Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, bold flavors, and colorful vegetables in a satisfying fried rice base. It’s the perfect solution for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste. With its spicy kick and numerous savory ingredients, this dish can be customized to suit your preferences and is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of the tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and the spicy sauce comes together to create a meal that is both comforting and exciting to the palate. You’ll find that making this dish is not only straightforward but also an enjoyable cooking experience that can be shared with family and friends. This recipe is not just about filling your stomach; it’s about enjoying the rich flavors and the joy of cooking.

Ingredients

• For the chicken:
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
• For the fried rice:
  • 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old for the best texture; this helps avoid mushiness during frying)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced finely for even cooking
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers, or your choice; feel free to use frozen for convenience)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• For the sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste for spiciness; add more for extra heat)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• For garnishing:
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for a fresh, crunchy garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (adds a nutty flavor and texture)

Steps / Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce and cornstarch. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes, which helps to tenderize the chicken and adds flavor. This step is essential for ensuring that the chicken absorbs the soy sauce’s umami and the cornstarch forms a protective coating, resulting in a juicy texture when cooked. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful your chicken will become.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Adjust the sriracha depending on your spice preference and set it aside. This sauce not only adds flavor to the fried rice but also brings a delightful sweetness that balances the heat from the sriracha. Keep tasting and adjusting the ingredients until it meets your desired flavor profile.
3. Cook the chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. It’s important to ensure the chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside, allowing it to rest for a few moments to retain its juices. This resting period helps to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
4. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic and diced onion for about 2 minutes or until fragrant and translucent. The aroma of garlic will fill the kitchen, providing a warm and inviting scent that enhances the dish’s overall flavor. Stirring continuously prevents the garlic from burning, which can create a bitter taste.
5. Add the mixed vegetables: Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until they are tender yet crisp. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and help the vegetables retain their vibrant colors and nutrients. Fresh or frozen vegetables can be used—just ensure to adjust cooking times accordingly. The vibrant colors of the veggies not only make the dish visually appealing but also add various nutrients.
6. Incorporate the rice: Add the cooked jasmine rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is evenly mixed with the vegetables. The rice should be heated through, and the grains should remain separate; this is where using day-old rice shines, as it has a firmer texture that holds up well in stir-frying. Tossing the rice well can enhance the overall flavor distribution.
7. Scramble the eggs: Push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble them until fully cooked, then mix them into the rice. Scrambling the eggs separately ensures they are fluffy and well-cooked before integrating them into the rice. This method not only prevents the eggs from overcooking but also allows for better incorporation into the rice.
8. Add the chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, pour the sauce over the mixture, and stir everything until well combined. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through, and the sauce coats the rice generously, giving it a glossy finish. The heat will activate the flavors in the sauce, making every bite deliciously rich.
9. Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice! The garnishes add a fresh crunch and visual appeal, making the dish even more inviting. Pair this dish with a refreshing drink, like iced tea, to balance the spiciness.

Tips & Tricks

To achieve the best results with your Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice, consider these helpful tips: You can learn more about this topic.

• Use day-old rice: For optimal texture, use rice that has been cooked and chilled. This helps to prevent the rice from becoming mushy. Day-old rice has less moisture, making it ideal for frying and achieving that perfect fried rice consistency. If you don’t have leftover rice, cook rice and spread it out on a baking sheet to cool quickly.
• Prep in advance: Chop all vegetables and marinate the chicken ahead of time to make the cooking process smoother and quicker. Prepping in advance allows you to focus on cooking without interruptions, ensuring a more enjoyable cooking experience.
• Store leftovers: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results. The flavors will deepen, making the leftovers just as delicious as the freshly made dish. You can also freeze leftovers for later use—just ensure to thaw completely before reheating.
• Make it your own: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables or protein options such as shrimp or tofu. Customization allows you to tailor the dish to your liking and dietary needs. This dish is versatile enough to accommodate seasonal vegetables, enhancing its appeal year-round.
• Avoid overcooking: Keep an eye on the chicken and vegetables to prevent them from overcooking, which can lead to toughness. Proper timing ensures all ingredients stay tender and appealing, leading to a more enjoyable eating experience.

Variations

Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is versatile and can be tailored to fit various dietary preferences: Check out our related guide for more tips.

• Vegan option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, using plant-based sauces. This allows for a delicious vegan-friendly meal that retains the original flavor profile. Ensure to marinate the tofu in the same sauce for depth of flavor.
• Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free. Ensure that all other ingredients also comply with gluten-free standards for a safe and enjoyable meal.
• Spice it up: Add more sriracha or fresh chili peppers for an extra kick. This can appeal to spice lovers who enjoy a more intense flavor experience, making each bite exciting and full of zest.

Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

★★★★★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dinner Cuisine: American Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

4

⏱️

Prep Time

15 min

🍳

Cook Time

20 min

🔥

Calories

500 kcal

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A delightful dish that combines tender chicken, bold flavors, and colorful vegetables in a satisfying fried rice base. It's the perfect solution for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn't compromise on taste.

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Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
• 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers, or your choice)
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Directions

1.

Marinate the chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce and cornstarch. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes.

2.

Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil.

3.

Cook the chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.

4.

Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic and diced onion for about 2 minutes.

5.

Add the mixed vegetables: Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.

6.

Incorporate the rice: Add the cooked jasmine rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps and stir everything together.

7.

Scramble the eggs: Push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet, and scramble the beaten eggs on the other side.

8.

Add the chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, pour the sauce over the mixture, and stir until well combined.

9.

Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.

Nutrition Facts