delicious Chicken Long Rice Recipe Comfort Food Classic 25
Chicken long rice is a beloved Hawaiian dish with roots in Chinese cuisine. This comforting, savory noodle dish features tender chicken, silky mung bean noodles (also called glass noodles), and a flavorful ginger-infused broth. It’s a staple at Hawaiian luaus and home-cooked family meals. In this post, you’ll learn how to make an authentic chicken long rice recipe, explore its cultural history, and get tips to customize it to your taste.
What is Chicken Long Rice?
Despite its name, chicken long rice isn’t technically rice—it’s a noodle dish! The “long rice” refers to glass noodles made from mung beans, which become soft and translucent when cooked. This dish was introduced to Hawaii by Chinese immigrants and evolved into a fusion comfort food that’s often served as a side dish or a light entrée.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Long Rice Recipe
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can master this recipe.
Comforting & Warm: Perfect for chilly days or when you crave a light, savory meal.
Versatile: Adjust the broth, add veggies, or spice it up to suit your tastes.
Gluten-Free: Mung bean noodles are naturally gluten-free, making this dish suitable for many diets.
📋 Ingredients for Chicken Long Rice
Here’s everything you need to make an authentic, delicious batch of chicken long rice:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless) | 1 pound (about 4 pieces) |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Mung bean noodles (glass noodles) | 8 ounces |
| Fresh ginger (sliced) | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Green onions (sliced) | 3 stalks |
| Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) | 2 tablespoons |
| Sesame oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
How to Make Chicken Long Rice: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- In a large pot, add the chicken thighs, chicken broth, water, sliced ginger, and garlic.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cook for 30 minutes until the chicken is tender.
- Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and set aside.
Pro Tip: Use bone-in chicken for a richer, more flavorful broth.
2. Cook the Noodles
- While the chicken is simmering, soak the mung bean noodles in warm water for 10-15 minutes until soft.
- Drain and cut the noodles in half with scissors for easier eating.
3. Combine and Simmer
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Add the softened noodles, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the noodles absorb the broth and become tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish and Serve
- Ladle the chicken long rice into bowls.
- Garnish with freshly sliced green onions for a bright, fresh finish.
Serve hot as a comforting main dish or alongside other Hawaiian favorites like kalua pork and lomi lomi salmon.
Tips & Variations
Use Bone-In Chicken: For a richer broth, simmer bone-in thighs or drumsticks.
Add Vegetables: Include mushrooms, bok choy, or carrots for extra texture and nutrition.
Spice It Up: Add a dash of sriracha or chili oil for a spicy kick.
Make It Ahead: Chicken long rice reheats well—store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What to Serve with Chicken Long Rice
Chicken long rice pairs perfectly with other Hawaiian dishes. Try serving it with:
- Kalua Pork: Smoky, shredded pork cooked in traditional Hawaiian style.
- Hawaiian Mac Salad: A creamy, tangy macaroni salad that complements the broth.
- Lomi Lomi Salmon: A refreshing salmon and tomato salad.
FAQ: Chicken Long Rice Recipe
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breast works, but chicken thighs remain juicier and more flavorful during the simmering process.
2. What are mung bean noodles?
Mung bean noodles, also called cellophane or glass noodles, are thin, transparent noodles made from mung bean starch. They become soft and chewy when cooked.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and use tofu or mushrooms in place of the chicken.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store chicken long rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth.
5. Is chicken long rice gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce, the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
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A Taste of Hawaii in Every Bite
Chicken long is more than just a dish—it’s a comforting bowl of Hawaiian tradition. With tender chicken, silky noodles, and a savory broth, this recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. Whether you’re reminiscing about a Hawaiian vacation or trying this classic for the first time, you’ll love how simple and satisfying it is.
Ready to bring the flavors of Hawaii to your kitchen? Try this chicken long recipe today!
