Rice & Bowls

Singaporean Hainanese Chicken Rice

Name: Singaporean Hainanese Chicken Rice
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, boneless; 2 cups (400g) uncooked white rice; 2 inches (5cm) fresh ginger, peeled and sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce; 2 tablespoons (30ml) oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon (15ml) sesame oil; 2 tablespoons (30g) grated fresh chilies; 1/4 cup (60g) chopped scallions, for garnish; Salt and pepper, to taste

By Quinn Ellery · June 19, 2026 · Rice & Bowls

Prep20 min

Cook25 min

Total60 min

Serves4

Singaporean Hainanese Chicken Rice — Savory Hainanese Chicken Rice

I still remember the first time I tried Hainanese chicken rice at a street food stall in Singapore. The combination of poached chicken, fragrant rice, and spicy chili sauce was love at first bite. As a home cook, I was determined to recreate this dish in my own kitchen, and after countless experiments, I'm excited to share my recipe with you.

Hainanese chicken rice is a classic Singaporean dish that's both comforting and flavorful. The key to making it authentic is to use high-quality ingredients and to pay attention to the details, from the way the chicken is poached to the way the rice is cooked.

In this recipe, we'll take you through the steps to make Hainanese chicken rice from scratch, including how to poach the chicken, cook the rice, and make the spicy chili sauce. Don't worry if you're new to cooking – this recipe is easy to follow, and with a little practice, you'll be making Hainanese chicken rice like a pro.

So, what makes this recipe special? For starters, we're using a combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil to give the chicken and rice a deep, savory flavor. We're also using fresh ginger and garlic to add a bright, aromatic note to the dish. And of course, no Hainanese chicken rice would be complete without a spicy kick, which we're getting from a homemade chili sauce made with fresh chilies, garlic, and ginger.

Whether you're a fan of Singaporean cuisine or just looking for a new recipe to try, I hope you'll give this Hainanese chicken rice a shot. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and it's sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion
The combination of poached chicken, fragrant rice, and spicy chili sauce is both comforting and flavorful
You can customize the recipe to your taste by adding your favorite ingredients or spices
It's a great way to experience the authentic flavors of Singaporean cuisine
The dish is relatively healthy and can be made with a variety of protein sources, including chicken, pork, or tofu

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great Hainanese chicken rice is to cook the chicken and rice separately, then combine them at the end. This allows us to control the texture and flavor of each component, resulting in a dish that's both tender and flavorful.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of a flavorful poaching liquid for the chicken. By using a combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, we're able to add a deep, savory flavor to the chicken that complements the bright, aromatic flavors of the ginger and garlic.

Finally, the spicy chili sauce is what really makes this dish pop. By using fresh chilies, garlic, and ginger, we're able to create a sauce that's both spicy and aromatic, with a depth of flavor that complements the chicken and rice perfectly.

Overall, this recipe works because it's a careful balance of flavors and textures, with each component working together to create a dish that's greater than the sum of its parts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Hainanese chicken rice, you'll need a few key ingredients, including chicken, rice, ginger, garlic, and chilies. You can find these ingredients at most Asian markets or well-stocked supermarkets. Be sure to choose high-quality ingredients, as they'll make a big difference in the flavor and texture of the dish.

In addition to the main ingredients, you'll also need a few pantry staples, including soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. These ingredients will add depth and complexity to the dish, and are essential for creating an authentic Hainanese chicken rice flavor.

1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, bonelessYou can use either boneless or bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe, but boneless thighs will cook more evenly and be easier to shred.
2 cups (400g) uncooked white riceUse a high-quality white rice that's specifically labeled as 'Hainanese chicken rice' or 'Singaporean-style rice' for the best results.
2 inches (5cm) fresh ginger, peeled and slicedFresh ginger is essential for this recipe, as it adds a bright, aromatic flavor to the dish. You can adjust the amount of ginger to your taste, but be sure to use at least 2 inches (5cm) for the best results.
3 cloves garlic, mincedLike ginger, garlic is a key ingredient in Hainanese chicken rice, and adds a deep, savory flavor to the dish. Be sure to mince the garlic finely, as this will help it cook evenly and prevent it from burning.
1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauceSoy sauce is a key ingredient in many Asian dishes, and is essential for creating an authentic Hainanese chicken rice flavor. Look for a high-quality soy sauce that's low in sodium and has a rich, savory flavor.
2 tablespoons (30ml) oyster sauceOyster sauce is a savory condiment made from oyster extract, and adds a deep, umami flavor to the dish. You can omit it if you're vegetarian or vegan, but be sure to substitute it with a similar ingredient, such as hoisin sauce or tamari.
1 tablespoon (15ml) sesame oilSesame oil is a key ingredient in many Asian dishes, and adds a nutty, aromatic flavor to the dish. Be sure to use a high-quality sesame oil that's fresh and has a rich, nutty flavor.
2 tablespoons (30g) grated fresh chiliesFresh chilies are essential for this recipe, as they add a spicy, aromatic flavor to the dish. You can adjust the amount of chilies to your taste, but be sure to use at least 2 tablespoons (30g) for the best results.
1/4 cup (60g) chopped scallions, for garnishChopped scallions are a key garnish for Hainanese chicken rice, and add a fresh, oniony flavor to the dish. Be sure to chop the scallions finely, as this will help them cook evenly and prevent them from burning.
Salt and pepper, to tasteSeasoning is essential for bringing out the flavors of the dish, and salt and pepper are the most basic seasonings you'll need. Be sure to taste the dish as you go and adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Ingredients for Singaporean Hainanese Chicken Rice

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or wokSharp chef's knifeInstant-read thermometerRice cooker or large saucepanFine-mesh strainerCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoons

How to Make Singaporean Hainanese Chicken Rice

1
Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear, then drain and set aside.
2
In a large saucepan, combine 2 cups (400g) of water and 1 tablespoon (15g) of sesame oil. Bring the water to a boil, then add the rice and stir to combine.
3
Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
4
While the rice is cooking, prepare the poaching liquid for the chicken. In a large skillet or wok, combine 2 cups (475ml) of water, 1/4 cup (60ml) of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons (30ml) of oyster sauce, and 2 inches (5cm) of sliced ginger. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded together.
5
Add the chicken to the poaching liquid and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C). Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the breast.
6
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the spicy chili sauce. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons (30g) of grated fresh chilies, 1 tablespoon (15g) of minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon (15g) of soy sauce. Mix well to combine.
7
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the poaching liquid and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
8
To assemble the dish, place a scoop of cooked rice on a plate, then top it with a few slices of the poached chicken. Spoon some of the spicy chili sauce over the top of the chicken, then garnish with chopped scallions and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
9
Serve the Hainanese chicken rice immediately, with additional chili sauce and scallions on the side if desired.
10
To make the dish more substantial, you can add some stir-fried vegetables, such as bok choy or bell peppers, to the plate alongside the chicken and rice.
11
Experiment with different seasonings and ingredients to make the dish your own – some ideas include adding a sprinkle of furikake or grated daikon radish to the top of the rice, or using different types of protein, such as pork or tofu, in place of the chicken.

Expert Tips

Use short-grain rice, such as Japanese mochigome or Calrose rice, for the best results.
Don't overcook the rice – it should be cooked until it's just tender, but still slightly firm in the center.
Adjust the amount of chili sauce to your taste – if you prefer a milder sauce, you can reduce the amount of chilies or omit the seeds and membranes, which contain most of the heat.
Add some aromatics, such as sliced ginger or garlic, to the poaching liquid for added depth of flavor.
Let the chicken rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing it – this will help the juices to redistribute and the meat to stay tender.
Experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to make the dish your own – some ideas include adding a sprinkle of furikake or grated daikon radish to the top of the rice, or using different types of protein, such as pork or tofu, in place of the chicken.
Make the spicy chili sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week – it's a great condiment to have on hand for adding flavor to a variety of dishes.
Use a thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature – this is especially important when cooking poultry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the rice, which can make it dry and unappetizing.
Not letting the chicken rest before slicing it, which can cause the meat to become tough and dry.
Using low-quality ingredients, such as old or stale rice, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Not adjusting the amount of chili sauce to your taste, which can make the dish too spicy or too mild.
Not using a thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature, which can pose a food safety risk.
Not experimenting with different ingredients and seasonings to make the dish your own, which can make the recipe feel stale and uninteresting.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some stir-fried vegetables, such as bok choy or bell peppers, to the plate alongside the chicken and rice.
Use different types of protein, such as pork or tofu, in place of the chicken.
Add a sprinkle of furikake or grated daikon radish to the top of the rice for added flavor and texture.
Use different types of chili peppers, such as Korean chili flakes or Thai bird's eye chilies, to change the flavor and heat level of the sauce.
Add some aromatics, such as sliced ginger or garlic, to the poaching liquid for added depth of flavor.
Make the spicy chili sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week – it's a great condiment to have on hand for adding flavor to a variety of dishes.
Experiment with different seasonings and ingredients to make the dish your own – some ideas include adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds to the top of the rice.

What to Serve With Singaporean Hainanese Chicken Rice

Hainanese chicken rice is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. You can serve it as a main course, with some stir-fried vegetables or a side of steamed bok choy. You can also serve it as a snack or appetizer, with some crispy fried shallots or a side of spicy chili sauce.

Some other ideas for serving Hainanese chicken rice include:

Adding some sliced cucumbers or carrots to the plate for a refreshing and crunchy contrast to the rich and savory chicken and rice.

Serving the dish with a side of spicy sambal sauce or sriracha for added heat and flavor.

Adding some toasted sesame seeds or chopped scallions to the top of the rice for added texture and flavor.

Steamed bok choyStir-fried vegetablesSpicy sambal sauceSrirachaToasted sesame seedsChopped scallions

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Hainanese chicken rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store the dish, simply cool it to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze.

To reheat the dish, simply microwave it for 1-2 minutes, or until the rice is hot and fluffy and the chicken is cooked through. You can also reheat the dish in a steamer or on the stovetop, with a little added water or broth to prevent the rice from drying out.

Some tips for storing and reheating Hainanese chicken rice include:

Using airtight containers to prevent the dish from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge or freezer.

Labeling the containers with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of how long the dish has been stored.

Reheating the dish gently, to prevent the rice from becoming mushy or the chicken from drying out.

Adding a little water or broth to the dish when reheating, to help keep the rice moist and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of rice is best for Hainanese chicken rice?

Short-grain rice, such as Japanese mochigome or Calrose rice, is best for Hainanese chicken rice. This type of rice is sticky and clingy, which helps it to hold together well and absorb the flavors of the dish.

How do I cook the chicken to ensure it's safe to eat?

To ensure the chicken is safe to eat, cook it to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C). Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the breast.

Can I make the spicy chili sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the spicy chili sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. This is a great way to have a delicious and spicy condiment on hand for adding flavor to a variety of dishes.

What are some variations I can try with this recipe?

Some variations you can try with this recipe include adding different types of protein, such as pork or tofu, or using different types of chili peppers to change the flavor and heat level of the sauce. You can also add some aromatics, such as sliced ginger or garlic, to the poaching liquid for added depth of flavor.

How do I store and reheat Hainanese chicken rice?

To store Hainanese chicken rice, cool it to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze. To reheat, microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until the rice is hot and fluffy and the chicken is cooked through. You can also reheat the dish in a steamer or on the stovetop, with a little added water or broth to prevent the rice from drying out.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian or vegan by substituting the chicken with a plant-based protein source, such as tofu or tempeh. You can also omit the oyster sauce and use a vegan alternative, such as hoisin sauce or tamari.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making Hainanese chicken rice?

Some common mistakes to avoid when making Hainanese chicken rice include overcooking the rice, not letting the chicken rest before slicing it, and not using high-quality ingredients. You should also be careful not to add too much chili sauce, as this can make the dish too spicy.

How do I make the spicy chili sauce?

To make the spicy chili sauce, combine 2 tablespoons (30g) of grated fresh chilies, 1 tablespoon (15g) of minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon (15g) of soy sauce in a small bowl. Mix well to combine, then adjust the seasoning to taste.

The Full Recipe

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