Nasi Ayam Kremes (Indonesian Fried Chicken) 

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This is Nasi Ayam Kremes—Indonesian fried chicken topped with addictive, spiced "tempura" bits. It’s traditionally served with warm rice, sambal, and fresh condiments like tempe, tofu, basil, and stinky beans aka lalapan. This recipe focuses on getting the chicken perfectly juicy on the inside while staying crispy on the outside.

What is Ayam Kremes?

"Kremes" refers to the crunchy, spiced golden flakes that are sprinkled over the chicken. The chicken itself is first "ungkep" (braised) in a rich yellow spice paste until the meat is tender and the flavors have penetrated all the way to the bone.

Recipe Overview

  • Yield: 4–5 servings

  • Prep time: 10 minutes (if bumbu kuning is ready)

  • Cook time: 45 mins – 1 hour (plus overnight marinating)

  • Storage: Freezer-friendly! Perfect for meal prep.

  • Jump to Kremesan Recipe

Ingredients

The Chicken & Braise

  • 1 whole chicken (cut into 10 pieces) or 1.2 kg of your favorite parts (I recommend thighs or wings!)

  • 100g Yellow Spice Paste (Bumbu Kuning)

  • 2 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tbsp mushroom powder (or 1 tsp MSG)

  • Water (enough to cover, approx. 1.2L)

For Air-Frying

  • Oil spray

Instructions:

Step 1: The Braise (Ungkep)

  1. Combine: Place your chicken in a large pot. Add the yellow spice paste, salt, and mushroom powder. Pour in enough water to cover the chicken completely.

  2. Cook:

    • Thighs & Wings: Bring to a high boil and cook for 45 minutes.

    • Chicken Breast: Simmer on low heat for 1 hour.

    • Tip: High heat can make breast meat dry, so a slow simmer keeps it juicy even after it’s fried!

  3. Develop Flavor: Transfer the chicken and the stock into a container and store it in the fridge overnight. This allows the flavors to truly develop.

Step 2: The Next Day

  1. Prep: Remove the chicken from the liquid. Reserve the stock! This liquid gold is exactly what you need to make the Kremesan (crunchy bits) later.

  2. Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C. Place the chicken in the basket, give it a good spray of oil, and fry for 15 minutes. Or you can also deep fry the chicken. Ofc ut will so much better but air frying is for convenience

    • Warning: Don't go over 18 minutes or the breast meat will start to dry out!