If you’re searching for a hearty yet light dish that brings comfort to every bite, then the chicken long rice recipe is exactly what you need. This dish, deeply rooted in Hawaiian cuisine, delivers a delightful fusion of Asian flavors with a touch of island warmth. Though its name might suggest otherwise, chicken long rice is not a traditional rice dish. Instead, it features tender chicken simmered in a fragrant broth, combined with silky, glass-like mung bean noodles that soak up every ounce of rich, savory goodness.

Originally introduced to Hawaii by Chinese immigrants, this dish quickly became a local favorite and a staple at Hawaiian luaus, family gatherings, and plate lunches. What makes the chicken long rice recipe stand out is its simplicity—requiring just a handful of ingredients, yet offering an explosion of flavor that feels both nourishing and satisfying.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about making the perfect chicken long rice recipe, from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the cooking process. Whether you’re a home cook looking to expand your repertoire or simply craving a bowl of something warm and comforting, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive in!

What Is Chicken Long Rice?

Despite its name, the chicken long rice recipe doesn’t actually include rice. Instead, this beloved Hawaiian dish consists of tender chicken simmered in a rich, savory broth, paired with long, translucent mung bean noodles that absorb the flavors beautifully. The result is a warm, comforting dish that feels both light and satisfying, making it a favorite at family dinners, luaus, and Hawaiian plate lunches.

The Origins of Chicken Long Rice

The chicken long rice recipe traces its roots back to Chinese cuisine, specifically influenced by dishes featuring vermicelli noodles and clear broths. When Chinese immigrants arrived in Hawaii, they brought their culinary traditions with them. Over time, locals adapted these flavors, infusing them with Hawaiian ingredients and cooking techniques. The dish evolved into a fusion of Asian and Pacific Islander flavors, becoming a staple in Hawaiian home cooking.

Why Is It So Popular?

There are several reasons why the chicken long rice recipe remains a Hawaiian favorite. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients while delivering maximum flavor. Second, it’s a versatile dish—you can enjoy it as a main meal or a side dish, depending on your preference. Lastly, its nourishing broth and tender noodles make it the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather.

Ingredients Needed

To make an authentic chicken long rice recipe, you only need a few simple ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the dish’s rich, savory broth and delicate noodle texture. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will ensure the best results.

Essential Ingredients

The following ingredients form the foundation of a traditional chicken long rice recipe.

Optional Additions

For extra depth of flavor, consider adding shiitake mushrooms, lemongrass, or a dash of sesame oil. These small tweaks can elevate the dish while maintaining its traditional essence.

For those who love light, refreshing chicken dishes, you might also enjoy this Mexican Chicken Salad, which offers a completely different take on chicken-based meals with a vibrant, zesty flavor profile. If you’re looking to expand your chicken recipe collection, this could be the perfect next dish to try after mastering the chicken long rice recipe!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making the chicken long rice recipe is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort but delivers rich, comforting flavors. By following these steps carefully, you’ll achieve tender chicken, flavorful broth, and perfectly soft mung bean noodles that soak up all the deliciousness.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. While chicken thighs provide the most flavor, you can also use chicken breast for a leaner option.

In a bowl, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a splash of soy sauce. This quick seasoning helps enhance the flavor before cooking. Let the chicken sit for a few minutes while you prepare the aromatics.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about a minute, stirring constantly until the mixture becomes fragrant. This step is crucial because it releases the essential oils in the garlic and ginger, which infuses the broth with rich, deep flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot. Stir occasionally, allowing them to brown slightly on all sides. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps seal in the juices, keeping the chicken tender.

Once the chicken has lightly browned, pour in the chicken broth. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the chicken cook slowly for about 20 minutes, allowing it to become tender while absorbing the aromatic flavors of the broth.

Step 4: Prepare the Long Rice (Mung Bean Noodles)

While the chicken is simmering, place the mung bean noodles (long rice) in a bowl and cover them with warm water. Let them soak for about 10 minutes until they become soft and pliable. Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once the chicken has simmered and the broth is full of flavor, add the drained long rice noodles directly into the pot. Stir gently, ensuring the noodles are evenly distributed. Let them cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until they become soft and absorb the broth’s flavors.

Taste the broth and adjust seasoning if needed. You can add an extra splash of soy sauce or fish sauce for a richer taste.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pot from heat and sprinkle in the chopped green onions. This final touch adds a fresh, slightly sharp contrast to the warm broth.

Ladle the chicken long rice recipe into bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy it as a standalone meal or as a side dish to complement a traditional Hawaiian plate lunch.

Tips for the Best Chicken Long Rice

Making the perfect chicken long rice recipe is easy, but a few expert tips can take your dish to the next level. By paying attention to ingredients, cooking times, and seasoning, you’ll ensure that every bite is flavorful and satisfying.

Use Bone-In Chicken for More Flavor

While boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts are convenient, bone-in, skin-on chicken adds more depth to the broth. The bones release natural collagen and richness, making the broth more flavorful. If you use bone-in chicken, remove the bones before serving for easier eating.

Let the Dish Sit Before Serving

One of the best-kept secrets for a richer taste is letting the chicken long rice recipe rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the noodles to fully absorb the broth, intensifying the flavors.

Balance the Broth and Noodles

If the dish becomes too dry, simply add a bit more chicken broth or hot water. Long rice noodles continue to absorb liquid even after cooking, so adjusting the broth level right before serving ensures the perfect consistency.

Enhance with Additional Flavors

For a more complex taste, try adding a splash of sesame oil, fish sauce, or lime juice right before serving. These small touches bring out the dish’s natural umami and create a more balanced, aromatic broth.

Variations of Chicken Long Rice

One of the best things about the chicken long rice recipe is its versatility. While the classic version is already delicious, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you enjoy a spicy kick, a vegetarian twist, or a high-protein meal, this dish adapts well to different styles. For those looking for more ways to enjoy chicken, consider exploring chicken breakfast recipes, which provide nutritious and energizing ways to start the day. Just like chicken long rice, these recipes highlight how chicken can be a flavorful and healthy choice for any meal of the day.

Spicy Chicken Long Rice

If you enjoy a little heat, try making a spicy version of the chicken long rice recipe. Simply add red pepper flakes, sliced chili peppers, or a drizzle of sriracha to the broth. You can also stir in a bit of chili oil at the end for an extra kick. The spice enhances the dish without overpowering its comforting flavors.

Vegetarian Chicken Long Rice

For a meat-free alternative, swap out the chicken for tofu or mushrooms. Shiitake or oyster mushrooms work particularly well, as they add a savory, umami-rich taste to the broth. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and add a splash of soy sauce or miso paste for extra depth.

Coconut Chicken Long Rice

For a creamier, tropical twist, replace half of the chicken broth with coconut milk. This adds a rich, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the ginger and garlic. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing finish.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Long Rice

The chicken long rice recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, proper storage and reheating will help maintain its delicious flavor and texture. Since the noodles tend to absorb liquid over time, following the right techniques ensures your dish stays just as satisfying the next day. If you’re a fan of meal prepping, why not take it a step further by making a sweet treat to enjoy later as well? A batch of homemade cookies, like these Chick-fil-A-inspired cookies, can be a perfect dessert to pair with a warm bowl of chicken long rice. By properly storing both, you’ll always have a comforting meal and a delicious dessert ready to enjoy!

Refrigeration

To store leftovers, let the chicken long rice recipe cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles will continue absorbing the broth, so you may need to adjust the consistency when reheating.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended because mung bean noodles can become too soft and lose their texture when thawed. If you must freeze it, store the broth and noodles separately to prevent sogginess. Freeze the broth in an airtight container and keep the dry noodles in their original packaging.

Reheating

When reheating, place the chicken long rice recipe in a pot over medium heat and add a small amount of extra broth or water to loosen the noodles. Stir gently and heat until warm. Avoid overcooking, as the noodles can become mushy. For a quick option, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where did chicken long rice come from?

The chicken long rice recipe has its roots in Chinese cuisine, but it became a staple in Hawaiian food culture over time. Chinese immigrants introduced the dish to Hawaii, where it was adapted using local ingredients and cooking methods. Originally inspired by Chinese vermicelli noodle soups, it evolved into a Hawaiian classic, often served at luaus and family gatherings. Today, it remains a popular comfort dish that blends Asian and Hawaiian flavors into one satisfying meal.

What to add to chicken and rice for flavor?

To enhance the flavor of the chicken long rice recipe, you can add a variety of seasonings and aromatics. Garlic, ginger, and soy sauce are essential for depth, while a splash of fish sauce or sesame oil adds extra umami. For a richer taste, try incorporating shiitake mushrooms, lemongrass, or a squeeze of lime juice. If you enjoy heat, a dash of chili flakes or sriracha can elevate the dish with a spicy kick.

How many calories are in chicken long rice?

The calorie count in a chicken long rice recipe depends on the portion size and ingredients used. On average, one serving (about 1.5 cups) contains 250 to 350 calories. Using skinless chicken and low-sodium broth can reduce the calorie content, while adding extra seasonings or oils may increase it. Despite being light, this dish is packed with protein and essential nutrients, making it a healthy and satisfying meal.

How to cook chicken and rice?

Cooking chicken and rice varies depending on the dish, but for a chicken long rice recipe, you start by sautéing garlic and ginger, then simmering the chicken in broth until tender. The mung bean noodles are soaked separately before being added to the pot, where they absorb the flavorful broth. This technique ensures that the chicken stays juicy while the noodles achieve the perfect texture. To adjust flavor, season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper and finish with fresh green onions before serving.

Additional Insights on Chicken Long Rice

The chicken long rice recipe has many variations and is widely recognized across different cultures and cuisines. Whether you’re looking for specific recipes, ingredient details, or places to buy it, this section provides helpful insights into different aspects of this beloved dish.

Chicken Long Rice Recipe Filipino

The Filipino version of the chicken long rice recipe closely resembles sotanghon soup, a dish made with glass noodles (sotanghon), shredded chicken, and a rich, garlicky broth. While similar to the Hawaiian version, it often includes annatto oil for color and toasted garlic for extra flavor. Some variations also use hard-boiled eggs and vegetables like carrots or cabbage for added texture.

Chicken Long Rice Foodland

If you live in Hawaii, you might have seen chicken long rice at Foodland, one of the state’s most popular grocery chains. They often sell ready-to-eat versions of this dish in their deli section, along with pre-packaged ingredients for those who want to cook it at home. Their version stays true to the classic Hawaiian preparation, making it a convenient option for a quick, delicious meal.

Chicken Long Rice Soup Recipe

While the traditional chicken long rice recipe is already soupy, some people prefer a brothier version. To turn it into a full-fledged soup, simply increase the amount of chicken broth and add extra aromatics like lemongrass, onions, and shiitake mushrooms. The extra broth makes it perfect for colder days when you crave something warm and nourishing.

Hawaiian Electric Chicken Long Rice Recipe

Hawaiian Electric, a company that provides recipes inspired by local cuisine, offers a classic chicken long rice recipe on their website. Their version uses boneless chicken thighs, ginger, garlic, chicken broth, and long rice noodles, maintaining the traditional island flavors. Some home cooks follow this recipe because it’s simple, authentic, and easy to replicate with ingredients available in most grocery stores.

Chicken Long Rice Calories

The calorie count for the chicken long rice recipe depends on the portion size and ingredients used. A standard serving of 1.5 cups contains approximately 250 to 350 calories, with most of the calories coming from the chicken and noodles. To reduce calories, you can use lean chicken breast, low-sodium broth, and less oil. If you’re looking for a higher protein version, adding extra chicken is a great option.

Chicken Long Rice Near Me

If you’re craving chicken long rice but don’t want to cook, you can find it at many Hawaiian restaurants, local delis, and plate lunch spots. Searching for “chicken long rice near me” on Google or food delivery apps can help you locate restaurants that serve it in your area. If you’re in Hawaii, you’ll likely find it at places like Zippy’s, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, and Foodland.

Chicken Long Rice Ingredients

The essential chicken long rice ingredients include:

• Chicken thighs or breast – Provides the main source of protein and richness
• Chicken broth – Forms the base of the flavorful soup
• Mung bean noodles (long rice) – The signature ingredient that soaks up the broth
• Garlic and ginger – Adds depth and warmth to the dish
• Soy sauce – Enhances the umami flavor
• Green onions – Used as a garnish for freshness
• Salt and pepper – Adjusts the seasoning to taste

You can also add mushrooms, fish sauce, sesame oil, or vegetables to customize the dish to your liking.

Long Rice Noodles

Despite the name, long rice noodles are not made from rice. They are actually mung bean noodles, also known as cellophane noodles, glass noodles, or bean thread noodles. These noodles turn soft and translucent when cooked, making them the perfect ingredient for soaking up the savory broth in a chicken long rice recipe. You can find them in the Asian food aisle of most supermarkets or at Asian grocery stores.

Conclusion: chicken long rice recipe

The chicken long rice recipe is more than just a dish—it’s a comforting, flavorful meal that carries deep cultural significance. With its Chinese-inspired roots and Hawaiian adaptations, it has become a staple in local cuisine, family gatherings, and Hawaiian luaus. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic broth, and silky mung bean noodles makes it both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Whether you’re making the classic version, experimenting with spicy or coconut variations, or trying a vegetarian alternative, this dish offers endless possibilities. Plus, with simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy leftovers without losing the dish’s signature flavors and textures.

Now that you know how to make the perfect chicken long rice recipe, it’s time to bring this dish to your own kitchen. Give it a try, customize it to your taste, and enjoy a bowl of warm, nourishing comfort. Have you tried making this dish before? Let us know your favorite variations in the comments below!