Creamy Chicken Congee (Instant Pot and Stove Top Recipes) Recipe

There is nothing quite as comforting and soul-soothing as a warm bowl of creamy, velvety rice porridge, and this Creamy Chicken Congee (Instant Pot and Stove Top Recipes) Recipe delivers exactly that. Whether you are craving something gentle on the stomach or a nourishing meal that wraps you in cozy flavors, this recipe combines tender chicken, fragrant ginger, and silky rice cooked to perfection in chicken broth. Plus, with options to use either the Instant Pot for convenience or the traditional stovetop method, you get flexibility without compromising the luscious texture and rich taste that make congee a timeless favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For such a humble dish, the ingredient list is wonderfully simple yet every item plays a crucial role in building depth of flavor, texture, and that unmistakable warmth classic to congee. Here’s what you’ll gather before you start stirring the pot or sealing the Instant Pot lid.

• Chicken breast or thigh (8 oz): Thinly sliced for quick cooking and tender bites throughout the porridge.
• Shaoxing wine (2 teaspoons + 1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle, fragrant complexity that elevates the dish beautifully.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): To enhance all the natural flavors without overpowering.
• Cornstarch (1 teaspoon): Helps keep the chicken juicy and velvety when cooked.
• Short grain white rice (1/2 cup): The perfect texture for that creamy, thick porridge.
• Chicken broth (4 cups): Builds the savory base, imparting richness and depth to the congee.
• Fresh ginger slices (2 large): Adds gentle heat and warmth that makes each spoonful inviting.
• Green onions (2, thinly sliced): Provides a fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy texture.
• Chicken bouillon (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Boosts umami if you prefer a stronger chicken flavor.
• Toasted sesame oil (1 teaspoon): The finishing touch that gives a subtle nutty aroma and silkiness.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Congee (Instant Pot and Stove Top Recipes) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Start by rinsing the rice gently under cold water until the water runs clear. This simple step removes excess starch, ensuring the congee doesn’t become gluey but achieves that smooth, creamy consistency perfectly.

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method

Instant Pot: Combine your rinsed rice, chicken broth, Shaoxing wine, and fresh ginger slices in the Instant Pot. Set it to cook at high pressure for 15 minutes, then allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before finishing with a quick release. This technique locks in flavor while delivering a luscious texture with minimal hands-on time.

Stove Top: For those who love a more traditional approach, combine the rice, ginger, chicken broth, and extra water in a large pot. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce to low and cover partially, keeping a small gap for steam to escape. Simmer gently for about 30 minutes, stirring often near the end to prevent sticking and to achieve that perfect thickness.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

While your congee simmers, toss thinly sliced chicken with Shaoxing wine, salt, and cornstarch. This simple marinade keeps the chicken super tender and infuses it with delicate flavor, preparing it to cook quickly in the final step.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken in the Congee

Once your rice porridge has thickened to creamy perfection, stir in the marinated chicken, green onions, and a pinch of chicken bouillon if using. Cook gently over medium heat or use the sauté function on the Instant Pot, stirring constantly to separate the chicken pieces. Within about two minutes, the chicken will turn opaque and be tenderly nestled in your porridge.

Step 5: Finish and Adjust Seasoning

Drizzle in toasted sesame oil for that wonderful nutty fragrance and richness. Give everything a final stir and taste for seasoning, adding salt if needed. Now your Creamy Chicken Congee (Instant Pot and Stove Top Recipes) Recipe is ready to warm you up from the inside out.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Congee (Instant Pot and Stove Top Recipes) Recipe

Garnishes

A bowl of congee is like a blank canvas for a world of garnishes. Fresh chopped cilantro, a drizzle of soy sauce, crispy fried shallots, or a splash of chili oil add layers of flavor and delightful texture contrasts, turning every spoonful into a creative experience.

Side Dishes

Pair your creamy chicken congee with simple sides like steamed greens, pickled vegetables, or salted duck eggs. These sides provide a nice balance—some bite and saltiness to complement the soft, comforting porridge.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your congee in unique ways by layering in soft-boiled eggs, adding sautéed mushrooms, or topping with shredded chicken and toasted nuts for crunch. Presentation becomes part of the joyous ritual, inviting everyone to customize their bowl according to taste and mood.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Chicken Congee can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture may thicken overnight, but a little extra broth or water stirred in during reheating effortlessly restores its signature creaminess.

Freezing

You can freeze congee in individual portions for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers and leave space for expansion. Thaw fully in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in a microwave to preserve the smooth texture.

Reheating

When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the congee, stirring gently until warm and creamy once again. Reheat slowly over low heat to avoid scorching and to keep the chicken tender and juicy.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this congee?

Brown rice can be used, but it will take much longer to cook and the texture will be less creamy and more hearty. If you try it, plan for extended simmering time and additional broth or water to achieve the right consistency.

Is it necessary to use Shaoxing wine?

Shaoxing wine lends an authentic flavor and depth, but if unavailable, dry sherry or a mild white cooking wine can work as substitutes. If you prefer, you can even omit it, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and swap chicken for diced tofu or mushrooms. Use toasted sesame oil and ginger liberally to keep the flavor rich and comforting.

What’s the best way to get the congee creamy without it becoming gluey?

Rinsing the rice thoroughly before cooking removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming sticky. Also, stirring frequently during stovetop cooking helps achieve a velvety smooth texture without clumps.

How thick should the congee be when it’s done?

Congee is typically thick but still pourable—think of it as a creamy porridge that you can scoop with a spoon easily but not so watery that it’s soupy. Adjust by adding broth or cooking a bit longer until you achieve your preferred consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Congee (Instant Pot and Stove Top Recipes) Recipe is such a heartfelt dish that’s perfect any day you want to slow down and savor pure comfort in a bowl. Whether you whip it up quickly in the Instant Pot or let it simmer gently on the stovetop, the end result is always a hug of warmth and flavor. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own cozy staple.

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