If you’re searching for the best Chicken Long Rice Recipe, you’ve come to the right place! This Hawaiian favorite is a warm, flavorful, and comforting dish made with tender shredded chicken, glass noodles, and a rich, ginger-infused broth. Despite its name, Chicken Long Rice doesn’t actually contain rice—instead, it features delicate, translucent noodles that soak up the savory flavors of the broth.
This dish is a staple in Hawaiian cuisine, often served at luaus, family gatherings, and casual dinners. Inspired by Chinese influence but deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture, it’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through an authentic, step-by-step Chicken Long Rice Recipe, complete with pro cooking tips, variations, and troubleshooting tricks. Let’s get started and bring a taste of Hawaii to your kitchen! 🌺
Table of Contents
What Is Chicken Long Rice?
Chicken Long Rice is a Hawaiian-Chinese fusion dish featuring shredded chicken, glass noodles, and a flavorful broth made with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. It’s a soupy, comforting dish that pairs well with rice, grilled meats, or even on its own.
Origins and Cultural Significance
Although Chicken Long Rice is deeply associated with Hawaiian cuisine, its roots trace back to Chinese immigrants who brought their noodle dishes to the islands. Over time, Hawaiians adapted it, using local ingredients and flavors to make it their own. Today, you’ll find it served at family gatherings, luaus, and even restaurants across Hawaii.
Fun Fact: This dish is often served alongside Kalua pig, poi, and lomi salmon at traditional Hawaiian feasts!
Traditional vs. Modern Versions
Traditionally, Chicken Long Rice uses simple ingredients—chicken, glass noodles, ginger, garlic, and green onions. Some modern versions, however, add mushrooms, chili peppers, or additional seasonings to enhance the flavor. You can even make it spicy, gluten-free, or keto-friendly with minor adjustments!
Ingredients Needed for Chicken Long Rice
Before we start cooking, let’s gather everything we need. Here’s a simple ingredient list for an authentic Hawaiian-style Chicken Long Rice:
Essential Ingredients and Their Roles
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken thighs or breast | 2 lbs (boneless, skinless) | Provides rich, tender meat for the dish. |
| Glass noodles (Long Rice) | 8 oz | Absorbs broth flavors and adds texture. |
| Fresh ginger | 2-inch piece, sliced | Adds warmth and depth to the broth. |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced | Enhances the broth’s savory profile. |
| Green onions | 4 stalks, chopped | For garnish and mild onion flavor. |
| Chicken broth | 6 cups | Forms the base of the soup. |
| Soy sauce | ¼ cup | Provides umami and saltiness. |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Essential seasonings. |
| Sesame oil (optional) | 1 tbsp | Adds richness and aroma. |
Tip: If you can’t find glass noodles, try using vermicelli rice noodles as a substitute!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Long Rice
Now that we have our ingredients, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these steps to make the perfect Chicken Long Rice at home.
1. Preparing the Chicken
Boil the Chicken:
- In a large pot, bring 6 cups of chicken broth to a boil.
- Add your chicken thighs or breasts and reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Simmer for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Shred the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
📝 Note: Bone-in chicken can be used for extra flavor, but you’ll need to remove the bones before shredding!
2. Cooking the Broth for Maximum Flavor
Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add sliced ginger and minced garlic.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Season the Broth:
- Stir in soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Let the flavors meld together for 5 minutes before moving on.
Pro Tip: Add a dash of sesame oil for a deeper, nuttier flavor!
3. Preparing and Adding Long Rice (Glass Noodles)
Soak the Noodles:
- Place the glass noodles in a bowl of warm water.
- Let them soak for 10-15 minutes until they soften.
Combine Everything:
- Add the shredded chicken and soaked noodles into the simmering broth.
- Stir gently and let everything cook for another 5 minutes.
Tip: The noodles absorb broth quickly, so if it becomes too thick, just add a little more water or broth!
4. Final Steps: Combining and Serving
Garnish:
- Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch.
- (Optional) Add a squeeze of lime or chili flakes for extra zing!
Serve & Enjoy:
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot!
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Even simple recipes can have challenges. Here’s how to fix common issues with Chicken Long Rice!
Why Is My Long Rice Too Mushy?
Solution: Soak the noodles for only 10-15 minutes and add them at the end to prevent overcooking.
How to Avoid Bland Chicken Long Rice?
Solution: Use a flavorful broth, enough ginger and garlic, and a touch of soy sauce or fish sauce to boost umami.
Fixing an Overly Salty or Watery Broth
Solution: If too salty, add a bit of water or unsalted broth. If too watery, let it simmer longer to concentrate the flavors.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Chicken Long Rice
Want to take your Chicken Long Rice to the next level? Here are some pro tips to enhance the flavor, texture, and overall experience of this dish!
How to Enhance the Flavor
✅ Use Bone-In Chicken – If you have the time, cooking bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs will result in a richer, more flavorful broth. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the bones before shredding.
✅ Toast the Ginger and Garlic – Instead of just adding them to the broth, try lightly sautéing them first. This helps bring out their natural oils and intensifies the flavor!
✅ Let It Rest Before Serving – The longer Chicken Long Rice sits, the more the flavors blend together. If you have time, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving for maximum flavor!
✅ Add a Dash of Fish Sauce – A little fish sauce (about 1 teaspoon) gives the dish a savory, umami kick without making it taste fishy.
If you love using leftover rotisserie chicken, check out this guide on How Long is Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Good in the Fridge? to ensure freshness.
Best Side Dishes to Serve With Chicken Long Rice
Although Chicken Long Rice is delicious on its own, pairing it with other Hawaiian dishes makes for an amazing meal! Here are some classic sides:
Kalua Pig – This slow-roasted, smoky pork is a perfect savory contrast.
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad – A creamy, tangy side that balances the dish’s warmth.
Steamed White Rice – Simple yet perfect for soaking up extra broth.
Lomi Salmon – A refreshing tomato and salmon salad that pairs beautifully.
Grilled Pineapple – Adds a hint of tropical sweetness to your meal!
Pro Tip: For a true luau experience, serve Chicken Long Rice alongside Huli Huli Chicken, poke, and poi! 🌺
Want to try a chicken and shrimp variation? Find out Can I Cook Chicken and Shrimp Together? for a delicious seafood twist!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Chicken Long Rice actually tastes better the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
Storing in the Fridge:
- Let the dish cool to room temperature.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing (Not Recommended):
- Glass noodles don’t freeze well; they tend to turn mushy. If you need to freeze it, store the broth and chicken separately, and add fresh noodles when reheating.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Heat over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each one.
Tip: The noodles will absorb more liquid overnight, so you may need to add extra broth when reheating!
Delicious Variations of Chicken Long Rice
Want to mix things up? Here are some fun variations to try:
Spicy Chicken Long Rice
Love a little heat? Add these spicy ingredients to take your dish up a notch:
Sliced Thai chilies or a pinch of red pepper flakes
A dash of Sriracha or chili garlic sauce
Kimchi (adds spice and tanginess!)
Vegetarian and Vegan Alternatives
Want to make it meat-free? No problem! Try these swaps:
Replace chicken with tofu or mushrooms (shiitake mushrooms work great!)
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth
Add bok choy, carrots, or bean sprouts for extra nutrition
⏳ Quick and Easy Instant Pot Version
Short on time? Make Chicken Long Rice in an Instant Pot!
1- Sauté garlic and ginger using the “Sauté” mode.
2- Add chicken, broth, soy sauce, and seasonings. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then quick-release.
3- Shred the chicken and add soaked glass noodles. Let sit for 5 minutes.
4- Serve and enjoy!
Pro Tip: Cooking in an Instant Pot infuses the flavors faster and saves time!
Health Benefits and Nutritional Value
Is Chicken Long Rice healthy? The answer is yes—it’s a light yet nourishing dish!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250-300 kcal |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
Why It’s Good for You
✔️ Low in Fat – Since it’s broth-based, it’s not heavy or greasy.
✔️ Great for Digestion – Ginger and garlic help soothe the stomach and support immunity.
✔️ Rich in Protein – Chicken provides lean protein to keep you full.
✔️ Gluten-Free (If Using Tamari) – A perfect gluten-free comfort dish!
Want to make it healthier? Use low-sodium broth and add extra veggies for fiber!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make Chicken Long Rice Ahead of Time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day! Just store it properly and reheat with extra broth to prevent dryness.
What Can I Use Instead of Glass Noodles?
If you can’t find glass noodles, try:
- Vermicelli rice noodles
- Zucchini noodles (for a low-carb option!)
- Bean thread noodles
How Do I Make It More Flavorful?
Use bone-in chicken, homemade broth, and a splash of fish sauce for an extra boost of umami.
Is Chicken Long Rice Keto-Friendly?
Not quite, since glass noodles are high in carbs, but you can swap them for shirataki noodles to make it keto-friendly!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Try adding:
Carrots
Bok choy
Mushrooms
Baby corn
Conclusion
Chicken Long Rice is the ultimate Hawaiian comfort food—it’s warm, soothing, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a luau, a weeknight dinner, or when you’re feeling under the weather, this dish is sure to hit the spot.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and bring a taste of Hawaii to your kitchen today! 🌺
“A bowl of Chicken Long Rice is like a warm hug from Hawaii.”