We tried the trending $1.90 chicken rice at AMK — is it worth the trip?

Though I’ve been living in the Ang Mo Kio neighbourhood all my life, AMK Central is one place that I hardly travel to unless I’ve got an errand to run. Recently, a stall called Nguan Express 88 at 704 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 8 offering S$1.90 chicken rice has been making waves on various media channels. Since it’s just a stone’s throw from my place, I figured — why not rope in a colleague and check it out together?

We arrived at 9.30am and saw the large signage advertising Roasted Chicken Rice and Soy Chicken Rice sold for just S$1.90. If you’re someone who only eats breast meat, I’m sorry, but beggars can’t be choosers— just take what you’re given.

That said, I’m sure there will be a select few who’ll still try their luck (speaking from 14 years of experience in the F&B industry). We were informed that the Roasted Chicken Rice wasn’t ready yet, so we went for the other option.

There’s also whole Soy Chickens available for S$8.80 each, though its price is almost the same or higher than the ones sold at supermarket rotisseries.

When we opened the polystyrene container, we gasped at the portion size. For S$1.90, the amount given was actually decent! A mix of wing and breast meat (7 to 8 pieces), accompanied by cucumber slices, was served over a generous heap of chicken rice.

So, how’d the rice taste? Let’s just say it wasn’t the best I’ve had, but it was above average for sure. It wasn’t that oily, and I could detect the subtle aroma of ginger and pandan leaves. Each grain was well cooked without any hard bits.

Having eaten soya chicken from other establishments, the skin and seasoning of the chicken over here is executed perfectly — exceeding the quality typically found elsewhere. Even the breast meat melted in our mouths, and we both agreed it was exceptionally tender.

We slathered the chilli sauce over our pieces of chicken. It favours tanginess and sweetness, rounded off with a mild spice. I didn’t mind it at all!

Hungry and in a rush? Nguan Express 88 has S$1.90 chicken rice packs waiting for you. And hey, they’ve got about 3 tables if you wish to sit down and enjoy.

We were informed that soya chickens are available throughout the day, while the roasted chicken has limited stocks.

The friendly Vietnamese lady at the stall also told us that as long as there’s support for this S$1.90 chicken rice, they will continue selling it with a few additional items offered later on. Do note that if you wish to utilise your CDC vouchers for this, you may do so.

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