Start your New Year with a comforting and nourishing bowl of Chicken Porridge! This classic dish is incredibly versatile, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal, and surprisingly easy to make, even for novice cooks. Imagine the warm, savory broth caressing tender chicken pieces and fluffy rice, a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will leave you feeling revitalized and ready to tackle the year ahead. This recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, making it a budget-friendly and convenient choice for a healthy start to the day or a soothing end to a busy one.
Beyond its deliciousness, chicken porridge offers a wealth of nutritional benefits, providing a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Ready to experience the simple joy of this comforting classic? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to create your own delicious bowl of Chicken Porridge.
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Pot
- Spatula
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs
- Daikon radish
- Garlic
- Green onions
- Rice (cold)
- Sake
- Water
- Salt
- Sesame oil
- Optional: Pickled plums, tsukemono (pickles)
- Optional: Kimchi, seaweed
- Optional: Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Start Simmering
- Cut chicken thighs into small pieces.
- Cut daikon radish into small cubes. Wash and leave the skin on.
- Mince garlic. You can mash it for better aroma absorption.
- Chop green onions, separating the white and blue parts.




- Combine chicken, daikon radish, garlic, sake, and water in a pot. Simmer until chicken is soft.

Step 2. Cook the Porridge
- Add salt to taste.
- Add cold rice. Be careful not to add too much, as it will expand.
- Simmer over low heat until thickened.


Step 3. Season and Garnish
- Add chopped white part of green onions for aroma.
- Finish with sesame oil.


Step 4. Serve
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with kimchi, seaweed, and the blue parts of the green onion.

Read more: Authentic Japanese Beef Sukiyaki Recipe - Easy & Delicious Hot Pot
Tips
- Use any vegetables you like, such as bok choy or 7 herbs.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- The porridge can be made thicker or thinner based on your preference.
- Leftover rice works perfectly for this recipe.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 50-65g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken works perfectly, saving you time.
2. What kind of rice is best for chicken porridge?
Short-grain rice, like Arborio or sushi rice, works best for its creamy texture. Avoid long-grain rice.
3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of sriracha, or some finely chopped fresh chilies to taste.
So there you have it – a simple, delicious, and heartwarming Chicken Porridge perfect for ringing in the New Year. This recipe is easily adaptable to your tastes and dietary needs, allowing you to enjoy a comforting and nutritious meal whenever you crave it. Happy cooking, and Happy New Year!