About

Ji De Lai is tucked inside Chong Pang Market in Yishun, far from the tourist circuit. It holds a Michelin Bib Gourmand (since 2023). At $3.50 a plate, it is probably the cheapest Bib Gourmand chicken rice in Singapore. Plates start at $3.50.

The rice fragrance is strong for a heartland stall, and the chicken texture is consistently good. The portions are generous for the price, and the quality backs up the Bib Gourmand nod. The chilli is above average. No theatrics, no gimmicks, just well-executed chicken rice.

The stall opens at 7:30am and stays open until evening (the Michelin Guide lists 7:30pm). Getting here requires a trip to Yishun, which puts off casual visitors. Northsiders already know about it.

ShiokScore Breakdown

Scored across 5 dimensions specific to chicken rice. Learn what each means →

Rice Fragrance 87

Aroma and flavour of the rice. Pandan leaf, chicken fat, garlic oil. Should smell before you taste.

Chicken Texture 86

Between silky and dry. The collagen 'jelly' layer under the skin is a sign of quality, not a defect.

Chilli Quality 83

Every stall's secret weapon. Ginger-forward vs lime-forward vs garlic-heavy. Balance of heat, acid, and flavour.

Sauce Balance 85

Dark soy sauce sweetness, ginger paste sharpness, and how they complement the chicken and rice together.

Portion Value 93

Amount of chicken relative to price, rice quantity, and overall value compared to hawker norms.

Style: Hainanese Steamed

The original. Chicken poached in aromatic stock then ice-bathed for silky texture. Subtle, clean flavour. The jelly layer under the skin is the hallmark.

Learn about all 4 chicken rice styles →

Ji De Lai Hainanese Chicken Rice

About

ShiokScore Breakdown

Style: Hainanese Steamed