Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the seasoned chicken

01 - 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
02 - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
03 - 1 teaspoon paprika
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
06 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
07 - 1 cup bang bang sauce, divided

→ For the flavorful fried rice

08 - 2 tablespoons sesame oil, divided
09 - 4 large eggs, beaten
10 - ½ teaspoon kosher salt
11 - 2 large carrots, diced
12 - 1 large white onion, diced
13 - ¼ cup green onions, diced, plus extra for garnish
14 - 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
15 - 4 cups long-grain white rice, cooked and cooled (preferably day-old)
16 - ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
17 - 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
18 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce
19 - ⅓ cup frozen peas

# Instructions:

01 - Toss cubed chicken with oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until coated. Preheat air fryer to 400°F and cook chicken in a single layer for 11-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Set aside in a bowl and cover with foil to keep warm.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add beaten eggs, sprinkle with salt, and gently scramble until soft and fluffy. Remove from skillet and set aside on a plate.
03 - Reduce heat to medium-high and add remaining sesame oil to the skillet. Add diced carrots, onion, and green onions. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring until the carrots are tender. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
04 - Add cooled rice to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Stir into vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly crispy in spots.
05 - Add scrambled eggs, melted butter, lemon juice, soy sauce, and frozen peas to the rice. Stir everything together and cook for 2-3 more minutes until well mixed and hot.
06 - Toss cooked chicken with ½ cup bang bang sauce until coated. Serve fried rice topped with sauced chicken, drizzle with additional sauce if desired, and garnish with extra green onions.

# Notes:

01 - Using day-old rice ensures the fried rice is less sticky and achieves the desired texture.
02 - Freshly diced vegetables enhance the flavor and add a nice crunch to the dish.