When the evening rolls around, and your stomach starts calling for something hearty yet quick to prepare, Bang Bang Fried Rice jumps into action like an old friend. This dish blends tender chicken, scrambled eggs, and vibrant vegetables with a spicy-sweet bang bang sauce that dances on your tongue. Whether you’re feeding a family or whipping up a late-night snack, it beautifully balances convenience and flavor. After all, who could turn down that magical combination of textures and tastes?
Why you’ll love this dish
This trip down fried rice lane comes with a few delightful perks that elevate it from your regular weeknight meal to something a bit more special. First off, it’s a one-pan wonder — less cleanup, more time to enjoy! It’s budget-friendly, teasing your wallet while filling everyone’s bellies, making it a perfect go-to for a busy week. Plus, if you’ve got little ones, they will love this colorful plate of yumminess. You can even sneak in extra veggies without them batting an eye.
"This Bang Bang Fried Rice has become a staple in our home! It’s quick, delicious, and my kids can’t get enough of it. I love that I can throw in whatever leftovers I have and it still tastes amazing!" — Happy Home Cook
Step-by-step overview
Let’s sail through the process of preparing this delightful dish. We’ll start with succulent chicken, then add fluffy eggs, toss in some vibrant vegetables, and finally, stir in that addictive bang bang sauce for a truly unforgettable bite. It might sound a little busy, but trust me, it all comes together in a delicious whirlwind.
Here’s what you’ll need:
What you’ll need
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup bang bang sauce (mix of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to swap in whatever veggies you have on hand, or adjust the spice levels in the bang bang sauce to your liking! This is a canvas for creativity.
Directions to follow
- Heat the oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to give a good sizzle when you add the chicken.
- Toss in the diced chicken and cook until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Take a moment to appreciate that beautiful aroma wafting through your kitchen!
- Push the chicken to one side of the pan and, on the other side, pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble them gently until they’re fully cooked and fluffy.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re heated through and bright — around 2-3 minutes is perfect.
- Now it’s time to add your cooked rice, soy sauce, and that irresistible bang bang sauce. Mix everything well and let it cook together for another couple of minutes, allowing those flavors to meld.
- Taste a bit and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Finally, serve it up hot, garnishing with those lovely chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
Best ways to enjoy it
This dish shines just on its own, but if you want to add a bit more flair, consider serving it alongside some crispy spring rolls or a fresh salad. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a drizzle of extra bang bang sauce on top takes it to a whole new level. You could even pair it with a light Asian-inspired cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the fried rice. It’s all about finding those perfect companions to elevate your meal!
How to store & freeze
Leftover opportunities abound with Bang Bang Fried Rice! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, a quick toss in a skillet works best to keep everything nice and crispy. You can also freeze portions in vacuum-sealed bags or containers for up to two months. Just remember to cool everything completely before storing to maintain that wonderful texture.
Helpful cooking tips
- Prep in advance: Have your ingredients chopped and ready to go. This dish comes together quickly, and having everything prepped makes a world of difference.
- Use day-old rice: If you have leftover rice from the night before, use it! It works best because the grains are firmer and won’t get too mushy.
- Taste as you go: Everyone’s preferences are different, so feel free to adjust seasoning or sauce amounts. Your taste buds are the ultimate guides!
Creative twists
While this recipe is already a showstopper, don’t be afraid to switch things up! Consider adding shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist or go vegetarian with tofu. If you enjoy a bit more heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking, or swap the mixed veggies for a medley with edamame and snow peas. There’s no end to the variations you can explore!
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make Bang Bang Fried Rice?
From start to finish, you can whip this up in about 30 minutes. It’s speedy but satisfying!
Can I use any kind of rice?
Absolutely! While jasmine or basmati rice gives great flavor and texture, brown rice or even quinoa can work if you’re looking for a healthier option.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep it from drying out. You can also toss in a bit more sauce to freshen it up!
Now that you know how to create this delightful dish, you’ll surely find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. So get cooking!
Bang Bang Fried Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat until hot.
- Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Push the chicken to one side of the pan and pour in the beaten eggs on the other side. Scramble until fully cooked and fluffy.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, and bang bang sauce. Mix well and cook for another couple of minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.