Instant Pot Chicken Congee: Easy Recipe for Comfort Food

Instant Pot Chicken Congee: the ultimate comfort food, ready in a fraction of the time! Have you ever craved a warm, nourishing bowl of goodness that feels like a hug from the inside out? This creamy, savory rice porridge, traditionally simmered for hours, is now incredibly easy to make thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot.

Congee, also known as jook or rice porridge, boasts a rich history spanning centuries and cultures across Asia. From China to Korea to Vietnam, each region has its own unique take on this humble dish. Often served to the sick or elderly due to its easily digestible nature, congee is so much more than just a simple meal. It’s a symbol of care, tradition, and resourcefulness, transforming simple ingredients into something truly special.

What makes Instant Pot Chicken Congee so irresistible? It’s the perfect blend of creamy texture, savory chicken flavor, and customizable toppings. The Instant Pot makes achieving that perfect, velvety consistency a breeze, without the need for constant stirring. People love it because it’s incredibly versatile – a blank canvas for your favorite flavors. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover cooked chicken, making it a budget-friendly and convenient meal option for busy weeknights. Get ready to experience the soothing and satisfying flavors of this classic dish, simplified for modern kitchens!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed well
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 inch ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced, plus more for garnish
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon white pepper, or to taste
• Optional toppings: fried shallots, chili oil, soft-boiled egg, cilantro, peanuts

Preparing the Ingredients:

1. First things first, let’s get our rice ready. Rinse the rice really well under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the congee from becoming too gummy. I usually rinse it for a good 2-3 minutes.
2. Next, prepare the chicken. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch each. This ensures they cook evenly and are easy to eat in the congee.
3. Now, let’s prep the aromatics. Peel and thinly slice the ginger. The thinner the slices, the more flavor they’ll release into the congee. Mince the garlic. I like to use a garlic press for this, but you can also finely chop it.
4. Finally, thinly slice the scallions. We’ll use some of these in the cooking process and save the rest for garnish. The green parts are especially nice for adding a fresh, vibrant flavor.

Cooking the Congee in the Instant Pot:

1. Alright, let’s get cooking! Add the rinsed rice, chicken pieces, chicken broth, ginger slices, minced garlic, and half of the sliced scallions to the Instant Pot.
2. Now, season the mixture with soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and white pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
3. Close the Instant Pot lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing.”
4. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the cooking time to 20 minutes.
5. Once the cooking time is up, let the Instant Pot naturally pressure release for 15 minutes. This is important because it allows the congee to thicken properly and prevents a messy release.
6. After 15 minutes of natural pressure release, carefully release any remaining pressure manually by turning the valve to “Venting.” Be cautious of the steam!
7. Once all the pressure is released and the pin drops, carefully open the Instant Pot lid.

Finishing Touches and Serving:

1. Give the congee a good stir. It should be thick and creamy. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can simmer it on the “Sauté” setting for a few minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens up.
2. Taste the congee and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, soy sauce, or white pepper to suit your taste.
3. Now for the fun part: serving! Ladle the congee into bowls and garnish with the remaining sliced scallions.
4. Get creative with your toppings! Some of my favorite toppings include fried shallots for a crispy crunch, chili oil for a spicy kick, a soft-boiled egg for added richness, fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness, and chopped peanuts for a nutty flavor. Feel free to experiment and find your own favorite combinations.

Tips and Variations:

• Rice Variety: While long-grain rice is the most common choice for congee, you can also use other types of rice, such as short-grain rice or jasmine rice. Each type of rice will give the congee a slightly different texture and flavor.
• Chicken Broth: Using homemade chicken broth will result in a richer and more flavorful congee. However, store-bought chicken broth works just fine. Just be sure to choose a low-sodium option so you can control the saltiness of the dish.
• Vegetarian Option: To make a vegetarian version of this congee, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, carrots, or spinach, to the congee for added flavor and nutrition.
• Slow Cooker Method: If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can also make this congee in a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
• Leftovers: Congee is a great make-ahead dish. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little more broth if needed to thin it out.
• Adding Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your congee. Diced carrots, celery, or even some chopped spinach can add extra nutrients and flavor. Add them along with the other ingredients at the beginning of the cooking process.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the congee.
• Ginger Intensity: If you prefer a stronger ginger flavor, you can add more ginger to the congee. You can also grate some fresh ginger into the congee just before serving for an extra zing.
• Garlic Lovers: Similarly, if you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more garlic to the congee. You can even add some roasted garlic for a deeper, more complex flavor.
• Thickening the Congee: If your congee isn’t thick enough after cooking, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the congee. Simmer for a few minutes until the congee thickens.
• Thinning the Congee: If your congee is too thick, simply add more chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Freezing Congee: Congee can be frozen for longer storage. Allow the congee to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Toppings Galore: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings! Some other great topping ideas include crispy bacon, shredded seaweed, pickled vegetables, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo.

Serving Suggestions:

• Breakfast: Congee is a popular breakfast dish in many Asian countries. It’s a warm, comforting, and nutritious way to start the day.
• Lunch: Congee can also be enjoyed as a light and satisfying lunch.
• Dinner: Congee is a great option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
• Sick Day Meal: Congee is often eaten when someone is feeling under the weather. It’s easy to digest and provides essential nutrients.
• Comfort Food: Congee is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a cold day or when you just need a little something to warm you up.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 300-400
• Protein: 25-35g
• Fat: 10-15g
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g

Enjoy your delicious and comforting Instant Pot Chicken Congee! I hope you find this recipe easy to follow and that it becomes a staple in your kitchen. Remember to adjust the seasonings and toppings to your liking and have fun experimenting with different variations. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Instant Pot Chicken Congee recipe isn’t just another meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a comforting embrace on a chilly evening, and a flavorful adventure all rolled into one. I truly believe it’s a must-try for anyone seeking a simple, satisfying, and incredibly versatile dish. The ease of the Instant Pot makes it a weeknight winner, while the depth of flavor elevates it to weekend-worthy status.

Why is it a must-try? Because it’s more than just rice porridge. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. The tender, shredded chicken melts in your mouth, the ginger and garlic infuse every grain with warmth, and the overall texture is simply divine. Plus, it’s incredibly budget-friendly and uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Forget complicated recipes with endless steps; this Instant Pot Chicken Congee is all about simplicity and maximum flavor impact.

But the real beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a splash of soy sauce or fish sauce for an extra umami kick. A drizzle of sesame oil adds a nutty aroma that’s simply irresistible. For a spicier version, incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a swirl of sriracha. And don’t forget the toppings!

Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions and variations to get you started:

* Classic Comfort: Top with sliced green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and a drizzle of soy sauce.
* Spicy Kick: Add a dollop of chili garlic sauce or a few slices of fresh chili peppers.
* Crispy Crunch: Garnish with crispy fried shallots or garlic for added texture and flavor.
* Egg-cellent Addition: Top with a soft-boiled or fried egg for extra protein and richness.
* Veggie Boost: Stir in some steamed bok choy, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrients.
* Seafood Sensation: Replace the chicken with shrimp or scallops for a delicious seafood congee.

The possibilities are truly endless! Feel free to experiment with different toppings and flavor combinations to create your own signature Instant Pot Chicken Congee masterpiece.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe that I urge you to give it a try. It’s the perfect meal for a busy weeknight, a comforting weekend brunch, or even a soothing remedy when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken or rice.

Once you’ve made it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you try any variations? What toppings did you use? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Let’s create a community of congee lovers and inspire each other with our culinary creations. Don’t be shy – your feedback is invaluable! Happy cooking, and I hope you enjoy this comforting and delicious Instant Pot Chicken Congee as much as I do! I can’t wait to hear what you think!