Nasi Goreng (Indonesian Fried Rice)

This Indonesian-style fried rice is a staple street food dish full of bold, aromatic flavors and vibrant colors. Known as Nasi Goreng, it’s a delicious way to transform leftover rice into a hearty, satisfying meal that hits all the right notes salty, slightly sweet, umami-rich, and just a little bit spicy. With tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and that iconic topping of a fried egg, this dish is both comforting and full of texture. It’s quick to whip up, perfect for a weeknight dinner, and easily customizable to your taste. Whether you serve it with fresh cucumber slices or a little sambal on the side, Nasi Goreng is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked and cooled jasmine rice (preferably day-old)

• 1 large chicken breast, diced

• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon fish sauce

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 shallot, finely chopped

• 1 red chili, finely chopped (optional)

• 1 carrot, julienned

• 1/2 cup shredded cabbage

• 1/2 cup frozen peas

• 2 eggs

• 1 green onion, sliced

• Low-calorie spray oil

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Fried egg (for topping, optional)

• Fresh cucumber and tomato slices (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Heat a large non-stick pan or wok over medium heat and spray with low-calorie cooking spray.

2. Add diced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same pan, add a little more spray oil. Sauté garlic, shallot, and chili (if using) until fragrant.

4. Stir in the carrot, cabbage, and peas, and cook for a few minutes until tender-crisp.

5. Push the vegetables to the side and crack in the eggs. Scramble gently, then mix them into the vegetables.

6. Add the cooked rice and chicken back to the pan. Mix thoroughly.

7. Drizzle in the soy sauces, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sesame oil. Stir everything until well combined and heated through.

8. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve with a fried egg on top and cucumber/tomato on the side.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 387 kcal | Servings: 2 servings

The Rich Tradition Behind Indonesian Chicken Nasi Goreng

Nasi Goreng, which literally translates to “fried rice” in Bahasa Indonesia, is more than just a dish it’s a cultural icon. Widely regarded as the national dish of Indonesia, Nasi Goreng is beloved throughout Southeast Asia and across the globe. Every Indonesian household has its own version, often adapted with local spices, leftover proteins, and the unmistakable sweetness of kecap manis, a thick and syrupy soy sauce that defines the dish’s flavor.

This particular version, Indonesian Chicken Nasi Goreng, adds a protein-packed twist to the classic by incorporating shredded chicken, scrambled egg, and a mix of crisp-tender vegetables, all stir-fried together in a single pan. The result is a flavorful, aromatic, and satisfying meal that perfectly balances sweet, salty, spicy, and umami.

The Origins and Evolution of Nasi Goreng

Nasi Goreng’s history is deeply intertwined with Indonesian culture and its colonial past. Originally inspired by Chinese fried rice, Indonesians adapted the concept to suit their ingredients and palate. The use of local spices, the addition of terasi (fermented shrimp paste), and the sweet undertone of kecap manis set Indonesian Nasi Goreng apart from its Chinese counterpart.

Over the decades, the recipe has evolved into a versatile dish enjoyed at all times of day from humble street food stalls in Jakarta to five-star hotel brunches. What makes Nasi Goreng truly unique is its adaptability. You can make it with beef, shrimp, tofu, or keep it vegetarian. You can dial up the spice with sambal or tone it down for milder palates. In fact, no two versions are ever quite the same and that’s the beauty of it.

The Importance of Rice in Indonesian Cuisine

In Indonesia, rice is not just a side it’s the heart of every meal. It represents prosperity, sustenance, and community. From morning to night, rice accompanies dishes ranging from grilled satays to spicy stews. Nasi Goreng typically uses leftover rice, and for good reason: it’s drier than freshly cooked rice, which helps it crisp up nicely in the pan without becoming mushy.

This focus on rice also makes Nasi Goreng a practical recipe rooted in frugality. It’s a perfect solution for using up ingredients you have on hand just toss in yesterday’s rice, a protein of your choice, some vegetables, and seasonings and you’ve got a delicious, nutritious meal in under 30 minutes.

What Makes This Chicken Nasi Goreng Special?

What sets this version apart is its balance of flavors and textures. The shredded chicken offers lean protein, making the dish both filling and nourishing. The blend of garlic, onion, ginger, and chili infuses the rice with warmth and depth. Light soy sauce adds saltiness, while the kecap manis brings a mellow sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the wok.

A scramble of egg adds softness and a touch of richness. The vegetables cabbage, peas, and carrots bring color, crunch, and nutrients. The whole dish is then garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro and green onion, along with lime wedges for a hit of brightness.

This combination not only tastes incredible but is also packed with macro and micronutrients that support balanced eating.

Nutritional Profile: A Balanced Meal

Despite being indulgently flavorful, this Nasi Goreng is relatively healthy and well-balanced. Here’s why:

• High in Protein: With both chicken and eggs, this dish provides plenty of high-quality protein that supports muscle repair and keeps you feeling full.

• Healthy Carbs: Jasmine rice is a good source of complex carbohydrates, offering sustained energy.

• Fiber and Micronutrients: The inclusion of vegetables boosts fiber intake and provides essential vitamins like Vitamin A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium and folate.

• Healthy Fats: Using sesame oil in moderation adds heart-healthy fats and a lovely nutty aroma.

Best of all, it’s relatively low in calories about 385 kcal per serving making it a smart choice for those managing weight or just looking for a wholesome, hearty meal.

Tips for Perfect Nasi Goreng Every Time

If you want to elevate your Nasi Goreng from good to great, here are a few expert tips:

1. Use Day-Old Rice

Fresh rice can be too soft and moist, which results in soggy fried rice. Always use chilled, day-old rice for the best texture.

2. Use a Hot Wok or Skillet

A high heat allows ingredients to sear quickly and develop that characteristic wok hei, or smoky flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan so everything fries, not steams.

3. Don’t Skip the Kecap Manis

This ingredient is essential for authentic Nasi Goreng. If you can’t find it in stores, you can make a quick substitute by combining soy sauce with a bit of brown sugar or molasses.

4. Customize with What You Have

This recipe is endlessly flexible. Got leftover roast chicken? Toss it in. Want to make it vegetarian? Swap chicken for tempeh or tofu. No cabbage? Use bok choy or spinach.

5. Finish with Freshness

Herbs like cilantro and sliced scallions, along with a squeeze of lime, provide the contrast needed to lift the dish and balance the umami.

Serving Suggestions

Nasi Goreng is a complete meal in itself, but if you’re looking to round it out further or serve it as part of a feast, consider the following pairings:

• Side Dishes: Add a crunchy cucumber salad, pickled vegetables, or even prawn crackers for textural contrast.

• Toppings: A fried egg on top is a popular addition, especially when the yolk is still runny. You can also serve it with sambal (chili paste) for an extra kick.

• Drinks: Pair with a light jasmine tea, coconut water, or a refreshing lime soda to balance the savory profile.

Nasi Goreng Around the World

While Indonesia lays claim to the original, many neighboring countries have their own spins on fried rice. In Malaysia, Nasi Goreng Kampung adds anchovies and extra chili. In Thailand, you’ll find fried rice made with fish sauce, lime, and Thai basil. Even in the Netherlands, where Indonesian cuisine has a strong influence, Nasi Goreng is a common menu item.

Its global popularity is a testament to its flexibility, flavor, and universal appeal.

Conclusion:

Indonesian Chicken Nasi Goreng is more than a quick meal it’s a journey through Southeast Asian flavor, tradition, and ingenuity. It exemplifies how humble ingredients can be transformed into something deeply satisfying, layered, and nourishing.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or craving something cozy and bold, this dish delivers. It’s fast, customizable, and incredibly rewarding to make. And once you master it, you’ll likely never look at leftover rice the same way again.