Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice : quick And tasty dinner

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If you’re anything like me, dinner needs to check three boxes: easy, flavorful, and picky-eater approved. Well, friend, this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice hits all those sweet (and spicy!) notes and then some. Whether you’re racing the clock on a Tuesday night or just craving something that feels a little extra without needing to leave your house—or change out of yoga pants—this recipe’s got your back.

We’re talking tender, air-fried chicken tossed in creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce layered over buttery, veggie-packed fried rice. It’s one of those dishes that makes your kitchen smell like your favorite takeout spot… minus the delivery fee or the guilt from not cooking “a real meal.”

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

Let’s be real—some nights we’re heroes just for getting dinner on the table. But this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice? It’ll have you feeling like a kitchen rockstar. Here’s why:

It’s a one-pan wonder (less mess = more me-time)
Packed with flavor—thanks to paprika-spiced chicken and that signature bang bang sauce
Kid-tested and husband-approved (trust me, my family licked their plates clean)
Freezer-friendly leftovers—if there are any

Plus, it’s the perfect recipe when you’ve got leftover rice sitting in the fridge and no clue what to do with it. Consider that problem solved.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

1 ½ 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 (store-bought or homemade!)

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 cooked, cooled long-grain white rice
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp lemon juice
2 tbsp soy sauce
⅓ cup frozen peas

Let’s Get Cooking!

1. Start with the chicken:
Toss your chicken cubes with vegetable oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (or oven if you’re old-school). Cook in a single layer for 11-12 minutes, flipping halfway. Chicken should be golden, juicy, and hit 165°F inside. Pop them in a bowl, cover with foil, and keep warm.

2. Scramble the eggs:
Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large skillet over high heat. Pour in the eggs, sprinkle with salt, and scramble gently into soft curds. Take them out and set aside. You’re already halfway to fried rice heaven!

3. Sauté your veggies:
Lower the heat to medium-high. Add the remaining sesame oil to the same skillet. Toss in carrots, onion, and green onions. Cook for about 5 minutes until the carrots soften a bit. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute—your kitchen should smell amazing right about now.

4. Time for the rice:
Add the cooled rice to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and stir it in with the veggies. Let it cook for a few minutes until everything’s hot and slightly crispy on the bottom.

5. Finish strong:
Stir in the scrambled eggs, melted butter, lemon juice, soy sauce, and frozen peas. Mix it all up and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the peas are warm and every grain is coated in buttery, saucy goodness.

6. Sauce it up:
Toss the cooked chicken in ½ cup of that irresistible Bang Bang sauce. Top each serving of fried rice with the saucy chicken, drizzle on more sauce (because why not?), and sprinkle with extra green onions for that final touch of flair.

Tips & Tricks to Rock This Recipe

Leftover rice works best. Fresh rice tends to get mushy. Stick it in the fridge at least a few hours ahead (or overnight if you’re a planner).
No air fryer? No problem. Roast the chicken in a hot oven (425°F) for 18–20 minutes.
Adjust the heat. Bang Bang sauce is typically a sweet-heat combo. Want it spicier? Add a squirt of Sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Butter in fried rice? Trust me—it adds richness that takes this dish to “restaurant-level” delicious.

A Little Backstory…

I actually stumbled on this combo when I was trying to use up some leftover Bang Bang sauce (from a shrimp taco night) and had a container of cold rice glaring at me from the fridge. One quick chicken toss, a veggie chop, and a scramble later—boom—this dish was born. My kids dubbed it “the best rice ever,” and now it’s a weeknight staple in our house.

Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice served in a bowl with golden chicken, peas, corn, and savory sauce. — Crispy Bang Bang Chicken over flavorful fried rice with peas and corn—your new weeknight favorite!

FAQs About Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Frozen peas, corn, or even a mixed veggie medley can save you time and add color.

What’s in Bang Bang sauce?

Usually it’s a mix of mayo, sweet chili sauce, and a touch of Sriracha. You can make it in a snap or grab a premade version at most grocery stores.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best texture—or zap it in the microwave if you’re in a rush.

Is this spicy?

Mild to medium. You can always adjust the spice level to fit your family’s taste buds.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is the ultimate weeknight dinner hero. It’s fast, flavorful, and fills up hungry bellies with zero complaints. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a cozy night in with a bowl full of goodness, this dish checks every box. So go ahead—drizzle on that extra sauce and dig in!

Ready to make some chicken magic? 🧡

More Chicken Magic You’ll Love

If this Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice stole your heart (and possibly your last clean fork), then you’re in for a treat with these flavor-packed recipes! Each one brings its own spin on bold, crave-worthy chicken dishes, making them perfect follow-ups for your weekly meal plan.

For another spicy-sweet fix that’s just as comforting, check out our Crispy Bang Bang Chicken—it’s the crunchy cousin of today’s recipe and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Craving something quick with that same saucy flair? This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl delivers a punch of flavor and is perfect for lunch or a solo dinner.
Looking to keep the skillet vibes going? Our Chicken and Mozzarella Bake layers melty cheese and tomato goodness for a cozy, comforting meal.
And if you’re eyeing a full-flavor, lower-carb option, the Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet is a protein-packed winner you’ll feel great about devouring.

Let your taste buds travel while keeping the chicken magic alive right in your own kitchen!