
Teriyaki Chicken Rice
Hawker • Singapore
About Teriyaki Chicken Rice
Grilled teriyaki chicken with Japanese rice
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Rice (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Teriyaki Chicken Rice is a beloved fusion dish enjoyed across Singapore, often found at bustling kopitiams and local hawker centres. This meal perfectly blends the sweet-savory flavors of teriyaki-glazed chicken with fragrant jasmine rice, reflecting Singapore's multicultural culinary landscape. While teriyaki has roots in Japanese cuisine, the Singaporean version is uniquely adapted with local spices and lighter preparation, making it a lunchtime favorite for all ages. In the heart of Singapore, Teriyaki Chicken Rice stands as a testament to the nation's global influences and its vibrant food culture. The dish offers a harmonious balance of protein, carbs, and fresh vegetables, making it a wholesome choice for busy professionals and families alike. Its combination of tender, caramelized chicken and fluffy rice is both comforting and satisfying, while the addition of local greens boosts its nutritional profile. Whether enjoyed in a modern food court or a traditional kopitiam, Teriyaki Chicken Rice embodies the fusion spirit that defines Singaporean cuisine, offering a delicious and health-conscious option for lunch.
Ingredients(for 1 plate (about 350g) per person, typical of Singapore kopitiams)
- 250 g Skinless chicken thigh fillets (boneless, trimmed of excess fat)
- 2 tbsp Low-sodium soy sauce (light soy sauce preferred)
- 1 tbsp Mirin (sweet rice wine) (optional for less sugar) - optional
- 1 tbsp Honey (local honey for sweetness)
- 1 tsp Fresh ginger (grated)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 cup Jasmine rice (steamed, local favorite)
- 1 cup Choy sum or bok choy (blanched, local greens)
- 1 tsp Sesame oil (for aroma)
- 1 tsp White sesame seeds (toasted, for garnish) - optional
- 1 stalk Spring onion (finely sliced, for garnish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Marinate chicken thigh fillets with soy sauce, honey, mirin (if using), grated ginger, and minced garlic. Mix well and set aside for 10 minutes.
10 minutes
Marinating longer (up to 1 hour) deepens flavor without extra calories.
- 2
Rinse jasmine rice thoroughly and cook according to package instructions. Keep warm.
15 minutes
For a lower GI option, mix in some brown rice.
- 3
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add marinated chicken and cook 4-5 minutes per side until caramelized and cooked through.
10 minutes
Use minimal oil or a spray to keep the dish light.
- 4
While chicken cooks, blanch choy sum or bok choy in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then drain.
2 minutes
Plunge greens into ice water to keep them vibrant and crisp.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Choosing this homemade Teriyaki Chicken Rice over deep-fried hawker fare means less added fat and sodium, supporting weight management and heart health. The recipe uses skinless chicken and blanched greens, keeping calories in check while maximizing nutrients. Controlled portions and the use of local, fresh ingredients make this dish suitable for a balanced lunch, combining flavor and nutrition the Singaporean way.
This healthy Teriyaki Chicken Rice recipe is high in lean protein from chicken thighs and offers complex carbohydrates from jasmine rice. It’s low in saturated fat and uses minimal oil, making it heart-friendly. The inclusion of local greens like choy sum adds fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. Honey provides natural sweetness, reducing refined sugar intake. Sesame seeds supply healthy fats and minerals such as calcium and magnesium, while ginger and garlic offer anti-inflammatory benefits.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Marinate chicken overnight for maximum flavor without extra calories.
- 💡Tip 2: Use a non-stick pan to reduce the need for oil.
- 💡Tip 3: Blanch greens just before serving to retain their crunch and nutrients.
Storage & Serving
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat chicken and rice separately for best texture. Add fresh greens before serving.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 520.0 kcal |
| Protein | 28.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 60.0 g |
| Total Fat | 18.0 g |
| Fiber | 2.0 g |





