If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances crispy, spicy, and comforting flavors, this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is an absolute must-try. Packed with tender, golden-fried chicken coated in a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce and tossed with fragrant, savory fried rice, it’s a delightful meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. The vibrant mix of textures and bold flavors will have you coming back for seconds and impressing friends and family alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the list intimidate you—these ingredients are simple and each plays an essential role in making this dish sing. Fresh aromatics like garlic, shallot, and ginger build a fragrant base, while the sesame oil and soy sauce give the rice a deep, savory richness. Meanwhile, the Bang Bang sauce ingredients bring that signature kick and creaminess that makes this fried rice unforgettable.
- Cooked white rice (1 ½ cups): Day-old rice is perfect for stir-frying because it’s drier and less sticky, ensuring a perfect texture.
- Shallot, chopped (1): Adds a subtle sweetness and a milder onion flavor that gently enhances the dish.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Essential aromatic that infuses the fried rice with robust flavor.
- Fresh ginger, minced (1 tsp): Brings a warm, peppery brightness that balances the heat.
- Red pepper flakes (1 tsp): For a subtle kick that builds up the heat beautifully without overpowering.
- Frozen peas and carrots (¾ cup): These add color, crunch, and a hint of sweetness to the rice.
- Sesame oil (2 tsp): Imparts a toasted, nutty aroma that makes the rice irresistible.
- Soy sauce (4 tbsp): The depth of umami here elevates every bite with salty, savory goodness.
- Eggs (2): Scrambled into the rice, they add richness and a fluffy texture.
- Mayonnaise (½ cup): The creamy base of the Bang Bang sauce that gives it lusciousness.
- Garlic chili paste (2 tbsp): Adds a spicy, garlicky punch that makes the sauce memorable.
- Spicy honey (2 tbsp): A sweet heat that balances and rounds out the sauce flavors.
- Sriracha (2 tbsp): Brings an extra layer of fiery heat with a touch of smokiness.
- Salt (1 tsp): Enhances the flavors across the dish.
- Black pepper (1 tsp): Adds subtle warmth and depth.
- Chicken breasts, diced (2): Tender protein coated and fried to crispy perfection.
- Flour (¼ cup) & Cornstarch (¼ cup): The secret to that perfectly crisp chicken coating.
- Water (¼ cup): Helps bind the chicken coating to achieve the right stickiness.
- Frying oil (½ cup): Needed to get that golden, crisp crust on the chicken.
- Green onions, chopped: Fresh garnish that brightens the final plate.
- Extra sriracha or spicy honey: Optional drizzles for added heat and sweetness at serving.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Coat and Fry the Chicken
Start by mixing the diced chicken with flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and water in a bowl until the coating is slightly sticky. This mixture locks in moisture and creates an irresistible crunchy crust when fried. Heat the frying oil in a wok or deep pan over medium heat, then add the chicken pieces. Fry them for 10 to 12 minutes, turning regularly until every piece is gloriously golden and crisp. Once done, drain on a paper towel-lined plate to keep that perfect crunch.
Step 2: Prepare the Fried Rice Base
Using the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and toss in the chopped shallot, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds to a minute until they smell incredibly fragrant and soft. This aromatic trio forms the flavor base that will make your rice irresistible. Then, throw in the peas and carrots and stir everything together until evenly combined and heated.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Rice and Eggs
Now, add your day-old cooked rice to the pan. Breaking apart any clumps with your spatula is key to ensuring the rice fries evenly and doesn’t stick together. Pour in the sesame oil and soy sauce, folding them into the rice so every grain is infused with that savory essence. Push the rice aside in the pan and crack the eggs into the empty spot, scrambling them quickly until just cooked. Mix the fluffy eggs right back into the rice, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
Step 4: Make and Toss the Bang Bang Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, garlic chili paste, spicy honey, sriracha, salt, and black pepper until velvety smooth. This creamy, spicy sauce is where the “Bang Bang” magic happens—it’s both fiery and sweet. Toss your crispy fried chicken pieces in this sauce, making sure each chunk is luxuriously coated.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Plate the fragrant fried rice and heap the Bang Bang-coated chicken on top. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness. For those who love an extra kick, drizzle with a bit more sriracha or spicy honey. Serve immediately while everything is piping hot and enjoy the explosion of flavors and textures in every bite.
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like chopped green onions not only provides a lovely contrast of color but also introduces a sharp, fresh bite that balances the rich sauce and fried chicken. For an extra layer of flavor and heat, a drizzle of sriracha or spicy honey is perfect to personalize each serving.
Side Dishes
This Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides such as a crisp cucumber salad or steamed bok choy to add a refreshing crunch and coolness. Light Asian-inspired vegetable dishes or even an egg drop soup complement this meal wonderfully without taking the spotlight away from the star dish.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or simply elevate your mealtime, try serving the Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice in a pineapple bowl or a vibrant lettuce wrap. Another fun idea is to sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for a nutty crunch or add a fried egg sunny-side up, letting the yolk act as a rich sauce for your plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice keeps very well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen when it rests, making your next meal just as delicious as the first.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, let the fried rice cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Keep the Bang Bang chicken separate if possible, to maintain the best texture on reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in a skillet over medium heat for best results, stirring occasionally to warm through evenly. Adding a splash of soy sauce or a drizzle of sesame oil while reheating can help revive those fresh flavors. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the chicken crispy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?
Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and sticky for frying, which can make the dish mushy. Day-old rice is drier and perfect for achieving that classic fried rice texture. If you only have fresh rice, try spreading it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry for 30 minutes before using.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap the chicken for crispy tofu or tempeh, using the same coating and frying method. The Bang Bang sauce is naturally vegetarian, so it works beautifully on plant-based proteins.
How spicy is this recipe?
The heat level is moderate with a nice balance of sweet and spice thanks to the spicy honey and sriracha. You can easily adjust the red pepper flakes, sriracha amount, or spicy honey to make it milder or hotter according to your taste preferences.
Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Whisk it again before use to bring it back to a smooth consistency.
What type of oil is best for frying the chicken?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils allow the chicken to fry up crispy without burning the coating or imparting unwanted flavors.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that brings excitement, comfort, and incredible flavor to your table, you simply have to try this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe. It’s a fantastic weeknight dinner that feels special enough to share with loved ones, and so rewarding to make from scratch. Once you try it, I’m sure it will become one of your new favorite go-to meals!
Print
Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
This Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines crispy, spicy fried chicken pieces coated in a creamy, tangy sauce with savory stir-fried rice loaded with vegetables and scrambled eggs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe features crispy fried chicken tossed in a bold bang bang sauce served atop fragrant soy and sesame-infused fried rice.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- ¼ cup flour
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup water (add 1 tbsp at a time if needed)
- ½ cup frying oil
Fried Rice
- 1 ½ cups cooked white rice, preferably day-old
- 1 shallot, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- ¾ cup frozen peas and carrots
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 4 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 eggs
Bang Bang Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp garlic chili paste
- 2 tbsp spicy honey
- 2 tbsp sriracha
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Garnish
- Green onions, chopped
- Extra sriracha or spicy honey drizzle (optional)
Instructions
- Coat and Fry the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the diced chicken, flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and water, mixing until the coating is slightly sticky. Heat ½ cup frying oil in a wok or deep pan over medium heat. Fry the chicken for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Prepare the Fried Rice Base: Using the same pan, add more oil if necessary. Sauté the chopped shallot, minced garlic, and fresh ginger for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant and softened. Add the frozen peas and carrots and stir well to combine, cooking until they are heated through.
- Stir-Fry the Rice and Eggs: Add the day-old cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Pour in the sesame oil and soy sauce, stirring thoroughly to coat all the rice evenly. Push the rice mixture to one side of the pan, crack in the 2 eggs on the cleared side, and scramble them until fully cooked. Then mix the scrambled eggs into the rice evenly.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce and Toss Chicken: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, garlic chili paste, spicy honey, sriracha, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. Toss the crispy fried chicken pieces in this sauce, coating them fully to ensure each piece is flavorful.
- Assemble and Serve: Plate the prepared fried rice and generously top it with the Bang Bang Chicken. Garnish with chopped green onions and an optional drizzle of extra sriracha or spicy honey for added heat and flavor. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your spicy, comforting meal.
Notes
- Using day-old rice helps prevent the fried rice from becoming mushy.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes, sriracha, and spicy honey according to taste.
- The chicken coating mixture consistency should be slightly sticky to ensure a crispy crust when fried.
- Use a wok or a deep, heavy skillet for optimal frying and stir-frying results.
- Adjust seasoning as needed after assembling to suit your flavor preference.
