Hong Long Boneless Chicken Rice – A Neighborhood Gem in Bukit Panjang
November 21, 2024
Bukit Panjang feels like uncharted territory to me, a place so far off my usual food map that my only reference point is a bowl of ke kou mian I once ate for supper eons ago. So when I found myself there a few months ago filming a Chiak With Us YouTube video with Member of Parliament Edward Chia, I was pleasantly surprised when he introduced me to a humble chicken rice stall nestled in a neighborhood coffeeshop. That first visit left an impression, and today, I made my way back for an early lunch—not just to satisfy my cravings.
It turns out the boss is no stranger to good chicken rice. Having worked at the iconic 925 Chicken Rice for six years, he decided to branch out and start his own venture. No wonder the chicken rice here tastes so solid—it’s backed by years of experience and a dedication to a tried-and-tested formula.
Oh, and speaking of chicken rice quirks: Have you noticed how many popular stalls serve their dishes on blue or purple plates? There’s just something visually appetizing about it that makes the rice pop. But I digress—let’s talk about the food.
Hong Long’s chicken rice is delightfully affordable. For just $2.80, you can get a plate of chicken breast meat rice. If you’re after something juicier, go for the $3.80 chicken thigh meat rice or treat yourself to the $4.80 chicken drumstick rice. It’s comforting to know that great-tasting chicken rice can still be enjoyed at such pocket-friendly prices, especially in this day and age.
The poached chicken here is a highlight. The skin is silky smooth, and the meat is tender without being overly fatty. It’s drizzled in chicken rice sauce, but the balance of flavour lets the natural sweetness of the chicken shine through. For me, the breast meat wasn’t too dry, while the thigh meat offered just the right amount of juiciness.
The rice leans towards the milder side, which might not appeal to fans of richer, oilier chicken rice. But my husband gave it a thumbs up, appreciating its lighter texture and fragrance. For those who prefer a less greasy rendition of this Singaporean staple, Hong Long’s rice strikes a nice balance without compromising on taste.
If you’re the type who loves a good chilli sauce to elevate your chicken rice, you’ll enjoy the one here. It’s bright, spicy, and comes with a good punch. While I was slightly disappointed by the absence of minced ginger (a personal favourite), the chilli more than made up for it by tying the flavours of the dish together beautifully.
Would I go out of my way to revisit Hong Long Boneless Chicken Rice? Probably not, but if I were in the Bukit Panjang area, I’d definitely pop by for a satisfying meal. It’s a fantastic neighbourhood option with great value and quality. Plus, it’s just a short walk from Segar LRT Station, making it an easy stop if you’re in the area.
Hong Long Boneless Chicken Rice
Address: 485 Segar Road, Singapore 670485
Opening Hours: 10:30 AM to 8:00 PM (or until sold out). No fixed off days
So the next time you find yourself in Bukit Panjang, give Hong Long Boneless Chicken Rice a try. Who knows—it might just become your go-to comfort meal in the neighbourhood!