Chao Ga (Vietnamese Chicken Rice Porridge)

Chao Ga, also known as Vietnamese Chicken Rice Porridge, is a traditional comfort food made by simmering rice in a flavorful chicken broth until it reaches a silky, porridge-like consistency. This dish is often served with tender shredded chicken, garnished with fresh herbs, and is known for its healing qualities, especially when someone is under the weather.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Nourishing: A warm, soothing dish that’s perfect for cold days or when you’re feeling unwell.
• Simple to Make: Uses basic pantry ingredients and straightforward cooking steps.
• Easily Customizable: You can adjust the thickness, seasoning, and toppings to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: Gentle on the stomach and suitable for all ages.
• Rich in Flavor: Despite its simplicity, the broth is deeply aromatic thanks to ginger, shallots, and fish sauce.
• Great for Meal Prep: Makes a large batch and reheats beautifully.
• One-Pot Meal: Everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup easier.
• Traditional Yet Timeless: A beloved Vietnamese staple with enduring appeal.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients like rice and chicken.
• Naturally Gluten-Free: A wholesome option for those with dietary restrictions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 whole chicken (around 3.5 to 4 pounds)
• 3 large shallots, halved
• 3-inch piece of ginger, sliced
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 3 tablespoons palm sugar or regular sugar
• 12 cups water
• 2 minced shallots
• 1 1/2 cups jasmine rice, rinsed
• 6 cups chicken broth (can be reserved from boiling the chicken)
• 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce
• Ground black pepper
• Fried shallots, for garnish
• Chopped cilantro
• Sliced green onions

Directions

1. Make the Chicken Broth: Place the whole chicken in a large pot with the halved shallots, sliced ginger, salt, and sugar. Add 12 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour, until the chicken is tender.
2. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken and let it cool slightly. Shred the meat and set aside. Discard skin and bones.
3. Prepare the Rice Porridge: In the same pot, add the rinsed jasmine rice and the minced shallots. Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 35–40 minutes. Stir occasionally until the rice is broken down and the porridge is thick and creamy.
4. Season the Porridge: Stir in chicken bouillon powder, salt, sugar, and fish sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Serve: Ladle porridge into bowls, top with shredded chicken, and garnish with fried shallots, cilantro, green onions, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 10 to 12 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Egg: Stir in a beaten egg at the end of cooking for extra richness.
• Spicy Twist: Add sliced chili or a dash of chili oil for heat.
• Rice Options: Try broken rice or a mix of white and glutinous rice for different textures.
• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and tofu instead of chicken.
• Herbal Addition: Include Thai basil or mint for extra freshness.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm over medium heat on the stove, stirring in a little broth or water to loosen if it thickens too much.

FAQs

What is Chao Ga?

Chao Ga is a Vietnamese chicken rice porridge, similar to congee, made by simmering rice in chicken broth until it becomes creamy and thick.

Is Chao Ga healthy?

Yes, it is considered a nourishing and easily digestible dish, often eaten when someone is sick due to its gentle ingredients and hydrating qualities.

Can I make Chao Ga with leftover rice?

Yes, using cooked rice can significantly shorten cooking time. Simply simmer it in broth until the desired consistency is reached.

How do I make it more flavorful?

Add more fish sauce, a splash of soy sauce, or sauté the shallots in oil before adding to the pot for deeper flavor.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken?

Yes, chicken thighs or breasts can be used, but using a whole chicken imparts more flavor to the broth.

Is Chao Ga gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your fish sauce and bouillon powder are gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to the porridge?

Yes, chopped carrots, mushrooms, or corn can be added during the simmering process.

How thick should Chao Ga be?

It should be creamy but not overly thick; you can adjust the liquid during cooking to your preferred consistency.

What toppings go well with Chao Ga?

Fried shallots, green onions, cilantro, chili, soy sauce, and a squeeze of lime are popular garnishes.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, combine all ingredients except garnishes in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

Conclusion

Chao Ga is a timeless Vietnamese dish that embodies comfort, nourishment, and simplicity. Whether you’re seeking a meal to soothe the body or just something warm and satisfying, this chicken rice porridge delivers in both flavor and heartiness. Ideal for any season and adaptable to various tastes, it’s a dish worth mastering in any kitchen.

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