Nasi Lemak with Fried Chicken
Malaysian • halal_safe
How to Make Nasi Lemak with Fried Chicken (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Nasi Lemak with Fried Chicken is a quintessential Malaysian breakfast dish that beautifully represents the country’s multicultural heritage. ‘Nasi Lemak’ translates to ‘rich rice,’ referring to the fragrant rice cooked in santan (coconut milk) and pandan leaves, giving it a creamy texture and aromatic flavor. This dish is typically served with crispy fried chicken, sambal (spicy chili paste), cucumber slices, roasted peanuts, and hard-boiled eggs, creating a balance of flavors and textures that Malaysians adore. Originally enjoyed as a humble farmer’s meal, Nasi Lemak has become a national favorite, available everywhere from roadside stalls to five-star hotels. Its irresistible combination of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet notes appeals to all palates, making it a beloved choice for breakfast or brunch across Malaysia. The inclusion of local ingredients like pandan and lemongrass highlights the culinary diversity and resourcefulness of Malaysian cooking. By using healthier cooking methods and mindful ingredient portions, you can enjoy this classic dish guilt-free, making it a perfect addition to a balanced Malaysian diet.
Ingredients(for 1 plate of Nasi Lemak with Fried Chicken)
- 1 cup White rice (preferably local fragrant rice)
- 1/2 cup Santan (coconut milk) (light coconut milk for lower fat)
- 2 pieces Pandan leaves (tied in a knot)
- 1 stalk Lemongrass (bruised)
- 1/2 Cucumber (sliced)
- 2 Eggs (hard-boiled)
- 2 tbsp Roasted peanuts (unsalted)
- 2 tbsp Ikan bilis (anchovies) (fried with minimal oil)
- 200g Chicken breast (skinless, for healthier frying)
- 2 tbsp Chili paste (homemade sambal, less oil)
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder (for chicken marinade)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Instructions
- 1
Rinse the rice until water runs clear. Place in a rice cooker with santan, water (to reach 1.5 cups total liquid), pandan leaves, and lemongrass. Cook until fluffy and fragrant.
15 minutes
Use light coconut milk to reduce fat content without sacrificing aroma.
- 2
Marinate chicken breast with turmeric, salt, and pepper for 10 minutes. Air-fry or shallow fry with minimal oil until golden and cooked through.
15 minutes
Air-frying keeps the chicken crispy with less oil.
- 3
Boil eggs for 8-10 minutes. Peel and halve them.
10 minutes
Use room temperature eggs to prevent cracking.
- 4
Lightly fry ikan bilis in a non-stick pan with just a few drops of oil until crispy. Set aside.
5 minutes
Drain ikan bilis on paper towels to reduce excess oil.
Why This Dish is Healthy
By opting for light santan, air-frying the chicken, and controlling sambal oil usage, this Nasi Lemak with Fried Chicken supports heart health and weight management without compromising on authentic Malaysian flavors. Its inclusion of lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats keeps you full longer, making it ideal for a balanced Malaysian diet and those tracking their calories.
This healthier Nasi Lemak with Fried Chicken offers a balanced meal rich in protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Using chicken breast instead of thigh and air-frying reduces saturated fat. Coconut milk provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), while peanuts and ikan bilis add essential minerals like magnesium and calcium. Cucumber and pandan contribute antioxidants, making each serving a nutritious choice for a well-rounded Malaysian breakfast.
Pro Tips
- 💡Wash rice thoroughly for fluffier texture and less starch.
- 💡Use fresh pandan leaves for best aroma in coconut rice.
- 💡Marinate chicken in advance for deeper flavor.
Storage & Serving
Store components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat rice and chicken before serving; keep sambal refrigerated and use within 3 days.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 750.0 kcal |
