Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

Description

Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is a bold, Asian-inspired rice dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy fried rice, crisp vegetables, and a creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang sauce. The recipe transforms traditional fried rice into a restaurant-style meal by coating the chicken in a flavorful sauce made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha.

This dish delivers a perfect balance of textures and flavors:

• Creamy and spicy sauce
• Tender chicken
• Savory fried rice
• Crunchy vegetables
• A hint of sweetness

It’s an excellent option for weeknight dinners, meal preparation, or quick lunches.

Preparation Time

Servings

4 servings

Ingredients

For the Bang Bang Chicken

• 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar

For the Fried Rice

• 4 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably chilled overnight)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• ½ cup diced onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, sliced

Optional Garnishes

• Sesame seeds
• Extra green onions
• Additional sriracha
• Chopped cilantro

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, combine:

• Mayonnaise
• Sweet chili sauce
• Sriracha
• Honey
• Rice vinegar

Whisk until smooth and set aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Place the chicken in a bowl.

Add:

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder

Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes until:

• The chicken is fully cooked.
• The internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Remove the chicken from the skillet.

Reserve ¼ cup of the Bang Bang sauce for serving.

Toss the cooked chicken with the remaining sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Eggs

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in the skillet.

Add the beaten eggs and scramble for 1 minute.

Transfer the eggs to a plate.

Step 5: Prepare the Fried Rice

Add the remaining oil.

Cook the onions for 2 minutes.

Add:

• Garlic
• Peas
• Carrots

Cook for another 2 minutes.

Add the chilled rice.

Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes.

Add:

• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil

Mix thoroughly.

Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet.

Stir to combine.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

Divide the fried rice among serving plates.

Top with Bang Bang chicken.

Drizzle with the reserved sauce.

Garnish with:

• Green onions
• Sesame seeds

Serve immediately.

Chef’s Notes

• Day-old rice works much better than freshly cooked rice because it contains less moisture.
• Boneless chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts for a juicier texture.
• Adjust the amount of sriracha to control the heat level.
• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes before cooking.

Tips for Success

Use Cold Rice

Fresh rice often becomes mushy during stir-frying.

Cook Ingredients Separately

Cooking the eggs, vegetables, and chicken separately preserves their individual textures.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.

Add Sauce at the End

Mixing the Bang Bang sauce with the chicken after cooking prevents the sauce from separating.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.

Health Benefits

High in Protein

Chicken provides high-quality protein that supports muscle growth and repair.

Provides Energy

Rice supplies carbohydrates that provide energy throughout the day.

Contains Essential Vitamins

Peas, carrots, onions, and garlic provide vitamins and minerals, including:

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Potassium
• Folate

Supports Satiety

The combination of protein, healthy fats, and fiber can help keep you feeling full for longer.

Variations

Low-Carb Version

Replace rice with cauliflower rice.

Extra-Spicy Version

Increase the sriracha to 2 tablespoons.

Seafood Version

Replace chicken with shrimp.

Vegetarian Version

Replace chicken with:

• Tofu
• Tempeh
• Mushrooms

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice?

Yes. Freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Why should I use day-old rice?

Day-old rice is drier and fries more evenly, preventing the dish from becoming sticky.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with 1 tablespoon of water, or microwave for 2–3 minutes.

Can I use brown rice?

Absolutely. Brown rice adds more fiber and nutrients.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

• Egg rolls
• Asian cucumber salad
• Steamed broccoli
• Vegetable spring rolls

Enjoy your homemade Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice! 🍚🍗