Chicken Congee, also known as jī zhōu (鸡粥), is a beloved Chinese rice porridge celebrated for its silky texture and comforting warmth. This dish is traditionally enjoyed during breakfast or as a soothing meal when one is feeling under the weather. The recipe combines tender chicken, aromatic ginger, and green onions, resulting in a nourishing bowl that’s both simple and deeply flavorful. Whether prepared on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot, this congee offers a taste of home and healing in every spoonful.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 cup short-grain white rice

• 8 cups chicken broth (preferably rich and flavorful)

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)

• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced

• 2 green onions, chopped (separate white and green parts)

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• Salt, to taste

• Optional toppings: additional chopped green onions, fried shallots, chili oil

Directions

1. Rinse the Rice: Thoroughly rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents clumping.

2. Cook the Congee:

   • Stovetop Method: In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice, chicken broth, sliced ginger, and the white parts of the green onions. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the rice breaks down and the congee reaches a creamy consistency.

   • Instant Pot Method: Place the rinsed rice, chicken broth, sliced ginger, and the white parts of the green onions into the Instant Pot. Seal and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes. Allow natural pressure release for 15 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.

3. Prepare the Chicken: While the congee is cooking, marinate the chicken breasts or thighs with Shaoxing wine and a pinch of salt for about 15 minutes.

4. Cook the Chicken: After the congee has reached the desired consistency, add the marinated chicken to the pot. Let it poach in the hot congee for about 10-15 minutes until fully cooked. Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return the shredded meat to the pot.

5. Season the Congee: Stir in sesame oil and season with salt to taste.

6. Serve: Ladle the congee into bowls and garnish with the green parts of the chopped green onions. Add optional toppings like fried shallots or a drizzle of chili oil for extra flavor.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 250

• Protein: 20g

• Carbohydrates: 30g

• Fat: 7g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sodium: 600mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

For a detailed guide and additional tips, you can refer to the original recipe on Omnivore’s Cookbook.

The Cultural Significance of Chicken Congee

Congee holds an important place in Chinese culinary history and daily life. Often described as a healing food, it is especially favored during cold seasons, for postpartum recovery, or whenever comfort food is needed. Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, congee is believed to strengthen the digestive system, warm the body, and balance internal energy, making it an ideal dish for restoring health and vitality.

The addition of chicken not only enriches the flavor but also enhances its nutritional profile, providing protein and essential nutrients. In many households, chicken congee is one of the first solid foods introduced to young children and a reliable dish for the elderly or those recovering from illness. Its soft texture and easy digestibility make it an inclusive dish suitable for all ages.

A Symphony of Simple Ingredients

At its core, chicken congee relies on a few simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a deeply satisfying experience. The base is short-grain white rice, prized for its ability to break down into a creamy, porridge-like consistency when simmered slowly. Chicken broth lends a savory depth that infuses every spoonful with rich, comforting flavor.

Fresh ginger slices and the white parts of green onions are simmered with the rice, imparting warmth and a subtle aromatic complexity. The chicken, usually boneless breasts or thighs, is marinated briefly in Shaoxing wine—a traditional Chinese cooking wine—or dry sherry, which adds a subtle sweetness and umami note. This step also helps tenderize the meat.

Finishing touches like toasted sesame oil and the green parts of the scallions add brightness and a fragrant, nutty aroma, elevating the final dish without overpowering its delicate balance.

Versatility in Preparation: Traditional and Modern Approaches

Chicken congee can be prepared using various methods that accommodate different timeframes and kitchen setups. The traditional stovetop method requires patience and occasional stirring as the rice slowly breaks down over 1.5 to 2 hours, resulting in a luscious and velvety texture. This slow cooking also allows the flavors to meld and deepen.

For those seeking convenience without sacrificing quality, the Instant Pot offers an excellent alternative. By sealing the ingredients and cooking under high pressure, you can achieve similar creamy results in under an hour. This modern approach has made congee more accessible to busy home cooks worldwide.

The flexibility of cooking time and liquid ratio means you can tailor the consistency of your congee to personal preference—from thick and creamy to slightly brothy. It’s a dish that invites experimentation to find your ideal comfort bowl.

Customizing Your Congee: Toppings and Serving Suggestions

One of the charms of chicken congee lies in its adaptability. While the basic recipe is satisfying on its own, a variety of toppings can enhance both flavor and texture, allowing you to personalize every bowl.

Classic garnishes include extra chopped green onions, which add a crisp freshness, and fried shallots that bring a crunchy, caramelized note. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of white pepper can awaken the palate. Other popular accompaniments include preserved vegetables, salted duck eggs, or pickled radish, which introduce contrasting flavors and textures.

Serving congee with side dishes such as steamed greens or simple pickles creates a balanced meal. It can be a hearty breakfast, a light lunch, or even a restorative dinner.

Nutritional Benefits and Health Considerations

Chicken congee is a well-rounded meal that balances carbohydrates, protein, and fat in moderate amounts. A typical serving offers about 250 calories, making it a relatively light yet satisfying dish. The chicken provides lean protein essential for muscle repair and immune support, while the rice supplies energy in the form of easily digestible carbohydrates.

Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, helping soothe the stomach and boost immunity. The sesame oil used for seasoning contributes healthy fats and antioxidants.

The dish’s moderate sodium content depends largely on the broth used and any added seasonings, so it can be adjusted according to dietary needs. This makes chicken congee a wise choice for people managing sodium intake or seeking gentle nourishment during recovery.

Why Chicken Congee Remains a Comfort Food Favorite

There’s something uniquely comforting about a warm bowl of chicken congee. Its gentle flavors and creamy texture are often associated with care and home-cooked love. Unlike heavy or complex dishes, congee soothes both body and mind, making it ideal during times of stress, illness, or simple quiet reflection.

Its ability to bring people together—whether as part of a family breakfast or a communal meal—reflects its cultural significance. The humble rice porridge becomes a symbol of warmth, nurturing, and tradition.

Conclusion: Embracing the Healing Power of Chicken Congee

Chicken congee is much more than just a simple rice porridge—it’s a dish that embodies comfort, culture, and nourishment. With its rich history and straightforward ingredients, it delivers a soulful eating experience that is both satisfying and restorative.

Whether you prepare it the traditional way or with modern convenience, the resulting bowl offers a harmonious blend of flavor and texture that soothes the soul. Perfect for any time you seek warmth, healing, or a taste of home, chicken congee remains an enduring favorite in kitchens around the world.

Next time you want to indulge in a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, consider making chicken congee—a timeless classic that nourishes both body and spirit.