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This Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice is the secret weapon for nights when you crave big flavor but need dinner on the table in under an hour. You get juicy chicken pieces all sticky-spicy from bang bang sauce, paired with vegetable-packed fried rice that tastes better than your favorite takeout. Everything comes together in one skillet except for the chicken which crisps in the air fryer for a truly irresistible combo.
Trust me I have rushed this to the table after a long workday and it absolutely hits the spot The first time my family tasted it everyone went back for seconds even the picky eaters
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: give you lean tender bites Make sure to choose firm plump pieces for juiciest results
- Vegetable oil: keeps the chicken moist during cooking Use a neutral oil for best flavor balance
- Paprika: adds a pop of color and gentle smokiness Spanish paprika is especially nice if you have it
- Garlic powder: is a shortcut for background flavor Use granulated garlic not garlic salt
- Kosher salt: ensures even seasoning Larger grains cling better to proteins and veggies
- Black pepper: adds warmth and balances the sweetness of the sauce Grind fresh if possible for best aroma
- Bang bang sauce: is the key to signature flavor Choose a well-blended variety or make your own if you like extra heat
- Sesame oil: provides authentic toasted depth Look for pure toasted sesame oil in a small bottle for brisk nutty aroma
- Eggs: give the rice plush richness and satisfying protein Choose fresh large eggs with vibrant yolks
- Carrots and onions: add natural sweetness and texture Go for firm carrots with bright color and shiny white onions
- Green onions: bring freshness and color You want them crisp and upright not wilted
- Garlic: infuses the rice with aromatic punch Use fresh cloves when possible for the best flavor
- Long-grain white rice: delivers restaurant-style fried rice Use day-old rice for chewier grains and less clumping
- Unsalted butter: adds richness and helps every grain shine Pick high-quality butter for pure flavor
- Fresh lemon juice: brightens up all the savory notes Use real lemon not bottled for clean tartness
- Soy sauce: draws out depth and umami Opt for low sodium if you want more control over seasoning
- Frozen peas: bring a sweet pop and round out the meal Peas should be bright green and firm
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate and Cook the Chicken:
- Combine the chicken cubes with oil paprika garlic powder salt and pepper in a bowl tossing until every piece is well coated Let them sit a few minutes to absorb flavor then cook in an air fryer at four hundred degrees for eleven to twelve minutes flipping halfway until golden and cooked through Rest the chicken covered with foil to keep it juicy
- Scramble the Eggs:
- Heat a tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over high Add the beaten eggs with a sprinkle of salt and cook gently stirring until soft curds form The eggs should be barely set so they stay fluffy Transfer out and set aside
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Lower the heat to medium high Add the rest of the sesame oil followed by carrots onion and green onions Cook them for five minutes stirring often until the carrots are fork tender and the aroma is inviting Stir in minced garlic and sauté for one more minute until you smell that sweet garlic fragrance
- Fry the Rice:
- Add cooled rice to your skillet Break it up well so no clumps remain Stir it through the veggies and let it sit untouched for two or three minutes This creates crisp bits on the bottom and heats everything evenly
- Mix and Finish:
- Add the scrambled eggs back in along with melted butter lemon juice soy sauce and frozen peas Stir really well to coat everything evenly Continue cooking until hot and glossy
- Sauce the Chicken and Serve:
- Toss the cooked chicken pieces with half a cup of bang bang sauce Coat thoroughly so each piece gets sticky and vibrant Serve the fried rice topped with saucy chicken Drizzle more sauce over the top if you love extra heat and finish with a handful of diced green onions for a fresh crunch
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My favorite part has always been the sauce tasting ritual as a family We each drizzle our perfect amount and trade bites trying new combinations Last time we made it everyone agreed the homemade bang bang sauce lifted it to another level
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is the best rice to use for fried rice?
Day-old, long-grain white rice works best as it is dry and firm, which prevents it from becoming mushy when stir-fried.
- → How do you ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Coat the chicken in oil and spices before air frying, and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for moist and flavorful chicken.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, replace the chicken with tofu or extra vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. You can also use a plant-based bang bang sauce.
- → What pairs well with this dish?
A fresh green salad or a simple miso soup complements the bold flavors of the chicken fried rice beautifully.
- → Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn are great time-saving substitutes and work just as well.
- → How do I make the rice crispy?
Spread the rice evenly in the skillet and let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes to achieve a crispy texture.