Best Chicken Rice Stalls in Singapore
Indulge your taste buds in the culinary delights of Singapore with the quintessential chicken rice.
Revered as the "national dish," this flavourful masterpiece demands a traditional preparation that promises a gastronomic journey with each mouthful.
Crafted with essentials like chicken broth, ginger sauce, black soy sauce, and rice, it's a symphony of taste. Originating from the charming island of Hainan in Southern China, this delectable creation made its way to Singapore, enriched by a fusion of Hainanese and Cantonese influences.
Whether you fancy dining at renowned Michelin-starred restaurants or savouring hawker delights, our comprehensive guide unveils the best chicken rice stalls across Singapore from Tampines to Yishun.
Let the culinary exploration begin!
Best Hawker Stalls Serving Chicken Rice in Singapore
1. Tiong Bahru Hainanese Boneless Chicken
One of the best chicken rice stalls in Singapore, Tiong Bahru Hainanese Boneless Chicken Rice has drawn crowds across its various locations islandwide, from Chinatown to Tampines. Famous for its delectable fusion of succulent, juicy meat, gelatinous skin, and aromatic rice infused with a touch of turmeric - it can make you drool with every bite.
Location: Tiong Bahru Food Centre, #02-82, 30 Seng Poh Road, 168898 Singapore (map)
Opening Hours: Wed-Sun: 10am to 4pm
2. Hawker Chan Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle
Well-received both in Singapore and beyond, Hawker Chan Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle is a local establishment best known for its budget-friendly yet delectable offerings, particularly its signature chicken rice and noodle dishes. The restaurant even earned the prestigious Michelin Star accolade.
The anticipation is palpable even before the doors open, with queues forming early due to the establishment's reputation for its mouthwatering soy sauce chicken rice and roast pork.
Location: 335 Smith St, #02-126, Singapore 050335 (map)
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat: 10:30am to 3:30pm
3. Katong Mei Wei Boneless Chicken Rice
Tucked away in the unassuming Katong Shopping Centre, Katong Mei Wei is a hidden gem celebrated for its heavenly tender chicken adorned in a sesame oil-based sauce, ample portions, and thoughtful extras like free double-boiled soup and homemade achar. Garnering positive acclaim on Google reviews, this culinary haven is a testament to its well-deserved reputation as one of the best chicken rice stalls in Singapore.
Location: Katong Shopping Centre, 865 Mountbatten Rd, Singapore 437844 (map)
Opening Hours: Tues: 10:45am - 7:15pm, Wed - Sun: 11am - 7pm
4. Hoe Kee Kitchen
Known as one of the best Hainanese chicken rice stalls in Singapore, Hoe Kee Kitchen's chicken rice is a culinary delight that starts with the rice itself—flavourful and delectable, it stands out as a dish worthy of savouring independently. The chilli sauce, boasting a robust garlic essence and a subtle zest, elevates the overall taste to new heights. Complementing the rice, the chicken is exceptionally tender, adding another layer of perfection to this gastronomic experience.
Location: Location: Jurong West 505 Market & Food Centre, 505 Jurong West Street 51, #01-39, Singapore 640504 (map)
Opening Hours: Mon: 10:30am – 3pm, Tues, Weds, Fri, Sat and Sun: 10am - 6pm
5. Xing Yun Hainanese Boneless Chicken Rice
Regarded as one of the most famous stores in Yuhua Market & Hawker Centre in Jurong East, Xing Yun Hainanese is known for serving silky smooth chicken with aromatic rice. The chili, with its spicy, garlicky, and gingery notes, complements the chicken perfectly, making this a lunchtime must-have.
Location: Yuhua Market & Hawker Centre, #01-202, Blk 347, Jurong East Avenue 1, Jurong East, 600347 Singapore (map)
Opening Hours: Wed to Mon, 7am to 2pm
6. Ji De Lai Hainanese Chicken Rice
Ji De Lai Hainanese Chicken Rice, nestled in Yishun, boasts Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition and hefty corn-fed chicken.
The rice, though slightly greasy, is fragrant and fluffy. The star of the dish is its homemade chilli sauce and ginger, crafted thrice a week without preservatives. Adding a dose of it to your meal will unleash robust and explosive flavours to the already mouthwatering dish.
Location: Chong Pang Market and Food Centre, #01-152, 105 Yishun Ring Road, 760105 Singapore (map)
Opening Hours: Mon to Sun, 7:30am to 7:30pm
7. Tian Tian Chicken Rice
Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice, a famous household name in Singapore, excels with its fluffy, oily, and fragrant rice boasting a grainy sweet-savoury flavour.
The juicy chicken, accompanied by sliced cucumbers with vegetal sweetness and a light chicken broth, stands out with its delightful flavours. The garlic chilli, with a spicy kick and a hint of sourness, adds an extra layer of flavour.
Location: Maxwell Food Centre, 1 Kadayanallur St, #01-10/11, Singapore 069184 (map)
Opening Hours: Tues to Sun, 10am to 7:30pm
8. Bruce Lee Chicken Rice
Hai-ya! Bruce Lee Chicken Rice packs a punch with a plate of chicken that's a knockout – mixed with crispy taugeh, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and braised tofu, all doused in a secret savoury sauce.
The rice, fluffy and aromatic with ginger-garlic goodness, delivers a flavour kick akin to a blow from famous martial artist, Bruce Lee himself. The unlimited serving of achar adds an extra jab of tangy delight. It's not just a meal; it's a martial arts experience for your taste buds!
Location: 396 E Coast Rd, Singapore 428994 (map)
Opening Hours: Mon to Sun, 10:30am to 8pm
9. 169 Hainanese Chicken Rice
169 Hainanese Chicken Rice stands out with rice that's fragrant, perfectly seasoned, and cooked to perfection.
The chicken skin, marinated in a delightful umami soy sauce, adds an extra layer of richness to this already exceptional dish. It's not just chicken rice; it's a culinary symphony of fragrance, flavour, and texture that leaves your taste buds applauding for more.
Location: Chinatown Complex, 335 Smith St, #02-169, Singapore 050335 (map)
Opening Hours: Mon to Tues, Thurs to Sat: 11am to 3pm, Sun: 11am – 1pm
Best Restaurants Serving Chicken Rice
10. Boon Tong Kee
As one of Singapore's most famous chicken rice brands with stores all across the island, Boon Tong Kee requires little introduction. The rice, with its smooth and almost silky texture, is expertly coated in a fragrant blend of ginger and chicken fats, delivering unparalleled satisfaction. Pairing it with their distinctive chili sauce adds a fiery kick, perfectly balanced by garlicky undertones and a subtle aroma from dried orange peel. However, the highlight undoubtedly lies in the gelatinous, moist chicken, bursting with flavour in every bite.
Location: Balestier Rd, #399 401 & 403, Singapore 329801 (map)
Opening Hours: Mon to Fri: 11am to 2:30pm; 5pm to 10:20pm; Sat-Sun: 11am to 10:20pm
11. Nam Kee Chicken Rice and Restaurant
Since 1968, Nam Kee Chicken Rice has been delighting customers with its delectable Hainanese chicken rice at its restaurants. Accompanied by a delicate drizzle of light gravy, the dish is famous for its juicy, well-cooked meat and rice that does not exhibit an excess of oiliness.
Location: 201 Upper Thomson Rd, Singapore 574343 (map)
Opening Hours: Mon to Sun, 10:45am to 8:30pm
12. MacKenzie Rex Restaurant
Founded in 1966, MacKenzie Rex, is recognised by many locals as the place with the best halal Hainanese chicken rice due to its succulent chicken meat and flavourful rice. Don't miss out on their chilli – the delightful sour tang it adds is the perfect complement to the dish!
Location: 66 Prinsep St, Singapore 188668 (map)
Timing: Mon to Sun, 11am to 10pm
Tips for more gastronomic adventures
Experience a Singapore Chinatown and Exotic Hawkers Tour
On this guided Singapore Chinatown Complex Hakwer Center Tour, you get to experience the hidden gems and corners of the area including cultural treasures and trendy eateries.
Set off on a Singapore Food and Bike Tour in Katong and Joo Chiat
Embark on a food and bike tour through Katong and Joo Chiat to explore some of Singapore's most exquisite local delicacies. Pedal at a leisurely pace between delectable food stops, taking advantage of numerous photo opportunities.
Travel with ease using the EZ Link Card
Embarking on a journey to a new country often involves the inconvenience of arranging transportation. Worry not, as the EZ-Link Card is your ultimate choice for seamless, cashless transactions, ensuring a hassle-free experience!
Stay connected with the Regional Asia eSIMs Data Pack
Looking to maintain seamless connections with friends and family across various Asian countries? The Regional Asia eSIMs Data Pack has got you covered. Easily download this data pack without the inconvenience of swapping SIM cards and networks.
Commonly Asked Questions
What is the average cost of a plate of chicken rice in Singapore?
In Singapore, the average cost of a plate of chicken rice in Singapore ranges from SGD $3 -5. However, the cost may vary based on the restaurant. Are reservations required at chicken rice restaurants in Singapore?
Are reservations required at chicken rice restaurants in Singapore?
It is recommended to make reservations, especially during peak hours, to avoid long queues.
Do these restaurants and stalls offer takeaway or delivery options?
Yes, most of these restaurants and stalls have takeaway and delivery services for their guests.
Is chicken rice healthy?
Yes, chicken rice can be a healthy choice when prepared with mindful considerations. Opting for lean cuts of chicken, skin removal, and cooking methods that minimise added fats can enhance its nutritional profile. Additionally, incorporating whole-grain rice and a variety of vegetables can further contribute to a balanced and nutritious meal. As with any dish, moderation and a well-rounded diet are key for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Why do Singaporeans love chicken rice?
Singaporeans adore chicken rice for its irresistible combination of flavors and textures. The succulent, tender chicken, fragrant and well-seasoned rice, and the accompanying chili and ginger sauces create a harmonious and satisfying eating experience.