Name: Bang Bang Fried Rice: Flavorful Fun in Just 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked rice (Day-old rice is key for the right texture.); 1 lb chicken breast (Or shrimp or tofu for alternatives.); 3 eggs (Scramble them lightly before adding.); 1 cup carrots (Diced, fresh or frozen.); 1 cup green peas (Frozen peas are convenient.); 3 stalks green onions; 4 cloves garlic (Minced.); 3 tbsp soy sauce (Tamari for a gluten-free option.); 1 cup bang bang sauce (Mix of mayonnaise, Sriracha, sweet chili sauce, and rice vinegar.); 2 tbsp oil (Neutral oil like canola or vegetable.)

As I sipped my coffee one busy afternoon, the idea of whipping up a quick yet exciting meal struck me. Enter Bang Bang Fried Rice—a savory sensation that promises to rescue your weeknight dinners from the mundane! This customizable dish melds tender chicken, crispy rice, and fluffy scrambled eggs with a zingy bang bang sauce that effortlessly elevates your average fried rice. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a vibrant one-pan meal that’s not only easy to make but also adaptable to your pantry staples. Whether you’re a meat lover or a fan of plant-based cooking, this recipe caters to all cravings, making it a family favorite. Curious to see how this satisfying dish comes together? Let’s dive in!

Why Is Bang Bang Fried Rice So Special?

Quick and Easy: The entire dish takes under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Endless Customization: Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu and use whatever veggies you have on hand—it’s all about what you love!

Flavor Explosion: The zingy bang bang sauce combines creamy, sweet, and spicy notes, elevating every bite beyond ordinary fried rice.

One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup as everything cooks together in one pan!

Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress friends and family, making it fantastic for gatherings or casual get-togethers.

To pair this delicious meal, consider serving it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or, if you’re feeling adventurous, check out my Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice for an exciting twist!

Bang Bang Fried Rice Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up your very own Bang Bang Fried Rice!

For the Rice

Cooked Rice – Day-old rice is key for the right texture, helping it achieve that perfect crispiness. Substitution: Brown rice or cauliflower rice for alternatives.

For the Protein

Chicken Breast – This lean protein stays juicy and tender when seared. Substitution: Shrimp or tofu for a different twist.

For the Eggs

Eggs – These add richness and protein; be sure to scramble them lightly before adding to the pan.

For the Veggies

Carrots – Diced for a pop of sweetness, color, and crunch; fresh or frozen work well. Substitution: Other mixed vegetables based on preference.
Green Peas – Ideal for adding a sweet balance to the dish; frozen peas are convenient and quick.
Green Onions – These provide a fresh garnish and a punch of flavor when sautéed.
Garlic – Minced for even flavor distribution and an aromatic kick.

For the Sauce

Soy Sauce – This offers a salty umami flavor that ties the dish together. Substitution: Tamari for a gluten-free option.
Bang Bang Sauce – A heavenly mix of mayonnaise, Sriracha, sweet chili sauce, and rice vinegar that gives this dish its flavorful character. Substitution: Vegan mayo for a dairy-free version.

For Cooking

Oil – A neutral oil like canola or vegetable is perfect for frying and preventing sticking.

Get ready to feel inspired as you create a mouthwatering Bang Bang Fried Rice that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar until smooth and fully combined. This creates the delicious bang bang sauce that will elevate your Bang Bang Fried Rice. Set it aside to allow the flavors to meld while you focus on the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add diced chicken breast, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Sauté the chicken for about 5–6 minutes, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside, leaving any delicious juices behind.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary, and pour in the beaten eggs. Let them cook for about 2 minutes, stirring gently and allowing them to set until they are just cooked through but still soft and fluffy. Remove the scrambled eggs from the pan and keep them nearby with the chicken.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
Add diced carrots and minced garlic to the now-empty skillet, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until the carrots soften slightly and the garlic becomes fragrant. Then, toss in the green peas and cook for an additional minute, allowing the combination to become vibrant and flavorful.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Rice
Increase the heat to high and add your cold, day-old rice to the skillet. Stir-fry the rice for approximately 3–4 minutes, breaking up any clumps, until it’s heated through and starting to crisp up on the edges. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture in your Bang Bang Fried Rice.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return the sautéed chicken and scrambled eggs to the skillet with the rice. Pour in the soy sauce, mixing everything thoroughly to ensure that each grain of rice is coated in the flavors. Continue to cook for another minute until everything is heated through and well combined.

Step 7: Add the Bang Bang Sauce
Drizzle the prepared bang bang sauce over the entire mixture, stirring continuously to ensure that all ingredients are coated evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to heat up and meld into the fried rice, creating a creamy and enticing flavor profile.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and garnish your Bang Bang Fried Rice with freshly sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve this delightful dish hot, directly from the pan, and watch it become an instant favorite at your dinner table!

What to Serve with Bang Bang Fried Rice?

A colorful array of sides can elevate your home-cooked meal to the next level, balancing flavors and textures deliciously.

Cucumber Salad: Fresh and crunchy, a simple cucumber salad brings a crisp contrast to the rich and creamy fried rice. Toss with a splash of vinegar for brightness.
Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable adds a nutritious touch and a satisfying crunch, complementing the creamy bang bang flavors beautifully.
Sesame Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with sesame oil provides a nutty flavor and tender texture that pairs wonderfully with the boldness of the fried rice.
Thai Spring Rolls: Crispy on the outside and filled with fresh veggies, these rolls offer a refreshing balance and a fun twist to your meal. Serve with a dipping sauce for extra delight!
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup brings umami richness to the table, offering a comforting contrast to the zesty notes in the Bang Bang Fried Rice.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat showcases sticky rice mingled with luscious mango and coconut cream, perfect for rounding out the meal with a tropical finish.

Storage Tips for Bang Bang Fried Rice

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors may even enhance overnight; when ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or soy sauce for the best texture.
Freezer: You can freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice for up to 2 months. Ensure it cools completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight, and reheat on the stovetop for the best results.
Reheating: For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe dish with a damp paper towel on top to retain moisture. Heat in intervals to avoid unevenly heated portions.
Refreshing Leftovers: If the rice looks a bit dry after storage, add a small splash of water or broth before reheating to bring back its delightful moisture!

Bang Bang Fried Rice Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this Bang Bang Fried Rice your very own delicious masterpiece!

Dairy-Free: Use vegan mayo in the bang bang sauce to keep it creamy without dairy. This simple swap ensures it remains flavorful and accessible for everyone.
Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein boost. Shrimp adds a delightful sweetness while tofu absorbs all the flavors beautifully, catering to different dietary needs.
Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for more color and nutrition. This not only enhances the dish visually but also packs in additional vitamins and flavor.
Nutty Variation: Swap regular rice for brown rice or even quinoa for a nuttier flavor and added texture. It brings a whole new level to your meal and ramps up the fiber, making it more filling.
Spicy Kick: Adjust the amount of Sriracha in the bang bang sauce based on your heat preference. You can even add crushed red pepper flakes for an extra punch!
Crispy Delight: Toss in some cashews or peanuts for a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft rice. These crunchy elements can elevate the whole experience!
Fusion Fun: Try adding a dash of curry powder or ginger to introduce a subtle twist and warmth that complements the sweetness of the sauce. It’s a delightful way to shake things up!

For more enticing Asian-inspired recipes, consider trying my Bang Bang Chicken for a perfectly satisfying pairing or enjoy a savory dish like Chinese Fried Rice that also complements this flavorful fried rice beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

These Bang Bang Fried Rice are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save precious time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the sauces and chop vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, the chicken can be marinated and refrigerated for up to 3 days for enhanced flavor. When you’re ready to cook, simply stir-fry the prepped ingredients with cold, day-old rice and follow the recipe’s final steps. For the best results, reheat gently to preserve the texture, ensuring a delicious dish that’s just as satisfying as if made fresh. Enjoy the convenience and flavor of homemade Bang Bang Fried Rice any day of the week!

Tips for the Best Bang Bang Fried Rice

Day-Old Rice: Using cold, day-old rice is essential to prevent mushiness; freshly cooked rice can become clumpy and soggy if used right away.
Ingredient Staging: Cook ingredients in stages (chicken, eggs, veggies) to maintain texture and flavor, avoiding a soggy fried rice dish.
Customize Spice: Adjust the Bang Bang sauce’s spiciness by reducing the amount of Sriracha based on your family’s heat preference; it can easily be tailored to suit your taste!
Proper Heat: Stir-fry the rice on high heat to promote a crispy texture; this step is crucial to achieve that delightful crunch in your Bang Bang Fried Rice.
Fresh Garnish: Don’t skip the green onions! They add a fresh crunch and brighten up the dish, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Bang Bang Fried Rice Recipe FAQs

What type of rice is best for Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Absolutely! Day-old rice is the key to achieving that perfect texture in Bang Bang Fried Rice. It helps the rice crisp up nicely and prevents it from becoming mushy. If you don’t have day-old rice, you can use freshly cooked rice, but be sure to cool it completely before adding it to the pan for stir-frying.

How long can I store Bang Bang Fried Rice leftovers?
Very! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If stored properly, the flavors can actually enhance overnight. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or soy sauce to restore texture.

Can I freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Absolutely! You can freeze it for up to 2 months. To do this, let the fried rice cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

What should I do if my Bang Bang Fried Rice is too dry when reheating?
Ah, don’t worry! If your rice feels a bit dry after storing, simply add a small splash of water or broth to the pan before reheating. This will help restore moisture and make it deliciously fluffy again.

Is Bang Bang Fried Rice suitable for anyone with allergies?
Very! To make it allergy-friendly, you can use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option, and substitute the mayonnaise in the bang bang sauce with a vegan mayo for dairy-free needs. Ensure you check all ingredient labels for any hidden allergens.

What other proteins can I use in Bang Bang Fried Rice?
The more the merrier! While chicken is traditional, I often use shrimp or tofu as delicious alternatives. You can also add other proteins like beef or even a medley of seasonal vegetables for a plant-based twist. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through!