Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

If you’re looking for a dinner that combines sweet, savory, and a delightful kick, you’ve got to try Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice! Imagine fluffy jasmine rice, tender, diced chicken, and crunchy veggies, all drizzled with a creamy sauce that’s completely dairy-free. It’s cozy enough for a warm night in, yet easy enough to whip up any day of the week. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice. Trust me, you’ll love how this feast comes together quickly and tastes so rich while having no cream whatsoever!

Why You’ll Love Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)

This Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is everything you could want in a home-cooked meal. Combining the richness of sweet chili sauce and tender chicken, it’s super easy to make. The flavors dance on your tongue, making each bite a little celebration. This dish is quick enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough for guests. You can even pack it for lunch, where it tastes just as good the next day! Here’s what you’ll love about it:

• Ready in 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights.
• Uses pantry staples, so you’ll save time and money.
• Meal-prep friendly—great for lunch or dinner on-the-go!
• Comforting and satisfying, just like a warm hug.
• Versatile—simple to swap in your favorite ingredients.
• Low on fuss but high on flavor.

Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

To make this delicious Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice, here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice – Makes the dish fluffy and chewy; day-old rice works best.
• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Juicy and flavorful; can substitute with chicken breast or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• 1/2 cup frozen peas – Add a pop of color and sweetness—convenient as they’re already prepped!
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers – Brings crunch and a touch of sweetness.
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil – Needed for frying and boiling heat.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Aromatic base that enhances the flavor.
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced – Adds a warm, spicy kick.
• 3 tbsp soy sauce – Provides savory depth.
• 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce – Sweet and slightly spicy; makes the dish “bang bang!”
• 2 green onions, chopped – Fresh garnish with a hint of sharpness.

Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

Phase 1 – Prep

1. Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
2. Chop the bell peppers and green onions.
3. Mince the garlic and ginger.
4. If using day-old rice, break up any clumps so it’s fluffy.

Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Mix in the peas and bell peppers; cook for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in the soy sauce and sweet chili sauce, mixing well.
6. Finally, add the rice and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until heated through.

Phase 3 – Serve

1. Remove from heat and stir in green onions.
2. Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired!

Pro Tips for the Best Results

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce for 15 minutes before cooking.
• Use cold, leftover rice for the best texture—fresh rice can become mushy.
• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days, and reheat in the microwave.
• Add a splash of lime juice before serving for a fresh twist!
• Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for different proteins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is using fresh rice, which can lead to sticky and mushy fried rice. Instead, day-old rice is firmer and holds its shape better during cooking. If you don’t have day-old rice, you can cook rice the same day, spread it on a baking sheet, and freeze it for at least 30 minutes to chill before using.

Another issue is overcrowding the pan. When cooking the chicken, make sure to leave plenty of space; this helps achieve that beautiful sear and prevent steaming. Cook in batches if necessary!

Lastly, don’t skimp on the sauce. The sweet chili and soy sauce not only add flavor but also keep the dish from becoming dry. Adjust amounts to match your taste, but a bit of sauce is key for that creamy texture.

Recipe Variations

• For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
• Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for extra flavor.
• Make it spicy by adding chili flakes or sriracha.
• Use different veggies like carrots, broccoli, or snap peas.
• Try cooking this with an air fryer for a healthier twist!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

Best Pairings

• Pair with a light Asian salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Top with toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch.
• Serve alongside spring rolls for a fun meal.

Drink Pairing

• A cold iced tea complements the meal perfectly.
• For something stronger, pair with a light beer.

Make Ahead & Storage

Can I Meal Prep This?

Yes! Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is perfect for meal prep. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover fried rice in airtight containers in the fridge. Consume within 3 days for the best quality.

Freezing

You can freeze Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice for up to 2 months. Just remember that some textures may change when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen cauliflower? Yes! Just make sure to thaw it before adding.
• How to make it extra creamy without cream? Use extra sweet chili sauce for creaminess!
• Can I double it? Absolutely! Just cook in larger batches; the timing should remain the same.
• How to fix a too-thick soup? Add a splash of water or stock to thin it out to your liking.

If you’re craving something incredibly flavorful and quick to cook, give this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice a try. It’s creamy without any cream and packed with deliciousness! Don’t forget to comment or rate the recipe; I can’t wait to hear how you enjoyed it!