Chicken Congee is more than just a humble rice porridge—it’s soul food. Served across Asia from China to Thailand to the Philippines, this comforting dish is known for its warm, soothing texture, minimal ingredients, and nourishing qualities. Often served to the sick, the elderly, or simply for a cozy family breakfast, this easy chicken congee recipe makes an ideal addition to your repertoire of healthy homemade recipes.
In this guide, you’ll discover how to make chicken congee from scratch with just a few ingredients, explore mouthwatering variations, learn how to serve and store it, and understand why this dish is a pillar of healthy food dishes across cultures.
🌾 What Is Chicken Congee?
Chicken congee (or chicken rice porridge) is a soft, creamy rice-based dish made by slow-cooking rice in a generous amount of water or broth until it breaks down into a thick soup. In Mandarin, it’s called “jīròu zhōu (鸡肉粥)”, and it’s often flavored with aromatics like ginger, garlic, and scallions.
It’s a common breakfast dish across Asia but equally popular for lunch, dinner, or late-night comfort food. Simple, affordable, and hearty, this porridge is the epitome of tasty recipes videos and quick recipes snacks gone viral for all the right reasons.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
This easy chicken congee is made using pantry staples and takes minimal effort. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Congee:
- 1 cup white jasmine or long-grain rice (rinsed thoroughly)
- 8 cups water or chicken broth (or a 50/50 mix)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced thin
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon white pepper
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for flavor depth)
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Sesame oil
- Fried shallots or garlic
- Chili oil or red pepper flakes
- Sliced boiled egg
- Pickled mustard greens
- Shredded nori or seaweed strips
- Lime wedges for brightness
👨🍳 How to Make Chicken Congee
Follow these simple steps to create a warm, flavorful pot of congee that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Rinse the rice 2–3 times until the water runs almost clear. This removes excess starch and ensures a smoother congee texture.
Step 2: Boil and Simmer
In a large pot, combine the rice, broth or water, garlic, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add in the chicken pieces and reduce the heat to low.
Let it simmer uncovered for 60 to 90 minutes, stirring occasionally to break up the rice and prevent sticking.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
After about 30 minutes, remove the chicken pieces and shred them using two forks. Set them aside while the rice continues to simmer until creamy.
Step 4: Final Seasoning
Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Add white pepper, a dash of soy sauce, and more salt if needed. Stir well and continue simmering for another 10 minutes.
Adjust consistency with water or broth if it becomes too thick.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Spoon the hot congee into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like chopped scallions, cilantro, chili oil, or sesame oil. Serve immediately.
🥗 Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Congee
Chicken congee is not only easy to digest but also incredibly nutritious. Here’s why it deserves a place on your healthy food menu:
| Nutrient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Protein | From the chicken; helps with muscle repair and immunity. |
| Low Fat | Especially when made with chicken breast and minimal oil. |
| Hydration | High liquid content helps replenish fluids. |
| Ginger & Garlic | Natural anti-inflammatories and immune boosters. |
| Rice | Provides clean, slow-releasing energy. |
Ideal for clean eating, calorie-conscious diets, and soft food diets, this is a universal dish for wellness.
🔄 Chicken Congee Variations
Like many comforting dishes, congee is highly adaptable. Try these delicious variations to match your taste or dietary needs:
🌶 Spicy Chicken Congee
Add chili oil or Szechuan chili flakes during the final cooking stage. Top with pickled chilies and spicy radish for a heat-packed bowl.
🥬 Veggie-Loaded Congee
Stir in spinach, grated carrots, or mushrooms during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added fiber and vitamins.
🥥 Coconut Chicken Congee (Sweet Version)
Add a ½ cup of coconut milk and a teaspoon of palm sugar. Garnish with toasted coconut, crushed peanuts, or mango slices for a Southeast Asian-style sweet dish recipe.
🍄 Mushroom & Chicken Congee
Swap one chicken breast for a mix of shiitake and oyster mushrooms for a hearty umami twist.
🧄 Garlic Butter Chicken Congee
Saute garlic in butter and drizzle over the bowl just before serving. Adds a rich, decadent flavor.
🕐 Cooking Time Hacks
- Use leftover rice: Cooked rice breaks down faster—perfect for 20-minute versions.
- Instant Pot/Pressure Cooker: Cook on high pressure for 20–25 minutes, natural release.
- Slow Cooker: Combine everything and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
These shortcuts are ideal for busy families, professionals, and anyone looking for quick recipes snacks that still feel like home cooking.
📦 How to Store, Reheat & Freeze
🧊 Storage:
Let the congee cool completely. Store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
❄️ Freezing:
Freeze in single-serve portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
🔥 Reheating:
Reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to rehydrate. Stir frequently to restore the creamy texture.
This makes congee an excellent meal prep option and a staple in healthy homemade recipes for families or solo eaters alike.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
Chicken congee is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed dumplings
- Chinese pickles or kimchi
- Steamed bok choy
- Scallion pancakes
- Tea eggs
- Tofu cubes or roasted peanuts for crunch
Want to serve it at a party or potluck? Offer a DIY congee bar with different toppings for a fair food recipe idea guests will love.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Budget-friendly
✅ Minimal ingredients
✅ Customizable
✅ Perfect for all ages
✅ Meal-prep friendly
✅ Comfort food at its best
Whether you’re battling a cold, seeking comfort, or simply looking for a nourishing meal, chicken congee is one of those timeless dishes that warms the belly and the heart.
💬 What Others Are Saying
“I grew up eating congee every Sunday morning, and this version takes me back. It’s easy, healthy, and tastes just like home.” — Anna H.
“As someone trying more Asian cooking at home, this recipe made me feel like a pro. And my kids LOVED it.” — Michael R.
“I batch-cook this and freeze portions for those rainy days. It’s my go-to meal when I want something light but satisfying.” — Linda C.
📌 Final Thoughts
Chicken Congee is proof that the best recipes are often the simplest. Just a handful of ingredients, a bit of patience, and you’re rewarded with a nourishing, warm, and soul-satisfying dish that spans generations and cultures.
This recipe deserves a permanent spot on your healthy food dishes meal plan—not just for its taste, but for the way it brings calm and comfort to your day.
So the next time you’re in the mood for a bowl of warmth, skip the takeout and make this easy chicken congee recipe. You’ll be surprised how such humble ingredients can create something so unforgettable.
