Nasi Goreng with Fried Chicken (Indonesia)

Nasi Goreng with Fried Chicken (Indonesia)
Photo by Bayu Syaits on Unsplash

Nasi Goreng is Indonesia’s beloved fried rice dish, known for its bold, savory flavors and satisfying textures.

Paired with crispy, golden fried chicken, this dish is a complete and hearty meal. Whether served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Nasi Goreng with Fried Chicken is a crowd-pleaser and a staple of Indonesian cuisine. This recipe will guide you through making this flavorful dish at home, with all the tips you need to make it just like the locals do.

Ingredients

For the Fried Chicken:

  • 4 pieces chicken drumsticks or thighs (bone-in)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric (for color)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup flour (for coating)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Nasi Goreng:

  • 4 cups cold cooked rice (preferably day-old rice for the best texture)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 shallots, thinly sliced
  • 1 red chili, chopped (optional for heat)
  • 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/4 cup fried shallots (for garnish)
  • Cucumber slices (for garnish)

Serves

This recipe serves 4 people.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fried Chicken

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, minced ginger, minced garlic, ground turmeric, and black pepper. Stir until well combined. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor.
  2. Coat the Chicken: After marinating, coat the chicken pieces evenly with flour.
  3. Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces and fry for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
  4. Drain the Chicken: Once the chicken is crispy and cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 2: Make the Nasi Goreng

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: If using day-old rice, break up any clumps with your hands to ensure the grains are separated.
  2. Cook the Aromatics: In a large wok or skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced shallots, cooking for about 2 minutes until fragrant and softened. Add the chopped red chili (if using) and cook for another minute.
  3. Add the Rice: Add the cold cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any large clumps. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the aromatics and slightly crispy.
  4. Season the Rice: Pour in the sweet soy sauce (kecap manis), soy sauce, and fish sauce. Stir everything together, letting the rice absorb the flavors.
  5. Add the Eggs: Push the rice to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the empty side. Scramble the eggs until they’re cooked through, then mix them into the rice.
  6. Add the Peas and Green Onions: Stir in the peas and chopped green onions. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 3: Serve

  1. Plate the Nasi Goreng: Serve the fried rice on individual plates.
  2. Top with Fried Chicken: Place one or two pieces of crispy fried chicken on top of each plate of nasi goreng.
  3. Garnish: Garnish with fried shallots and cucumber slices for a refreshing contrast.

Serving Suggestions

  • With Pickles: Pair the dish with acar, a tangy and sweet Indonesian pickle made from cucumbers, carrots, and shallots, for a refreshing side.
  • With Sambal: For an extra kick, serve the dish with sambal, a spicy chili paste commonly used in Indonesian cuisine.
  • On the Side: Nasi Goreng can be served with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Tips for Perfect Nasi Goreng with Fried Chicken

  • Use Day-Old Rice: Fresh rice can be too soft and sticky for frying. Day-old rice is ideal because it’s drier and the grains stay separated when stir-fried.
  • Adjust the Heat: If you like your nasi goreng spicy, increase the amount of red chili or serve it with a side of sambal.
  • Fry the Chicken Well: Make sure the chicken is cooked through and crispy on the outside. Don’t skip the marination step, as it adds flavor to the meat.
  • Customize the Garnishes: Fried shallots add a crispy texture, but you can also garnish with crispy fried garlic or chopped cilantro for added flavor.

Healthier Alternatives

  • Grill the Chicken: For a lighter option, instead of frying the chicken, try grilling it. This will cut down on the oil and make the dish healthier.
  • Use Brown Rice: Swap out white rice for brown rice to increase the fiber content of the dish.
  • Less Oil: Use less oil when stir-frying the rice and cook the chicken in a minimal amount of oil to reduce the fat content.

Creative Variations

  • Vegetarian Nasi Goreng: Skip the chicken and use tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
  • Seafood Nasi Goreng: Add shrimp, crab, or fish cakes instead of fried chicken for a seafood twist on this dish.
  • Spicy Nasi Goreng: If you enjoy spicy food, add sriracha or chili paste to the fried rice for an extra layer of heat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using Fresh Rice: Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and sticky for stir-frying. Always use day-old rice for the best texture.
  • Not Preheating the Pan: Make sure the wok or skillet is hot before adding the rice. This will help it fry properly and get a crispy texture.
  • Overcrowding the Pan: If you’re making a large batch of nasi goreng, avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the rice in batches to allow it to cook evenly.
  • Underseasoning the Rice: Nasi Goreng is all about flavor, so be sure to taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more soy sauce or kecap manis for a richer flavor.

History of Nasi Goreng with Fried Chicken

Nasi Goreng, which translates to “fried rice” in Bahasa Indonesia, is one of the most iconic dishes of Indonesia. While fried rice is a dish found in many Asian countries, Nasi Goreng is distinct for its use of sweet soy sauce (known as kecap manis) and its combination of bold spices and savory ingredients. This dish is often served with various toppings, including fried chicken, shrimp, or beef, and it’s considered a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

Nasi Goreng with Fried Chicken (Indonesia)
Photo by Bayu Syaits on Unsplash

The origins of Nasi Goreng are somewhat unclear, as fried rice itself has existed in Asia for centuries. However, Nasi Goreng as we know it today is believed to have been influenced by Chinese traders who brought their cooking techniques and ingredients to Indonesia centuries ago. Over time, the dish evolved, incorporating local spices, herbs, and flavorings, and became a part of Indonesian culture. It is now a staple of Indonesian cuisine, commonly served in homes, street food stalls, and restaurants throughout the country.

Fried chicken, or Ayam Goreng, is another beloved dish in Indonesia. Crispy fried chicken, often marinated in a mixture of spices and herbs, is served alongside many meals, including Nasi Goreng. The combination of fried chicken and fried rice creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making Nasi Goreng with Fried Chicken a complete and satisfying meal.

FAQs About Nasi Goreng with Fried Chicken

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but chicken thighs will give you a juicier and more flavorful result.

2. What type of rice should I use for Nasi Goreng?
Day-old rice is the best choice because it’s drier and has a better texture for stir-frying.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or vegetables for a vegetarian version.

4. Can I use regular soy sauce instead of sweet soy sauce?
Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) is essential for authentic flavor, but you can substitute it with a mix of regular soy sauce and a bit of brown sugar.

5. Is Nasi Goreng spicy?
Nasi Goreng can be mild or spicy, depending on how much chili you add. Adjust the heat to your preference.

6. Can I prepare the fried chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can fry the chicken ahead of time and reheat it before serving. It will still be crispy if stored properly.

7. Can I add other vegetables to the fried rice?
Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers to the rice for extra flavor and nutrition.

8. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Nasi Goreng and fried chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

9. What’s the best way to reheat fried rice?
Reheat fried rice in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil to keep it from drying out.

10. Can I make Nasi Goreng without fish sauce?
You can omit the fish sauce and use a little extra soy sauce or vegetable broth instead.

Nasi Goreng with Fried Chicken is a flavorful, satisfying, and versatile dish that brings the essence of Indonesian cuisine to your kitchen. With its crispy fried chicken and fragrant fried rice, this dish is perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet soy sauce, aromatic spices, and crispy chicken makes every bite a treat. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or as a special meal for yourself, Nasi Goreng with Fried Chicken will always be a crowd-pleaser.