Name: Nasi Goreng (Indonesian Fried Rice) Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Indonesian
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken thighs or 1 breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tablespoon kecap manis; 2 shallots, roughly chopped; 3 garlic cloves, roughly chopped; 1 red chili, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon (9 g) Indonesian shrimp paste (terasi); 3 cups cooked white rice (day-old); 2 tablespoons kecap manis; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons cooking oil; Fried eggs; Green onion, chopped; Tomatoes, wedge cut; Cucumber, sliced; Fried shallots; Lime wedges; Shrimp chips; Sambal Oelek

Jump to Recipe·4 from 64 reviews

If you have ever wanted to dive into the vibrant and hearty world of Indonesian cuisine, this Nasi Goreng (Indonesian Fried Rice) Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with savory flavors, a perfect balance of sweet and spice, and a satisfying texture from day-old rice, this iconic dish comes together quickly yet leaves a lasting impression. From the tender, marinated chicken to the aromatic paste enriched with shrimp paste and chili, every bite tells a story of tradition and incredible taste. Whether you’re cooking for two or simply craving an unforgettable dinner, this recipe will become a cherished favorite you turn to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up of a dark gray frying pan with a textured inside surface, sitting on a stove with silver metal parts and a light pink ring around the burner. Inside the pan are small pieces of cooked chicken with a shiny, brown glaze and bits of fried garlic or onion scattered around. The background is a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering a handful of simple yet essential ingredients is all you need to craft this delightful meal. Each one plays a crucial role in layering flavor, creating texture, and adding that beautiful Indonesian color and aroma we adore in Nasi Goreng.

Chicken: Use 2 boneless skinless chicken thighs or 1 breast cut bite-sized, marinated to ensure juicy chunks throughout the dish.
Kecap Manis: This sweet Indonesian soy sauce gives nasi goreng its signature caramelized sweetness and depth.
Shallots: Roughly chopped for that classic sweet and mild onion flavor that forms the dish’s fragrance.
Garlic: Adds a warm, fragrant base essential in Indonesian cooking.
Red chili: Finely chopped to bring a gentle heat and vibrant color.
Indonesian shrimp paste (terasi): A small amount packs an umami punch that makes this recipe truly authentic.
Cooked white rice (day-old): Cold, day-old rice prevents clumping and creates perfect fried rice texture.
Soy sauce: Balances salty depth alongside kecap manis for the perfect seasoning.
Cooking oil: For sautéing and achieving that perfect sear.

How to Make Nasi Goreng (Indonesian Fried Rice) Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by tossing your bite-sized chicken pieces in a tablespoon of kecap manis. This simple step infuses the chicken with a sweet, soy-rich flavor while tenderizing it slightly. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes; this gives time for the marinade to soak in and makes the chicken irresistibly tasty as you cook.

Step 2: Make the Aromatic Paste

Next up is where the magic begins. Using a mortar and pestle, grind the chopped shallots, garlic, red chili, and a teaspoon of Indonesian shrimp paste until it forms a fragrant, smooth paste. This paste will be the backbone of your Nasi Goreng, giving it the signature savory depth and a subtle heat that makes it truly special.

Step 3: Cook Aromatics and Chicken

Heat about 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a wok over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot and shimmering, add your aromatic paste and sauté it for 1 to 2 minutes until the kitchen fills with mouthwatering scent. Then, add the marinated chicken pieces and cook, stirring often, until they’re mostly done — about 4 to 5 minutes. This step locks in the flavors and gets your chicken tender and delicious.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

Time to give that day-old rice the spotlight. Add the cold cooked rice into the wok, breaking apart any clumps with your spatula. Pour in 2 tablespoons each of kecap manis and soy sauce, then toss and stir everything together so each grain is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce. Continue cooking for a few minutes until the rice is heated through and slightly caramelized in spots.

Step 5: Serve

Your Nasi Goreng is nearly ready to be devoured. Transfer the fragrant fried rice onto plates, and top with a perfectly fried egg. Arrange wedge-cut tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, shrimp chips, and a generous spoonful of sambal oelek on the side. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions and crispy fried shallots for a delightful crunch and freshness.

How to Serve Nasi Goreng (Indonesian Fried Rice) Recipe

A white bowl filled with three main layers: the bottom layer is orange-brown fried rice mixed with small pieces of chicken and red chili, the middle layer shows scattered green onion slices and crispy fried shallots, and the top layer features a sunny-side-up egg with a bright yellow yolk and white edges placed slightly off-center. On the side of the bowl, there are fresh slices of green cucumber and red tomato wedges arranged neatly. A woman's hand is squeezing a green lime wedge over the egg, with a white marbled surface in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The garnishes make all the difference by adding texture, freshness, and even a touch of cooling contrast to the rich fried rice. Fried eggs with runny yolks create a luscious sauce-like layer, while green onions and fried shallots contribute sharpness and crispness. Don’t forget those bright wedges of tomato and cucumber for a refreshing bite between spoonfuls.

Side Dishes

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, pair this nasi goreng with traditional accompaniments like shrimp chips for crunch or a spicy sambal oelek dip to dial up the heat. These sides elevate the meal and add fun variety to your plate, turning each bite into a new experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual meal, serve the fried rice family-style in a big bowl with garnishes on top for guests to help themselves. To impress guests, mold the rice using a bowl to create neat servings, then top each with the fried egg and arranged garnishes. A squeeze of lime just before eating brightens the whole dish beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Nasi Goreng can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to cool it completely before storing to keep it fresh and safe. Reheat gently to preserve texture and flavor.

Freezing

This Indonesian fried rice recipe freezes well for up to one month. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, making it easy to defrost exactly what you need for future quick meals without sacrificing quality.

Reheating

For the best result, reheat nasi goreng in a wok or skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil to revive its original texture and prevent sogginess. Stir frequently to heat evenly, and if you have a spare fried egg, adding one fresh on top makes the reheated meal just as delightful.

FAQs

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Definitely! Shrimp, firm tofu, or even thinly sliced beef work wonderfully in this dish. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein is perfectly cooked.

Why is day-old rice recommended for Nasi Goreng?

Day-old rice has had time to dry out slightly which prevents clumping and results in perfectly separated grains when stir-fried. Freshly cooked rice is often too moist and leads to soggy fried rice.

What if I don’t have Indonesian shrimp paste (terasi)?

If terasi isn’t available, you can substitute it with a small amount of fish sauce or omit it altogether, though the deep umami flavor it imparts is distinctive and worth seeking out if possible.

Is Nasi Goreng very spicy?

The level of spice depends on how much chili you add. You can easily adjust the heat by varying the amount of red chili or sambal oelek served on the side to suit your preference.

Can Nasi Goreng be made vegetarian?

Yes! Simply skip the chicken and shrimp paste, and substitute with mushrooms or extra vegetables. Use vegetarian-friendly soy sauce and add a plant-based protein for a filling alternative.

Final Thoughts

This Nasi Goreng (Indonesian Fried Rice) Recipe is a delightful invitation to explore the heart and soul of Indonesian home cooking in your very own kitchen. It’s quick, satisfying, and packed with bold flavors that are sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of creating this warm, comforting dish—you’ll find it’s perfect for sharing or treating yourself to an unforgettable taste adventure.