Bang Bang Fried Rice

Byarlo Jack

Bang Bang Fried Rice is a bold, flavor-packed twist on classic fried rice, inspired by the popular Bang Bang sauce known for its creamy, sweet, spicy, and tangy profile. This dish combines fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, savory protein, and a luscious sauce that coats every grain with irresistible flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you’re craving something indulgent yet easy, Bang Bang Fried Rice is guaranteed to become a household favorite. What makes this fried rice special is the balance: the heat from chili sauce, the sweetness from honey or sugar, the tang from rice vinegar or lime, and the creamy richness of mayonnaise. It’s customizable, quick to make, and incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love Bang Bang Fried Rice

  • Big flavor in little time: Ready in under 30 minutes
  • Customizable: Works with shrimp, chicken, tofu, or veggies
  • Perfect use for leftover rice: Ideal texture and zero waste
  • Better than takeout: Fresher, healthier, and just as crave-worthy
  • Great for meal prep: Reheats beautifully

What Is Bang Bang Flavor?

“Bang Bang” flavor typically refers to a creamy chili sauce that blends mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha or hot sauce. It’s famous in dishes like Bang Bang shrimp, but it works just as beautifully in fried rice, adding richness and a punch of flavor without overwhelming the dish.

Ingredients Overview

For the Fried Rice

  • Cooked rice (3–4 cups): Day-old jasmine or long-grain rice works best
  • Oil (2–3 tbsp): Neutral oil like vegetable, avocado, or sesame oil
  • Eggs (2): Adds richness and structure
  • Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Deep savory flavor
  • Green onions: Mild onion flavor and freshness
  • Mixed vegetables: Peas, carrots, corn, bell peppers, or broccoli
  • Protein of choice: Shrimp, chicken, tofu, or leftover meat
  • Soy sauce: Adds umami and saltiness
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Bang Bang Sauce

  • Mayonnaise: Creamy base
  • Sweet chili sauce: Sweet and tangy backbone
  • Sriracha or chili paste: Adjustable heat
  • Honey or sugar: Balances spice
  • Rice vinegar or lime juice: Brightens and cuts richness

How to Make Bang Bang Fried Rice

Step 1: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and vinegar or lime juice. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Eggs

Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of oil. Scramble the eggs until just set, then remove and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Protein

Add more oil if needed and cook your chosen protein until fully cooked and lightly browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Add garlic and vegetables to the pan. Stir-fry until fragrant and tender-crisp.

Step 5: Add Rice

Increase heat to high and add the rice. Break up clumps and stir-fry until heated through and slightly crispy in spots.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return eggs and protein to the pan. Add soy sauce and toss well.

Step 7: Finish with Bang Bang Sauce

Reduce heat to medium-low. Add Bang Bang sauce and toss until evenly coated. Avoid high heat at this stage to prevent the sauce from separating.

Flavor and Texture

Bang Bang Fried Rice delivers a creamy, spicy, slightly sweet flavor with a satisfying contrast of textures. The rice stays fluffy yet lightly crisped, the vegetables add crunch, and the sauce wraps everything in rich, bold flavor. Each bite is indulgent without being heavy.

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Tips for the Best Bang Bang Fried Rice

  • Use cold, day-old rice: Prevents mushy texture
  • High heat for frying: Creates crispy rice edges
  • Add sauce last: Keeps it creamy and glossy
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if needed
  • Taste before serving: Adjust spice and sweetness

Variations and Customizations

Bang Bang Shrimp Fried Rice:
Use crispy fried or sautéed shrimp for restaurant-style results.

Chicken Bang Bang Fried Rice:
Diced chicken thighs add juiciness and richness.

Vegetarian or Vegan Version:
Use tofu or extra vegetables and swap mayo for vegan mayo.

Low-Carb Option:
Replace rice with cauliflower rice (add sauce sparingly).

Extra Spicy:
Add extra sriracha, chili oil, or crushed red pepper.

Asian Fusion Twist:
Add sesame oil, ginger, or a splash of hoisin sauce.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Avoid freezing, as the creamy sauce may separate after thawing. Bang Bang Fried Rice stores well and is ideal for leftovers.

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days
  • Reheating: Reheat in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water
  • Meal Prep: Portion into containers for quick lunches

What to Serve with Bang Bang Fried Rice

  • Asian cucumber salad
  • Steamed dumplings or spring rolls
  • Stir-fried green beans
  • Miso soup or hot and sour soup

Conclusion

Bang Bang Fried Rice is the ultimate comfort-meets-crave dish, creamy, spicy, savory, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re cleaning out the fridge, feeding a hungry family, or recreating restaurant flavors at home, this dish delivers big on taste with minimal effort.Once you try it, Bang Bang Fried Rice will quickly earn a permanent spot in your weekly dinner rotation.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

Is Bang Bang Fried Rice very spicy?
It has a mild to medium heat level. You can easily adjust the spice by adding more or less sriracha or chili sauce to suit your taste.

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What kind of rice works best for this recipe?
Day-old jasmine or long-grain white rice works best because it stays fluffy and doesn’t become mushy when stir-fried.

Can I make Bang Bang Fried Rice vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Use tofu or extra vegetables as the protein and swap regular mayonnaise for vegan mayo to keep it fully plant-based.

Can I use freshly cooked rice?
Yes, but it’s best to let it cool completely and dry out slightly before cooking. Spreading it on a tray helps prevent clumping.

What protein pairs best with Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Shrimp, chicken, tofu, or leftover steak all work well. Crispy shrimp is especially popular for a restaurant-style version.

Is Bang Bang Fried Rice gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Always check sauce labels to be sure.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave with a splash of water.

Can I freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Freezing is not recommended because the creamy Bang Bang sauce may separate and change texture when thawed.

How do I keep the sauce from breaking?
Lower the heat before adding the Bang Bang sauce and stir gently. High heat can cause the mayonnaise-based sauce to separate.

What vegetables work best in this recipe?
Peas, carrots, bell peppers, green onions, broccoli, and corn all work well and add color, crunch, and balance.