“Dinner is almost ready!” I called out, but the silence that followed made me realize my family wasn’t too excited about another round of takeout. That’s when the inspiration struck: a vibrant dish of Bang Bang Fried Rice, which I could whip up in under 30 minutes. This quick one-pan meal brings together crispy rice, tender chicken (or shrimp or tofu), and fluffy scrambled eggs, all wrapped in a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce that’s way more exciting than the usual takeout. What I love most is how customizable it is—adjust the spice levels to your family’s liking, and you have a dish that caters to everyone’s taste! Plus, it’s protein-packed, making it the perfect weeknight dinner that marries comfort food with a healthy twist. Curious how to make this tantalizing meal your own? Let’s dive in!
Why is Bang Bang Fried Rice a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable Options: Choose chicken, shrimp, or tofu to suit your protein cravings, and spice it to your liking for family-friendly appeal.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required! All ingredients come together in one skillet, making cooking and serving a breeze.
Addictive Sauce: The creamy, spicy bang bang sauce elevates your meal, transforming even the simplest ingredients into a restaurant-quality experience.
This Bang Bang Fried Rice truly embodies comfort food, while being nutritious and satisfying. Serve it with a side of cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast!
Bang Bang Fried Rice Ingredients
For the Rice
• Cooked Rice – Day-old, chilled rice is best for getting those crispy bits.
• Oil – Neutral oil like canola or vegetable is perfect for frying without overpowering flavors.
For the Protein
• Chicken Breast – Diced for quick cooking; swap with shrimp or tofu if you prefer.
For the Vegetables
• Eggs – Scrambled for added richness and protein to the dish.
• Carrots – Diced small to cook quickly and provide sweetness.
• Green Peas – Adds color and sweetness; frozen peas work beautifully here.
• Garlic – Minced to provide a deep, savory flavor.
• Green Onions – Fresh garnish for aroma and a pop of flavor.
For the Sauce
• Soy Sauce – Adds umami and a touch of saltiness to the dish; replace with tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Bang Bang Sauce – A mix of mayonnaise, Sriracha, sweet chili sauce, and rice vinegar for a creamy, spicy kick.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Fried Rice
Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar until smooth. This creamy, spicy bang bang sauce will add an addictive kick to your Bang Bang Fried Rice. Once mixed, set it aside to let the flavors meld together while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Protein
Heat a tablespoon of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and sauté for 5-6 minutes until it’s golden brown and cooked through, stirring occasionally. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate, leaving the delicious drippings behind for the next steps.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and pour in a bit more oil if needed. Add the beaten eggs and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring gently until they just set, creating fluffy scrambled eggs. Once ready, transfer the scrambled eggs to the plate with the chicken, allowing the skillet to remain hot for the veggies.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
Add a splash of oil to the skillet and toss in the diced carrots and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the carrots soften and the garlic is fragrant. Next, add the green peas and continue cooking for an additional minute. This step adds vibrant color and flavor to your Bang Bang Fried Rice.
Step 5: Crisp the Rice
Add the day-old cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Raise the heat to high and stir-fry the rice for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes crispy and slightly golden. The high heat is essential for getting that delightful texture, making your Bang Bang Fried Rice truly satisfying.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs back into the skillet with the rice and vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce, mixing everything thoroughly so that the flavors meld together. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the soy sauce to infuse the dish with umami goodness.
Step 7: Add the Bang Bang Sauce
Drizzle your prepared bang bang sauce over the rice mixture and stir to coat all the ingredients evenly. Cook for another minute or two until everything is heated through and well combined. This step really elevates your Bang Bang Fried Rice with creamy deliciousness that you won’t want to miss.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finally, garnish your beautifully colorful Bang Bang Fried Rice with sliced green onions to enhance aroma and flavor. Serve hot directly from the skillet for a comforting one-pan meal that everyone will love, making your dinner feel special and satisfying!
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice
Fridge: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve overnight, making it a delightful option for lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezer: If you want to save it for later, freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid ice crystals.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce. This method helps to revive the dish’s texture and flavor, bringing it back to life!
Bang Bang Fried Rice Variations
Feel free to customize this delightful dish to suit your cravings and dietary needs!
-
Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for a protein variation that’s equally delicious. Each option brings its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
-
Vegetarian Delight: Amp up the veggies! Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a colorful twist that packs in additional nutrients and crunch.
-
Sriracha Swap: If you prefer a milder heat, try using sweet chili sauce alone and leave out the Sriracha, creating a gentle depth of flavor without the spice kick.
-
Dairy-Free Adjustments: Use vegan mayo to make the sauce dairy-free without losing the creamy texture. It’s an easy way to cater to specific dietary needs while keeping the flavor intact!
-
Gluten-Free Goodness: Substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option, ensuring everyone can enjoy this tasty meal without worry.
-
Crispy Rice Twist: For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top just before serving. This gives a delightful texture and nutty flavor to your dish.
-
Add Some Heat: Increase the heat by adding chopped fresh chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper to the bang bang sauce, giving a fiery kick that spice lovers will appreciate!
-
Sour Kick: Blend in a splash of lime or lemon juice before serving for a zesty brightness that lifts all the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
Explore these variations to suit your family’s taste preferences, and don’t forget, you can even serve your bang bang fried rice with a refreshing cucumber salad dressed with sesame oil for a perfect contrast!
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Fried Rice
-
Use Day-Old Rice: For the best texture, always use chilled, day-old rice. Fresh rice can turn mushy, ruining your dish.
-
Cook in Batches: Sauté ingredients separately to prevent them from becoming soggy. This ensures each element of your Bang Bang Fried Rice retains its texture and flavor.
-
Customize Spice Levels: Adjust Sriracha in the bang bang sauce to cater to your family’s taste, whether they prefer it mild or fiery hot.
-
Watch the Heat: Stir-fry on high heat for the rice to achieve that crispy golden texture. Low heat may result in a soft, unappetizing outcome.
-
Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to swap the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist on your Bang Bang Fried Rice, catering to various dietary preferences.
What to Serve with Bang Bang Fried Rice
Create a memorable dining experience by pairing your Bang Bang Fried Rice with delightful sides and drinks!
-
Cucumber Salad: A chilled, tangy cucumber salad dressed with sesame oil balances the richness of fried rice beautifully. The crisp texture provides a refreshing contrast in every bite.
-
Spring Rolls: Crispy vegetable or shrimp spring rolls offer a complementary crunch and can be dipped in sweet chili sauce for a flavor-packed bite.
-
Egg Drop Soup: This warm, comforting soup pairs perfectly with fried rice, offering a silky texture and subtle flavors that enhance the overall meal experience.
-
Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Tender bok choy sautéed with garlic brings a nutritious element to your plate, adding freshness and a pop of color alongside the vibrant fried rice.
-
Sweet and Sour Pineapple: Serve these tangy pineapple chunks on the side to contrast the heat of the Bang Bang sauce. Their sweetness brings balance and a tropical touch to your meal.
-
Mango Lassi: A refreshing mango lassi lends a creamy and fruity flavor that cools the palate, harmonizing wonderfully with the spicy tones of the Bang Bang Fried Rice.
-
Dessert: Coconut Sticky Rice: Indulge in a sweet coconut sticky rice dessert topped with mango for a delightful finish, making a perfect sweet counterpart to the bold flavors of your main dish.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Bang Bang Fried Rice ahead of time is a fantastic way to streamline your cooking routine, especially during busy weeknights! You can make the bang bang sauce and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days; this allows the flavors to develop beautifully. Additionally, chop your vegetables (carrots and green onions) and store them in the fridge in sealed bags for up to 24 hours. When it’s time to cook, simply sauté the chicken, scramble the eggs, and then stir-fry the rice with your prepped veggies. With this approach, you’ll enjoy a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort—just as satisfying as takeout!
Bang Bang Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of rice should I use for Bang Bang Fried Rice?
I recommend using day-old, chilled rice for the best results. It helps achieve that crispy texture as fresh rice tends to become mushy when stir-fried. If you don’t have day-old rice, try cooking your rice ahead of time and letting it cool in the fridge for a few hours before using it.
How long can I store leftovers?
You can store leftover Bang Bang Fried Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve overnight, making it a great option for lunch or dinner later in the week!
Can I freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Absolutely! To freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or soy sauce to revive the texture.
What if my Bang Bang Fried Rice is soggy?
Soggy rice can often be the result of using fresh rice or not cooking the ingredients separately. If this happens, you can try spreading it out in a single layer on a baking sheet and placing it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to help crisp it up again. Make sure to stir gently to ensure even cooking.
Are there any dietary concerns I should consider with this recipe?
Yes! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, ensure that you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to accommodate gluten sensitivities. Additionally, if you want a dairy-free sauce, simply substitute traditional mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise. It’s a versatile recipe that can meet varying dietary needs and preferences!
Bang Bang Fried Rice: Quick, Flavor-Packed Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar in a small bowl until smooth.
- Heat a tablespoon of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken breast and sauté until golden brown for 5-6 minutes, then remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat and scramble the beaten eggs, cooking for 1-2 minutes until set. Transfer eggs to the plate with chicken.
- Add more oil and sauté diced carrots and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then add green peas and cook for another minute.
- Add the day-old cooked rice, breaking clumps, and stir-fry on high heat for about 3-4 minutes until crispy and golden.
- Combine the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs back into the skillet with the rice and vegetables. Pour in soy sauce and cook for 2 minutes.
- Drizzle the prepared bang bang sauce over the mixture, stir well and heat through for another minute.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.
Leave a Reply