Instant Pot® Chicken Congee (Chinese Rice Porridge)

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Are you looking for a comforting and nourishing dish that is easy to make?

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Instant Pot® Chicken Congee (Chinese Rice Porridge)
Prep
10 min
Cook
1 hr
Total
1 hr 20 min
Servings
6

Method

  1. In a bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth and rice. Set aside.

  2. Turn on a multi-functional pressure cooker (such as Instant Pot®) and select the Saute function. Spray with cooking spray and add the bacon. Saute for about 5 minutes until the bacon is crisp, but not burned. Remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain.

  3. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the pot and cook in the bacon grease until the onion is soft and translucent, which should take around 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer half of the onion mixture to a small bowl.

  4. Slowly pour in 1 cup of chicken broth into the pot and use a wooden spoon to scrape off any browned bits. Add the chicken breasts to the pot and turn off the Saute function.

  5. Close and lock the lid of the pressure cooker. Select high pressure according to the manufacturer's instructions and set the timer for 12 minutes. Allow the pressure to build for 10 to 15 minutes.

  6. Carefully release the pressure using the quick-release method as per the manufacturer's instructions, which should take around 5 minutes. Unlock and remove the lid.

  7. Pour in the rice and broth mixture into the pot. Close and seal the lid. Select the rice setting and cook for 12 minutes (this setting should be preset).

  8. Release the pressure carefully using the

About this recipe

Are you looking for a comforting and nourishing dish that is easy to make? Look no further than Instant Pot® Chicken Congee, also known as Chinese Rice Porridge. This classic dish is a staple in Chinese cuisine, often enjoyed for breakfast or when feeling under the weather. With the help of your trusty Instant Pot®, you can now make this delicious congee in no time.

What is Congee?

If you've never had congee before, think of it as the Chinese version of chicken soup. It's a rice porridge that is slow-cooked until the grains break down and create a thick and creamy texture. Congee is often flavored with various ingredients like chicken, pork, fish, or even vegetables. It is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming you up on a cold day or soothing a sore throat.

Why Use an Instant Pot®?

Using an Instant Pot® to make congee has several advantages. First and foremost, it saves you time. Traditionally, congee is cooked on the stovetop for hours to achieve the desired consistency. With an Instant Pot®, you can have a bowl of piping hot congee ready in under an hour. Plus, it requires minimal effort, allowing you to set it and forget it while the magic happens.

The Recipe

To make Instant Pot® Chicken Congee, you'll need a few simple ingredients. Begin by rinsing your rice to remove any excess starch. This step helps to achieve a smoother texture in your congee. Next, combine the rice, chicken broth, and chicken pieces in your Instant Pot®. Close the lid and set it to high pressure for 20 minutes.

Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes before carefully opening the lid. Give the congee a good stir, breaking up any remaining rice grains. The chicken should be tender and easily shred apart. If desired, you can add additional seasonings like soy sauce, ginger, or green onions for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Instant Pot® Chicken Congee can be enjoyed as is, or you can add various toppings to take it to the next level. Common toppings include thinly sliced green onions, crispy fried shallots, fresh cilantro, or a drizzle of sesame oil. You can also serve it with a side of pickled vegetables or a few pieces of fried dough sticks for a truly authentic experience.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use a different type of rice for congee?

Yes, you can use different types of rice for congee. While jasmine or long-grain rice is commonly used, you can also experiment with short-grain or glutinous rice for a stickier consistency.

. Can I make vegetarian congee?

Absolutely! If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. Add your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or peas to enhance the flavors.

. Can I freeze leftover congee?

Yes, congee freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

. How long does congee last in the refrigerator?

Congee can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

. Can I use bone-in chicken for added flavor?

Absolutely! Using bone-in chicken, such as chicken thighs or drumsticks, can add extra flavor to your congee. Just remember to remove the bones before serving.

. Can I make congee without an Instant Pot®?

Yes, you can make congee without an Instant Pot®. Simply cook the rice and chicken in a large pot on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until the rice breaks down and the congee thickens.

. Can I customize the toppings?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. You can add crispy fried garlic, sliced chili peppers, or even a poached egg on top of your congee for added flavor and texture.

. Can I make congee with leftover rice?

Absolutely! Using leftover rice is a great way to make congee. Simply combine the rice with chicken broth and cook until the desired consistency is reached. It's a fantastic way to repurpose leftover rice and create a delicious meal.

In conclusion, Instant Pot® Chicken Congee is a comforting and nourishing dish that is perfect for any time of the day. Using an Instant Pot® saves you time and effort while still delivering rich and flavorful congee. With endless topping possibilities and the ability to customize the recipe, you can make this dish your own. So, why not give it a try and experience the warmth and comfort of Chinese rice porridge?

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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