before combining them with the rice also helps maintain the right texture. If you’ve already cooked your rice and it’s become mushy, try spreading it out on a baking sheet to cool and allow some moisture to evaporate. You can then re-fry it in a hot pan to crisp it up again.
Is Bang Bang Fried Rice suitable for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile; you can easily make it gluten-free by substituting soy sauce for tamari. For a dairy-free and vegan option, simply omit the eggs and use tofu or just increase the vegetables. Additionally, always check labels for sauce ingredients if you have allergies to ensure safe eating.
Can I change the protein sources in Bang Bang Fried Rice?
The more the merrier! You can easily swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu based on your preferences or dietary needs. Keep in mind the cooking times; shrimp will cook much faster than chicken, so adjust your timing accordingly! You can also swap in different proteins like beef or even keep it meatless for a heartier veggie-stuffed option.
Irresistibly Easy Bang Bang Fried Rice in Under 30 Minutes
Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Rice Base
- 4 cups cooked rice day-old for better texture
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil canola or vegetable
For the Protein
- 1 pound chicken breast diced
- 2 large eggs lightly beaten
For the Vegetables
- 1 cup carrots small diced
- 1 cup green peas frozen
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 scallions green onions sliced
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1/2 cup Bang Bang sauce mayonnaise, Sriracha, sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar mix
Instructions
Main Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar until smooth and creamy; set aside.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté diced chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same pan, add a touch more oil if needed, and pour in the lightly beaten eggs. Scramble until just set but still creamy; then, set aside with the chicken.
- Add more oil if necessary, then toss in diced carrots and minced garlic. Sauté everything until the carrots are tender, about 2–3 minutes. Add green peas and cook for another minute.
- Increase the heat to high, and add the cold, day-old rice to the pan. Stir-fry, breaking up any clumps, until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy, about 3–4 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the skillet with the rice. Pour in soy sauce and mix until everything is evenly combined and heated.
- Pour the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the rice mixture, gently stirring until every grain is coated and the mixture is heated through.
- Top your creation with sliced green onions for a fresh finish, then serve hot.
Notes
Nutrition
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