Chicken and Ginger Congee

Chicken and Ginger Congee is a comforting, savory rice porridge originating from China, where rice is slow-cooked until it breaks down into a creamy, smooth base. It is typically made with chicken (often shredded or in bone-in pieces), fresh ginger, and sometimes garnished with scallions, fried shallots, or a drizzle of sesame oil. This dish is a staple breakfast or light meal across many Chinese households and regional cuisines.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is moderate in carbohydrates from the rice, provides a good source of lean protein from the chicken, and is generally low in fat unless added oils or fried toppings are included. Key nutrients include B vitamins, iron, and gingerol from the ginger, with a typical serving ranging from 200 to 350 calories depending on portion size and ingredients.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	180 kcal
Protein	12 g
Carbs	28 g
Fat	3 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	1 g
Sodium	450 mg
Potassium	280 mg
Phosphorus	150 mg
Iron	1.5 mg
Zinc	1.8 mg
Niacin (B3)	5 mg
Vitamin B6	0.3 mg
Selenium	12 mcg
Magnesium	25 mg

Per 1 bowl (300 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, congee is often considered a healing food in Chinese tradition, especially during illness or recovery, due to its easy digestibility and warming properties from ginger. Nutritionally, the long cooking process breaks down the rice starches, making it gentle on the digestive system while allowing flavors to meld deeply.