How to Make Steamed Chicken Rice (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Steamed Chicken Rice is a beloved cornerstone of Singaporean cuisine, renowned for its delicate flavors and wholesome ingredients. This dish is a staple in every kopitiam and hawker centre across the island, symbolizing the rich multicultural tapestry of Singapore’s food scene. The juicy, tender chicken is gently steamed to perfection, preserving its natural goodness, and paired with fragrant rice cooked in aromatic chicken broth. Each bite offers a satisfying blend of savory, umami notes balanced by vibrant ginger and scallion accents. Steamed Chicken Rice is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural icon, connecting generations of Singaporeans from all walks of life. Its popularity stems from its simple yet sophisticated preparation and the comforting flavors that evoke memories of family gatherings and bustling lunches at local kopitiams. With influences shaped by Singapore’s fusion food culture, this healthier version maintains all the authentic taste while being mindful of calories and nutrition, making it an ideal choice for those tracking their meals.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Rinse the jasmine rice until the water runs clear
Rinse the jasmine rice until the water runs clear. Set aside to soak for 10 minutes.
Step 2 · In a pot
In a pot, add chicken stock, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a gentle simmer. Place chicken breast in, cover, and steam on low heat for 12-15 minutes until cooked through.
Step 3 · Remove the chicken and let it rest
Remove the chicken and let it rest. Strain and reserve the cooking broth for rice.
Step 4 · In a separate saucepan
In a separate saucepan, sauté 1 clove garlic and 1 slice ginger with a little reserved chicken fat or 1/2 tsp sesame oil. Add drained rice and stir for 1 minute.
Step 5 · Pour reserved chicken broth over the rice
Pour reserved chicken broth over the rice. Add salt and white pepper. Cook rice as usual until tender and aromatic.
Step 6 · Slice the steamed chicken and plate with cucumber slices and spring...
Slice the steamed chicken and plate with cucumber slices and spring onion. Drizzle with a mix of light soy sauce and a touch of sesame oil.
Step 7 · Serve hot with fragrant rice
Serve hot with fragrant rice, and extra broth on the side if desired.
Why this recipe is healthy
This healthy Steamed Chicken Rice recipe is ideal for calorie-conscious eaters. By steaming the chicken and using low-sodium stock, the dish minimizes unhealthy fats and sodium without sacrificing authentic Singaporean flavor. The balanced combination of protein, complex carbs, and fiber supports satiety and weight management, making it a smart choice for lunch or post-workout meals.
A note on tradition
Steamed Chicken Rice is a quintessential Singaporean dish, often enjoyed for lunch at hawker centres and kopitiams across the island. Its origins reflect Singapore’s history as a melting pot of cultures, and the dish has evolved through generations to become a national favorite. It’s commonly eaten during family gatherings and is especially popular for its simplicity and comfort factor, embodying the spirit of Singapore’s vibrant food scene.