Name: Bang Bang Fried Rice: Your New Favorite Homemade Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Day-old cooked rice (Avoid freshly cooked rice); 1 pound Diced chicken breast (Substitute with shrimp or tofu if desired); 3 whole Eggs (Beaten for scrambling); 1 cup Diced carrots (For crunchiness); 1 cup Green peas (Frozen or fresh); 2 cloves Minced garlic (For savory flavor); 3 stalks Sliced green onions (For garnish); 3 tablespoons Soy sauce (Use tamari for gluten-free); 1/4 cup Bang Bang sauce (Homemade with mayonnaise, chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar); 3 tablespoons Neutral oil (Like canola for frying)

On a busy weeknight, the last thing I want is to stress about dinner—especially when there’s a mouthwatering dish like Bang Bang Fried Rice that comes to the rescue. This quick one-pan meal is a colorful medley of crispy rice, tender chicken (or your protein of choice), and fluffy scrambled eggs, all drizzled with a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce. Not only can it be made in just 30 minutes, but it’s also incredibly customizable to suit your flavor preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re leaning towards gluten-free or dairy-free options, or just want to spice things up, this dish has you covered. What fun twist will you add to your version of this crowd-pleaser?

Why is Bang Bang Fried Rice a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This meal is a lifesaver for busy weeknights, coming together in just 30 minutes in one pan.

Customizable Delights: Choose your protein—chicken, shrimp, or tofu—tailoring the flavors to your liking while skipping the drive-thru.

Flavor Explosion: Each bite is a harmonious blend of creamy, spicy, and savory notes, ensuring your taste buds are never bored.

Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers are even better the next day! Store them for an effortless lunch or dinner that keeps on giving.

Healthy Options: You can easily adapt it for gluten-free and dairy-free diets. For a twist, try pairing it with a fresh cucumber salad or a light soup for a balanced meal. Don’t forget to take a look at my other comforting recipes like Coconut Chicken Rice or Taco Rice Bowl for more dinner ideas!

Bang Bang Fried Rice Ingredients

For the Base

Cooked Rice – Day-old rice is ideal as it crisps beautifully; avoid freshly cooked rice which can lead to clumping.
Chicken Breast – Diced for quick cooking, but feel free to substitute with shrimp or tofu for a different protein choice.
Eggs – Provides a fluffy texture when scrambled and adds essential nutrients.

For the Vegetables

Carrots – Diced small to deliver a crunchiness and hint of sweetness; essential for an even cook.
Green Peas – Frozen or fresh, these add a touch of sweetness and a pop of color that brightens the dish.
Garlic – Minced for a more pronounced savory flavor; elevates the overall taste of the meal.
Green Onions – Sliced and used as a fresh garnish, adding a mild aromatic flavor.

For the Flavor Boost

Soy Sauce – Offers a rich umami flavor; substitute with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Bang Bang Sauce – The heart of the dish; whisk mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar for a creamy, spicy kick—tweak Sriracha for your desired heat level.
Oil – A neutral oil like canola is perfect for frying; you’ll need it at various stages to cook the ingredients properly.

With these ingredients in hand, you’ll whip up a delicious Bang Bang Fried Rice that satisfies cravings while keeping it wholesome and homemade!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Fried Rice

Step 1: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce, 1 tablespoon Sriracha, and 1 tablespoon rice vinegar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Set this delightful sauce aside while you prepare the rest of your ingredients; it’s the star that will elevate your Bang Bang Fried Rice with a creamy, spicy kick.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 1 pound of diced chicken breast, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and fully cooked through, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary, then pour in 3 beaten eggs. Allow the eggs to cook without stirring for about 30 seconds, then gently scramble them with a spatula until just set, which should take another 1-2 minutes. Once cooked, remove the scrambled eggs from the pan and set aside alongside the chicken.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
Still in the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil and turn the heat back to medium. Add 1 cup of diced carrots and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the carrots are tender and fragrant, then stir in 1 cup of green peas. Continue cooking for an additional minute until the peas are heated through and vibrant.

Step 5: Fry the Rice
To the vegetable mixture, add 4 cups of day-old cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Stir-fry everything together for about 3-4 minutes. You’re aiming for the rice to start getting crispy and slightly golden, which adds that wonderful texture to your Bang Bang Fried Rice.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the skillet with the rice and vegetable mix. Pour in 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, tossing everything together to ensure the flavors meld beautifully. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 7: Add the Bang Bang Sauce
Drizzle the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the fried rice mixture, stirring well to coat every grain of rice and piece of protein. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to warm through and hug your ingredients, bringing this amazing Bang Bang Fried Rice to life with a rich, creamy texture.

Step 8: Serve
Finally, remove the skillet from heat and garnish your Bang Bang Fried Rice with sliced green onions. Serve piping hot right from the pan, letting the delightful aromas fill your kitchen and inviting everyone to dig in and enjoy!

What to Serve with Bang Bang Fried Rice

Elevate your meal experience by pairing this delightful dish with sides that complement its vibrant flavors and textures.

Cool Cucumber Salad: A refreshing crunch that balances the heat of the Bang Bang sauce, offering a cooling contrast with every bite.
Steamed Broccoli: Its mild flavor and crunchy texture enhance the meal while packing in more nutrition and vibrant color.
Sesame Green Beans: Tossed in sesame oil, these tender yet crisp beans add a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the rice.
Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted until caramelized, the natural sweetness of these wedges complements the savory notes in the dish.
Egg Drop Soup: Light and comforting, this silky soup adds warmth without overpowering the Bang Bang Fried Rice’s bold flavors.
Mango Chutney: A touch of sweetness with earthy undertones, this chutney can be drizzled over the rice for a tropical elevate.
Sparkling Water with Lime: This bubbly drink refreshes the palate between bites, enhancing the overall dining experience with its zest.
Chocolate Mochi Ice Cream: Finish on a sweet note with these chewy little delights, providing a delightful contrast to the savory meal.

Storage Tips for Bang Bang Fried Rice

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; the flavors actually enhance overnight, making for a delightful meal with minimal effort.

Freezer: Freeze your Bang Bang Fried Rice in a sealed, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave or a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to ensure it doesn’t dry out. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors once again!

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Fried Rice

Rice Choice: Always use cold, day-old rice to achieve the best texture. Freshly cooked rice can become mushy, ruining your dish.
Cook in Stages: To prevent sogginess, cook ingredients in separate steps and combine them at the end. This technique preserves the integrity of each component.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha in your Bang Bang sauce to tailor the heat to your preference. Taste as you go for the perfect kick!
Protein Swaps: Don’t shy away from personalizing the recipe! Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or extra veggies like bell peppers for a customized meal.
Garnish for Freshness: Enhance the dish’s appeal by finishing with fresh green onions. Their mild flavor adds a pop of color and freshness to the final presentation.

Bang Bang Fried Rice Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delicious dish and make it uniquely yours!

Protein Options: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even additional veggies like mushrooms and bell peppers for a delightful twist.
Sweetener Swap: Use honey and vinegar for a quick sweetener option if you’re in a pinch, adjusting the balance in your Bang Bang sauce.
Spice Adjustments: Tailor the heat by increasing or decreasing the amount of Sriracha according to your taste preferences. A little tweak can make all the difference!
Healthy Rice Choices: Opt for brown rice or cauliflower rice as nutritious alternatives. They provide a unique flavor while remaining wholesome.
Vegetable Variations: Add in seasonal greens like bok choy or spinach for extra nutrition and vibrant color. Your Bang Bang Fried Rice will become a nourishing one-pan wonder.
Flavor Boost: For an umami kick, toss in a spoonful of oyster sauce along with the soy sauce. It adds depth and richness that enhances the overall flavor.
Cold Rice Tip: If you’re starting with freshly cooked rice, spread it on a baking sheet in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to cool down and reduce clumping.
Serving Suggestions: Serve it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or a light soup for a well-rounded meal. You might also enjoy pairing it with my comforting Coconut Chicken Rice or the satisfying Taco Rice Bowl.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Bang Bang Fried Rice ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes on busy weeknights! You can chop all your vegetables, like carrots and green onions, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, the Bang Bang sauce can be mixed and kept sealed in an airtight container for the same duration—this allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the recipe instructions, adding your prepped ingredients to the hot skillet. For best results, ensure you use cold, day-old rice to achieve that perfect crispy texture. With these prep steps, you’ll enjoy a homemade meal that’s just as delicious with minimal effort!

Bang Bang Fried Rice Recipe FAQs

What type of rice is best for Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Absolutely! Day-old rice is preferable because it has dried out slightly, ensuring it crisps up nicely during frying. Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and lead to clumping, which isn’t ideal for this dish. Aim for rice that you’ve stored in the refrigerator overnight for the best outcome!

How do I store leftover Bang Bang Fried Rice?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve as they mingle! If you want to keep it for longer, freeze it. Portion the rice into freezer-safe containers, ensuring to cool it completely first. Bang Bang Fried Rice can be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw it in the fridge before reheating for a delicious meal on another night.

Can I freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice? How?
Yes, you can freeze it! First, allow the rice to cool completely to prevent ice crystals from forming. Then, transfer it into freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to push out as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. It can stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist.

What if my Bang Bang Fried Rice turns out soggy?
Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! If your fried rice becomes soggy, it often means the rice was too wet before cooking or it was cooked for too long. To remedy this, spread the rice out on a baking sheet to cool and dry out for a bit. You can also try sautéing it in a hot pan without additional sauce for a few minutes to help evaporate excess moisture. Next time, make sure to use day-old rice for that perfect crispiness!

Is Bang Bang Fried Rice suitable for dietary restrictions?
Very much so! You can customize it easily to fit gluten-free or dairy-free diets. Replace soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option, and for a dairy-free Bang Bang sauce, ensure your mayonnaise is dairy-free or substitute with a vegan option. Additionally, you can opt for tofu or even extra veggies for added nutrition if you want to keep the protein plant-based!