You know those days when you crave something comforting yet exciting? That was me the other evening, staring into my fridge, searching for inspiration. Just as I was about to settle for another boring takeout, I remembered the last box of leftovers: a fresh batch of jasmine rice and some chicken breasts, just waiting for a culinary adventure. That’s when I decided to whip up a dish that would not only satisfy my taste buds but also banish my fast-food blues—Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice!
Jump to:
- Why will you love <strong>Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice</strong>?
- <strong>Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Ingredients</strong>
- How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice
- Make Ahead Options
- What to Serve with <strong>Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice</strong>?
- <strong>Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice</strong> Variations
- Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice
- How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice
- Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
This recipe is an irresistible blend of flavors and textures, where tender chicken meets colorful bell peppers and a fiery, tangy sauce that dances on your palate. It’s quick, easy, and uses ingredients you likely have on hand. Within just 35 minutes, I transformed my humble leftovers into a vibrant meal that felt like a treat rather than a chore. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice will leave your kitchen smelling divine and your belly full. So, let’s get cooking!
Why will you love Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice?
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you need deliciousness fast!
Flavor Explosion: Each bite is packed with vibrant flavors from the Sriracha and zesty lime, making your taste buds sing.
Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever veggies you have on hand—it’s a flexible dish that allows for personal creativity.
Comfort Food Reinvented: Enjoy a comforting meal that elevates leftover ingredients into a tasty dish you’ll crave.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family or friends at your dinner table, turning any meal into a special occasion!
Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – about 1 lb, diced for juicy bites of protein.
For the Rice
• Cooked jasmine rice – 3 cups, preferably day-old for a perfect texture that absorbs the sauce.
For the Veggies
• Bell peppers – 1 cup, mixed colors for a vibrant look and fresh crunch.
• Green onions – 4, sliced thinly to add a mild, aromatic kick.
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced for a fragrant base that boosts flavor.
For the Sauce
• Low-sodium soy sauce – ¼ cup, to enhance savoriness without overwhelming saltiness.
• Sriracha sauce – 2 tbsp, adjust for your heat preference to control spice levels.
• Sesame oil – 2 tbsp, adding nutty richness to the dish.
• Brown sugar – 2 tbsp, for balancing the spice with a hint of sweetness.
• Cornstarch – 1 tbsp mixed with 2 tbsp water, used as a thickener for the sauce.
• Juice of 1 lime – for a zesty finish that elevates the dish.
For Cooking
• Vegetable oil – 2 tbsp, perfect for frying and achieving a nice sear on the chicken and veggies.
• Eggs – 2 (optional), beaten for extra protein and creaminess when scrambled into the rice mixture.
With these Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice ingredients at your fingertips, you’re ready to embark on a cooking adventure that will thrill your taste buds and brighten your dinner table!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice
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Season your diced chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. This step adds a delightful base to your chicken pieces.
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Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the bell peppers and minced garlic, and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until tender and fragrant, turning vibrant in color.
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Stir in the cooked jasmine rice, breaking up any clumps. Cook until heated through and enjoy that satisfying, slightly crispy texture forming at the bottom.
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Whisk together the soy sauce, Sriracha, brown sugar, cornstarch-water mixture, and lime juice in a bowl, mixing thoroughly until well combined. This sauce will be the heart of your dish!
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Pour the sauce over the rice mixture, followed by the seasoned chicken. Toss everything together until evenly coated, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Push ingredients to one side of the skillet and scramble the beaten eggs in the empty space until fully cooked. Then, mix everything together for a delightful, cohesive meal.
Optional: Garnish with additional green onions for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can dice the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking, ensuring it’s ready when inspiration strikes. Additionally, you can chop the bell peppers and slice the green onions a day in advance, keeping them fresh in airtight containers. The cooked jasmine rice can be prepared up to three days ahead; just refrigerate it to maintain its texture and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the chicken and veggies, add the rice and sauce, and finish with a quick scramble of eggs. This way, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice?
Elevate your mealtime experience with these delicious pairings that complement the vibrant flavors of your fried rice.
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Crispy Egg Rolls: These savory bites add a delightful crunch, perfect for dipping in sweet and sour sauce alongside your meal.
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Garlic Green Beans: The crisp tenderness of these green beans offers a fresh and flavorful contrast to the richness of the fried rice.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with a tangy dressing cools down the heat while adding a refreshing crunch to your dinner.
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Sweet-and-Sour Chicken Skewers: These honey-glazed chicken skewers bring an extra touch of sweetness and protein that pairs beautifully with your dish.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, try this classic Thai treat. The creamy coconut rice and sweet mango create a luscious, tropical finish that complements the meal beautifully.
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Sake or Asian Beer: Pair your Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice with a cold glass of sake or light Asian beer, enhancing the overall dining experience with a refreshing sip.
Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Variations
Feel free to embark on a culinary adventure and customize your Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice to suit your taste!
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Vegetarian: Swap out the chicken for extra bell peppers, tofu, or chickpeas for a hearty vegan version that’s packed with protein.
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Spicy Kick: Increase Sriracha to 3 tablespoons or add sliced jalapeños for an extra burst of heat that will delight spice lovers!
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Crispy Texture: Toss in some cashews or peanuts for a satisfying crunch. Their earthy flavor pairs wonderfully with the dish.
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Coconut Flavor: Replace vegetable oil with coconut oil and add a touch of coconut milk for a tropical twist that adds creamy richness.
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Herbaceous Freshness: Stir in fresh cilantro or basil at the end for a burst of vibrant herb flavor. It adds a delightful freshness to each bite!
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Soy-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative that still satisfies your umami cravings.
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Sweet & Sour: Add pineapple chunks to the mix for a sweet and tangy surprise that brightens the flavors beautifully.
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Colorful Veggies: Incorporate shredded carrots, snap peas, or broccoli for a rainbow of colors and nutrients that makes this dish visually stunning.
Each variation adds its own special touch, transforming this meal into a reflection of your unique taste and creativity!
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice
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Use Day-Old Rice: This helps to prevent mushiness, giving your Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice that perfect texture you’re after. Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky.
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Balance the Sauce: Taste your sauce before adding it to the rice. Adjust the Sriracha depending on your spice tolerance to ensure everyone enjoys the meal.
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Sauté Carefully: Don’t overcrowd the skillet! This allows the chicken and veggies to sauté perfectly, preventing steaming and ensuring a nice caramelization.
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Customize Veggies: Feel free to use any leftover vegetables in your fridge! Just be cautious of cooking times, as some veggies may take longer to cook than others.
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Perfect Scramble: Scramble your eggs in the skillet separately first to ensure they’re fluffy. Then, fold them gently into the rice mixture to keep them from overcooking.
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice
Fridge: Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To maintain the quality, try to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot. Add a splash of water to prevent dryness.
Avoid Overcrowding: If reheating a large batch, do it in smaller portions to ensure even warming and maintain that delightful texture!
Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of rice is best for Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice?
Day-old jasmine rice is ideal for this recipe, as it has a firmer texture that absorbs flavors without becoming mushy. Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky, which may affect the overall quality of your dish.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, ensuring that it’s heated through evenly.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice?
Absolutely! You can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if my fried rice turns out mushy?
If your fried rice becomes mushy, it might be due to using freshly cooked rice. To avoid this, ensure you are using day-old rice. If it happens, try frying it a bit longer to help evaporate excess moisture, or add a little more protein or veggies to balance the texture.
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
For those with specific dietary needs, you can easily adjust this recipe. Make it gluten-free by using tamari in place of soy sauce, or substitute chicken with tofu or your favorite protein. For those with egg allergies, simply omit the beaten eggs and stir-fry the rice directly.
How can I adjust the heat level in my Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice?
You can modify the spice level by adjusting the Sriracha sauce. Start with 1 tablespoon if you prefer a milder flavor and taste the mixture before adding more. Alternatively, you could add fresh chopped chilies for an extra kick!
Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice: A Flavor Bomb in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season your diced chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the bell peppers and minced garlic, and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until tender and fragrant.
- Stir in the cooked jasmine rice, breaking up any clumps. Cook until heated through.
- Whisk together the soy sauce, Sriracha, brown sugar, cornstarch-water mixture, and lime juice in a bowl until well combined.
- Pour the sauce over the rice mixture, followed by the seasoned chicken. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Push ingredients to one side of the skillet and scramble the beaten eggs in the empty space until fully cooked, then mix together.
