Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Welcome to a flavor-packed delight that will transport your taste buds to new heights – Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice! This recipe is a game-changer, taking leftover rice to a whole new level of deliciousness. Picture tender air-fried chicken coated in a mouthwatering Bang Bang sauce, combined with fluffy eggs, vibrant veggies, and perfectly cooked rice – a symphony of flavors in every bite.

I stumbled upon this gem while on a quest to impress my better half with a homemade meal that rivaled our favorite takeout joint. Little did I know that this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice would become a beloved tradition in our household. The irresistible combination of crispy chicken and that addictively tangy Bang Bang sauce has a way of making everyone at the table clamor for seconds.

At the heart of this recipe lies the magical Bang Bang sauce. Its creamy sweetness with a hint of heat elevates every ingredient, creating a harmony of flavors that will have even the pickiest eaters reaching for more. Whether you follow the recipe to a tee or get creative with your veggie choices, this dish is a canvas for culinary exploration. So, roll up your sleeves, get your wok ready, and let’s dive into the world of Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice!

Quick Benefits

• Flavorful Transformation: Turns leftover rice into a bursting-with-flavor meal with tender chicken, fluffy eggs, and colorful veggies.
• Flexible and Customizable: Easily adjust vegetables and protein choices to suit personal preferences or use up what’s in your fridge.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Components can be prepared in advance up to two days, allowing for quick and easy assembly when ready to serve.
• Homemade Bang Bang Sauce: The star of the dish, a creamy sweet heat that elevates the entire meal; customizable spice level when making it from scratch.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: This recipe combines tender air-fried chicken, fluffy eggs, and colorful vegetables with an addictive Bang Bang sauce, creating a burst of flavors in every bite.
• Restaurant-Quality Dish: Enjoy a high-quality meal right in your kitchen, perfect for those cozy nights in or when you want comfort food that’s better than takeout.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal planning, you can prepare components in advance, allowing for easy reheating and combining later for a quick and delicious meal.
• Versatile: Customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it adaptable to your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Homemade Bang Bang Sauce: The star of the dish, this creamy sweet heat sauce elevates the flavors and can be tailored to your preferred spice level with a homemade version.
• Leftover-Friendly: Ideal for using up leftover chicken and day-old rice, ensuring nothing goes to waste and providing a quick and tasty meal option.

Ingredients for Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Chicken Preparation

• 680 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 2.5 cm cubes
• 5 g paprika
• 240 ml Bang Bang sauce, divided
• 15 ml vegetable oil
• 6 g kosher salt
• 3 g garlic powder
• 1.5 g ground black pepper

Fried Rice Components

• 60 ml green onions, diced, plus extra for garnish
• 53 g frozen peas
• 30 ml soy sauce
• 5 g garlic, minced
• 700 g long-grain white rice, cooked and cooled
• 1 large white onion, diced
• 4 large eggs, beaten
• 30 ml sesame oil, divided
• 5 ml lemon juice
• 2 large carrots, diced
• 60 ml unsalted butter, melted
• 2.5 g kosher salt

Pro Tips for Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Pro Tip 1: To achieve the best flavor and texture, marinate the chicken in a mixture of paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and a portion of the Bang Bang sauce for at least 30 minutes before air frying. This step allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and creates juicy, flavorful chicken pieces.

Pro Tip 2: For perfectly cooked fried rice, make sure your cooked rice is completely cooled before using it in the dish. Cold rice prevents clumping and allows it to absorb the flavors of the sauce and vegetables evenly. Additionally, create a well in the center of the pan when adding the eggs to the rice mixture. This technique helps the eggs cook evenly and gives your fried rice that authentic restaurant-style texture.

Pro Tip 3: Don’t limit yourself to the specified vegetables in the recipe. Feel free to customize the vegetable mix to your liking or based on what you have on hand. Just remember to adjust the cooking time for different vegetables to ensure they are cooked to your desired level of tenderness. Experimenting with a variety of veggies can add color, texture, and nutritional value to your Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice.

How to Make Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prepare chicken

Toss chicken with vegetable oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Preheat air fryer to 200°C. Place chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 11–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and internal temperature reaches 74°C. Transfer to a bowl, cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 2: Scramble eggs

In a large skillet over high heat, heat 15 ml of sesame oil. Add beaten eggs, season with salt, and scramble gently until just set into large soft curds. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cook vegetables

Reduce heat to medium-high. Add the rest of the sesame oil to the skillet. Sauté carrots, white onion, and green onions until carrots are tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 4: Combine rice and vegetables

Combine the cooled rice with the vegetables in the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Step 5: Add final components

Combine scrambled eggs, melted butter, lemon juice, soy sauce, and frozen peas. Stir well and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until hot and fully incorporated.

Step 6: Assemble and garnish

Coat cooked chicken in 120 ml of Bang Bang sauce. Serve over fried rice, then drizzle with extra sauce and garnish with green onions.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, place the desired portion in a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil to restore moisture and prevent sticking. This method helps maintain the flavors and textures of the dish.

For longer storage, you can freeze the Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice. Place the cooled rice in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, making sure to press out any excess air before sealing. Frozen Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw the frozen dish overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it in a skillet or microwave. Freezing is a convenient option for meal prepping or saving leftovers for a future quick and delicious meal.

To preserve the freshness of the Bang Bang sauce, whether store-bought or homemade, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When ready to use the sauce, give it a quick stir to blend the flavors before drizzling it over the fried rice. The sauce may thicken slightly in the fridge, so you can add a little water or lemon juice to adjust the consistency if needed.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are looking to make a vegetarian version of this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice, you can easily swap the chicken for tofu or your favorite plant-based protein. You can also skip the Bang Bang sauce or use a vegetarian alternative to maintain the flavor profile without the meat.

Feel free to customize the vegetable mix in this fried rice recipe based on what you have available. You can add diced bell peppers, zucchini, snap peas, corn, broccoli florets, or any other vegetables you enjoy. Just be mindful of cooking times, ensuring that harder vegetables are sautéed longer while adding softer ones later in the cooking process. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your preferences and use up any veggies in your fridge.

When reheating the fried rice, using a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil can help restore moisture and prevent sticking. This method ensures that the dish maintains its texture and flavors, giving you a delicious meal even when enjoying leftovers.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, serve the Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice in individual fried rice bowls garnished with a sprinkle of diced green onions and a drizzle of extra Bang Bang sauce on top. The vibrant colors of the carrots, peas, and onions against the golden fried rice and crispy chicken create a visually appealing dish that’s perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.

To elevate the leftover Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice, consider stuffing bell peppers with the reheated rice mixture, topping them with melty cheese, and baking until bubbly and golden. The combination of the spicy Bang Bang sauce, savory chicken, and sweet bell peppers creates a flavor explosion that will impress any guest at your next gathering. Serve with a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

FAQs for Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes, leftover chicken works well. Just toss the pre-cooked chicken in warm Bang Bang sauce before serving to infuse flavor.

What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Day-old, long-grain white rice is ideal for fried rice as it prevents clumping and absorbs the sauce evenly.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Swap the chicken for tofu or your favorite plant-based protein, and skip the Bang Bang sauce or use a vegetarian alternative.

Can I customize the vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or any other vegetables you prefer for extra texture and flavor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is a versatile and satisfying dish that never fails to impress. Whether you’re looking to recreate your favorite takeout flavors at home or simply want a delicious meal that the whole family will love, this recipe is a winner. The combination of crispy chicken, fluffy eggs, and vibrant vegetables all tossed in that irresistible Bang Bang sauce creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe – switch up the vegetables, protein, or even the sauce to suit your preferences. With a little bit of prep work, you can have a homemade meal that’s even better than your local restaurant’s version. So why not give this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice a try and see for yourself just how delicious and satisfying it can be? Enjoy every flavorful bite of this delicious dish!