How to Make Tandoori Chicken with Rice (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Tandoori Chicken with Rice is a beloved dish in Singapore, where North Indian influences shine through the vibrant hawker food scene. This dish features succulent chicken marinated in aromatic spices and yogurt, char-grilled to perfection, then served alongside fragrant steamed rice. Singaporean kopitiams and hawker centres often offer their own spin on tandoori chicken, blending local tastes with traditional methods, making it a staple for lunch crowds seeking wholesome, flavourful meals. The Singaporean version leans towards a healthier preparation—using lean chicken breast, minimal oil, and plenty of herbs. The smoky aroma and bold spices evoke memories of bustling hawker stalls, where fusion and authenticity thrive side by side. Enjoying Tandoori Chicken with Rice as a lunch option not only satisfies your taste buds, but also embodies Singapore’s multicultural culinary heritage. Each bite carries the distinct taste of spice-laden marinade and subtly aromatic rice, making it one of the top picks among calorie-conscious foodies and those seeking hearty, protein-rich meals in the Lion City.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Slice boneless chicken breast into medium-sized pieces and pat dry
Slice boneless chicken breast into medium-sized pieces and pat dry.
Step 2 · In a mixing bowl
In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and salt.
Step 3 · Add chicken to marinade
Add chicken to marinade, coat evenly, and let sit for at least 10 minutes (longer for deeper flavor).
Step 4 · Meanwhile
Meanwhile, rinse brown rice and cook in a rice cooker or pot with water until tender.
Step 5 · Heat a grill pan or oven to high heat
Heat a grill pan or oven to high heat, brush lightly with olive oil, and grill chicken pieces, turning occasionally, until cooked through and lightly charred.
Step 6 · Arrange cooked brown rice on plates
Arrange cooked brown rice on plates, top with grilled tandoori chicken. Garnish with coriander leaves.
Step 7 · Optional: Serve with a wedge of lemon or sliced cucumber for freshness
Optional: Serve with a wedge of lemon or sliced cucumber for freshness.
Why this recipe is healthy
By substituting brown rice for white and using lean, skinless chicken breast with minimal oil, this dish is lower in calories and saturated fat. The yogurt marinade tenderizes the meat without adding excess fat, while spices increase metabolic activity. It's a heart-friendly, protein-rich meal that supports dietary goals, making Tandoori Chicken with Rice a smart choice for calorie tracking, weight management, and active lifestyles in Singapore.
A note on tradition
Tandoori Chicken with Rice is a common sight at Singapore’s vibrant hawker centres and kopitiams, especially in areas with strong North Indian communities. It’s enjoyed as a hearty lunch, often chosen for its robust flavors and healthy profile. Singapore’s multicultural food culture fosters fusion—sometimes you’ll find this dish paired with sambal or local salads. It’s a popular lunch for office workers, families, and foodies alike, reflecting the city’s love for spice and grilled foods.