How to Make Thai Chicken Rice (Khao Man Gai) Like Street Food

What is Thai Chicken Rice (Khao Man Gai)?

Khao Man Gai (ข้าวมันไก่) is Thailand’s take on the classic Hainanese chicken rice. The key elements are:

• Poached chicken: Juicy and tender, sometimes marinated with ginger and garlic

• Fragrant rice: Cooked in chicken stock with garlic, ginger, and fat to make it flavorful

• Dipping sauce: Typically made from fermented soybeans, ginger, garlic, chili, and vinegar for a savory-sweet kick

• Soup & garnishes: Clear chicken broth and fresh cucumber slices balance the richness

This dish is a staple in Thai street food stalls and is loved for its comforting flavor, simplicity, and wholesome nutrition.

Ingredients (Serves 2-3)

Chicken & Rice

• 1 whole chicken (about 1-1.5 kg) or chicken thighs

• 2 cups jasmine rice

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 slices ginger

• 2 tbsp chicken fat or vegetable oil

• 3 cups chicken stock

Dipping Sauce

• 2 tbsp fermented soybeans or soy paste

• 2 cloves garlic

• 1-2 red chilies (optional for spice)

• 1 tbsp ginger, grated

• 2 tsp sugar

• 1 tbsp vinegar

• 1 tsp soy sauce

Garnishes

• Fresh cucumber slices

• Fresh cilantro

• Optional: clear chicken soup on the side

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Poach the Chicken

• In a pot, add water, ginger, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil.

• Gently lower the chicken and simmer for 30–40 minutes until cooked through.

• Remove and let cool slightly before slicing.

Step 2: Cook the Fragrant Rice

• In a separate pan, heat chicken fat or oil, sauté garlic and ginger until aromatic.

• Add jasmine rice and stir to coat.

• Pour in chicken stock and cook rice until fluffy and flavorful.

Step 3: Prepare the Dipping Sauce

• Blend fermented soybeans (or soy paste), garlic, ginger, chilies, sugar, vinegar, and soy sauce until smooth.

• Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

• Place rice on a plate, top with sliced poached chicken.

• Drizzle a little sauce over the chicken and serve extra sauce on the side.

• Garnish with cucumber slices and fresh cilantro.

• Serve with a side of clear chicken soup if desired.

Tips for Perfect Thai Chicken Rice

• Chicken: Poach gently to keep the meat tender; do not boil aggressively.

• Rice: Use jasmine rice and cook in chicken fat and stock for the signature aroma.

• Sauce: Adjust spiciness and sweetness according to your taste.

• Serving: Slice chicken against the grain for tender bites.

Why You’ll Love This Thai Chicken Rice Recipe

✔ Authentic Thai street food flavor at home
✔ Juicy, tender chicken with fragrant rice
✔ Easy to make and perfect for family meals
✔ Balanced with fresh vegetables and optional clear soup