Elevate your meal prep with this nutrient-packed twist on a classic: High Protein Hainanese Chicken Rice. This healthier version swaps traditional white rice for protein-rich quinoa, paired with tender poached chicken breast infused with fragrant ginger and garlic. Simmered in aromatic chicken broth, the quinoa takes on the savory essence of the dish, perfectly complementing the juicy, sesame-drizzled chicken. A zesty homemade soy and chili dipping sauce adds a spicy kick, while fresh spring onions complete the presentation with a burst of color and crunch. Perfect for health-conscious food lovers, this recipe delivers balanced macros and a bold fusion of flavors inspired by a beloved Southeast Asian comfort food classic.
Start by rinsing the quinoa under cold water and set aside to drain.
Peel the ginger and garlic. Slice half of the ginger into thin strips and finely mince the rest along with all the garlic.
In a large pot, add the chicken broth, sliced ginger, 1 teaspoon salt, and chicken breast. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Once cooked, remove the chicken breast from the pot and set aside to rest. Keep the broth warm.
In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Add the rinsed quinoa to the pan, stirring to coat with the aromatic oil. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Pour in 500 milliliters of the reserved chicken broth to the quinoa mixture. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and fluffy.
While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the sauce by mixing the soy sauce, chili sauce, lime juice, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
Slice the cooked chicken breast into thick pieces. Drizzle a little sesame oil over the chicken and sprinkle with white pepper.
Finely slice the spring onions for garnish.
To serve, place a generous serving of the quinoa on each plate, top with sliced chicken, and garnish with spring onions. Serve with the spicy sauce on the side.
Calories |
2169 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 89.2 g | 114% | |
| Saturated Fat | 12.9 g | 64% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 31.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 516 mg | 172% | |
| Sodium | 12280 mg | 534% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 133.3 g | 48% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.1 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 12.6 g | ||
| Protein | 213.4 g | 427% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 261 mg | 20% | |
| Iron | 12.2 mg | 68% | |
| Potassium | 3241 mg | 69% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.