Find out where these chefs get their fill of this Malaysian staple
Steamed or roasted, chicken rice is a mainstay in the Malaysian dining scene. It can be found everywhere, from the local kopitiam to upscale restaurants. With its fragrant rice and juicy meat, it is difficult to say no to a plate of chicken rice.
But what makes a good chicken rice? And where do you go for a good one? As with most popular foods in Malaysia, different people have different opinions about this. In fact, something small like the chilli sauce can make or break a plate of chicken rice.
Since we're spoilt for choice, we seek out the help of these five chefs in Malaysia to point us to their favourites. Do you agree with their selections?
Read more: The best char kuey teow in Malaysia, according to chefs
“Ipoh is famous for its chicken dishes, especially kaisi ho fun (shredded chicken with flat rice noodles soup). But when we talk about chicken rice, it's a completely different conversation. Hainanese chicken rice is one of my favourite dishes.
The best chicken rice shop for me is Restoran Hin Loong in Ipoh, which sells traditional chicken rice that is rarely seen today. The restaurant is more than 40 years old and I was introduced to it by my grandparents. The best part of the meal is the homemade chilli sauce and its ginger purée that pair so well with the rice and the chicken.
I especially love the friendly smiles, passion and spirit of the owners. This is one of the restaurants in Malaysia that has been in business for such a long time but still retains its traditional taste.”
—Lee Choon Boon, Jeff's Cellar
Restoran Hin Loong
Address: 33, Jalan Ali Pitchay, Taman Jubilee, 30250 Ipoh