Hainanese Chicken Rice

Hainanese Chicken Rice – flavorful Brunei chicken dish
Brunei
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Hainanese Chicken Rice is a beloved dish in Brunei, featuring tender poached chicken served with fragrant rice. It holds cultural significance as a popular meal during family gatherings and celebrations. Often enjoyed with chili sauce and ginger paste, it's a staple in Bruneian cuisine.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~400 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • For the Chicken:
  • 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
  • 4 slices ginger
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 2 stalks green onions
  • Salt to taste
  • For the Rice:
  • 2 cups jasmine rice
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, minced
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth (from cooking the chicken)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • For the Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • For Garnish:
  • Fresh cilantro leaves
  • Sliced cucumbers
  • Sliced tomatoes
  • Sliced red chilies (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the ginger, garlic, green onions, and salt.

Add the whole chicken to the pot. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook the chicken for about 30-40 minutes, or until fully cooked and tender.

Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool. Reserve some of the chicken broth for the rice and sauce.

Prepare the Rice

Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

Heat vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté until fragrant.

Add the rinsed rice and cook for a few minutes, stirring frequently.

Add the reserved chicken broth, water, and salt. Bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.

Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and sugar until the sugar is dissolved.

Serve

Cut the cooled chicken into serving pieces.

Arrange the chicken on a plate and drizzle with some of the prepared sauce.

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hainanese Chicken Rice?

Hainanese Chicken Rice is a dish made of poached chicken and seasoned rice, served with various sauces. It's known for its simplicity and rich flavors.

Where does Hainanese Chicken Rice come from?

Originally from Hainan, China, Hainanese Chicken Rice has become a popular dish in Brunei, often enjoyed in homes and restaurants alike.

What are the main ingredients in Hainanese Chicken Rice?

The key ingredients include a whole chicken, ginger, garlic, green onions, and jasmine rice.

How long does Hainanese Chicken Rice take to make?

The total time to make Hainanese Chicken Rice is between 70-95 minutes.

What do you serve with Hainanese Chicken Rice?

Serve with chili sauce, cucumber slices, and a side of broth for a complete meal.