Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice That Delivers Big Flavor in Every Bite

Introduction

Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is the kind of dish that earns a permanent spot in your weeknight rotation. It brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and a creamy, sweet-heat sauce that coats every grain beautifully. This recipe is inspired by the bold flavors of classic bang bang sauce, but adapted into a comforting fried rice format that feels both indulgent and familiar. I love how quickly everything comes together in one pan, making it ideal for busy evenings when you still want something exciting on the table. The contrast between the savory rice, the juicy chicken, and the slightly spicy sauce is deeply satisfying. I tested this with day-old rice and found it gave the best texture, with each grain staying separate and lightly toasted. Whether you are cooking for family or preparing a casual dinner for friends, this dish offers restaurant-style flavor with minimal effort and ingredients you likely already have on hand.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe balances comfort and bold flavor perfectly. It is quick to prepare, adaptable to different spice levels, and works well as a complete one-pan meal. The sauce brings just enough heat to be exciting without overwhelming the dish, and the leftovers taste just as good the next day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked jasmine rice forms the base of this dish. Day-old rice is ideal because it is drier and fries better, resulting in a light, fluffy texture rather than clumps.

Chicken breast provides lean protein and absorbs the bang bang sauce beautifully. Cutting it into small, even pieces ensures quick and even cooking.

Eggs add richness and structure to the fried rice. They help bind the ingredients together while adding a subtle savory note.

Green onions bring freshness and a mild onion flavor that brightens the dish, especially when added at the end.

Garlic enhances the savory depth of the rice and pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Frozen peas and carrots add color, texture, and a hint of natural sweetness. They are convenient and cook quickly straight from the freezer.

Mayonnaise is the base of the bang bang sauce, giving it its signature creamy consistency.

Sweet chili sauce adds sweetness and gentle heat, creating balance in the sauce.

Sriracha provides adjustable spiciness. You can increase or reduce it based on your preference.

Soy sauce seasons the rice and ties all the flavors together with umami depth.

Sesame oil adds a nutty aroma that finishes the dish beautifully.

Directions

Begin by heating a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil and cook the chicken pieces until golden and fully cooked, then remove them from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, scramble the eggs until just set, breaking them into soft curds. Add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Stir in the rice, spreading it evenly and allowing it to toast slightly before mixing. Add the peas and carrots and cook until heated through. Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, tossing everything together. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha, then drizzle it over the rice. Stir well until everything is evenly coated and heated through. Finish with green onions and serve hot.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves four people generously. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes, making it a 35-minute meal from start to finish.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the rice, or microwave until heated through.

Variations and Customizations

This dish is highly adaptable and welcomes creative adjustments. For a spicier version, increase the amount of sriracha or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the chili sauce and focus on the creamy sweetness of the mayonnaise. Shrimp or diced turkey can replace chicken for a different protein option, and both work well with the bang bang sauce. Vegetarians can skip the meat entirely and add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a hearty plant-based version. Brown rice or cauliflower rice can be used for a lighter twist, though cooking times may vary slightly. I have also tried adding a splash of rice vinegar at the end, which adds a subtle tang that balances the richness of the sauce beautifully.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice offers a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. It can be adjusted to suit different dietary needs by using low-sodium soy sauce, light mayonnaise, or additional vegetables. While it is an indulgent dish, mindful portioning keeps it well within a balanced meal plan.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Perfect rice texture
Always use cold, cooked rice to prevent mushiness and achieve a proper fried texture.

Sauce balance
Taste the sauce before adding it to the pan and adjust sweetness or heat to your liking.

High heat cooking
Keep the pan hot to avoid steaming the ingredients and to develop better flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it can be prepared in advance and reheated when needed.

What type of rice works best?

Jasmine or long-grain white rice provides the best texture.

Is this dish very spicy?

The spice level is moderate and easily adjustable.

Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice?

Freezing is possible, but the sauce texture may change slightly.

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Yes, add it toward the end to avoid overcooking.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking?

Use a hot pan and avoid overcrowding.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free mayonnaise alternative.

What vegetables work well in this recipe?

Bell peppers, corn, and snap peas are excellent additions.

Is this suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it holds up well for several days in the refrigerator.

Can I reduce the calories?

Use light mayonnaise and add extra vegetables to lighten the dish.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is a flavorful, satisfying meal that combines comfort with bold taste. Its versatility, quick preparation, and crowd-pleasing appeal make it a reliable choice for any occasion. Once you try it, it is sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

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