Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is the ultimate comfort food with a twist. The juicy, crispy chicken is coated in a rich, spicy, and creamy Bang Bang sauce that adds a burst of flavor to every bite. Paired with perfectly cooked fried rice, vegetables, and a hint of soy sauce and lemon, this dish offers a balanced combination of savory, tangy, and just a little bit of heat. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and a great way to enjoy takeout-style fried rice at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup Bang Bang sauce, divided

Fried Rice:

• 2 tablespoons sesame oil, divided
• 4 large eggs, beaten
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 large carrots, diced
• 1 large white onion, diced
• ¼ cup green onions, diced, plus more for garnish
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 4 cups long-grain white rice, cooked and cooled
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• ⅓ cup frozen peas

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken cubes with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Coat the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, pour ¾ cup of the Bang Bang sauce over the chicken and stir to coat evenly. Set the chicken aside, allowing the sauce to set.
3. Make the Fried Rice: In the same skillet or wok, add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Add the beaten eggs and cook them, stirring occasionally, until scrambled and just set. Remove the eggs from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of sesame oil. Add the diced carrots, onion, and green onions, and sauté for 4-5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
5. Combine the Rice: Add the cooled rice to the skillet with the vegetables and stir to combine. Break up any clumps of rice and allow it to cook for 3-4 minutes, letting the rice get slightly crispy at the bottom.
6. Finish the Fried Rice: Add the scrambled eggs back into the skillet with the rice. Pour the melted butter, soy sauce, and lemon juice over the rice, stirring to combine. Add the frozen peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
7. Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken to the rice mixture and stir until everything is evenly combined and heated through. Pour the remaining ¼ cup of Bang Bang sauce over the entire dish and give it a final stir.
8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice with extra diced green onions and serve hot. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4-6 people.
• Total Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version of this dish.
• Spicy Kick: Add extra chili paste or red pepper flakes to the rice if you want more heat.
• Other Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas, to make this dish even more colorful and nutritious.
• Rice Variations: Use brown rice or cauliflower rice if you prefer a healthier or low-carb alternative to white rice.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the rice in a skillet over medium heat with a small splash of water or oil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for 5-7 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

2. Can I make this fried rice with leftover rice?

Yes! In fact, leftover rice works best for fried rice because it’s less sticky and fries up more easily. Just be sure to refrigerate the rice before using it.

3. Can I use store-bought Bang Bang sauce?

Absolutely! If you don’t want to make your own Bang Bang sauce, store-bought versions are available, and they will work perfectly in this recipe.

4. Can I add more protein to this dish?

Yes, you can add shrimp, beef,  for a different protein. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for different meats.

5. How can I make this dish less spicy?

If you prefer a milder version, use less Bang Bang sauce or opt for a milder sauce. You can also omit any extra chili flakes or spicy ingredients.

6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can make the chicken and rice components ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Reheat and combine them when you’re ready to serve.

7. What type of rice should I use?

Long-grain white rice is ideal for fried rice, but you can substitute with jasmine rice, basmati, or even brown rice depending on your preference.

8. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables like peas, carrots, or mixed vegetables. Just be sure to thaw them before adding to the dish.

9. Can I make this dish in advance and freeze it?

This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the rice and chicken separately. When ready to eat, reheat the chicken and rice mixture and then combine.

10. How do I keep the rice from being too sticky?

Make sure to use cooled rice that has been refrigerated. Fresh rice tends to be sticky, while cold rice works better for frying and keeps the grains separate.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is the perfect combination of bold flavors and satisfying textures. With juicy chicken coated in creamy, spicy sauce, crispy rice, sautéed vegetables, and a savory finish, this dish is a hit for any meal. It’s easy to prepare, customizable to your liking, and packed with deliciousness in every bite. Enjoy this flavorful fried rice as a quick dinner or a fun weeknight treat!

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