Chicken nasi goreng

Chicken Nasi Goreng is an Indonesian fried rice dish featuring tender chicken thighs, basmati rice, and fresh scallions, all stir-fried together with aromatic seasonings. This quick and flavorful meal is perfect for any time of the day, especially when made with day-old rice.

05 Feb 2026
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 30 min

Ingredients:

1 cup basmati rice
1 cup scallions
4 chicken thighs
4 eggs
1/2 cup coriander leaves

Chicken Nasi Goreng is a delightful Indonesian fried rice dish known for its rich flavors and quick preparation. This recipe combines succulent chicken thighs, fragrant basmati rice, and fresh vegetables, making it a satisfying meal for any time of the day.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Rice:
- Rinse 1 cup of basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, spread the rice out on a baking sheet or plate to cool and let it dry out a bit. Using day-old rice is ideal for fried rice recipes.

2. Prepare the Ingredients:
- While the rice is cooking, finely chop the scallions, including both the white and green parts.
- Roughly chop the coriander leaves.
- Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.

3. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces to the wok, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside.

4. Scramble the Eggs:
- In the same wok, add a bit more oil if needed. Crack the eggs into the wok and lightly scramble them. Once cooked, remove the eggs from the pan and set aside.

5. Stir-Fry the Aromatics:
- Add a bit more vegetable oil to the wok if necessary. Add the minced garlic and white parts of the scallions and stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.

6. Combine and Cook:
- Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the wok. Add the cooled rice and stir to combine everything.
- Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. If you like your Nasi Goreng spicy, add the chili paste or sambal oelek at this stage.
- Stir-fry everything together over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes until the rice is heated through and everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

7. Add Fresh Ingredients:
- Just before serving, stir in the green parts of the scallions and the chopped coriander leaves.

8. Serve:
- Serve the Chicken Nasi Goreng hot, with lime wedges on the side if desired.

Enjoy your Chicken Nasi Goreng as a standalone meal or pair it with a refreshing side salad. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic rice, and the perfect blend of seasonings will surely make this dish a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Chicken nasi goreng FAQ:

What is the best way to store leftover Chicken Nasi Goreng?

Store leftover Chicken Nasi Goreng in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, use a microwave or a skillet, adding a splash of water to prevent drying.

What can I substitute for chicken thighs in this recipe?

You can substitute chicken breasts or tofu for a vegetarian option. If using tofu, ensure it's firm and sauté it until golden brown before adding to the dish.

How can I tell when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don't have a meat thermometer, ensure the meat is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear.

What type of rice is recommended for Chicken Nasi Goreng?

Basmati rice is recommended for its aromatic qualities and texture. Using day-old rice is ideal as it prevents the dish from becoming mushy.

Can I add vegetables to the Chicken Nasi Goreng?

Yes, you can add vegetables such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers. Add them during the stir-frying step to ensure they cook evenly.

Cooking Tips:

- Pre-cook the rice ahead of time.: For the best results, use day-old rice. If you cook it on the same day, make sure it’s cool before adding it to the wok to prevent it from becoming mushy.

- Use a wok or large skillet.: This ensures all the ingredients get cooked evenly and allows for easy stirring without spillage.

- Adjust the spice level to your taste.: Feel free to add more chili or sambal oelek if you prefer your Nasi Goreng spicier.

- Don't overcrowd the pan.: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure it browns nicely and doesn’t steam.

- Use high heat when frying.: A high cooking temperature will give the dish its characteristic smoky flavor and prevent it from becoming too soggy.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 360kcal
Protein 24g
Carbohydrates 16g
Fiber 0.49g
Sugar 0.87g
Fat 22g

Chicken nasi goreng