Where to find the best chicken rice in Singapore so you can eat like a local

Singapore chicken rice is the country’s national dish. It’s been loved by many generations and is found in every part of the small country, from the streets of Chinatown to the Sentosa Boardwalk. It’s also affordable, versatile, and can be considered a healthy balanced meal. 

The combination of chicken and rice is so popular that they have food stalls dedicated to just serving chicken rice. Is it the rice, the sauce, or the chicken that makes it stand out? We’ve taken up the initiative to compile a list of the top chicken rice in Singapore so you know where to go for your next bite of the tasty hometown favorite. 

Tian Tian’s version is simple but packs a punch when it comes to flavors. The steamed chicken is tender yet juicy and the fluffy white rice is infused with garlic, sesame oil, and rendered chicken fat. This, added with the chili sauce makes this chicken rice in Singapore worth lining up for. We’re serious – expect long queues at this Michelin Bib Gourmand food stall. 

Address: #01-10 Maxwell Food Centre, Singapore, Singapore

Contact: +65 96914852

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 8 PM (Daily)

Social: Facebook

What started out as a tiny stall in Balestier Road, Boon Tong Kee now has 8 branches nationwide. This chicken rice in Singapore gained popularity thanks to Mr. Thian Boon Hua’s perfected recipe. The ginger and chili sauce are the right amount of spice, while the rice remains fragrant and the chicken is never overcooked. Plus, they serve other Chinese home-style dishes for folks who crave more food options.  

Address: 401 Balestier Road, Singapore, Singapore

Contact: +65 6254 3937

Opening Hours: 11 AM – 3 PM, 5 PM – 11 PM (Daily)

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While chicken rice in Singapore is more commonly found at food stalls and hawker centers, you’ll also find it at 5-star hotels like the Mandarin Orchard. Chatterbox is proclaimed the “Home of the Legendary Mandarin Chicken Rice” which we think is partly attributable to its generous serving size. They certainly do justice to the national dish and we suggest enjoying it in a fancy setting at least once. 

Address: 333 Orchard Rd, Level 5, Hilton Orchard Singapore, Singapore, Singapore

Contact: +65 6831 6291 | chatterbox@ouerestaurants.com

Opening Hours: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM (Daily)

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Everyone knows about Loy Kee Chicken Rice in Singapore because it’s been around since 1953. They take pride in producing everything from scratch and have kept it that way by following cooking techniques handed down from three generations ago. Here you have the option to choose between steamed or roasted chicken and get a side of cooked fresh vegetables to complete the meal. 

Address: 342 Balestier Rd, Singapore, Singapore

Contact: +65 6252 2318

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 9 PM (Mon-Sat) 10 AM – 10 PM (Sun)

Social: Facebook | Website

There’s a lot to love about Wee Nam Kee’s chicken rice in Singapore. First, you get to indulge in both steamed chicken and roasted chicken on the same platter. Pair it with their fluffy white rice and tangy dipping sauce and the hawker fare is instantly elevated. Their Singapore chicken rice is so good that it’s gone international and has locations in neighboring countries like Indonesia and the Philippines. 

Address: 101 Thomson Road, #01-08 United Square, Singapore 

Contact: +65 6255 6396

Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 10 PM (Daily)

Social: Facebook | Website

If you’ve ever wanted to dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant, Liao Fan Hawker Chan is one of the more affordable ones. They also happen to serve Singapore’s favorite chicken rice, so you’re in luck. Instead of your usual Hainanese version, their signature is the soya sauce chicken rice. The delectable chicken is perfectly seasoned and the sauce-topped rice adds depth to the dish, making every mouthful a delight. 

Address: 335 Smith Street#02-126 Chinatown Complex Market & Food Centre, Singapore

Contact: +65 6272 2000

Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM (Mon-Sat)

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Since Tian Tian made it to the list, it only seems fair to include its competitor, Ah Tai Hainanese Chicken Rice. This chicken rice restaurant in Singapore was opened by a previous employee, which explains why the food and price point are similar. Here, you’re also served a portion of steamed lean protein, a fragrant bowl of rice, and ginger chili sauce with a kick.

Address: Stall No. 7 Maxwell Food Centre, Kadayanallur Street Singapore, Singapore

Contact: +65 8137 6559

Opening Hours: 11 AM – 7:30 PM (Daily, closed Tue)

Social: Facebook

Chin Chin Eating House is an unassuming restaurant that has been serving authentic Hainanese meals for decades. This famed chicken rice in Singapore is drizzled with light soy sauce and a homemade dip that reminds us of our favorite auntie’s cooking. The rice is not too oily, the steamed chicken is supple and meaty, and the sauce has a balance of aroma and spice.  

Address: 19 Purvis Street, Singapore Singapore

Contact: +65 6337 4640

Opening Hours: 11 AM – 9 PM (Daily)

Social: Website