Chicken & Ginger Rice Porridge

The ultimate comfort food, congee is a velvety rice porridge beloved across many Asian cultures. In this version, slow-simmered chicken and aromatic ginger infuse every spoonful with warmth and healing flavors. It’s a dish that soothes the body and soul, ideal for cold mornings, sick days, or any time you crave something nourishing.

This congee gets its luxurious texture from long simmering and frequent stirring. What sets it apart is the simplicity of ingredients and the deep, satisfying flavor you get from just a few additions like soy sauce, sesame oil, and a bit of fresh scallion. It’s easy to adapt to your preferences—add an egg, sautéed mushrooms, or even preserved vegetables for an extra layer of tradition and taste.

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup jasmine rice

• 10 cups water (or chicken broth for more flavor)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger

• 2 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

• White pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

2. In a large pot, combine rice and water (or broth) and bring to a boil.

3. Reduce heat to a simmer and add the chicken thighs and salt.

4. Let it cook uncovered for about 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The rice will break down and become creamy.

5. Remove chicken, shred the meat, and discard the skin and bones.

6. Return shredded chicken to the pot and stir in ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil.

7. Simmer for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and white pepper.

8. Ladle congee into bowls and top with green onions, cilantro, and additional soy sauce or sesame oil if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Heart of Asian Comfort: Chicken and Ginger Congee

Congee, also known as rice porridge, is a beloved comfort food across many Asian cultures. Whether it’s enjoyed in the morning for breakfast, served as a light dinner, or given to someone recovering from illness, congee has deep cultural and emotional roots that make it more than just a simple dish. This particular version, featuring tender shredded chicken and fresh ginger, embodies the soul-warming simplicity and nourishment that makes congee so timeless.

A Historical Glimpse Into Congee

Congee has a long and varied history that dates back thousands of years. Known by different names across Asia—jook in Cantonese, zhou in Mandarin, okayu in Japanese, juk in Korean—it has been a staple in China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand, and more. Traditionally, congee was seen as a humble dish, often made during times of hardship because it could stretch a small amount of rice into multiple servings simply by adding more water.

Over time, congee evolved from a necessity to a cherished culinary tradition. Regional variations blossomed, and it became a dish of love and healing. In many families, congee is one of the first solid foods given to babies and a go-to meal for elders and those recovering from illness. Its soft texture, soothing warmth, and easy digestibility make it ideal for all ages.

Why Chicken and Ginger?

While congee can be made with a variety of ingredients, the combination of chicken and ginger is especially popular, and for good reason. Chicken adds a savory depth and richness to the porridge, especially when cooked on the bone, which releases collagen and flavor into the broth. Ginger, meanwhile, offers a warming spice and a subtle pungency that elevates the dish.

From a traditional Chinese medicine perspective, ginger is considered a “warming” ingredient that promotes digestion, improves circulation, and boosts the immune system. Combined with the protein of chicken and the gentle starchiness of rice, this version of congee becomes a restorative powerhouse—perfect for supporting health and vitality.

A Dish That Adapts to You

One of the most beautiful aspects of congee is its adaptability. No matter your dietary preferences or pantry constraints, you can create a version of congee that suits your needs. This base recipe with chicken and ginger is just the beginning.

You can top it with preserved eggs, soy sauce, sautéed mushrooms, garlic chips, crispy shallots, or a soft-boiled egg. You can make it vegan by using vegetable broth and tofu instead of chicken. You can even make it spicy by stirring in chili oil, kimchi, or Sriracha. It’s endlessly customizable and always comforting.

In many Southeast Asian countries, congee is served with a variety of condiments and toppings so each person can tailor their bowl to taste. This not only enhances the flavor experience but also creates a sense of community and sharing during mealtimes.

Texture Matters: The Art of Cooking Congee

The hallmark of excellent congee is its texture. Unlike plain rice, which is meant to be fluffy and separate, congee is soft, smooth, and slightly creamy. Achieving the perfect consistency depends largely on the rice-to-liquid ratio and the cooking time.

For a traditional, thick congee, you typically use 1 part rice to 10 parts water or broth, simmered slowly over low heat for about an hour or more. Stirring occasionally helps break down the grains and releases their starch, which thickens the porridge naturally. Using jasmine rice in this version imparts a subtle floral aroma that balances beautifully with the ginger.

Cooking congee is a practice in patience and simplicity. It’s not about flashy techniques or expensive ingredients; it’s about coaxing comfort and nourishment from the most basic foods through time and care.

Health Benefits of Congee with Chicken and Ginger

Besides being delicious and comforting, this dish also offers a range of health benefits:

• Digestive Ease: The soft texture and gentle ingredients make it ideal for those with sensitive stomachs, recovering from illness, or looking for a light meal.

• Hydration: Made with plenty of liquid, congee helps maintain hydration levels, especially important during recovery or on hot days.

• Anti-inflammatory: Ginger is a known anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It can help soothe sore throats, calm nausea, and support immune function.

• Lean Protein: Chicken provides a good source of lean protein, which is vital for muscle repair and immune function.

• Low in Fat: This dish is naturally low in fat and calories while being filling and satisfying, making it a great option for weight management or detox diets.

Cultural Significance and Modern Trends

In many Asian households, congee is a dish tied to memory. It’s what mothers make for their children when they’re sick, what grandparents eat for breakfast, and what families gather around on cold mornings. It has transcended time and geography, maintaining its humble roots while being embraced by modern food lovers for its simplicity and depth.

In recent years, congee has seen a resurgence outside of traditional Asian kitchens. Chefs and home cooks alike are exploring creative interpretations—adding quinoa, bone broth, roasted vegetables, or even seafood to create fusion versions. It’s also gaining popularity as a healthy alternative to oatmeal or cereal for breakfast.

Tips for Serving and Storing

Congee can be made in large batches and stored in the refrigerator for several days. It tends to thicken as it cools, so simply add a splash of water or broth when reheating to return it to your desired consistency.

Serve it hot, garnished with fresh scallions, cilantro, and a drizzle of sesame oil or soy sauce. For crunch and contrast, consider adding toasted sesame seeds or fried garlic. It’s a blank canvas for flavor and texture.

When to Enjoy Congee

The beauty of this dish is that it fits into almost any part of the day:

• Breakfast: Warm and gentle, perfect to start your day.

• Lunch: Light yet filling, especially when topped with protein or vegetables.

• Dinner: Comforting and satisfying, especially on cold evenings.

• Recovery: Ideal for post-surgery, flu recovery, or sensitive digestion.

• Fasting Days: Soft, warm, and sustaining without being heavy.

Conclusion: More Than Just a Bowl of Rice

Chicken and Ginger Congee is more than a recipe—it’s a tradition, a remedy, and an expression of love passed down through generations. Its simplicity is its greatest strength, proving that even the most basic ingredients can create something deeply nourishing and satisfying.

This dish offers a moment of warmth in a fast-paced world. It invites you to slow down, stir the pot, and savor the aroma of ginger and rice simmering on the stove. Whether you’re making it for a loved one, feeding your family, or seeking comfort for yourself, congee is always a good idea.

Embrace its versatility, make it your own, and enjoy the comfort that comes with every spoonful.