Bold, savory, and full of character, chicken with Java rice brings together smoky spices and vibrant color in one unforgettable plate. Each bite tells a story of perfectly seasoned meat paired with rice infused with garlic, annatto, and a hint of sweetness.
This duo doesn’t just satisfy hunger it wakes up the taste buds. Java rice, with its bright yellow hue and punchy flavor, stands out from ordinary side dishes. Paired with tender, well-seasoned chicken, it turns a simple meal into a crave-worthy experience.
No need for complicated prep or exotic ingredients. Just real flavor and satisfying textures that make every forkful count. Serve this combo for lunch, dinner, or even weekend gatherings.
It brings comfort and excitement to the table with every serving. Once the aroma hits the kitchen, everyone will head straight for the plate. Expect zero leftovers.
Chicken With Java Rice Recipe
Chicken with Java Rice is a well-loved Filipino dish. It combines grilled or fried chicken with golden, flavorful rice. The rice gets its bold color and taste from garlic, annatto powder, and simple seasonings. This meal is often served in Filipino restaurants and homes because it’s easy, tasty, and filling.
Java rice makes plain white rice more exciting. When paired with juicy chicken, it becomes a complete meal. Every bite is savory, warm, and satisfying. You don’t need fancy tools or hard-to-find ingredients to cook this. Just basic kitchen items and everyday pantry spices.
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Serving: 4 people
- Calorie: 520 per serving
- Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients
For the Chicken
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4 chicken leg quarters or thighs
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 tablespoon calamansi juice or lemon juice
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1 tablespoon banana ketchup (or regular ketchup)
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1 teaspoon brown sugar
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon oil (for frying or grilling)
For the Java Rice
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4 cups cooked white rice (day-old is best)
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2 tablespoons oil
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon annatto powder (atsuete powder)
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 tablespoon butter
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Salt to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Mix garlic, soy sauce, calamansi juice, ketchup, sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add chicken and coat well. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in the fridge.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat oil in a pan. Fry the chicken on medium heat until golden and fully cooked. This takes about 6-8 minutes on each side. You can also grill the chicken over charcoal for a smoky flavor.
Step 3: Make the Java Rice
In a pan, heat oil. Sauté garlic until light brown. Add annatto powder and mix until the oil turns red-orange. Add butter and soy sauce. Mix in the cooked rice. Stir well until the rice is coated evenly. Add salt if needed.
Step 4: Serve
Place a good amount of Java rice on a plate. Add a piece of chicken on the side. Serve hot.
Top Tips
Marinate Longer
The longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the better the taste. Overnight works best.
Use Leftover Rice
Day-old rice makes better Java rice. It’s drier and doesn’t stick together.
Add a Fried Egg
A sunny-side-up egg on top adds more flavor and texture.
Garlic is Key
Fresh garlic gives the best aroma. Don’t skip it.
Variations
Spicy Version
Add chili flakes or chopped fresh chili to the rice or chicken marinade.
Oven-Baked Chicken
Bake the marinated chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes for a healthier option.
Sweet-Style
Add more ketchup and sugar to the marinade for a sweeter taste, popular in Filipino cooking.
Extra Veggies
Mix in diced carrots or peas to the Java rice for more color and nutrients.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
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Calories: 520
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Protein: 30g
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Carbohydrates: 45g
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Fat: 22g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 4g
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Sodium: 780mg
FAQs
What is Java rice made of?
Java rice is made from garlic, oil, annatto powder, soy sauce, and cooked white rice. It gets its color from annatto.
Can I use chicken breast?
Yes. Chicken breast works too, but it may be less juicy than thighs or leg quarters.
What can I use instead of annatto powder?
You can use turmeric or paprika, but the flavor and color will be slightly different.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, leave it overnight in the fridge.
Conclusion
Chicken with Java Rice brings comfort to the table. It’s simple, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Perfect for family dinners or weekend meals. Try it once, and it might become your new favorite.
This dish proves that with just a few ingredients, you can make something special. Serve it hot, enjoy every bite, and share it with someone you love.
