Easy 30-min. Chicken Congee

This savory rice porridge features tender chicken infused with fresh ginger and scallions. Make this easy chicken congee recipe on cold weeknights when you need a fast dinner in 30 minutes. The slow-simmered flavor feeds a hungry family using simple, affordable pantry staples.

4.95 from 18 votes

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 25

Total Time 30

Course Main Course

Cuisine Chinese

Servings large bowls

Calories per serving 154 kcal

Ingredients

½ cup jasmine rice or white long-grain rice, uncooked
3.5 oz chicken breast
5 cups water cold
1 teaspoon ginger very thinly sliced
1 green onion finely chopped - white and green parts separated
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon chicken bouillon powder

Marinade

½ tablespoon cornstarch
½ tablespoon vegetable oil or any neutral oil
½ tablespoon regular soy sauce or light soy sauce
⅛ teaspoon white pepper

Instructions

Slice the chicken against the grain at a 45-degree angle into ¼-inch thick slices. Place the meat in a medium bowl, toss with the listed marinade ingredients, and set aside.
Rinse the rice grains with cold water at least 3 times or until the water runs clear. Drain the grains through a mesh strainer and set aside.
Bring 5 cups (1250 ml) of cold water to a boil in a medium pot over medium-high heat. Add the strained rice and stir exactly once to prevent sticking. Reduce the heat to medium, prop the lid to cover the pot halfway, and simmer for 22 minutes.
Whisk the congee vigorously at the 22-minute mark for 1 to 2 minutes until the grains break down. Alternatively, blend briefly with an immersion blender or simmer for an extra 20 to 30 minutes until smooth.
Drop the marinated chicken into the pot in small batches, then add the scallion whites and ginger. Stir gently to separate the chicken pieces and boil for 2 to 4 minutes until the meat cooks through.
Stir in the salt and chicken bouillon powder, then remove the pot from the heat. (Optional: If you prefer a runnier texture, mix in ½ cup (125 ml) of hot water). Garnish with scallion greens and extra ginger before serving.

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