Bang Bang Fried Rice takes the comforting familiarity of fried rice and kicks it up with a creamy, spicy sauce that clings to every grain. It’s fast, fiery, and packed with flavor, making it a weeknight hero and a weekend indulgence. You get the smoky edge from the pan-fried rice, the juicy bites of protein, and that unmistakable zing from the Bang Bang sauce that leaves you craving more.

This dish borrows the best of takeout classics and turns them into something bold and homey at the same time. Whether you toss in shrimp, chicken, or keep it vegetarian, the balance of creamy and spicy is what makes this rice sing. It’s an easy way to use up leftover rice and transform it into something worth repeating week after week.

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Fried Rice

If you’re someone who loves the combination of sweet, spicy, and savory, this is your kind of meal. The bang bang sauce alone brings heat, creaminess, and a hint of tang. Add that to crispy rice and well-seasoned vegetables or proteins, and you’ve got a fusion of texture and bold taste.

It’s also incredibly versatile. Use what you have in the fridge, whether it’s rotisserie chicken, leftover rice, or frozen shrimp. This recipe is fast enough for busy nights but still feels indulgent.

What Kind of Rice Should I Use?

The best rice for fried rice is always cold, day-old rice. It has a drier texture that fries up without turning mushy. Jasmine or long grain white rice works beautifully. If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for at least an hour to dry it out slightly.

Sticky or short grain rice isn’t ideal here as it can clump and won’t crisp as well. Keep it simple and go for something light and fluffy, giving your sauce plenty of room to shine.

Ingredients for the Bang Bang Fried Rice

This dish comes together quickly, but a few key ingredients make all the difference in creating that iconic flavor and texture.

Cold cooked rice – Essential for getting that perfect pan-fried texture without turning soggy.
Shrimp or chicken – Adds protein and soaks up all that bang bang flavor beautifully.
Mayonnaise – The creamy base for your bang bang sauce.
Sweet chili sauce – Provides the signature sweetness and mild heat.
Sriracha – For an extra punch of heat.
Soy sauce – Adds savory depth and that rich umami note.
Garlic – Sautéed to flavor the oil and deepen the overall taste.
Green onions – Brings brightness and a little crunch to balance the creaminess.
Eggs – Scrambled into the rice for extra richness and texture.
Vegetable oil – Neutral and great for high-heat cooking.

How To Make the Bang Bang Fried Rice

Step 1: Sauté Your Protein

Heat a bit of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your shrimp or diced chicken and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Crack in the eggs and scramble until just set. Slide them to one side of the pan.

Step 3: Fry the Rice

Add garlic and stir until fragrant. Toss in your cold rice and press it into the pan. Let it sit a minute or two to get some crispy bits, then stir and repeat.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a small bowl. Pour it over the rice, tossing everything to coat evenly.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Return the protein to the pan and stir in green onions and a splash of soy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot and enjoy that creamy, spicy magic in every bite.

How to Serve and Store Bang Bang Fried Rice

This rice is best served hot straight from the pan, with an extra drizzle of bang bang sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top if you’re feeling fancy. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, but it also pairs well with light sides like cucumber salad or steamed greens.

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, a hot pan works better than the microwave to bring back some of the original crispiness. Just add a splash of oil or water to keep it from drying out.

This recipe makes about 3 generous portions, making it ideal for a small family dinner or lunch preps for a couple of days.

What to Serve With Bang Bang Fried Rice?

Cucumber Sesame Salad

Cool and refreshing with a nutty twist, cucumber salad balances the heat of the rice.

Steamed Broccoli

A crisp, healthy side that doesn’t compete with the strong flavors of the dish.

Egg Drop Soup

Light and savory, this traditional Chinese soup complements the creamy texture of the rice.

Spring Rolls

Add crunch and a bit of sweetness to your plate with some vegetable spring rolls.

Asian Slaw

Shredded cabbage tossed in rice vinegar dressing brings tangy contrast and texture.

Pickled Vegetables

Quick pickles or kimchi will cut through the creaminess and add bright acidity.

Chili Garlic Edamame

Snackable and spicy, these are perfect for serving alongside or before the main dish.

Want More Rice & Noodle Ideas?

If you love the flavor-packed experience of Bang Bang Fried Rice, you’ll probably enjoy these too:

Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a comfort twist.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce when you’re craving cheesy indulgence.
One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for an easy, hearty dinner.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for a fast family favorite.
Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe that blends pasta and meat into pure comfort.

Save This Recipe For Later

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with shrimp or chicken? Maybe even tofu? Did you level up the spice?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other cook better at home.

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