Chicken Rice Congee is a simple, comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of day. This easy-to-make recipe combines rice, chicken, and a few key ingredients like ginger and garlic to create a warm, flavorful porridge. The soft rice absorbs the savory broth, becoming creamy and soothing. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or a comforting meal when you’re feeling under the weather, Chicken Rice Congee is the perfect choice. It’s a dish that brings people together, offering warmth and satisfaction in every bowl.
Healing Flavors in Every Bite
The magic of Chicken Rice Congee lies in its simplicity. With just rice, chicken, ginger, and a few seasonings, you can create something extraordinary. The broth is cooked slowly until the flavors meld together, and the rice breaks down into a silky texture. Each spoonful is smooth and nourishing, perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather or craving comfort. The light scent of sesame oil and green onions sprinkled on top makes it even more irresistible.
A Dish for Everyone
Chicken Rice Congee is incredibly versatile and can be customized for everyone’s taste. Some like it plain, while others prefer it loaded with toppings like fried shallots, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of soy sauce. My grandmother always added a boiled egg on the side, while my mom insisted on a dash of white pepper for some heat. No matter how you serve it, it’s always delicious. That’s the beauty of this dish—it adapts to your mood and needs.
Passing Down the Love
Whenever I make Chicken Rice Congee now, I feel connected to my roots. It reminds me of watching my grandmother stir the pot with care and my mom adding her final touches with a smile. Cooking it for my own family fills me with joy and a sense of gratitude for these traditions. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a way to share love, comfort, and memories across generations.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Chicken Rice Congee
- Achieving Creamy Texture: Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Adding water gradually helps maintain the desired consistency.
- Bone-In Chicken Benefits: Using bone-in chicken enhances the broth’s flavor. If you prefer boneless, add a splash of store-bought or homemade chicken stock to enrich the porridge.
- Flavor Boost: For a deeper umami taste, brown the chicken longer during the sautéing stage. Alternatively, toast the garlic separately until golden for a more robust aroma.
- Rice Consistency: Adjust the porridge’s thickness to your liking by adding more or less water. For extra creaminess, mash some of the rice against the pot’s sides with a spoon during cooking.
- Topping Customization: Experiment with toppings like crispy shallots, fried tofu cubes, or chili oil for added texture and flavor.
- Color and Fragrance: If kasubha (safflower) is unavailable, turmeric not only adds color but also a mild earthy flavor.
- Meal Prep Tip: Prepare a double batch and refrigerate the leftovers. Reheat with additional water or broth to restore its creamy consistency.
Chicken Rice Congee
4
servings5
minutes50
minutes560
kcal55
minutesIt’s time to warm your soul with this delectable Chicken Rice Congee recipe inspired by Filipino comfort food. Perfectly blending tender chicken with creamy, savory rice porridge, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. Ideal for chilly evenings or when you need a hearty meal, our easy-to-follow steps ensure a delicious result every time. Topped with scallions, boiled eggs, and roasted garlic, it’s a flavor-packed bowl that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Dive into this comforting and customizable recipe and experience the magic of homemade congee!
Ingredients
- Proteins
2 pounds bone-in chicken pieces
4 hard-boiled eggs peeled
- Grains
1 cup sticky rice (glutinous rice)
- Flavorings
4 chicken bouillon cubes
2-3 tbsp fish sauce
1/4 tsp black pepper
- Vegetables and Herbs
1 medium yellow onion finely diced
3 tbsp minced fresh ginger
4 cloves garlic chopped
1/2 cup chopped green onions
- Toppings
1/4 cup kasubha (safflower)
1/2 cup roasted garlic
- Liquids and Oils
6 to 7 cups water
3 tbsp vegetable oil
- Alternative Ingredients:
Chicken: Substitute with turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Glutinous rice: Use jasmine rice instead.
Knorr chicken cube: Replace with homemade chicken broth.
Fish sauce: Use soy sauce for a vegetarian alternative or omit for a less salty flavor.
Kasubha safflower: Substitute with turmeric for color.
Directions
- Sauté Aromatics – In a large, deep pot, heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add 4 cloves of chopped garlic, 1 medium diced yellow onion, and 3 tablespoons minced ginger. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Brown the Chicken – Introduce 2 pounds of bone-in chicken pieces to the pot. Sauté the chicken with the aromatics for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the chicken to gain a light golden color.
- Add Rice – Stir in 1 cup of sticky rice (glutinous rice) and cook for an additional minute, ensuring the rice is well-coated with the oil and chicken juices.
- Simmer to Porridge – Pour in 6 to 7 cups of water, bringing the mixture to a boil. Add 4 chicken bouillon cubes, stirring to dissolve. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the rice breaks down and the mixture reaches a porridge-like consistency, approximately 40 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally, especially scraping the bottom to prevent sticking, and add more water if necessary to maintain the desired texture.
- Season and Finish – Once the porridge has thickened, season with 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper, 2 to 3 tablespoons of fish sauce, and 1/4 cup kasubha (safflower). Stir well and let it cook for another 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve and Garnish – Ladle the chicken rice congee into serving bowls. Top each bowl with 1/2 cup chopped scallions, a halved hard-boiled egg, and 1/2 cup roasted garlic. Serve hot with a wedge of calamansi or lime on the side for added brightness. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- stainless steel cookware set
- measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
Notes
- To achieve the perfect creamy texture, simmer the congee low and slow, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. For added depth of flavor, you can incorporate a splash of sesame oil or a few slices of lemongrass while cooking. Pair this rice porridge with pickled vegetables or a side of steamed greens for a balanced meal. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding chopped chili peppers or a drizzle of sriracha. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator and can be reheated with a bit of additional water to loosen the consistency. Customize your toppings by adding crispy fried garlic, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of your favorite citrus for extra brightness.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 560kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 1500mg
- Potassium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Vitamin A: 500IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 80mg
- Iron: 4mg
FAQ- Chicken Rice Congee
Can I make this recipe in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the sauté function to cook the aromatics and brown the chicken, then add rice, water, and seasonings. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, then allow a natural release for 10 minutes. Stir to achieve the desired consistency.
What can I use instead of glutinous rice?
Jasmine rice works well as a substitute. For a slightly nuttier flavor, try using brown rice, though it may require longer cooking time.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken for tofu or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken bouillon cubes. Season with soy sauce or tamari in place of fish sauce.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store congee in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water or broth to restore its creamy consistency.
What are some common side dishes to serve with congee?
Congee pairs wonderfully with salted duck eggs, pickled vegetables, fried dough sticks (youtiao), or steamed greens for a complete meal.
