Best Bang Bang Chicken And Rice Fried Rice Recipe For Busy Nights

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Easy Dinner

The Ultimate Busy Night Dinner

When your evenings are packed and time is tight, few meals are as satisfying and practical as a well-made bowl of chicken fried rice. Now imagine elevating that comfort classic with the creamy heat of bang bang sauce. This bang bang chicken and rice fried rice recipe delivers bold flavor, minimal prep, and fast results—all in one skillet.

Fried rice is already a favorite in busy households thanks to its versatility, but what sets this dish apart is its unforgettable balance of spicy, sweet, and savory notes. The bang bang twist comes from a creamy sauce made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey. It coats the crispy chicken pieces and blends seamlessly with the fluffy rice and colorful veggies.

Inspired by the bold flavors of Bang Bang Chicken, this fusion recipe bridges comfort food and takeout flavor. Not only does it offer a more exciting taste profile than your typical stir-fry, but it also leans on pantry staples you likely already have. To truly nail the texture, start with day-old rice, which ensures that the grains remain separated and don’t turn mushy—a tip that comes straight from traditional fried rice techniques.

Beyond its irresistible flavor, this recipe is a weeknight hero for its speed. The chicken cooks quickly with a simple cornstarch coating that gives it a satisfying sear, while the veggies and eggs stir-fry in minutes. One skillet, zero fuss, and a whole lot of flavor—that’s the promise of this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice.

Looking for more quick, visual meal inspiration? Check out these ideas for easy weeknight fried rice to get ahead on your dinner planning.

What Is Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken is a dish known for its irresistible combination of creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors. Originating from Sichuan cuisine in China, the name “bang bang” refers to the sound made when the chicken is traditionally pounded with a stick to tenderize it. In modern interpretations—especially in American-Chinese fusion—the dish is more commonly known for its signature bang bang sauce rather than its preparation method.

In its classic form, Bang Bang Chicken is often served cold with shredded chicken, sesame paste, and chili oil. However, the Western adaptation has taken on a warmer, creamier profile featuring battered chicken tossed in a spicy mayo-based sauce. This sauce, made from mayonnaise, sriracha, and sweet chili sauce, is what gives the dish its cult following.

The bang bang chicken fried rice in this recipe leans into that Western version, bringing together the flavors of creamy heat with the crispy, savory texture of fried rice. It transforms the dish from an appetizer or side into a full, satisfying meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights. The creamy bang bang sauce blends with the rice and vegetables, creating a luxurious texture that contrasts perfectly with the crispy chicken bits.

This adaptation retains the fiery personality of the original but reimagines it as a stir-fried rice dish. If you’re a fan of dishes like spicy chicken bowls or crave that creamy-spicy combo, this recipe will feel like a natural next step. For a deeper dive into sriracha, one of the core ingredients, you can check out its history and global influence on Wikipedia.

Visual learners might also find inspiration in these Pinterest collections showcasing various Bang Bang Chicken Recipes, each putting a unique spin on the classic sauce and technique.

Why Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Is Perfect for Busy Nights

When your schedule leaves little room for elaborate cooking, Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice comes to the rescue. It checks all the boxes for a weeknight dinner: fast, flavorful, and requires minimal cleanup. With just one skillet and a few pantry staples, you can have a hot, satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes.

One of the main reasons this recipe is perfect for busy nights is that it leverages leftover rice. Using chilled, day-old rice ensures the grains are firm and won’t clump or turn soggy when stir-fried. This makes it an excellent way to repurpose yesterday’s takeout or rice from a previous meal. It’s a method commonly used in traditional stir frying, where texture is key to the dish’s success.

This fried rice also eliminates the need for multiple cooking steps. You cook the chicken, scramble the eggs, stir-fry the veggies, and toss it all together—in a single pan. That means less time doing dishes and more time relaxing after dinner. The chicken is coated in cornstarch before searing, giving it a slightly crispy exterior that mimics the texture of takeout-style fried rice, without deep frying.

The standout element—the bang bang sauce—adds restaurant-level flavor without the hassle. It’s creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet, thanks to ingredients like mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, honey, and sriracha. You don’t need to hunt down specialty products; these are often already in your pantry. For a more in-depth look at the use of sesame oil, one of the flavor boosters in this recipe, check out its culinary background on Wikipedia.

Want to see how other home cooks prep similar meals in advance? Browse meal prep fried rice recipes to learn how to make weeknight cooking even more efficient.

Ingredient Breakdown & Substitutions

Crafting the perfect Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice starts with understanding each ingredient’s role and how to substitute smartly when needed. Whether you’re improvising with what’s in your fridge or adjusting for dietary preferences, here’s how to break it down.

Chicken

  • Primary: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are used for their lean texture and quick cooking time.

  • Substitutes:

    • Chicken thighs offer more flavor and juiciness.

    • Tofu for a vegetarian version—press it well and coat it in cornstarch for crispiness.

    • Shrimp for a seafood twist; cook quickly to avoid rubbery texture.

To replicate that golden crust, coat the protein in cornstarch, salt, and pepper before searing. This helps lock in moisture and gives it a lightly crispy finish.

Rice

  • Primary: 3 cups of cooked, chilled white rice. Day-old rice is ideal because it dries out slightly, ensuring the grains don’t clump when stir-fried.

  • Substitutes:

    • Jasmine rice for fragrance.

    • Basmati rice for a lighter texture.

    • Brown rice for a whole-grain option.

Using cold rice mimics the methods used in traditional fried rice, where texture is everything. Always avoid freshly cooked rice—it will turn gummy in the pan.

Vegetables & Add-Ons

  • Primary: Mixed frozen vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn—quick and convenient.

  • Additions:

    • Bell peppers or edamame for color and crunch.

    • Pineapple chunks for a sweet contrast.

    • Shredded cabbage for texture.

Add chopped green onions at the end for a sharp, fresh finish. For more vibrant, customizable bowl ideas, browse these spicy fried rice bowls for extra topping inspiration.

Eggs

  • Lightly beaten eggs bring richness and added protein. Scramble them in the pan before adding rice for best texture.

Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients

  • Mayonnaise: The creamy base—use full-fat for best flavor. For a lighter version, Greek yogurt can be used.

  • Sweet Chili Sauce: Provides mild heat and sweetness.

  • Sriracha: Adds heat—adjust to your spice preference. Learn more about it here.

  • Honey: Balances the spice and acidity with sweetness.

For those looking to explore different sauce profiles, this collection of homemade bang bang sauces can inspire flavorful variations using pantry staples.

Oils & Seasonings

  • Vegetable oil: Neutral cooking base.

  • Sesame oil: Adds toasty depth—just a small amount goes a long way. For more on how it enhances Asian dishes, check the Wikipedia article.

  • Soy sauce: For saltiness and umami; use low-sodium if preferred.

With these ingredients and thoughtful substitutions, this dish becomes incredibly versatile—easy to adapt based on what’s available while staying true to its bang bang fried rice identity.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions with Pro Tips

Bringing together all the bold, comforting flavors of Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is easy when you follow a clear process. This one-pan recipe focuses on building flavor and texture in layers. Below is a breakdown of the method with pro tips to help you get it just right.

A. Preparing the Chicken

  • In a bowl, toss the cubed chicken breasts with 1 tbsp cornstarch, ½ tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper.

  • Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

  • Add the chicken and sauté until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Pro Tip: The cornstarch coating helps the chicken brown better and creates a light crust, similar to what you’d find in your favorite takeout dishes. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the chicken to get a proper sear.

B. Cooking the Fried Rice

  • In the same skillet, push any remaining oil to one side and add the 2 lightly beaten eggs.

  • Scramble the eggs quickly until just set, then mix them into the empty side of the skillet.

  • Add 3 cups of cold, cooked white rice and 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables.

  • Stir-fry the mixture for 3–4 minutes until everything is heated through and evenly combined.

Pro Tip: Avoid stirring too frequently. Let the rice sit for 30 seconds at a time to get light browning and restaurant-style texture. This technique is a cornerstone of proper stir frying.

C. Making the Bang Bang Sauce

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together:

    • ½ cup mayonnaise

    • 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce

    • 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)

    • 1 tbsp honey

Pro Tip: Want to reduce calories? Swap the mayo for plain Greek yogurt—you’ll still get that creamy consistency with added protein and fewer fats.

Need more inspiration for customizing sauces? Browse through these creative homemade bang bang sauce ideas for variations that match your pantry.

D. Final Stir & Flavor Integration

  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the rice and vegetables.

  • Drizzle in 2 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp sesame oil, stirring well to combine.

  • Pour the prepared bang bang sauce over everything.

  • Stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes, ensuring every grain of rice and piece of chicken is coated evenly.

Pro Tip: Let the sauce caramelize slightly by leaving it undisturbed for a minute before the final stir. This enhances the depth of flavor and gives the dish a slightly glazed texture.

E. Garnish and Serve

  • Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top before serving.

  • Optional: Add crushed peanuts or fried shallots for a crunchy finish—popular in many Asian-inspired rice bowls.

With this process, you’ll have a spicy, creamy, and savory bang bang chicken fried rice that’s ready to impress, whether it’s a rushed weeknight or casual weekend meal.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ons

This Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice recipe is highly customizable, making it easy to suit different preferences and pantry ingredients. Here are a few simple variations and optional add-ons to enhance or change up the flavor profile.

  • Make it spicier: Add extra sriracha, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of chili oil to the bang bang sauce for more heat.

  • Add tanginess: Mix in a splash of rice vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a bright, acidic kick that balances the creaminess.

  • Boost crunch: Top with crushed peanuts, fried shallots, or even crispy wonton strips.

  • Go tropical: Stir in diced pineapple for a sweet-savory contrast that works surprisingly well with the spicy sauce.

  • Extra veggies: Add broccoli florets, zucchini slices, or even shredded cabbage to increase volume and fiber.

For visual examples of creative bowl compositions, check out these inspiring spicy fried rice bowls that showcase just how versatile this dish can be.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Tips

This dish is a meal prep superstar. Its components can be prepared in advance, making it even easier to assemble when time is limited.

  • Cook the rice ahead: Store day-old rice in the fridge for perfect texture. You can even cook a large batch and freeze it in individual portions.

  • Pre-make the sauce: Mix the bang bang sauce and refrigerate in a sealed jar for up to 5 days. Stir before using.

  • Marinate chicken (optional): Toss the cubed chicken with cornstarch, salt, and pepper and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

  • Veggie prep: Use frozen mixed vegetables, or chop and store fresh ones a day ahead to save time.

For long-term planning, check out these meal prep fried rice recipes that break down how to prep, portion, and store stir-fry meals for the week.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Leftovers store beautifully and taste just as great the next day—if not better. Here’s how to store and reheat them while preserving texture and flavor.

  • Refrigeration: Store cooled fried rice in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezing: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

  • Reheating:

    • Skillet: Reheat in a hot skillet with a teaspoon of oil for best texture.

    • Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. Add a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out.

For tips on retaining that crispy edge in your rice, review proper reheating methods in fried rice cooking techniques.

Nutrition Breakdown & Healthier Swaps

While this dish leans toward indulgent comfort food, it’s easy to adjust for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.

  • Calories per serving (estimate): 500–600, depending on portion size and ingredients used.

  • Lower-fat options:

    • Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.

    • Use lean chicken breast instead of thighs.

  • Lower sodium:

    • Opt for low-sodium soy sauce.

    • Limit added salt in the chicken marinade.

  • Add fiber: Choose brown rice and increase veggie quantity.

Curious about how ingredients like sesame oil impact nutritional value? Learn more from the sesame oil article on Wikipedia.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is satisfying on its own, but you can easily turn it into a more complete meal with a few simple sides.

  • Pair with: A crisp cucumber salad, steamed edamame, or simple miso soup.

  • Serve in: Lettuce cups for a low-carb twist or over shredded cabbage for a rice bowl vibe.

  • Top with: A fried egg, crushed peanuts, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added texture and richness.

Explore visual serving ideas and presentations through this Pinterest board on easy weeknight fried rice ideas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes can go wrong with a few small missteps. Avoid these common mistakes for perfect results every time.

  • Using freshly cooked rice: Warm rice releases steam, causing the fried rice to become mushy.

  • Overcrowding the pan: This causes ingredients to steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if needed.

  • Adding sauce too early: The bang bang sauce should be added at the end to avoid overcooking and separating.

Avoiding these errors will help you achieve that crave-worthy texture and flavor found in your favorite takeout fried rice.

FAQs – People Also Ask

Can I make bang bang chicken fried rice without mayo?
Yes! Substitute plain Greek yogurt or vegan mayo. You’ll still get a creamy texture with a tangier finish.

Is bang bang chicken spicy?
It’s mildly spicy due to the sriracha and sweet chili sauce. You can control the heat by adjusting the sriracha.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely. Just shred or cube the rotisserie chicken and add it during the final stir-fry phase.

What is bang bang sauce made of?
Typically, mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a touch of honey. It’s a balance of creamy, spicy, and sweet.

How do I keep fried rice from turning mushy?
Use cold, day-old rice, and avoid overcrowding the pan. Let the rice sit undisturbed occasionally to crisp up slightly.

For additional sauce inspiration, dive into homemade bang bang sauce ideas to try your own twist.

Print

Best Bang Bang Chicken And Rice Fried Rice Recipe For Busy Nights

This Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is the ultimate one-pan meal that brings together the heat and sweetness of bang bang sauce with the savory satisfaction of classic fried rice. Crispy chicken, creamy sauce, colorful vegetables, and perfectly stir-fried rice come together in a dish that’s bold, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes.

  • Author: Clara

Ingredients

Scale

For the chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small cubes
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the fried rice:

  • 3 cups cooked and chilled white rice
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and corn)
  • 3 green onions, chopped
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil

For the bang bang sauce:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp honey

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, toss chicken cubes with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until coated evenly.
  2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, push the chicken to one side (or remove if preferred), then pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble them until cooked.
  4. Add the cooked rice and vegetables to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for a few minutes until heated through.
  5. Drizzle in soy sauce and sesame oil, mixing to coat the rice evenly.
  6. In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey to make the bang bang sauce.
  7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour the bang bang sauce over the top. Stir well to combine everything.
  8. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Notes

  • For best results, use cold, day-old rice to ensure a non-mushy texture.

  • Adjust the sriracha level to suit your spice preference.

  • The bang bang sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for 3–5 days.

  • If using rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken, add it at the end to avoid overcooking.

  • Add more vegetables or substitute with what you have on hand—this recipe is highly flexible.

  • Top with green onions, crushed peanuts, or a fried egg for extra flavor and texture.

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