Congee Recipe with Chicken and Ginger

This savory Chinese rice porridge is silky, warming, and fragrant with fresh ginger. Briefly marinating the chicken keeps it tender, while occasional whisking helps the rice release its starch for a creamy texture without dairy. Serve it for a comforting breakfast, lunch, or light dinner. • Congee thickens substantially as it stands, so finish it slightly looser than you want to serve it. • Use a heavy-bottomed pot and maintain a lazy simmer; vigorous boiling increases sticking and can make the porridge spit. • Slice the chicken uniformly and add it only near the end so it remains tender. • Replace jasmine rice with another long-grain white rice; avoid converted or parboiled rice because it releases less starch. • Use boneless skinless chicken breast instead of thighs, but begin checking for doneness after 6 minutes to prevent drying. • Replace cilantro with additional scallions if you dislike its flavor. • Use water in place of chicken stock and season the finished congee with additional salt to taste. Cool leftovers promptly and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until steaming hot throughout, stirring in water or gluten-free chicken stock to restore the loose consistency. Freeze cooled portions for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.