If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in a warm, soothing hug after a long day, you’ve got to try this Comforting Chicken Congee Recipe for Cozy Evenings Recipe. It’s a luscious bowl of creamy rice porridge, infused with fragrant ginger, tender chicken, and that perfect hint of toasted sesame oil. Whether you’re nursing a chill or simply craving something hearty, this recipe has a way of turning simple ingredients into a soul-soothing experience that feels like home in every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet every one plays a vital role in building the depth and texture that makes this recipe irresistible. From the creamy short grain rice to the aromatic ginger and perfectly tender chicken, each element enhances the warmth of this dish.
- 8 oz Chicken Breast or Thigh: Choose thigh for a richer, juicier bite that complements the smoothness of the congee.
- 2 teaspoons Shaoxing Wine: Adds a subtle layer of depth that elevates the chicken’s natural flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt: The essential seasoning that brings all ingredients together harmoniously.
- 1 teaspoon Cornstarch: Tenderizes the chicken for the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1/2 cup Short Grain White Rice: The secret to that creamy, silky congee base everyone loves.
- 4 cups Chicken Broth: Using quality broth makes all the difference, infusing the rice with savory goodness.
- 2 large slices Ginger: Imparts a warm, aromatic kick that’s comforting and fresh.
- 2 Green Onions: Thinly sliced for a burst of color and crisp freshness on top.
- 1/4 teaspoon Chicken Bouillon (optional): For extra umami punch, if desired.
- 1 teaspoon Toasted Sesame Oil: A final drizzle that adds irresistible fragrance and richness.
How to Make Comforting Chicken Congee Recipe for Cozy Evenings Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Rice and Broth
Start by rinsing the rice several times under cold water until the water runs clear—this simple step prevents the porridge from becoming gummy and helps the congee achieve that silky texture we love. Then, combine the rinsed rice, chicken broth, Shaoxing wine, and ginger slices in your Instant Pot for a quick, hands-off approach or in a large pot on the stovetop if you prefer a slow simmer. The broth will gently infuse the rice with flavor as it softens and thickens into a luscious porridge base.
Step 2: Marinating the Chicken
While the rice is cooking, slice the chicken into thin strips and marinate it with Shaoxing wine, salt, and cornstarch. This simple marinade tenderizes the chicken and boosts flavor, ensuring it blends seamlessly with the silky congee instead of standing out as just another ingredient.
Step 3: Cooking the Congee and Adding Chicken
Once your congee is creamy and the rice is perfectly broken down, stir in the marinated chicken and green onions. Allow everything to simmer gently for an additional two minutes, cooking the chicken just enough so it stays tender and juicy without overcooking. This step finishes the dish with fresh, vibrant bursts of flavor and texture.
Step 4: Final Touches
Before serving, stir in a teaspoon of toasted sesame oil for that unmistakable nutty aroma and subtle richness. Taste and adjust salt if needed. This step elevates the entire bowl from simple comfort food to something truly special.
How to Serve Comforting Chicken Congee Recipe for Cozy Evenings Recipe
Garnishes
Top your bowl with extra green onions for crunch and a splash of soy sauce if you like a little salty tang. Crispy fried shallots or a handful of fresh cilantro add excellent texture and brightness to each spoonful.
Side Dishes
This congee is perfect on its own but pairs beautifully with light sides like pickled vegetables or steamed greens to balance the warmth. A soft-boiled egg or century egg can also make wonderful additions for a more indulgent experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy evening that feels a little more special, serve this chicken congee in pretty ceramic bowls with a small side dish of chili oil or crunchy garlic chips. Layer textures and flavors thoughtfully, making each bite deliciously surprising.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover congee in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The rice will thicken as it cools, so add a little warm broth when reheating to restore that silky consistency.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your congee, portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating slowly on the stove, adding broth or water to adjust thickness as needed.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat while stirring often to prevent sticking. Add an extra splash of broth or water to loosen the congee and bring back its creamy texture before serving hot.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
You can, but keep in mind brown rice will take longer to cook and the texture won’t be as creamy. If you choose brown rice, soak it first and prepare for a longer simmer.
Is Shaoxing wine necessary?
While Shaoxing wine adds a lovely depth to the chicken flavor, you can substitute dry sherry or even omit it if needed. Just keep in mind it does enhance the overall dish beautifully.
Can I make this congee vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and skip the chicken. You can add mushrooms or tofu for protein, and keep the same fragrant ginger and sesame oil notes.
How thick should congee be?
Congee should be creamy and slightly runny but not watery. It’s like a savory rice pudding — smooth enough to be comforting but with enough body to feel hearty.
Why is the rice rinsed multiple times?
Rinsing removes excess starch from the rice’s surface, preventing the porridge from becoming gluey and helping achieve that ideal silky texture that makes congee so comforting.
Final Thoughts
This Comforting Chicken Congee Recipe for Cozy Evenings Recipe is truly one of those dishes that comforts the soul and nourishes the body. It’s incredibly easy to prepare yet delivers a rich, satisfying experience that feels like a warm embrace. Next time you want to cozy up with something delicious and wholesome, dive into this recipe—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
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Comforting Chicken Congee Recipe for Cozy Evenings Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This comforting chicken congee recipe offers a warm and hearty meal perfect for cozy evenings. Featuring tender chicken, aromatic ginger, and creamy rice cooked to perfection, it can be made quickly in an Instant Pot or slowly simmered on the stovetop. Enhanced with toasted sesame oil and fresh green onions, this traditional Asian rice porridge is both soothing and flavorful.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 8 oz Chicken Breast or Thigh (Use thigh for a richer flavor)
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing Wine (for marinating)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (for marinating)
- 1 teaspoon Cornstarch (helps tenderize the chicken)
Congee Base
- 1/2 cup Short Grain White Rice (key for creamy texture)
- 4 cups Chicken Broth (quality broth enhances flavor)
- 2 teaspoons Shaoxing Wine (adds depth to the chicken flavor)
- 2 large slices Ginger (provides aromatic flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon Chicken Bouillon (optional for extra flavor)
- 2 Green Onions (thinly sliced for freshness)
- 1 teaspoon Toasted Sesame Oil (enhances fragrance and richness)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (essential for seasoning)
Instructions
- Rinse Rice: Rinse the rice several times under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch for a smooth congee texture.
- Prepare Congee Base: In the Instant Pot, combine the rinsed rice, chicken broth, 2 teaspoons of Shaoxing wine, ginger slices, and chicken bouillon if using. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Alternatively, on the stovetop, combine rice, ginger, chicken broth, and bouillon in a large pot. Bring to a simmer, covering slightly ajar, and cook for 30 minutes while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Marinate Chicken: Slice the chicken thinly and marinate with 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes to tenderize.
- Combine Chicken and Cook: Once the congee base is cooked, stir in the marinated chicken and thinly sliced green onions. Continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender within the porridge.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil for fragrance and richness. Taste and adjust salt seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired.
Notes
- You can use chicken thigh instead of breast for a richer flavor and more tender texture.
- If not using an Instant Pot, stovetop slow simmering works well but requires longer cooking time.
- Rinsing the rice thoroughly is key to achieving that creamy, smooth congee consistency.
- Optional chicken bouillon enhances flavor but can be omitted to reduce sodium.
- Adjust the thickness of congee by adding more broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.
- For added flavor, top with fried shallots, century egg, or fresh herbs when serving.
