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Chicken Congee

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This classic chicken congee is a creamy, comforting rice porridge made with tender marinated chicken, fragrant ginger, and a touch of sesame oil. Simmered on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot, it's gentle, nourishing, and satisfying—perfect for an easy meal any time you crave something warm and wholesome.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Calories: 295

Ingredients
  

For the Marinated Chicken
  • 8 oz chicken breast or tender, or thigh thinly sliced
  • 2 teaspoons halal white grape juice or chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
For the Congee
  • 1/2 cup uncooked short grain white rice or medium grain
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon halal white grape juice or chicken broth
  • 2 large ginger slices
  • 2 green onions thinly sliced
  • 1/4 teaspoon chicken bouillon or to taste (or salt)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

Equipment

  • Instant Pot or large pot
  • Medium bowl
  • Mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Place the rice in a medium bowl and cover with water. Using your fingers, gently swish the rice to loosen the starch. Drain and repeat this process one or two more times until the water is mostly clear. Drain thoroughly.
  2. In another bowl, combine the sliced chicken with 2 teaspoons of halal white grape juice or chicken broth, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated, then set aside to marinate.
  3. To cook in an Instant Pot: Add the rinsed rice, chicken broth, 1 tablespoon halal white grape juice or chicken broth, and ginger slices to the pot. Close the lid, set to high pressure, and cook for 15 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for at least 10 minutes before releasing any remaining pressure.
  4. To cook on the stovetop: In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice, ginger slices, chicken broth, and 4 cups of water. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, partially cover, and cook for 30 minutes. Stir frequently toward the end as the congee thickens.
  5. Once the rice has broken down and the congee has reached your desired consistency, add the marinated chicken, sliced green onions, and chicken bouillon. Stir constantly over medium heat (or use the sauté function on the Instant Pot) to separate the chicken pieces. Cook just until the chicken is cooked through, about 2 minutes.
  6. Stir in the toasted sesame oil. Taste the congee and adjust seasoning with additional salt if necessary. Serve the congee hot in bowls.

Nutrition

Calories: 295kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 19gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1g

Notes

Congee thickens as it cools, so add more water or broth when reheating to loosen it to your preferred consistency. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, use the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of liquid and stirring until warmed through. You can swap in cooked leftover chicken at the end if preferred, skipping the marinade. Serve with additional toppings like sliced green onion, crispy shallots, or a drizzle of chili oil for extra flavor and texture.

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