Name: Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup bang bang sauce, divided; 2 tablespoons sesame oil, divided; 4 large eggs, beaten; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 2 large carrots, diced; 1 large white onion, diced; ¼ cup green onions, diced, plus extra for garnish; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 4 cups long-grain white rice, cooked and cooled (preferably day-old); ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; ⅓ cup frozen peas

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I am absolutely thrilled to share this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe with you because it quickly became one of my all-time favorite weeknight dinners. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned chicken cubes drenched in a sweet and spicy bang bang sauce, sitting atop homemade fried rice that’s packed with vibrant veggies and fluffy scrambled eggs. Each bite delivers a delightful burst of flavor and textures that feels indulgent yet surprisingly simple to make. This dish brings an irresistible combination of comfort and excitement to the table, and I promise it’s a crowd-pleaser every time I serve it!

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

From the moment I toss that tender chicken in the bang bang sauce, I know this recipe is going to be a hit. The flavor profile perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and savory notes, creating a harmony that I find incredibly satisfying. The crispy edges of the chicken paired with the luscious creaminess of the sauce make every forkful exciting. Then, there’s the fried rice itself: fluffy, rich with butter and soy sauce, brightened by fresh lemon juice and the texture of fresh vegetables. It’s comfort food that’s far from boring.

What truly makes this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe special for me is how easy it is to prepare, despite feeling like something restaurant-quality. Using an air fryer to get the chicken beautifully golden and juicy makes the cooking process breeze by, and the fried rice comes together quickly in one pan. I love making this recipe for casual family dinners when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. But it’s also special enough to serve at parties or holiday gatherings, where guests always ask for seconds. It’s just that versatile and delicious!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of small pieces of cooked chicken in a black wok. The chicken pieces are golden brown with a slightly crispy texture, scattered mostly in the center and bottom left of the wok. A shiny metal spatula with some oil and tiny bits of seasoning rests on the right side, partially under the chicken. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe are simple but thoughtfully chosen to build the perfect layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the seasoned chicken cubes to the hearty vegetables and fluffy eggs in the fried rice, every element plays an essential role in the dish’s overall deliciousness and vibrant look.

Pro Tip ✨

Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes for quick, even cooking and great bite-sized pieces.
Vegetable oil: Helps season the chicken evenly and prevents sticking during cooking.
Paprika and garlic powder: Add warmth and subtle smokiness to the chicken seasoning.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Highlight and enhance all the other flavors perfectly.
Bang bang sauce: The star ingredient—sweet, spicy, and creamy, it makes the dish unforgettable.
Sesame oil: Provides authentic Asian flavor and a toasty aroma to the fried rice.
Large eggs: Lightly scrambled for fluffy richness that blends beautifully into the rice.
Carrots, white onion, and green onions: Add vibrant color, sweetness, and freshness.
Garlic: Adds essential depth of flavor with its fragrant punch.
Long-grain white rice: Preferably day-old to ensure perfect texture with separate grains.
Unsalted butter and fresh lemon juice: Add creaminess and brightness that balance the savory flavors.
Soy sauce: Provides umami and that slightly salty finish to the fried rice.
Frozen peas: Burst of sweetness and a pop of green make the dish visually appealing and tasty.

Directions

Step 1: Start by tossing the cubed chicken with vegetable oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F, then cook the chicken in a single layer for about 11 to 12 minutes. Flip the pieces halfway through to ensure they get beautifully golden all over. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a bowl and cover it with foil to stay warm.

Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and sprinkle with a pinch of kosher salt. Gently scramble the eggs, stirring slowly so they form soft, fluffy curds. Take care not to overcook them—they should still be a little moist because they will continue cooking when mixed back into the rice. Transfer the eggs to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Lower the heat to medium-high and add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil to the skillet. Toss in the diced carrots, white onion, and green onions. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender and the onions are translucent and fragrant. Then add the minced garlic and cook for just one more minute—it will release a wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen.

Step 4: Add the cooled, day-old rice to the skillet. Use a spatula to break up any clumps and stir it well with the vegetables. Let the rice cook for 2 to 3 minutes, occasionally stirring, so it heats through evenly and develops a slight crispiness in some spots. This step is where that lovely fried rice texture really comes alive.

Step 5: Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet along with melted butter, fresh lemon juice, soy sauce, and frozen peas. Stir everything thoroughly and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, making sure all ingredients are hot and the rice grains are perfectly coated with buttery, tangy, and savory flavors.

Step 6: Finally, toss the cooked chicken with half a cup of the bang bang sauce until every morsel is generously coated. Serve the fried rice on plates and top each portion with the sauced chicken. For a finishing touch, drizzle extra sauce if you love bold flavors, and garnish with more green onions for an inviting pop of freshness and color.

Servings and Timing

This delicious Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe serves about 4 hearty portions, making it ideal for families or small gatherings. Prep time, including chopping veggies and seasoning the chicken, takes around 15 minutes. Cooking the chicken and fried rice together will take approximately 25 minutes, so you’re looking at a total time near 40 minutes from start to finish. There is no resting time needed, so you can dig in hot and fresh, which is when it tastes absolutely best!

How to Serve This Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

A large white pan filled with fried rice mixed with small bright green peas, finely diced orange carrots, and bits of yellow scrambled egg scattered throughout; chunks of browned, shiny cooked chicken pieces sit on top and throughout the rice, which looks lightly seasoned and cooked with small bits of onions, all mixed closely together; a silver spoon rests inside the pan, partially submerged in the rice, and the pan is set on a wooden surface with a small wooden bowl of chopped green onions and a bunch of green parsley nearby; photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When it comes to serving this dish, I love to keep things vibrant and lively. Pairing it with crispy spring rolls or a light cucumber salad amplifies the textures and balances the richness of the bang bang sauce beautifully. For garnishing, extra sliced green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds an appealing finishing touch that makes every plate look irresistible. I sometimes even add a few thinly sliced red chilies if I want to kick the heat up a notch.

This recipe shines on its own as a complete meal, but for beverage pairings, I highly recommend something crisp and refreshing like a chilled Riesling or a sparkling lime soda if you’re keeping it non-alcoholic. The bright acidity in these drinks cuts through the creamy, spicy chicken sauce and complements the umami richness of the fried rice.

Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a festive weekend gathering, I always serve this meal hot and fresh right off the stove. Portion sizes are generous enough to satisfy hunger but leave room for dessert! For a beautiful presentation, I like to use shallow bowls or wide plates so you can see all the vibrant ingredients. It becomes an inviting centerpiece that everyone wants to dive into.

Variations

Over time, I’ve experimented with several variations of the Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs. For instance, swapping chicken for shrimp or tofu is an easy way to change up the protein, and it works wonderfully. If you’re avoiding gluten, just be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce and check that your bang bang sauce also meets those requirements.

If you’re looking to make it vegan, skip the eggs and chicken entirely and add a colorful medley of vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, and tofu cubes. I also recommend using a vegan mayo-based bang bang sauce or making your own for similar creamy, spicy vibes. For added flavor, you might toss in some toasted cashews or sesame seeds for crunch.

Cooking methods are also flexible. While I love using the air fryer for perfectly cooked chicken, you can pan-sear the pieces on the stove if you prefer. This method lets the chicken pick up a nice crust and requires only a few minutes longer. Overall, I encourage you to make this dish your own—it’s a fantastic canvas for creativity!

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

I always store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, which is perfect for quick lunches or busy nights when you want something comforting without extra effort. The key is sealing the container tightly to preserve the flavors and prevent the rice from drying out.

Freezing

This recipe freezes fairly well, especially the fried rice and cooked chicken separately if possible. Place leftovers in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and remove as much air as you can before sealing. Frozen portions can stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, I recommend warming the fried rice in a skillet over medium heat with a little drizzle of oil or butter, stirring frequently to revive the texture and prevent clumping. Microwave reheating works too but be sure to cover loosely and stir halfway through. The chicken is best reheated gently in a preheated oven or skillet to keep it crispy and tender—avoid microwaving it alone for extended times to prevent toughness. Adding a splash of soy sauce or a bit more bang bang sauce during reheating can enliven the flavors wonderfully.

FAQs

Can I make this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe without an air fryer?

Absolutely! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can cook the seasoned chicken in a skillet on your stovetop over medium-high heat. Just cook the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through. It’s a great alternative that still yields delicious results.

What is bang bang sauce, and where can I find it?

Bang bang sauce is a creamy, spicy sauce usually made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a bit of heat from Sriracha or similar hot sauce. It’s deliciously sweet and spicy and adds incredible flavor to dishes like this fried rice. You can find it premade in many grocery stores near the Asian or condiment aisles, or you can easily make your own at home with a few simple ingredients.

Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of day-old rice?

While you technically can, day-old rice is much better for this recipe because it’s drier and helps prevent the fried rice from becoming mushy. If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and allow it to cool and dry slightly before using it in the recipe. This small step helps achieve that perfect fried rice texture.

Is this recipe spicy, and can I adjust the heat level?

This dish has a lovely balance of sweet and spicy thanks to the bang bang sauce, but it’s generally mild to medium in heat. You can always adjust the spice level by adding more or less bang bang sauce, or by incorporating extra chili flakes or sliced fresh chilies to suit your preference.

Can I add other vegetables to the fried rice?

Definitely! This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to add bell peppers, mushrooms, snap peas, or baby corn to the fried rice to boost color and texture. Just add them at the same stage you cook the carrots and onions so they get tender and flavorful.

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited as I am to make this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe your next go-to meal. It’s bursting with bold, comforting flavors and has just the right touch of sweetness and spice that makes every bite memorable. Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or yourself, I promise this recipe will become a cherished favorite that’s both impressive and easy to prepare. So grab your ingredients and get ready for a delicious adventure—I can’t wait for you to try it!