Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice: The Ultimate Recipe You Need

Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice: Prepare to have your taste buds explode with this incredibly flavorful and satisfying dish! Forget takeout; you can create this restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen in under 30 minutes. Imagine tender, juicy chicken coated in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce, perfectly complementing fluffy fried rice loaded with colorful vegetables. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more.

While the exact origins of “Bang Bang” sauce are debated, it’s widely believed to have originated in China, with variations popping up across Asia. The name itself suggests the bold and explosive flavor profile that defines this addictive sauce. The combination of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha creates a unique balance of creamy, sweet, and spicy that’s simply irresistible.

People adore Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly delicious! The creamy, spicy sauce is a total crowd-pleaser. Second, it’s quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights. And third, it’s a complete meal in one bowl, packed with protein, carbs, and vegetables. What’s not to love? So, ditch the delivery apps and let’s get cooking!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Bang Bang Chicken:
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• For the Bang Bang Sauce:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• For the Fried Rice:
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old, for best texture)
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Bang Bang Chicken:

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. This coating is key to getting that crispy texture we all love!
2. Heat the Oil: Pour about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil into a large skillet or deep fryer. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of the coated chicken into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready.
3. Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry for about 5-7 minutes per batch, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Drain the Chicken: Remove the fried chicken from the oil using a slotted spoon and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This helps keep the chicken crispy.

Making the Bang Bang Sauce:

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, honey, and garlic powder until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the sriracha or honey to your preference. I like mine with a little extra kick!
2. Coat the Chicken: Once the fried chicken has cooled slightly, transfer it to a clean bowl. Pour the Bang Bang sauce over the chicken and toss gently to coat evenly. Make sure every piece is covered in that delicious sauce!

Preparing the Fried Rice:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
2. Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the wok and cook for another minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Cook the Eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the wok and pour the lightly beaten eggs into the empty space. Scramble the eggs until they are cooked through. Then, mix the eggs with the vegetables.
4. Add the Rice: Add the cooked rice to the wok and break it up with a spatula. Stir-fry the rice with the vegetables and eggs for about 3-5 minutes, or until the rice is heated through.
5. Add the Sauces: Pour the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil over the rice. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the sauces are evenly distributed and the rice is well coated.

Assembling the Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice:

1. Combine Chicken and Rice: Gently fold the Bang Bang chicken into the fried rice. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the chicken soggy.
2. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions and peanuts (if using). Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice:

• Use Day-Old Rice: Day-old rice is drier and holds its shape better when fried, resulting in a less mushy fried rice. If you don’t have day-old rice, you can spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for about an hour to dry it out.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
• Adjust the Spice Level: The amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce can be adjusted to your preference. If you like it spicier, add more sriracha. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of sriracha or omit it altogether.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the fried rice, such as peas, bell peppers, or bean sprouts.
• Make it Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Press the tofu to remove excess water and then cut it into cubes. Coat the tofu with the cornstarch mixture and fry until golden brown.
• Prepare Ahead: You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce and chop the vegetables ahead of time to save time when you’re ready to cook.
• Reheating: Leftover Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Variations:

• Bang Bang Shrimp Fried Rice: Substitute the chicken with shrimp. Toss the shrimp with the cornstarch mixture and fry until pink and cooked through.
• Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the fried rice for an extra kick.
• Bang Bang Chicken and Broccoli Fried Rice: Add steamed broccoli florets to the fried rice for added nutrients and flavor.
• Bang Bang Chicken Pineapple Fried Rice: Add diced pineapple to the fried rice for a sweet and tangy twist.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice as a main course for lunch or dinner.
• Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
• Serve it with egg rolls or spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
• Garnish with extra green onions, peanuts, or sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.

This Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of crispy fried chicken, flavorful Bang Bang sauce, and savory fried rice is simply irresistible. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece! I promise, you won’t be disappointed. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another fried rice recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The combination of crispy, juicy chicken coated in that signature sweet and spicy bang bang sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked rice and vibrant vegetables, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. Seriously, if you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that’s both quick and incredibly satisfying, this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is an absolute must-try.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to adjust the spice level to your liking. If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce. For those who like it extra fiery, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.

Looking for serving suggestions? This fried rice is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a side of steamed broccoli or a light cucumber salad. For a more substantial meal, consider adding a fried egg on top – the runny yolk adds a richness that complements the flavors perfectly.

And don’t be afraid to experiment with variations! Swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. Add different vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, or water chestnuts to customize it to your taste. You could even try using brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist. The possibilities are endless!

I truly believe this recipe will become a new favorite in your household. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory, and it’s so easy to make that even beginner cooks can master it. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover cooked rice and vegetables, making it a budget-friendly option as well.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Spice it up! Add more sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
* Go vegetarian! Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh.
* Add more veggies! Bell peppers, snow peas, and water chestnuts are great additions.
* Make it healthier! Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice.
* Top it off! A fried egg adds richness and flavor.
* Side dish! Serve with steamed broccoli or a cucumber salad.

I’m so excited for you to try this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice recipe! I know you’ll love it as much as I do. Once you’ve given it a go, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you thought, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll enjoy. So, get cooking, and let me know what you think! Happy cooking!