Authentic Hainanese Chicken Rice

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Authentic Hainanese Chicken Rice.

1. Step 1

   Begin by trimming any excess fat from the chicken, setting aside the fat for later use.

2. Step 2

   In a spacious pot, combine the chicken with spring onions, crushed garlic, and ginger, then pour in enough water to fully submerge the chicken.

3. Step 3

   Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer, skimming off any impurities that surface.

4. Step 4

   Allow the chicken to cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, which should take about an hour.

5. Step 5

   Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the pot and reserve the flavorful broth.

6. Step 6

   Generously rub the chicken with salt, then chop it into bite-sized pieces and arrange them beautifully on a serving platter.

7. Step 7

   In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, three tablespoons of the reserved broth, one and a half tablespoons of sugar, garlic oil, and sesame oil, then drizzle this savory blend over the chicken pieces.

8. Step 8

   In a separate pot, melt the reserved chicken fat over medium heat, then add the rice, minced garlic, crushed ginger, and a pinch of salt.

9. Step 9

   Stir the mixture until the rice becomes glossy and aromatic, which should take about two to three minutes.

10. Step 10

    Pour in enough reserved chicken broth to cover the rice by half an inch, cover the pot, and bring it to a boil.

11. Step 11

    Cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, approximately twenty to twenty-five minutes.

12. Step 12

    After cooking, let the rice rest, covered, for five minutes before fluffing it with a fork.

13. Step 13

    For a zesty garlic chili dip, blend together red chili peppers, the juice of two limes, two tablespoons of reserved chicken broth, three cloves of garlic, a half-inch piece of ginger, a quarter teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of sugar until smooth.

14. Step 14

    For a refreshing ginger dip, blend the juice of two limes, two tablespoons of reserved chicken broth, three cloves of garlic, a one-inch piece of ginger, and an eighth teaspoon of salt until silky.

15. Step 15

    Serve the succulent chicken and fragrant rice alongside the vibrant garlic chili and ginger dips for a delightful meal that’s sure to impress.