Easiest Hainanese Chicken Rice Recipe (Chef RV Version)

The Easiest Hainanese Chicken Rice You’ll Ever Make (Chef RV’s Foolproof Version) 🍗🍚

If there’s one dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, it’s Hainanese Chicken Rice. This classic, beloved across Southeast Asia, combines tender poached chicken, aromatic rice cooked in rich broth, and zingy dipping sauces. Chef RV Manabat’s version takes all the intimidation out of it—no complex techniques, no fancy equipment—just wholesome, flavour-packed comfort food anyone can make at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️

• Beginner-friendly – No tricky steps, just simple boiling and simmering.
• Fragrant rice magic – The rice soaks up all that savoury chicken broth.
• All-in-one meal – Protein, carbs, and punchy sauces on one plate.
• Customisable – Adjust ginger, garlic, and dipping sauces to your liking.

The Secret to Perfect Hainanese Chicken Rice 🥢

The soul of this dish is the poaching liquid. Chef RV’s method lets the chicken gently cook, releasing juices into the water to create a golden, savoury broth. That broth is then used to cook the rice—infusing every grain with flavour.

The ginger sauce is the other star here: fiery, fragrant, and balanced with sesame oil. Pro tip: Make extra—you’ll find yourself drizzling it over everything.

Step-by-Step Overview 👩‍🍳

1️⃣ Poach the Chicken

• Simmer chicken leg quarters with ginger, garlic, fish sauce, salt, and chicken powder until cooked through and tender.
• Keep the broth—this is your flavour goldmine.

2️⃣ Cook the Rice in Broth

• Use the reserved poaching liquid instead of plain water.
• Your kitchen will smell heavenly as the rice cooks.

3️⃣ Make the Ginger Sauce

• Combine freshly grated ginger with sesame oil, plain oil, and a pinch of salt.
• Adjust the richness to taste—more oil makes it silkier, more salt brightens it up.

4️⃣ Serve with Style

• Plate the chicken over a mound of fragrant rice.
• Offer small bowls of ginger sauce, oyster sauce, and chili sauce.
• Sprinkle with chopped spring onions for colour and freshness.

Serving Ideas 🍽

• Serve hot, with a side of clear chicken broth.
• Add steamed bok choy or pak choi for greens.
• For extra heat, mix chili sauce with a little ginger sauce—your taste buds will thank you.

Chef RV’s Tips for Success 💡

• Use chicken leg quarters for juicier meat and richer broth.
• Don’t rush the poach—low and slow gives you the most tender chicken.
• Leftover broth can be enjoyed as a light soup or stored for future cooking.

This Hainanese Chicken Rice recipe is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With Chef RV’s foolproof method, you’ll be plating up this fragrant, soul-soothing meal in no time.

Whether you’re new to cooking or just want a no-fuss dinner, this dish deserves a spot in your weekly rotation. 🏆