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

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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

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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.