Description: A vibrant and flavorful twist on classic fried rice, this recipe combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and fluffy rice, all coated in a creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang sauce. This dish is quick, easy to make, and perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
- 1/2 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red or green)
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup frozen peas
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional garnish: chopped cilantro, extra green onions
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey until well combined. Taste and adjust the amount of sriracha to your preferred level of spiciness. Set the sauce aside. This sauce is the heart of the dish, so ensure the flavors are balanced to your liking. If you prefer a tangier sauce, you can add a few drops of rice vinegar or lemon juice. For a richer flavor, consider using Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, season generously with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Make sure the chicken is cooked evenly to avoid any raw spots. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking the chicken, as this can lower the temperature of the pan and cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic, diced bell peppers, and carrots. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still retain a bit of crunch. Don’t overcook the vegetables; they should remain vibrant and colorful. If you’re using other vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms, add them at this stage as well. Stir the vegetables frequently to prevent them from burning.
Step 4: Scramble the Eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet, creating an empty space. Pour in the lightly beaten eggs and scramble until just set. You want the eggs to be cooked but still slightly moist. Avoid overcooking them, as they will become dry and rubbery. Once the eggs are cooked, break them into smaller pieces with your spatula.
Step 5: Combine and Fry the Rice: Add the cooked jasmine rice and frozen peas to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for 2–3 minutes, breaking up any clumps of rice. Day-old rice works best for fried rice because it’s drier and less likely to clump together. If your rice is freshly cooked, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool for a bit before adding it to the skillet. Ensure the rice is evenly distributed and coated with the oil and vegetable juices.
Step 6: Incorporate the Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well with the rice and vegetables. Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the fried rice and toss until everything is evenly coated and heated through. Ensure that the sauce is distributed evenly to coat every grain of rice and piece of chicken. Cook for another minute or two until everything is heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
Step 7: Season and Garnish: Taste the fried rice and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro and extra green onions if desired. These fresh garnishes add a pop of color and a burst of flavor.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is a winning combination of flavors and textures. The sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce is incredibly addictive, coating every grain of rice and piece of chicken with a delicious glaze. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights, and it’s a great way to use up leftover rice and vegetables. The recipe is also versatile – you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or protein. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s an upgrade from regular fried rice, offering a unique and satisfying culinary experience.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: 5/5 (Very Easy)
- Flavor Complexity: 4/5 (Delicious and nuanced)
- Ingredient Accessibility: 5/5 (Easily available ingredients)
- Overall Appeal: 5/5 (Highly Recommended)
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main course.
- Pair with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad.
- Garnish with sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
- Serve with egg rolls or spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
- Enjoy it as a quick and easy lunch.
Tips:
- Use day-old rice for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too sticky.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Prepare the Bang Bang sauce in advance for a quicker cooking process.
- Add other vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or snap peas for added nutrition and flavor.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute tofu or tempeh for the chicken.
- If you don’t have sweet chili sauce, you can use a combination of honey and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion:
This Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful meal. The combination of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, fluffy rice, and that irresistible Bang Bang sauce is simply divine. It’s a versatile recipe that you can easily customize to your liking, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. From busy weeknights to casual gatherings, this dish is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable fried rice experience! It’s time to elevate your fried rice game with this sweet, spicy, and seriously addictive recipe!
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, absolutely! You can easily substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Make sure to press the tofu to remove excess water before cooking. You can also add more vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or zucchini for added substance.
Q2: Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
A: Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will change the texture and flavor of the dish. Brown rice is chewier and has a nuttier flavor than jasmine rice. You may need to add a bit more liquid to the skillet to prevent the rice from drying out.
Q3: How can I make the Bang Bang sauce less spicy?
A: To reduce the spiciness of the Bang Bang sauce, start with a smaller amount of sriracha and taste as you go. You can also add a little extra honey or mayonnaise to balance the heat. Alternatively, you can omit the sriracha altogether for a completely mild sauce.
Q4: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A: While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare some components of the dish in advance. The Bang Bang sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also cook the chicken and chop the vegetables in advance. However, it’s best to cook the rice and assemble the dish just before serving.
Q5: What other toppings can I add to this fried rice?
A: The possibilities are endless! Some other delicious toppings include sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, crispy fried onions, a fried egg, kimchi, or a drizzle of sesame oil. Feel free to get creative and experiment with your favorite toppings.
