A Spicy, Creamy, and Crispy Fusion Favorite

Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy twist. This dish brings together crispy chicken, creamy chili-laced bang bang sauce, and savory fried rice in one irresistible skillet meal. It’s the perfect marriage of Asian-inspired flavors and bold American-style heat.

Close-up of Bang Bang chicken fried rice in a dark bowl garnished with green onions and cilantro

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Unlike traditional fried rice, this version adds a rich, spicy, and slightly sweet bang bang sauce that elevates every bite. Whether you’re making dinner for two or prepping meals for the week, this dish is easy to make and hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice recipe is:

Fast – Ready in under 30 minutes with prep
Flavor-packed – Combines crispy texture, creamy sauce, and umami rice
Customizable – Adjust spice level and protein (swap chicken for shrimp or tofu)
All-in-one meal – Protein, carbs, and flavor in every bite
Meal prep friendly – Stores well and tastes even better the next day

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

A smooth cooking process starts with proper preparation. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Wok or large skillet – For high-heat stir-frying
Mixing bowls – For coating chicken and mixing sauce
Whisk – To blend the bang bang sauce smoothly
Spatula or wooden spoon – For tossing ingredients evenly
Sharp knife and cutting board – For prepping vegetables and meat
Measuring cups and spoons – To keep ingredients balanced

Importance of Each Tool

Wok or heavy skillet: Creates that authentic fried rice texture
Whisk: Ensures sauce is creamy and well-blended
Mixing bowls: Keep ingredients separated before cooking
Spatula: Prevents sticking and helps distribute flavor
Cutting board: Speeds up prep and keeps kitchen organized

Preparation Tips Before Cooking

Use cold, day-old rice: This prevents sogginess and helps achieve a crisp texture
Prep all ingredients in advance: Stir-frying moves quickly, so have everything ready to go
Make the sauce first: Letting it sit allows the flavors to develop
Cook the chicken separately: Keeps it crispy and flavorful
Avoid overcrowding the pan: Cook in batches if needed for best texture

Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
½ cup cornstarch
1 egg, beaten
Salt and black pepper to taste
Neutral oil for frying (canola or vegetable)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sriracha
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
Optional: 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (for balance)

For the Fried Rice:

3 cups day-old white rice (preferably jasmine)
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 cup frozen or fresh mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
2 green onions, sliced
Optional: crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for topping

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:

½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sriracha
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
Optional: 1 teaspoon honey or sugar for added sweetness

Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

2. Prepare and Cook the Chicken

Season cubed chicken with salt and pepper.
Dredge chicken in cornstarch until evenly coated.
Dip each piece into beaten egg.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Fry chicken until golden and crisp (about 3–4 minutes per side).
Remove and drain on paper towels or wire rack. Set aside.

3. Fry the Rice

Wipe out the skillet or wok and heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil over medium-high heat.
Add beaten eggs and scramble until just set. Push to the side.
Add vegetables and stir-fry until tender (2–3 minutes).
Stir in day-old rice and break up clumps with spatula.
Add soy sauce and toss everything together until well coated.

4. Combine and Finish

Add the crispy chicken back into the skillet.
Drizzle bang bang sauce over the top.
Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Cook for 2–3 minutes to let the sauce warm and slightly thicken.

Optional Toppings and Variations

Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds
Add crushed peanuts for crunch
Top with extra bang bang sauce or a drizzle of lime juice
Substitute shrimp or tofu for chicken
For extra spice, add red pepper flakes or chili oil

Part 2: Serving Suggestions, Mistakes to Avoid & Perfect Pairings

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is bold, satisfying, and complete on its own, but how and where you serve it can elevate the experience even more.

Best Ways to Plate and Present

Serve in warm bowls to retain heat and sauce texture
Top with fresh green onions or cilantro for color and freshness
Drizzle with extra bang bang sauce just before serving
Pair with crisp vegetables or salad to balance the heat
Add a wedge of lime on the side for acidity and brightness

Meal Occasions

Weeknight dinner – Ready in 30 minutes
Meal prep – Holds well in the fridge and reheats beautifully
Casual gatherings – Serve in a skillet or on a platter for sharing
Lunch box meals – Store in containers and add sauce just before eating

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes like this have pitfalls. Avoid these mistakes for the best results every time.

1. Using Freshly Cooked Rice

Fresh rice contains too much moisture and can turn mushy when stir-fried. Use cold, day-old rice that’s had time to dry out.

2. Skipping Sauce Adjustments

Bang bang sauce is flexible. Always taste and adjust for your spice and sweetness preference before using.

3. Not Cooking Chicken in Batches

Overcrowding the pan can steam the chicken rather than fry it. Cook in batches to get that crispy texture.

4. Overmixing the Sauce

Once the sauce is added to the skillet, avoid over-stirring. It should coat ingredients lightly without turning everything mushy.

5. Using Low Heat

High heat is essential in stir-frying to get the slight char and “wok hei” flavor. Medium or low heat can make your dish bland and heavy.

How to Get It Perfect Every Time

Achieving consistency is easy with a few extra steps.

Use the Right Rice

Choose long-grain or jasmine rice
Cook it a day ahead and refrigerate uncovered for a few hours

Fry Chicken Until Golden and Set Aside

Let the cooked chicken rest before mixing into rice
This maintains crispiness under the creamy sauce

Add Sauce at the End

Bang bang sauce should be added last to preserve its creaminess
Avoid letting it simmer too long to prevent splitting

Use Neutral Oil

Avoid strong oils like olive oil
Canola or vegetable oil provides the right smoke point without adding flavor

8 Delicious Side Dishes for Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

Pairing Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice with the right sides can balance its bold, spicy flavors and make the meal even more memorable.

1. Cucumber Sesame Salad

Crisp cucumbers tossed with sesame oil, rice vinegar, and a hint of sugar. A cool and crunchy contrast to spicy rice.

2. Egg Drop Soup

Silky, savory soup with delicate egg ribbons. A light, warming start that doesn’t overpower the main dish.

3. Steamed Edamame with Sea Salt

Simple, satisfying, and perfect for nibbling alongside bold fried rice. Adds protein and texture without extra spice.

4. Garlic Chili Noodles

If you’re feeding spice lovers, these add a second layer of heat and umami. Use thin rice noodles or lo mein.

5. Asian Slaw with Lime Vinaigrette

Shredded cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers tossed in a tangy lime dressing. Refreshes the palate with each bite.

6. Crispy Wontons or Spring Rolls

Crunchy, savory bites filled with vegetables or meat. Serve with sweet chili dipping sauce for a restaurant-style feel.

7. Mango Avocado Salad

Sweet mango and creamy avocado with lime juice and chili flakes. Cools the heat and brings in tropical balance.

8. Spicy Miso Soup

Deep umami broth with miso paste, tofu, and chili oil. Adds depth and warmth, especially on colder nights.

Each of these side dishes can complement Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice without competing with its rich, creamy profile.

Part 3: Recipe Tips, Storage, FAQs & Final Thoughts

Expert Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

A few expert techniques can take your dish from good to unforgettable. These tips ensure consistency and flavor every time.

Choose the Right Rice

Use jasmine or long-grain white rice
Day-old rice gives you the dry texture needed for proper frying
Avoid short-grain or sticky rice, which can turn clumpy

Crisp Up the Chicken

After frying, drain chicken on a wire rack to preserve crunch
If reheating leftovers, re-crisp chicken in an air fryer or skillet instead of microwave

Balance the Sauce

Add more sriracha for heat or a teaspoon of honey for sweetness
The sauce should be slightly thick, not runny
Whisk before use to maintain creaminess

Stir-Fry Smart

Cook ingredients in stages: eggs, vegetables, rice, chicken
Add sauce only at the end to avoid breaking or curdling

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Fried rice stores well and makes excellent leftovers. Follow these guidelines for optimal freshness and flavor.

How to Store

Let the rice cool completely
Transfer to an airtight container
Refrigerate for up to 4 days

How to Reheat

Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or oil to rehydrate rice
Stir over medium heat until hot throughout
For microwave: Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 60-second intervals
Avoid overheating the sauce to maintain texture

Refreshing the Sauce

If you’ve stored leftover Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice, the sauce may need a quick refresh.

How to Revive the Sauce

Whisk in a few drops of water or rice vinegar
Add a bit of fresh sriracha or mayo if needed
Stir well before drizzling over reheated rice
Optional: Add lime juice for brightness

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is bang bang sauce made of?

Typically, bang bang sauce is a blend of mayonnaise, sriracha, sweet chili sauce, and rice vinegar. It’s creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet.

Is this dish very spicy?

It’s moderately spicy. You can adjust the sriracha level to make it milder or hotter depending on your preference.

Can I use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken?

Yes. Shrimp cooks quickly and pairs well with the sauce. Tofu should be pressed and pan-fried until crispy before adding.

What’s the best rice to use?

Jasmine rice or long-grain white rice is best. Avoid fresh, hot rice — cold, day-old rice fries much better.

Can I make this dish dairy free or gluten free?

Yes.

Use dairy-free mayo for the sauce
Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce

How long does the sauce last in the fridge?

Bang bang sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice?

You can, but it’s not ideal. The sauce may separate and the rice texture changes. It’s best stored in the fridge and eaten within a few days.

Can I make this ahead for meal prep?

Absolutely. It holds up well for 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store sauce separately if possible and reheat gently.

What’s the difference between this and regular fried rice?

This version includes crispy chicken and a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce, which adds richness not found in standard fried rice.

Where did Bang Bang Chicken originate?

Bang Bang Chicken is inspired by Sichuan cuisine, where shredded chicken is topped with a spicy, nutty sauce. This Americanized version uses fried chicken and a creamy chili-based sauce.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Fusion Fried Rice

Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is a delicious, bold twist on a classic takeout favorite. It delivers everything you want in one dish: crispy chicken, creamy spicy sauce, and savory fried rice — all made in one pan and ready in under 30 minutes.

It’s easy to customize, perfect for meal prep, and guaranteed to satisfy spice lovers and comfort food fans alike.

Whether you’re hosting friends or making a quick dinner, this fusion dish belongs in your regular recipe rotation.

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