How to Make Roasted Chicken Rice (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Roasted Chicken Rice is an iconic Singaporean dish that stands proudly in our vibrant hawker centres and bustling kopitiams. Known for its fragrant rice, succulent roasted chicken, and tangy chilli sauce, this meal is a staple for locals and a must-try for visitors. Originating from Singapore’s diverse food culture, Roasted Chicken Rice has evolved through influences from Chinese communities and local fusion adaptations, making it a globally loved dish with a uniquely Singaporean soul. The appeal of Roasted Chicken Rice lies in its aromatic rice, steeped in chicken stock and pandan leaves, paired with juicy, perfectly roasted chicken. The dish is typically served with sliced cucumbers, a robust garlic-chilli sauce, and a drizzle of light soy sauce. It’s a nutritious, balanced meal that’s both satisfying and comforting—a true representation of Singapore’s multicultural food landscape. Enjoyed during lunch or any time of day, Roasted Chicken Rice is a testament to Singapore’s hawker culture, where quality and taste meet affordability and convenience.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Preheat oven to 200°C
Preheat oven to 200°C. Pat chicken dry, rub lightly with salt, and brush with sesame oil. Place on a baking tray lined with foil.
Step 2 · Roast chicken in oven for 20 minutes or until skin is golden and me...
Roast chicken in oven for 20 minutes or until skin is golden and meat is cooked through. Baste with more sesame oil halfway.
Step 3 · While chicken roasts
While chicken roasts, rinse rice until water runs clear. In a pot, sauté minced garlic and half the ginger until fragrant. Add rinsed rice, stir, then pour in chicken stock. Add pandan leaves.
Step 4 · Bring rice to a boil
Bring rice to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 12 minutes. Let rest for 5 minutes before fluffing.
Step 5 · Prepare chilli sauce by blending remaining ginger
Prepare chilli sauce by blending remaining ginger, garlic, chilli, and a dash of chicken stock. Season with a pinch of salt and lime juice.
Step 6 · Slice roasted chicken and arrange over rice
Slice roasted chicken and arrange over rice. Garnish with cucumber slices and spring onions. Serve with chilli sauce and a drizzle of light soy sauce.
Why this recipe is healthy
This healthy Roasted Chicken Rice recipe uses roasting instead of deep-frying, reducing unhealthy fats while maintaining authentic flavour. Using low-sodium chicken stock and minimal oil helps manage sodium and calorie intake. The dish also provides a good balance of macronutrients, making it ideal for those tracking their calories and aiming for a nutritious, satisfying lunch.
A note on tradition
Roasted Chicken Rice is a beloved classic found in almost every Singaporean hawker centre and kopitiam. It showcases the multicultural roots of Singaporean cuisine—drawing from Chinese roast traditions and adapted for local tastes. Commonly enjoyed during lunch and family gatherings, it remains a symbol of Singapore’s hawker culture, offering comfort and nostalgia to locals and visitors alike.