Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

This Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is everything you want in a comforting, flavor-packed meal—crispy golden chicken bites, fluffy scrambled eggs, tender veggies, and rice tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet bang bang sauce that’s utterly addictive. It’s the kind of dish that tastes like it came from your favorite takeout spot but is surprisingly easy to make at home.

I first made this recipe on a chilly Friday night, craving something cozy but with a kick—and wow, it delivered. The air-fried chicken comes out perfectly crispy without the mess of deep frying, and when it's coated in that bang bang sauce? Let’s just say there weren’t any leftovers.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, feeding a hungry family, or just treating yourself, this recipe checks every box. It’s quick, versatile, and deeply satisfying. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it just as much as I do.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy, Saucy Chicken That Steals the Show

The chicken is seasoned with a simple blend of spices, tossed in a little oil, and then air-fried until golden on the outside and juicy on the inside. No heavy batter, no deep frying—just perfectly crisp pieces that soak up every drop of that luscious bang bang sauce. It’s the kind of bite that makes you pause and say, “Wait, did I really make this?”

Made with Simple, Everyday Ingredients

You won’t need a long shopping list for this one. Chances are, most of what you need is already in your pantry or fridge. Think rice, eggs, carrots, onion, soy sauce—nothing fancy, just honest ingredients coming together in a magical way.

Fast and Foolproof

With just 20 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking time, this dish comes together in under an hour. And you don’t need to be a seasoned chef—if you can stir and sauté, you can absolutely pull this off.

Easy to Customize

This recipe is built for flexibility. Want it spicier? Add more sriracha. Prefer it meatless? Sub in crispy tofu or chickpeas. Have leftover veggies? Toss ’em in. It’s a great base for making it your own, again and again.

Ingredients

Full List of Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make your own Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice. Each ingredient plays a delicious role:

• Chicken breast (1½ lbs) – The star protein, cut into bite-sized cubes

• Paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper – Adds warmth and savory flavor

• Vegetable oil (1 tbsp) – Helps the spices coat the chicken evenly

• Bang bang sauce (1 cup, divided) – Creamy, spicy, sweet perfection

• Sesame oil (2 tbsp, divided) – Adds rich, toasty flavor to the rice

• Eggs (4 large) – Scrambled soft and folded into the rice

• Kosher salt (½ teaspoon for eggs) – Enhances the egg’s flavor

• Carrots (2 large, diced) – Brings sweetness and color

• White onion (1 large, diced) – Adds depth and bite

• Green onions (¼ cup, plus more for garnish) – Bright and fresh

• Minced garlic (1 tsp) – Adds aromatic punch

• Cooked long-grain white rice (4 cups) – Day-old rice works best for texture

• Unsalted butter (¼ cup, melted) – Adds richness and helps flavors meld

• Fresh lemon juice (1 tsp) – Brightens the dish

• Soy sauce (2 tbsp) – Classic umami depth

• Frozen peas (⅓ cup) – Pops of color and sweetness

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-worthy dish in your own kitchen:

1. Season the Chicken
In a bowl, toss your cubed chicken with vegetable oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.

2. Air Fry the Chicken
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Arrange the chicken in a single layer and cook for 11–12 minutes, flipping halfway. You want it crispy and golden on the outside and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F). Set aside in a bowl, cover with foil to keep warm.

3. Make Fluffy Scrambled Eggs
Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the beaten eggs and a pinch of salt. Gently stir until you have soft, fluffy curds. Don't overcook—they'll finish later in the fried rice. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

4. Sauté the Veggies
Reduce heat to medium-high and add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Toss in diced carrots, white onion, and green onions. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

5. Add Rice & Stir-Fry
Add your cooled, day-old rice to the skillet. Use a spatula to break up any clumps and mix it into the veggies. Let it cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes so it can crisp up in spots—this adds texture and a touch of smokiness.

6. Mix in Eggs, Peas, and Sauce
Return the scrambled eggs to the pan, then pour in melted butter, lemon juice, soy sauce, and frozen peas. Stir everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes until it’s all hot and well combined.

7. Coat Chicken in Bang Bang Sauce
In a separate bowl, toss your cooked chicken with ½ cup of bang bang sauce until each piece is thoroughly coated and glossy.

8. Serve and Garnish
Spoon the fried rice onto plates or bowls, top with the bang bang chicken, drizzle extra sauce if you like it saucy (highly recommended), and sprinkle with fresh green onions.

What to Serve with This Recipe

This Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re in the mood to round out the experience, here are some delicious pairings to make it feel extra special—whether you're hosting or just treating yourself on a weeknight.

Suggested Pairings

Drinks

• Iced green tea – Light, refreshing, and balances the creamy-spicy sauce

• Sparkling water with lemon – Cleanses the palate and adds a citrusy zing

Desserts

• Mango sorbet – Cool, fruity, and a perfect contrast to the heat

• Mochi ice cream – Sweet, chewy, and just the right touch of indulgence

Other Dishes

• Steamed dumplings – A savory, juicy side that complements the rice

• Asian cucumber salad – Crisp, tangy, and super refreshing between bites

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe? It’s incredibly flexible. Whether you’re adjusting for dietary needs or just using what’s in the fridge, there’s a version of this dish for everyone.

Make It Vegetarian

No chicken? No problem. Swap in crispy tofu, air-fried or pan-seared until golden, or use roasted chickpeas for a satisfying crunch and plant-based protein.

Gluten-Free Option

A simple switch makes this dish gluten-free: use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Be sure your bang bang sauce is also gluten-free—some brands sneak in wheat-based ingredients.

Extra Spicy Version

Love the heat? Stir in a dash of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes into the bang bang sauce. You can even toss some chili crisp on top for extra punch and texture.

Low-Carb/Keto Twist

Trying to keep it low-carb? Swap the rice for cauliflower rice—you’ll still get that fried rice texture, but with far fewer carbs and a little extra veggie boost.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers? You’re in luck—Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice stores beautifully, making it a fantastic meal prep option or next-day lunch.

Room Temperature

This dish is best served hot, but it can safely sit out at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, you’ll want to refrigerate it to keep it safe and fresh.

Refrigeration Tips

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen it up.

Freezing Instructions

This recipe also freezes well! Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stove or in the microwave until hot throughout.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Even the easiest recipes can shine brighter with a few little pro tips. These practical nuggets will help you get the absolute best results every single time you make this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice:

• Use day-old rice – Freshly cooked rice can turn mushy. Day-old rice gives you that perfect chewy texture.

• Don’t overcook the eggs – Keep them soft and fluffy. They’ll finish cooking when added back into the hot rice.

• The air fryer is your best friend – It gives you that crispy chicken exterior without deep frying. Plus, it's quick and mess-free.

• Always taste your sauce – Bang bang sauce can vary in sweetness and spice. Don’t be afraid to tweak it with extra lemon juice, sriracha, or a pinch of sugar.

These small adjustments can make a big difference in flavor and texture—so go with your instincts and have fun with it!

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice, here are some other delicious ideas to explore next:

• New Orleans-Style Red Beans and Rice
  Smoky, spicy, and deeply comforting. This rice-based classic is packed with Southern soul.
• Garlic Mushroom Grilled Cheese
  For a quick lunch or savory side, this grilled cheese has the perfect umami bite to pair with fried rice leftovers.
• Cream Cheese & Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken
  A crunchy, over-the-top chicken dinner perfect for flavor lovers. Great as a spicy companion dish.
• Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
  A slow-cooked comfort meal that pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or roasted veggies.

FAQs

Here are answers to some of the most common questions people ask when making this cozy, takeout-style dish:

Can I use store-bought bang bang sauce?

Absolutely! It’s a great shortcut and still delivers plenty of flavor. Just be sure to check the ingredients if you're looking for a particular level of heat or sweetness.

What is bang bang sauce made of?

The classic combo is mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, garlic, and a splash of lime juice or vinegar. It’s creamy, tangy, spicy, and just a little sweet—basically magic in a bowl.

Can I make this with leftover chicken?

Yes! This recipe is a perfect way to repurpose already-cooked chicken. Just warm it gently and toss it in the bang bang sauce before serving.

What kind of rice is best?

Long-grain white rice, like jasmine or basmati, works beautifully—especially if it’s been cooked the day before and chilled. The firmer texture makes stir-frying easier and less sticky.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can! For best results, store the components separately (especially the chicken and rice), and assemble them just before serving to keep the textures spot on.

Conclusion

There’s a reason Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again. It’s quick, flavorful, and hits all the right notes—crispy chicken, creamy-spicy sauce, fluffy rice, and tender veggies all in one satisfying bowl.

Plus, it’s endlessly customizable and beginner-friendly. Whether you're cooking for your family, prepping lunches for the week, or treating yourself to a Friday night comfort meal, this recipe has your back.

So grab that leftover rice, fire up your air fryer, and let your kitchen smell like pure happiness.

Have you made this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice?
We’d love to hear your twist! Leave a comment below or pin this recipe for later. 🍚🔥🥢

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