Description: Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is a delectable fusion of classic comfort food and bold, savory flavors. This recipe elevates the traditional fried rice dish by incorporating succulent, air-fried chicken tossed in a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce. The result is a symphony of textures and tastes – tender chicken, fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and a luscious sauce that will leave you craving more. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing weekend meal, this recipe is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. It’s a dish that combines the familiar comfort of fried rice with an exciting twist, making it a guaranteed hit for both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup Bang Bang sauce, divided
For the Fried Rice:
- 2 tbsp sesame oil, divided
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 1 large white onion, diced
- ¼ cup green onions, diced (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- 4 cups long-grain white rice, cooked and cooled
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- ⅓ cup frozen peas
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and quickly in the air fryer. In a large bowl, toss the cubed chicken with vegetable oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Ensure that each piece of chicken is well-coated with the spices. This seasoning blend gives the chicken a flavorful foundation that complements the Bang Bang sauce beautifully.
Step 2: Air Fry the Chicken
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the seasoned chicken cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can prevent the chicken from cooking evenly. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches. Air fry the chicken for 11–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked for food safety. Once cooked, set the chicken aside and cover it to keep it warm while you prepare the fried rice.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and sprinkle with kosher salt. Scramble the eggs gently, stirring occasionally, until they form soft curds. Avoid overcooking the eggs; they should be slightly moist and tender. Once scrambled, transfer the eggs to a plate and set them aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
Reduce the heat in the skillet to medium-high. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Add the diced carrots, diced white onion, and diced green onions to the skillet. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and the onions are translucent. Stir frequently to prevent the vegetables from burning. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Step 5: Fry the Rice
Add the cooked and cooled long-grain white rice to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Use a spatula to break up the rice and stir it into the vegetables, ensuring that the rice is evenly distributed. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated through. This step allows the rice to absorb the flavors of the vegetables and sesame oil.
Step 6: Finish the Fried Rice
Stir the scrambled eggs, melted unsalted butter, lemon juice, soy sauce, and frozen peas into the rice mixture. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring continuously, until the rice is hot and evenly coated with the ingredients. The melted butter adds richness, the lemon juice provides a touch of acidity, and the soy sauce enhances the savory flavor of the dish. The frozen peas add a pop of color and freshness.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
In a separate bowl, toss the cooked air-fried chicken with ½ cup of the Bang Bang sauce. Ensure that each piece of chicken is well-coated with the sauce. Serve the fried rice topped with the sauced chicken. Drizzle the remaining Bang Bang sauce over the top of the dish, if desired, for an extra burst of flavor. Garnish with additional diced green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice recipe is a delightful culinary adventure that offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. You’ll love this recipe because it’s:
- Flavorful and Exciting: The creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce combined with the savory fried rice creates a taste sensation that is both comforting and exciting.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
- Versatile: Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables, proteins, or spices to suit your preferences.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Both kids and adults will enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and the satisfying nature of this dish.
- Healthy(ish): Air frying the chicken reduces the amount of oil used, making it a slightly healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a complete meal on its own.
- Pair with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a balanced meal.
- Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Serve with a side of spring rolls or egg rolls for a more elaborate Asian-inspired feast.
- Garnish with a wedge of lime for a burst of citrus flavor.
Tips:
- Cool the Rice: Using cooled rice is crucial for achieving the perfect fried rice texture. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too sticky and can result in mushy fried rice.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook the chicken in batches to ensure it cooks evenly and gets a nice, golden-brown crust.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, use less Bang Bang sauce or mix it with a bit of mayonnaise to tone down the heat.
- Prep Your Ingredients: Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.
- Use a Wok (If You Have One): A wok is ideal for making fried rice because its curved shape and thin metal allow for quick and even cooking.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
25 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 600-700 calories per serving
- Protein: Approximately 35-45 grams per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 800-1000 mg per serving
Conclusion
Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With its combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce, this recipe offers a delightful culinary experience that is both easy to make and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing weekend meal, this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is the perfect choice. Enjoy the delicious fusion of flavors and the satisfying textures that make this dish a true culinary masterpiece.
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
- Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe? Answer: While long-grain white rice is recommended for its texture and ability to hold its shape, you can experiment with other types of rice such as brown rice or jasmine rice. Keep in mind that the cooking time and liquid ratios may need to be adjusted depending on the type of rice you choose. Brown rice, for example, will require a longer cooking time and more liquid than white rice.
- Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian? Answer: Yes, absolutely! To make this recipe vegetarian, you can substitute the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or a variety of vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly and ensure that the tofu or tempeh is well-seasoned to complement the flavors of the Bang Bang sauce and fried rice.
- How can I adjust the spice level of the Bang Bang sauce? Answer: The spice level of the Bang Bang sauce can be easily adjusted to suit your preferences. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of chili garlic sauce or sriracha in the sauce. Alternatively, you can mix the Bang Bang sauce with a bit of mayonnaise to tone down the heat. For those who enjoy a spicier kick, you can add extra chili garlic sauce, sriracha, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance? Answer: While it’s best to serve this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice fresh, you can prepare some of the components in advance to save time. For example, you can cook the rice ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. You can also chop the vegetables and prepare the Bang Bang sauce in advance. However, it’s recommended to cook the chicken and assemble the dish just before serving to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- What are some other variations or additions I can try with this recipe? Answer: The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice recipe! You can add different types of protein such as shrimp, pork, or beef. You can also experiment with various vegetables such as snap peas, water chestnuts, or bamboo shoots. For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. You can also garnish the dish with chopped cilantro, crushed peanuts, or a drizzle of sweet chili sauce for added flair.
