If you’re craving something truly warm and soothing, this Comforting Chicken Congee Recipe for Cozy Evenings Recipe will instantly become your go-to dish. It’s a perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy rice, and aromatic ginger, creating a bowl that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re recovering from a chilly day or simply want a meal that feels like a gentle hug, this congee balances simplicity and comfort like no other.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Comforting Chicken Congee Recipe for Cozy Evenings Recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. Simple yet essential, these ingredients work together to deliver a soulful, nourishing meal you’ll want to make again and again.
- 8 oz Chicken Breast or Thigh: Using thigh enriches the flavor with extra juiciness and tenderness, but breast works beautifully too.
- 2 teaspoons Shaoxing Wine: This adds a subtle depth and complexity to the chicken’s taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Crucial for perfectly seasoning the dish without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon Cornstarch: Helps tenderize the chicken and keeps it silky in the congee.
- 1/2 cup Short Grain White Rice: The star for achieving that luscious, creamy texture that defines good congee.
- 4 cups Chicken Broth: Using a high-quality broth elevates the flavor, making every spoonful rich and satisfying.
- 2 large slices Ginger: Adds aromatic warmth and a slight zing that brightens the whole dish.
- 2 Green Onions: Thinly sliced for a fresh, vibrant touch at the end.
- 1/4 teaspoon Chicken Bouillon (optional): A little boost if you want an extra savory punch.
- 1 teaspoon Toasted Sesame Oil: Drizzled at the end for a fragrant and nutty finish that ties everything together.
How to Make Comforting Chicken Congee Recipe for Cozy Evenings Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Rice and Broth Base
Start by rinsing the short grain rice under cold water until it runs clear—this removes excess starch and prevents the congee from becoming gluey. In your Instant Pot or a large pot on the stove, combine the rinsed rice with chicken broth, ginger slices, and Shaoxing wine. The ginger infuses the broth while the wine adds subtle richness to the base of your congee.
Step 2: Cook the Congee Until Velvety
If you’re using an Instant Pot, seal and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, then release naturally for a creamy texture. On the stovetop, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer with the lid slightly ajar for around 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The rice will break down, turning the broth into the signature silky, porridge-like consistency.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
While the congee cooks, slice your chicken thinly and marinate with Shaoxing wine, salt, and cornstarch. This simple marinade tenderizes the meat and imparts flavor that blends beautifully into the finished dish.
Step 4: Combine and Finish Cooking
Once the congee is nearly done, stir in the marinated chicken slices along with thinly sliced green onions. Cook just for about two minutes more until the chicken is perfectly cooked through but remains tender. This last step ensures the chicken absorbs the warming flavors without overcooking.
Step 5: Add the Final Touch
Turn off the heat, then drizzle toasted sesame oil over the top, giving the entire pot a lovely fragrance and richness. Taste and adjust salt as needed — the goal is a balanced, savory bowl that feels extra comforting.
How to Serve Comforting Chicken Congee Recipe for Cozy Evenings Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes bring that extra layer of freshness and texture. Thinly sliced green onions add a crisp bite, while a few fresh coriander leaves or a sprinkle of white pepper can elevate the flavor profile. If you like a little kick, some chili oil or sliced fresh chilies complement the comforting warmth of the congee beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes like pickled vegetables, crispy fried shallots, or steamed greens. These sides provide contrasting crunch or acidity, balancing the softness and creaminess of the congee perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
To take your presentation up a notch, serve the congee in rustic bowls topped with beautifully arranged chicken slices and garnishes for an inviting, restaurant-quality look. Adding a drizzle of sesame oil at the table just before serving ensures the aroma captivates your guests’ senses right away.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover congee stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The texture will thicken as it cools, but that’s easy to fix upon reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze the congee for up to 1 month. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave some space for expansion. Keep the garnishes separate for best results.
Reheating
When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the congee and heat gently on the stove or microwave. Stir occasionally to ensure it warms evenly and regains its creamy consistency. Add fresh garnishes as you did when serving it fresh.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Brown rice can be used but it requires a longer cooking time and won’t achieve the same creamy texture as short grain white rice. For that classic silky congee, white rice is best.
Is it necessary to use Shaoxing wine?
Shaoxing wine adds a subtle aromatic depth, but if you don’t have it, a dry sherry or even a splash of rice vinegar can work as alternatives. The flavor won’t be identical but will still be delicious.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Cook the rice, broth, and ginger on low for 4-6 hours, then add the marinated chicken near the end and cook until done. Just keep in mind, times vary with slow cookers.
What if I don’t have toasted sesame oil?
Toasted sesame oil adds a unique nutty aroma, but if it’s not on hand, you can omit it or substitute with a light drizzle of olive oil. The congee will still be comforting and flavorful.
Can I add other proteins or vegetables?
Yes! You can swap chicken for shredded turkey or add finely chopped mushrooms, corn, or spinach toward the end of cooking for some extra nutrition and texture variety.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly special about a bowl of congee that feels like it’s made just for you on a cozy evening. This Comforting Chicken Congee Recipe for Cozy Evenings Recipe is a heartwarming blend of flavors and textures that’s simple to make yet deeply satisfying. Give it a try and experience the joy of a homemade meal that wraps you in comfort with every spoonful.
Print
Comforting Chicken Congee Recipe for Cozy Evenings Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes (Instant Pot) or 30 minutes (Stovetop)
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This comforting chicken congee recipe offers a warm and creamy bowl of rice porridge perfect for cozy evenings. Featuring tender marinated chicken, aromatic ginger, and fragrant toasted sesame oil, this dish can be easily prepared using either an Instant Pot for quick cooking or a stovetop simmer. The congee delivers a nourishing and flavorful meal that soothes the soul and satisfies hunger.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 8 oz Chicken Breast or Thigh (use thigh for a richer flavor)
- 2 teaspoons Shaoxing Wine (divided, some for cooking, some for marinade)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (divided, some for marinade, some for seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon Cornstarch
Congee Base
- 1/2 cup Short Grain White Rice
- 4 cups Chicken Broth
- 2 large slices Ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon Chicken Bouillon (optional)
Garnish and Flavoring
- 2 Green Onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon Toasted Sesame Oil
Instructions
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the short grain white rice several times under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and achieve a creamy texture in the congee.
- Cook the Congee Base: For Instant Pot: Combine the rinsed rice, chicken broth, 2 teaspoons of Shaoxing wine, ginger slices, and optional chicken bouillon in the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. For stovetop: Combine rinsed rice, ginger slices, and chicken broth in a large pot, bring to a simmer with the cover slightly ajar, and let it simmer gently for 30 minutes until the rice breaks down to a porridge consistency.
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breast or thigh into thin pieces and marinate in 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine, ½ teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. The cornstarch helps tenderize the chicken and keeps it silky.
- Add Chicken and Green Onions: Once the congee is cooked, stir in the marinated chicken slices and thinly sliced green onions. Cook together for an additional 2 minutes to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and flavors meld.
- Finish and Season: Stir in 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil to enhance fragrance and richness. Adjust salt to taste. Serve the congee hot for a soothing meal perfect for cozy evenings.
Notes
- You can use chicken thighs for a richer and more flavorful congee, or chicken breast for a leaner version.
- Shaoxing wine adds depth of flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Short grain rice is preferred for its starchiness, which creates the signature creamy texture in congee.
- If using stovetop, stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Optional chicken bouillon can enhance flavor but is not necessary if you have a rich chicken broth.
- Adjust the thickness of the congee by adding more or less broth to your preference.
