Discover the Flavor Explosion of Bang Bang Fried Rice Today!

Imagine a steaming plate of perfectly stir-fried rice, studded with tender, crispy chicken, and coated in a tantalizing sweet and spicy sauce – that’s the magic of Bang Bang Fried Rice. This dish originated in Chinese-American cuisine, but it has since become a beloved favorite among home cooks and foodies alike. With its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and easy-to-follow recipe, Bang Bang Fried Rice is poised to become your new go-to weeknight dinner.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for the Perfect Bang Bang Fried Rice

The key to making exceptional Bang Bang Fried Rice lies in using the right ingredients and techniques. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

For the Fried Rice:

• 3-4 cups cooked white rice (day-old rice works best)
• 2 tbsp sesame oil, divided
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1/4 cup green onions, diced (plus more for garnish)
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
• 1/3 cup frozen peas
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 tsp lemon juice

For the Chicken:

• 1-1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup frying oil

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sweet Thai chili sauce
• 2-3 tbsp Sriracha
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp garlic chili paste (optional)
• 1-2 tbsp honey

Step-by-Step Instructions for Bang Bang Fried Rice

Now that we have all the necessary ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this delectable Bang Bang Fried Rice dish:

Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, lemon juice, and honey. Set the sauce aside while you prepare the other components.

Coat and Fry the Chicken

Mix the chicken cubes with the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and water until the coating is slightly sticky. Heat the frying oil in a wok over medium heat, then fry the chicken for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden and crispy. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Scramble the Eggs

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs with salt and scramble them until just set. Transfer the eggs to a plate.

Sauté the Vegetables

Reduce the heat to medium-high and add the remaining sesame oil, carrots, onion, and green onions. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the carrots are tender. Then, add the garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute more.

Stir-Fry the Rice

Add the cooled rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Next, add the scrambled eggs, melted butter, lemon juice, soy sauce, and peas. Stir well and cook for 2 to 3 more minutes.

Toss the Chicken in the Sauce

In a bowl, toss the crispy chicken with half of the Bang Bang Sauce until fully coated.

Assemble and Serve

Plate the fried rice and top it with the Bang Bang chicken. Drizzle the remaining sauce over the dish and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors!

Tips for Perfecting Your Bang Bang Fried Rice

To ensure your Bang Bang Fried Rice turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use the right rice: Day-old, cold, cooked white rice, such as jasmine or long-grain, works best for fried rice. The drier texture prevents the dish from becoming mushy.
• Adjust the spice level: If you want a milder version, start with less Sriracha or chili paste in the Bang Bang Sauce. Increase the honey or sugar to balance the heat.
• Get creative with mix-ins: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or shrimp, to customize the dish to your liking.
• Store and reheat leftovers: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply stir-fry the fried rice over medium-high heat until heated through.

Nutritional Information

One serving of Bang Bang Fried Rice (about 1 1/2 cups) contains approximately:

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 55g

While this dish is rich and flavorful, you can make it healthier by using less oil, opting for lean chicken breasts, and adding more vegetables. The combination of protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats makes Bang Bang Fried Rice a satisfying and nutritious meal.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• BBQ Chicken Fried Rice
• Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
• Potsticker Stir-Fry
• Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for chicken in Bang Bang Fried Rice if I want a plant-based option?

If you’re looking for a plant-based alternative to chicken in Bang Bang Fried Rice, tofu is an excellent choice. Firm or extra-firm tofu works best; simply press it to remove excess moisture, then cube and marinate it in a bit of soy sauce or the Bang Bang Sauce before frying it until crispy. Another option is tempeh, which has a nuttier flavor and can be sliced or crumbled. For a quicker option, you could also use store-bought meat substitutes like vegan chicken strips. Just ensure to cook them according to package instructions and toss them with the sauce for an equally satisfying dish.

How can I make Bang Bang Fried Rice less spicy for kids or those sensitive to heat?

To reduce the spiciness of Bang Bang Fried Rice, you can adjust the amount of Sriracha or chili paste in the Bang Bang Sauce. Start by omitting these ingredients altogether or using a mild version, such as sweet chili sauce, which adds flavor without the heat. Additionally, you can increase the amount of sweet ingredients like honey or sugar in the sauce to balance the flavors. For a milder dish, consider serving the sauce on the side, allowing individuals to adjust their spice levels as desired.

Can Bang Bang Fried Rice be made ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes, Bang Bang Fried Rice is an excellent option for meal prep! You can cook the rice and prepare the Bang Bang Sauce in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply stir-fry the pre-cooked rice with any additional proteins or vegetables and toss it with the sauce. This saves time on busy days while still allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal.

What type of rice is best for making Bang Bang Fried Rice?

The best type of rice for making Bang Bang Fried Rice is day-old, cold, cooked white rice, such as jasmine or long-grain rice. Day-old rice has had time to dry out in the refrigerator, which prevents it from becoming mushy when stir-fried. If you don’t have day-old rice, you can spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to cool it down and firm it up. Avoid using sticky rice, as it can clump together and make the fried rice less enjoyable.

Conclusion

Prepare to be captivated by the vibrant flavors and irresistible textures of Bang Bang Fried Rice! This dish is a delightful fusion of spicy, sweet, and savory elements that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re cooking for the family or hosting a gathering, this versatile recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the wok, and get ready to experience the magic of Bang Bang Fried Rice. Enjoy!

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