Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice – Bold, Creamy, and Irresistibly Spicy

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick, customizable, and full of bold flavor. It uses everyday ingredients, comes together in one pan, and delivers a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory notes. It is an excellent way to upgrade classic fried rice.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breast provides lean protein and absorbs the sauce beautifully. Cutting it into small pieces ensures quick, even cooking.

Cooked rice is the foundation of the dish. Day-old rice works best because it stays fluffy and does not clump.

Vegetable oil is used for cooking the chicken and rice. It has a neutral flavor and handles high heat well.

Garlic adds aromatic depth and enhances the savory elements of the dish.

Green onions bring mild onion flavor and freshness. They are used both during cooking and as a garnish.

Frozen peas and carrots add color, sweetness, and texture without extra prep work.

Eggs create richness and classic fried rice texture. Scrambling them directly in the pan keeps the process simple.

Mayonnaise forms the creamy base of the Bang Bang sauce. It helps balance the heat and coats the rice evenly.

Sweet chili sauce adds sweetness and mild heat, giving the dish its signature Bang Bang flavor.

Sriracha provides spice and depth. The amount can be adjusted to taste.

Soy sauce adds umami and saltiness, tying all the flavors together.

Sesame oil finishes the dish with a subtle nutty aroma.

Directions

Begin by whisking together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a small bowl. Set aside.

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the garlic and white parts of the green onions until fragrant.

Add the peas and carrots, stirring briefly until heated through.

Push everything to one side of the pan and scramble the eggs on the empty side until just set.

Add the cooked rice and stir well, breaking up any clumps and allowing it to heat evenly.

Return the chicken to the pan and drizzle in soy sauce and sesame oil. Toss to combine.

Reduce the heat and stir in the Bang Bang sauce, mixing until everything is evenly coated.

Finish with the green parts of the green onions and serve immediately.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves four people.

Preparation time is about 10 minutes.
Cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Total time is around 30 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring halfway through for even warming.

Variations and Customizations

Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is highly adaptable and easy to personalize. For a spicier version, increase the sriracha or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. I tried this once for spice lovers, and it added an extra kick without overpowering the dish.

You can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Both pair exceptionally well with the creamy sauce.

For extra vegetables, bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli florets can be added for more texture and nutrition.

Brown rice or jasmine rice can be used depending on your preference. Just ensure the rice is fully cooled before cooking.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish offers a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Using lean chicken and adding more vegetables can make it a well-rounded meal. Light mayonnaise can be substituted for a lighter version.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Use Cold Rice
Cold, day-old rice prevents sogginess and improves texture.

High Heat Cooking
Cooking over medium-high heat enhances flavor and prevents steaming.

Sauce at the End
Adding the sauce last keeps it creamy and prevents separation.

FAQs

Can I use freshly cooked rice?

Yes, but spread it out to cool slightly before using.

Is Bang Bang sauce very spicy?

It is mildly spicy and easily adjustable.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but it tastes best freshly cooked.

What oil works best?

Vegetable or canola oil is ideal for high heat.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free mayonnaise.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Reduce or omit sriracha for a milder version.

Can I add pineapple?

Yes, it adds a sweet contrast to the spice.

What protein substitutes work well?

Shrimp, pork, or tofu are great options.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended for best texture.

How do I keep the rice from sticking?

Use a hot pan and enough oil while cooking.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is a bold, satisfying dish that elevates classic fried rice with creamy heat and vibrant flavor. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, it is a recipe that fits perfectly into busy schedules while still delivering big taste. Once you try it, it is sure to become a regular favorite.

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