Nasi Briyani Ayam
Hawker • Singapore
About Nasi Briyani Ayam
Indian Muslim biryani rice with chicken — fragrant and spiced
How to Make Nasi Briyani Ayam (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Nasi Briyani Ayam is a beloved Singaporean dish often found in bustling hawker centres and kopitiams across the city. This aromatic rice dish is paired with spiced chicken, offering a tapestry of flavors that represents Singapore’s multicultural heritage. Its roots trace back to the Indian Muslim community, but over the decades, Nasi Briyani Ayam has evolved with local Malay and Chinese influences, creating a truly Singaporean fusion. The hallmark of Singaporean Nasi Briyani Ayam is its fragrant basmati rice, infused with spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, then paired with succulent chicken marinated in a blend of yogurt and traditional rempah (spice paste). The result is an explosion of flavor—savory, aromatic, and subtly spicy, yet balanced for the Singaporean palate. It’s a popular choice for lunch, especially during festive occasions or Friday prayers, but you’ll also see families enjoying it any day at their favorite hawker stall. Health-conscious eaters will appreciate this recipe’s lighter approach, using less oil and skinless chicken for guilt-free enjoyment.
Ingredients(for 1 plate (rice + 1 chicken leg quarter))
- 1 cup Basmati rice (rinse and soak 20 mins)
- 2 pieces Skinless chicken leg quarters (ayam)
- 1/3 cup Low-fat yogurt (for marinade)
- 1 medium Onion (sliced thinly)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 thumb-sized piece Ginger (grated)
- 1 Cinnamon stick
- 3 Cardamom pods
- 3 Cloves
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp Chili powder (adjust to taste) - optional
- 1 tbsp Canola oil (for sautéing)
- to taste Salt
- for garnish Fresh coriander leaves (daun ketumbar) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Marinate the chicken leg quarters with yogurt, turmeric, coriander powder, chili powder, half the garlic, half the ginger, and a pinch of salt. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes.
10 minutes
For deeper flavor, marinate up to 2 hours in the fridge.
- 2
Rinse and soak the basmati rice for 20 minutes. Drain before cooking.
5 minutes
Soaking ensures fluffy, separate grains.
- 3
Heat canola oil in a large saucepan. Sauté sliced onion until soft, then add remaining garlic and ginger. Stir until fragrant.
5 minutes
Stir constantly to avoid burning the aromatics.
- 4
Add cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves. Fry for 1 minute until spices release aroma.
1 minute
Blooming whole spices intensifies the fragrance.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Our healthy Nasi Briyani Ayam is lighter than traditional versions thanks to lean protein, reduced oil, and the use of low-fat dairy. It is filling and nutrient-dense, making it suitable for those watching their calories without sacrificing authentic Singaporean flavor. By limiting added fats and sodium, this dish supports heart health and fits well into balanced meal plans.
This Nasi Briyani Ayam recipe is balanced in protein, carbs, and healthy fats. Using skinless chicken and low-fat yogurt keeps saturated fat low. Basmati rice is lower in glycemic index compared to regular white rice, making it a better choice for blood sugar control. The dish provides essential vitamins like B6 from chicken, antioxidants from spices, and minerals such as iron and magnesium. The use of minimal oil and inclusion of fresh herbs enhances its nutrient profile.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Soak rice well for fluffier texture.
- 💡Tip 2: Let chicken marinate longer for deeper flavor.
- 💡Tip 3: Add a pandan leaf to rice for extra fragrance.
Storage & Serving
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or steamer to maintain moisture.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 650.0 kcal |
| Protein | 28.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 72.0 g |
| Total Fat | 28.0 g |
| Fiber | 3.0 g |
