As I walked through the vibrant streets of Hanoi, the welcoming aroma of simmering broth and gentle spices wrapped around me like a warm blanket. One dish that captured my heart was Cháo Gà, Vietnamese Chicken and Rice Porridge, a bowl of pure comfort. This gluten-free delight features tender chicken, fragrant ginger, and a creamy texture that feels like a hug in minimal time. Perfect for breakfast or any light meal, it offers a simple yet satisfying way to nourish your body and soul. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it solo, this dish promises to bring warmth to your kitchen and joy to your table. Curious about how to whip up a bowl of this traditional comfort? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why is Cháo Gà So Special? Flavorful Comfort: Each bowl of Cháo Gà bursts with the warmth of ginger and the depth of savory broth, making it an ultimate comfort food. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy mornings or a cozy evening at home. Versatile Options: Whether you’re a meat lover or craving a vegetarian twist, this dish can adapt easily to your dietary preferences. Try it with tofu for a delightful alternative! Healthy and Nutrient-Packed: Packed with lean protein from chicken and fiber-rich rice, it’s a nourishing choice for any meal. Shareable Joy: Nothing brings people together like a steaming pot of delicious porridge. Serve it family-style, and watch everyone dig in! Explore more delightful recipes like Sweet Savory Chicken or Marry Chicken Pasta to keep the comfort food coming. Cháo Gà Ingredients For the Broth • Whole Chicken – The star of the show, providing rich flavor and protein. • Yellow Onion – Enhances the broth’s depth; shallots can be used if desired. • Sea Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste. • Ginger – Fresh ginger infuses warmth and aroma; powdered ginger can substitute in a pinch. For the Porridge • Jasmine Rice – The key ingredient for creamy texture; opt for short-grain rice if that’s what you have. • Fish Sauce – Adds a savory depth to the broth; adjust to your liking. • Rock or Granulated Sugar – Balances the flavors; can be omitted based on personal preference. For the Dipping Sauce • Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds a tangy kick to your dipping sauce. For Frying • Vegetable Cooking Oil – Perfect for frying shallots; neutral oils work well too. Optional Garnishes • Crispy Fried Shallots – Adds a delightful crunch on top! • Fresh Herbs (Cilantro, Scallions) – Brighten up the dish and enhance flavor. • Shredded Vegetables (Cabbage, Carrots) – For extra flavor and texture. This comforting Cháo Gà (Vietnamese Chicken and Rice Porridge) is the perfect dish to warm your heart and fill your belly! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cháo Gà (Vietnamese Chicken and Rice Porridge) Step 1: Prepare Chicken Broth In a large pot, place a whole chicken along with a quartered yellow onion and a generous pinch of sea salt. Cover the chicken with water and bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, skim off any foam that forms, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. Step 2: Cook Jasmine Rice After the chicken is tender, carefully remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool. Strain the broth to eliminate any solids, returning the clear liquid to the pot. Rinse one cup of jasmine rice until the water runs clear, then add it along with sliced ginger and a touch of sugar to the strained broth. Bring it to a simmer and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice thickens into a creamy porridge. Step 3: Shred Chicken Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove the skin and bones, shredding the meat into bite-sized pieces. This tender chicken will serve as a topping for the Cháo Gà. Keep the shredded chicken warm as you prepare the rest of the dish. Step 4: Prepare Dipping Sauce In a small bowl, combine apple cider vinegar, a spoonful of sugar, and a splash of fish sauce. Stir this mixture until the sugar dissolves, creating a tangy dipping sauce that complements the flavors of Cháo Gà. Set it aside for serving. Step 5: Fry Shallots In a small skillet, heat vegetable cooking oil over medium heat. Once hot, add thinly sliced shallots and sauté until they’re golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the fried shallots to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil and keep them crispy for garnish. Step 6: Assemble and Serve Stir a few drops of fish sauce and freshly ground black pepper into the thickened porridge. To serve, ladle the Cháo Gà into bowls, topping each with shredded chicken, crispy fried shallots, and your choice of fresh herbs. Don’t forget to offer the tangy dipping sauce and sliced chilis on the side for a delightful finishing touch. Expert Tips for Making Cháo Gà • Skim Foam: Remove any foam while simmering the chicken to achieve a clear and clean broth. • Perfect Consistency: If your porridge is too thick, stir in water or broth to reach your desired consistency; simmer longer if too thin. • Use Jasmine Rice: For the best flavor and creaminess in your cháo gà, always opt for jasmine rice instead of long-grain options. • Vegetarian Twist: Substitute chicken with tofu or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version, and ensure you use vegetable broth for the best results. • Experiment with Toppings: Try various garnishes like fried garlic or a splash of coconut milk to elevate your Cháo Gà with exciting flavors. What to Serve with Cháo Gà Cháo Gà deserves delightful companions to create a full, comforting meal experience. Crispy Egg Rolls: These crunchy delights provide a textural contrast and a burst of flavor, perfect for dipping in sweet sauce. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: A fresh, vibrant vegetable dish that adds a touch of green and a slight crunch, balancing the creamy porridge perfectly. Vietnamese Pickled Vegetables: The tanginess of quick-pickled carrots and daikon adds brightness to your meal, enhancing the savory flavors of the porridge. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Tender, grilled shrimp can add a delicious smokiness to the meal, complementing the subtle flavors of Cháo Gà. Fresh Herb Salad: A simple mix of cilantro, mint, and basil can elevate your meal through bursts of freshness, offering a lovely contrast to the porridge. Coconut Water: This refreshing drink beautifully complements the warm nature of Cháo Gà, quenching your thirst and cleansing your palate. Embrace these pairings for a well-rounded experience that celebrates the heartwarming essence of Cháo Gà! Storage Tips for Cháo Gà Fridge: Store leftover Cháo Gà in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to achieve the desired consistency. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooled Cháo Gà in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. Reheating: When reheating, continuously stir while adding liquid to keep the porridge creamy and prevent it from sticking to the pot. Serving: Enjoy your Cháo Gà warm, garnished with crispy shallots and fresh herbs for a comforting meal that feels like home! Make Ahead Options Cháo Gà (Vietnamese Chicken and Rice Porridge) is an excellent choice for meal prep aficionados! You can prepare the chicken broth and cooked jasmine rice up to 24 hours in advance. Simply simmer the whole chicken, strain the broth, and cook the rice as outlined in the recipe; store them in airtight containers in the fridge. To maintain flavor, add a splash of broth when reheating the rice or when cooking the porridge to achieve that creamy consistency. When you’re ready to serve, just shred the chicken and mix it with the broth and rice, heating until warmed through for a comforting meal that brings the warmth of home cooking to your busy weeknights! Cháo Gà (Vietnamese Chicken and Rice Porridge) Variations Feel free to play and personalize your Cháo Gà, making it uniquely yours with these delightful twists! Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with tofu or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option that still packs flavor. Adding a medley of vegetables like carrots and green beans can elevate the nutrition while keeping that comforting texture. Duck Delight: Use duck instead of chicken for a richer, gamey flavor. The deeper broth will add an extra layer of comfort to your meal, perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself! Seafood Variation: Try shrimp or fish for a delightful seafood twist. This variation gives a fresh and vibrant experience; just cook seafood until tender and mix it into the porridge during the assembly stage. Coconut Creaminess: Stir in a splash of coconut milk for a rich and creamy texture. The hint of coconut elevates the dish, adding a delightful sweetness and making it feel extra luxurious. Herb Explosion: Sprinkle in fresh herbs like Thai basil or mint for a refreshing flavor boost. Their aromatic profiles complement the heartiness of Cháo Gà, creating a more vibrant and colorful dish. Extra Heat: Add sliced chilis or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick. This twist enhances the experience for spice lovers and warms you up on chilly evenings—just perfect for cozying up with loved ones. Garnished Goodness: Top your Cháo Gà with fried garlic or additional crispy shallots for a delicious crunch. This textural contrast not only looks beautiful but also elevates the overall flavor experience. Flavorful Broth Upgrades: Enhance the broth by adding lemongrass or star anise to the simmering stage. Infusing these aromatic spices will result in a fragrant and inviting broth that wraps you in warmth with every bite. Explore these variations while delighting in the traditional flavors, and remember, the comfort of food often lies in the joy of making it your own. If you’re looking for more comforting recipes, don’t miss out on trying Ponzu Chicken Rice or Caramelized Soy Chicken. Enjoy creating your perfect bowl of Cháo Gà! Cháo Gà (Vietnamese Chicken and Rice Porridge) Recipe FAQs How do I select the best ingredients for Cháo Gà? Absolutely! When choosing your chicken, opt for a whole chicken for a richer flavor in the broth. Make sure it’s fresh, with a slight pink hue and no dark spots. For the rice, jasmine rice is preferred for its creamy texture; if unavailable, use short-grain rice instead of long-grain for a better consistency. How do I store leftovers of Cháo Gà? Very! Store any leftover Cháo Gà in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain its creamy consistency. Gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. Can I freeze Cháo Gà? Absolutely! To freeze, allow the Cháo Gà to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding liquid as necessary for a smooth texture. What should I do if my Cháo Gà is too thick? If you find your porridge too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a bit of warm water or broth while constantly stirring, and bring it back to a gentle simmer. This will help loosen it up and achieve the creamy texture you desire. Is Cháo Gà suitable for those with dietary restrictions? Very! Cháo Gà can be made vegetarian by substituting chicken with tofu or mushrooms and using vegetable broth. Always check that your fish sauce is gluten-free if that’s a concern. Toppings can also be adjusted for specific allergies or preferences, making this dish flexible for everyone at your table. How can I enhance the flavors of my Cháo Gà? For added depth, consider tossing in extra garnishes like crispy fried garlic or a drizzle of coconut milk. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can also elevate the dish’s flavor profile beautifully. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the toppings for a unique twist! Comforting Cháo Gà: Heartwarming Vietnamese Chicken Porridge Cháo Gà is a comforting Vietnamese chicken and rice porridge that warms the soul with tender chicken and fragrant ginger. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: SoupCuisine: VietnameseCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Broth Ingredients1 whole Chicken The star of the show, providing rich flavor and protein.1 medium Yellow Onion Enhances the broth's depth; shallots can be used if desired.2 teaspoon Sea Salt Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste.1 inch Ginger Fresh ginger infuses warmth and aroma; powdered ginger can substitute in a pinch.Porridge Ingredients1 cup Jasmine Rice The key ingredient for creamy texture; opt for short-grain rice if that's what you have.2 tablespoon Fish Sauce Adds a savory depth to the broth; adjust to your liking.1 teaspoon Rock or Granulated Sugar Balances the flavors; can be omitted based on personal preference.Dipping Sauce Ingredients2 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar Adds a tangy kick to your dipping sauce.Frying Ingredients2 tablespoon Vegetable Cooking Oil Perfect for frying shallots; neutral oils work well too.Optional GarnishesCrispy Fried Shallots Adds a delightful crunch on top!Fresh Herbs (Cilantro, Scallions) Brighten up the dish and enhance flavor.Shredded Vegetables (Cabbage, Carrots) For extra flavor and texture. Equipment Large potsmall bowlSkillet Method Preparation InstructionsIn a large pot, place a whole chicken along with a quartered yellow onion and a generous pinch of sea salt. Cover the chicken with water and bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, skim off any foam that forms, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.After the chicken is tender, carefully remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool. Strain the broth to eliminate any solids, returning the clear liquid to the pot. Rinse one cup of jasmine rice until the water runs clear, then add it along with sliced ginger and a touch of sugar to the strained broth. Bring it to a simmer and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice thickens into a creamy porridge.Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove the skin and bones, shredding the meat into bite-sized pieces. This tender chicken will serve as a topping for the Cháo Gà. Keep the shredded chicken warm as you prepare the rest of the dish.In a small bowl, combine apple cider vinegar, a spoonful of sugar, and a splash of fish sauce. Stir this mixture until the sugar dissolves, creating a tangy dipping sauce that complements the flavors of Cháo Gà. Set it aside for serving.In a small skillet, heat vegetable cooking oil over medium heat. Once hot, add thinly sliced shallots and sauté until they're golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the fried shallots to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil and keep them crispy for garnish.Stir a few drops of fish sauce and freshly ground black pepper into the thickened porridge. To serve, ladle the Cháo Gà into bowls, topping each with shredded chicken, crispy fried shallots, and your choice of fresh herbs. Don't forget to offer the tangy dipping sauce and sliced chilis on the side for a delightful finishing touch. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1.5mg NotesEnjoy your Cháo Gà warm, garnished with crispy shallots and fresh herbs for a comforting meal that feels like home! Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
