Learn How to Cook Chicken Long Rice: Easy Steps & Tips for a Flavorful Hawaiian Dish

Are you looking to learn how to cook chicken long rice? Well, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, I’ll be sharing my tried and tested recipe for this classic Hawaiian dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, I’ll break down the steps for you so that you can easily recreate this delicious and comforting meal at home.

Chicken long rice is a popular dish in Hawaiian cuisine that combines tender chicken, vermicelli noodles, and a flavorful broth. It’s a dish that is both hearty and comforting, perfect for a cozy dinner at home. In this article, I’ll be sharing my go-to recipe for chicken long rice, complete with step-by-step instructions and tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

What is Chicken Long Rice?

Chicken long rice is a popular Hawaiian dish that combines tender chicken, vermicelli noodles, and a flavorful broth. It is often served as a main course or as a side dish at traditional Hawaiian luaus and gatherings. The dish gets its name from the long, thin noodles that resemble rice noodles.

One of the key ingredients in chicken long rice is chicken, which is typically cooked until it’s juicy and tender. The chicken is then shredded or sliced thinly before being added to the broth. This allows the chicken to soak up the flavors of the broth and adds a delicious protein component to the dish.

The vermicelli noodles used in chicken long rice are made from rice flour and are similar in texture to angel hair pasta. They are thin and delicate, and they absorb the flavors of the broth while retaining their soft and silky texture. The noodles add a satisfying chewiness to the dish.

The broth in chicken long rice is packed with flavor. It is typically made from chicken stock, ginger, garlic, green onions, and soy sauce. The ginger and garlic add a subtle spiciness to the broth, while the green onions lend a fresh, aromatic flavor. The soy sauce adds a savory umami taste that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

To make chicken long rice, the noodles are cooked separately and then added to the broth along with the chicken. The dish is then simmered for a short time to allow the flavors to meld together. The result is a comforting and satisfying bowl of chicken long rice with tender chicken, flavorful broth, and soft vermicelli noodles.

Now that you know what chicken long rice is, let’s move on to the next step: gathering the ingredients.

Ingredients

To make a delicious chicken long rice dish, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Chicken: You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. I prefer chicken thighs as they have more flavor and tend to be more tender.
2. Vermicelli Noodles: These thin rice noodles are the star of the dish. You can find them in the Asian section of most supermarkets or at local Asian grocery stores.
3. Chicken Stock: A flavorful chicken broth is essential for a tasty chicken long rice dish. You can use store-bought chicken broth or make your own by simmering chicken bones and aromatics for hours.
4. Ginger and Garlic: These two ingredients add a wonderful aromatic flavor to the broth. Fresh is best, so make sure to have some ginger and garlic on hand.
5. Green Onions: The green onions give a fresh and slightly peppery flavor to the dish. You’ll use both the white and green parts, so don’t forget to pick up a bunch.
6. Soy Sauce: A staple in Asian cuisine, soy sauce adds a rich umami flavor to the dish. Make sure to use a good-quality soy sauce for the best results.
7. Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings will help enhance the flavors of the dish. Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences.

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the next step of preparing the chicken long rice dish.

Preparation

To start preparing chicken long rice, you’ll need to gather all the necessary ingredients and get organized in the kitchen. Here are a few steps to follow before you begin cooking:

1. Gather your ingredients: Make sure you have everything you need before you start cooking. This includes boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, vermicelli noodles, chicken stock, ginger, garlic, green onions, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Having all your ingredients measured and ready to go will make the cooking process much smoother.
2. Prepare the chicken: If you’re using chicken breasts, thinly slice them into bite-sized pieces. If you prefer chicken thighs, shred them into smaller pieces. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and set it aside until it’s time to cook.
3. Prepare the vegetables: Finely chop the ginger, garlic, and green onions. This will ensure that the flavors are well-distributed throughout the dish. Keep the green onions separate, as they will be added at a later stage of cooking.
4. Prepare the noodles: Cook the vermicelli noodles according to the instructions on the package. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
5. Make the broth: In a large pot, bring the chicken stock to a boil. Add the ginger, garlic, and soy sauce to the pot and simmer for about 10 minutes. This will allow the flavors to infuse the broth.

Now that you’ve completed the preparation steps, you’re ready to start cooking the chicken long rice. The next section will guide you through the cooking process with step-by-step instructions.

Cooking Methods

When it comes to cooking chicken long rice, there are a few methods you can choose from to achieve delicious results. Here are three popular cooking methods that you can try:

1. Stovetop Method

The stovetop method is the most common and traditional way of cooking chicken long rice. It involves simmering the ingredients in a pot on the stove. To cook chicken long rice using this method, follow these steps:

1. Heat a large pot on medium heat and add a little oil.
2. Add the chicken and sauté until browned.
3. Add the vegetables and cook until they are slightly softened.
4. Pour in the broth and bring it to a boil.
5. Add the vermicelli noodles and cook until they are tender.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

2. Slow Cooker Method

If you prefer a hands-off approach, the slow cooker method is perfect for you. This method requires minimal effort and allows the flavors to develop over time. To cook chicken long rice using this method, follow these steps:

1. Place the chicken, vegetables, and broth into the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours.
3. Add the vermicelli noodles during the last 15 minutes of cooking and let them soften.
4. Serve warm and savor the delicious flavors!

3. Instant Pot Method

For those who are short on time but still want to enjoy homemade chicken long rice, the Instant Pot method is a game-changer. It allows you to cook the dish in a fraction of the time without sacrificing taste. To cook chicken long rice using this method, follow these steps:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat a little oil.
2. Sauté the chicken and vegetables until they are lightly browned.
3. Add the broth and stir well.
4. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Once the cooking is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing the remaining pressure.
6. Add the vermicelli noodles and let them soften for a few minutes.
7. Serve hot and relish the delightful flavors!

With these different cooking methods, you have the flexibility to choose the one that suits your preferences and time constraints. Whether you opt for the stovet

Slow Cooker Method

Cooking chicken long rice in a slow cooker is a convenient option for those who prefer a hands-off approach. It’s a great way to infuse the flavors together while you go about your day. Here’s how to do it:

1. Start by preparing the ingredients as mentioned in the previous section. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and soak the noodles in warm water.
2. Preheat your slow cooker on the low setting.
3. In a skillet, heat some oil over medium heat and sauté the onions and garlic until they become fragrant and slightly translucent.
4. Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker. Add the chicken, ginger, chicken broth, soy sauce, and water. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and let the chicken cook on low heat for about 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
6. About 15 minutes before serving, drain the vermicelli noodles and add them to the slow cooker. Stir well to ensure that the noodles are fully submerged in the broth.
7. Cover the slow cooker again and let the noodles cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are tender but still have a slight bite to them.
8. Once the noodles are cooked, give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors.
9. Serve the chicken long rice hot, garnished with green onions and cilantro, if desired.

Cooking chicken long rice in a slow cooker allows the flavors to develop slowly and creates a deliciously tender chicken. With this method, you can have a warm and satisfying meal waiting for you at the end of a busy day.

Stovetop Method

When it comes to cooking chicken long rice, using the stovetop method is a classic and reliable option. This method allows for precise control over the cooking process and results in a deliciously flavorful dish. Here’s how I cook chicken long rice on the stovetop:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients for the recipe. You will need chicken thighs, vermicelli noodles, chicken broth, ginger, garlic, onions, soy sauce, and salt.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic, ginger, and onions. Sauté them until they become fragrant and lightly browned.
3. Cook the chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides. This step helps to build depth and richness in flavor.
4. Add the broth and noodles: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the vermicelli noodles and cook them according to the package instructions. Vermicelli noodles cook quickly, usually within a few minutes.
5. Simmer and serve: Reduce the heat to low and let the dish simmer for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The noodles will absorb some of the broth, creating a thick and flavorful base.

That’s it! You have successfully cooked chicken long rice using the stovetop method. You can garnish the dish with chopped green onions and cilantro for freshness and added flavor. This method is perfect for those who prefer a hands-on cooking experience and want more control over the process. Now, let’s move on to the next method: the slow cooker.

Instant Pot Method

Cooking chicken long rice in an Instant Pot is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this delicious Hawaiian dish. The Instant Pot is a versatile appliance that can save you time in the kitchen without compromising the flavor of your meal.

To begin, start by setting the Instant Pot to the “saute” function. Heat a tablespoon of oil and saute your aromatics, such as diced onions and minced garlic, until they become fragrant and translucent.

Next, add the chicken pieces to the Instant Pot and brown them on all sides. This step helps to seal in the juices and add extra flavor to the dish. Once the chicken is browned, add the vermicelli noodles and pour in the flavorful broth.

Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set the cooking time to manual for about 5 minutes. Make sure the pressure valve is set to the sealing position. The Instant Pot will take some time to come to pressure before the cooking time begins.

After the cooking time is complete, carefully release the pressure using the quick release method. Be cautious of the hot steam that will escape from the vent. Once the pressure has been released, remove the lid and give the chicken long rice a good stir to combine all of the flavors.

The Instant Pot method is perfect for those who are short on time but still want to enjoy a homemade chicken long rice. It cuts down on the overall cooking time while still delivering a flavorful and tender dish. Serve the chicken long rice hot, garnished with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

By using your Instant Pot, you can enjoy the taste of traditional Hawaiian chicken long rice in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional cooking methods.

Serving Suggestions

One of the best things about chicken long rice is that it’s incredibly versatile. Not only can you enjoy it as a main dish, but it can also be a flavorful addition to other dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire your culinary creativity:

1. As a Main Dish: Serve a steaming bowl of chicken long rice as the star of your meal. The tender chicken, flavorful broth, and delicate vermicelli noodles make for a satisfying and comforting dish. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
2. With Rice: Chicken long rice pairs perfectly with steamed rice. The combination of the rich broth and tender chicken mixed with fluffy rice creates a delicious and filling meal. Add a side of fresh stir-fried vegetables to round out the flavors.
3. In Salad Rolls: Get creative with your leftovers and use chicken long rice as a filling in salad rolls. Wrap the noodles, chicken, and broth in rice paper wraps along with crisp lettuce, carrots, and fresh herbs. Dip the rolls in a tangy peanut sauce for a refreshing and satisfying appetizer or light meal.
4. In Soup: Transform chicken long rice into a hearty soup by adding additional vegetables and broth. Combine it with diced carrots, celery, and cabbage, and simmer until the vegetables are tender. Serve it with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright and comforting twist on classic chicken noodle soup.
5. As a Side Dish: Serve chicken long rice as a flavorful side dish alongside grilled fish, teriyaki chicken, or kalua pork. The rich broth and delicate noodles make it a versatile accompaniment to a variety of main dishes. Its mild and comforting flavors will complement bolder and spicier flavors perfectly.

Remember, these are just a few serving suggestions for chicken long rice. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations and flavors to suit your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish, on the side, or in creative ways, chicken long rice is sure to satisfy your cravings for a delicious and comforting meal.

Tips on How Long to Cook

Now that you have all the necessary information and detailed instructions, you are ready to embark on your chicken long rice cooking adventure. Whether you choose the stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot method, you can rest assured that you will be rewarded with a delicious and satisfying meal.

The Instant Pot method is particularly convenient if you’re short on time but still want a flavorful and tender dish. By following the specific instructions provided, you’ll be able to sauté aromatics, brown the chicken, add the noodles and broth, and release the pressure with ease.

Remember, chicken long rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. You can serve it as a main dish, pair it with rice, or use it as a filling in salad rolls. It can also be transformed into a hearty soup or served as a side dish alongside other main dishes. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different combinations and flavors to suit your taste preferences.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and let your culinary skills shine. Enjoy the process of cooking chicken long rice and savor the delicious results.