Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

A spicy and creamy twist on the classic fried rice, Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this dish delivers bold flavors and satisfying textures. The standout feature is the signature bang bang sauce that elevates ordinary fried rice into a mouthwatering delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it great for busy evenings.
• Flavorful: The combination of chicken and the bang bang sauce creates a deliciously unique taste experience.
• Versatile: Customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables or make it vegetarian by omitting chicken and adding more veggies.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and mild spice make it appealing to children and adults alike.
• Leftover Friendly: Great for meal prep, the leftovers can be stored easily and enjoyed the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to make cooking as efficient as possible.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Provides ample space for stir-frying ingredients evenly while allowing for easy tossing.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for preparing the bang bang sauce without making a mess.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring and ensuring all ingredients are well combined without damaging them.

Ingredients

A spicy and creamy twist on the classic fried rice, featuring tender chicken and a signature bang bang sauce.

For the Rice

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice, cooled

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced

For Cooking

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)

For the Sauce

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil

For Garnishing

• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and soy sauce until well combined. Set this aside; it will be added later.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Add mixed vegetables to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until they are tender but still vibrant.

Step 5: Incorporate Rice

Add cooled jasmine rice to the skillet. Break up any clumps using your spatula. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the prepared bang bang sauce over the rice mixture. Stir well to combine everything evenly.

Step 7: Final Touches

Drizzle sesame oil over the dish and toss gently to coat all ingredients in flavor.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges. Serve immediately while warm.

Enjoy your flavorful Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice, perfect for any dinner table!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

Serving Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is an opportunity to showcase its vibrant flavors and textures. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great centerpiece for any meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Add freshly chopped cilantro on top for an extra burst of flavor.
• Consider using Thai basil for a unique twist that complements the dish.

Pair with Lime Wedges

• Serve with lime wedges on the side to add a zesty kick.
• Squeezing fresh lime juice enhances the overall taste and freshness of the fried rice.

Enjoy with Extra Sauce

• Drizzle some additional bang bang sauce over individual portions for those who love extra spice and creaminess.
• Offering sauce on the side allows guests to customize their experience.

Include a Protein Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
• These options complement the flavors of the fried rice without overpowering them.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

Perfecting your Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice can elevate this dish from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure your fried rice turns out delicious every time.

• Use day-old rice: Using rice that has been refrigerated overnight helps prevent clumping and ensures a better texture.
• High heat is key: Cooking on high heat allows for quick stir-frying, which adds that desirable smokiness.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than frying, affecting texture.
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning during cooking to find the perfect balance of flavors before serving.
• Customize your veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for a personal touch.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the fried rice to sit for a minute off the heat can help enhance flavors as they meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing your Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice with these delicious side dishes. Each option complements the main dish beautifully.

1. Crispy Spring Rolls: These light and crunchy rolls filled with vegetables provide a delightful contrast in texture.
2. Asian Slaw: A fresh slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the fried rice.
3. Edamame Beans: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt offers a healthy, protein-packed side that’s easy to prepare.
4. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms make for an appealing and flavorful accompaniment.
5. Spicy Tofu Bites: Crispy tofu tossed in spicy sauce provides an excellent vegetarian option that pairs well with fried rice.
6. Seaweed Salad: A light and tangy seaweed salad brings an umami flavor that complements the creamy bang bang sauce nicely.
7. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds depth and warmth, making it a perfect starter before diving into fried rice.
8. Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried vegetables add crunch and flavor, enhancing your meal’s overall enjoyment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice, here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Using warm rice: Always start with cooled cooked rice. Warm rice can become mushy and clumpy during cooking.
• Overcooking chicken: Avoid overcooking the chicken, which can lead to dryness. Cook just until browned and no longer pink inside.
• Not chopping vegetables evenly: Chop mixed vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking. Uneven sizes can lead to some being undercooked while others are too soft.
• Skipping the sauce mix: Don’t skip combining the bang bang sauce ingredients before adding them. This ensures an even flavor distribution throughout the dish.
• Ignoring garnishes: Garnishes enhance presentation and flavor. Always add fresh green onions, cilantro, and lime wedges before serving for a vibrant finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best taste and quality.

Freezing Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice.

What is Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice?

Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is a spicy and creamy dish made with tender chicken, jasmine rice, and a flavorful bang bang sauce that adds a unique twist to traditional fried rice.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb depending on your preference.

How can I customize my Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice?

Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, or adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing sriracha in the sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is a deliciously spicy and creamy twist on a classic favorite. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various proteins and vegetables based on your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a go-to meal for busy weeknights!