Ultimate Bang Bang Fried Rice Recipe You’ll Love

Crispy, savory, and bursting with flavor, this Bang Bang Fried Rice is a weeknight champion. The secret lies in the harmonious blend of textures – tender rice, crisp vegetables, and succulent chicken – all coated in a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce that’s both comforting and exciting. The slight char on the rice, achieved through stir-frying at high heat, creates a delightful contrast to the cool creaminess of the sauce.

This recipe works so well because it’s a flavor bomb, balancing sweetness from the sweet chili sauce, heat from the sriracha, and umami from the soy sauce. The freshness of the vegetables brightens the dish, while the sesame oil adds a nutty depth. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner, this Bang Bang Fried Rice is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Why you’ll love this Spicy and Savory Bang Bang Fried Rice

• Ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• The creamy, spicy, and savory bang bang sauce is incredibly addictive.
• Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or protein.
• A delicious way to use leftover cooked rice.
• This recipe for bang bang fried rice offers a great balance of flavors and textures in every bite.
• A budget-friendly meal that’s packed with flavor.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• 2 cups cooked and cooled white rice (day-old rice works best)
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup frozen corn
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (or more, to taste)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Bang bang fried rice makes every moment feel comforting. Chef’s Tip: For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef.

How to make Spicy and Savory Bang Bang Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. This is your bang bang sauce. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced red and green bell peppers, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the peppers are slightly softened.

Step 4: Add Frozen Vegetables

Add the frozen peas and corn to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Rice

Add the cooked rice to the skillet and break it up with a spatula. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Pour the bang bang sauce over the rice mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce is heated through and coats the rice evenly. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds (if using). Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious bang bang fried rice.

Chef’s Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if needed to ensure the rice gets properly stir-fried.

Tips for Success

• Use day-old rice for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too sticky.
• Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of sriracha to your liking.
• Make sure your wok or skillet is hot before adding the rice to get that slightly crispy texture.
• Prepare all your ingredients before you start cooking, as the stir-frying process is quick.

Serving Suggestions

This Bang Bang Fried Rice is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a light salad or some steamed broccoli. You can also add a fried egg on top for extra richness. Consider serving it with a refreshing drink like iced tea or sparkling water. For another flavor-packed meal, check out this creamy coconut curry soup recipe.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to prevent the rice from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this fried rice?

While you can freeze it, the texture of the rice may change slightly. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making it.

Is this dish very spicy?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted by controlling the amount of sriracha you add to the sauce. Start with a smaller amount and add more to taste.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. However, keep in mind that brown rice may require slightly longer cooking time and may have a chewier texture.

This Spicy and Savory Bang Bang Fried Rice is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. The creamy, spicy sauce combined with the savory rice and fresh vegetables creates a truly unforgettable dish. Try it tonight and let us know what you think in the comments below! If you are looking for another delicious recipe, then check out this key lime pound cake recipe.