There’s nothing quite like the soothing warmth of a nourishing soup, especially when temperatures start to dip or life feels a bit overwhelming. When I first tried Chicken Long Rice Soup, I was instantly captivated. The delicate blend of savory chicken broth, tender pieces of chicken, and the delightful chew of bean thread noodles transported me straight to an island paradise. Inspired by Hawaiian flavors, this dish makes for the perfect comfort food that is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
What I love most about this soup is its versatility; it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients from your fridge while packing wholesome nutrition into every bowl. The earthy notes from fresh ginger and the sweetness of Maui onions create a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate, leaving you yearning for more. Join me as we dive into this simple yet elegant recipe that will not only impress your family but also bring a little bit of aloha right into your kitchen! Ready to whip up this delightful Chicken Long Rice Soup? Let’s get cooking!
Why Love Chicken Long Rice Soup?
Comforting warmth: This soup envelops you in its rich broth, making it the ultimate remedy for chilly nights.
Quick & Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep, you’ll have a wholesome meal ready to enjoy in under two hours.
Nutritious Delight: Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from fresh vegetables, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
Versatile Ingredients: Perfect for using up pantry staples or whatever veggies you have on hand.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Its unique Hawaiian twist makes it a standout dish that will wow your family and friends!
Enjoy a bowl of this soulful soup and feel the love in every spoonful!
Chicken Long Rice Soup Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create a delicious Chicken Long Rice Soup that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
For the Broth
- Low-sodium chicken broth – 3 (32 ounce) cartons; this forms the flavorful base for your soup without too much salt.
- Chicken leg quarters – 3 pounds; using leg quarters adds richness and moisture to the dish.
- Hawaiian sea salt – 1 tablespoon; enhances the natural flavors of the broth while adding a touch of island charm.
- Fresh ginger root – 1 (1/2 inch) piece, sliced; brings a warming element that elevates the overall taste.
For the Noodles and Veggies
- Uncooked bean threads – 1 (8 ounce) package; these cellophane noodles soak up the broth wonderfully.
- Large Maui sweet onion – 1, cubed; its sweetness adds depth to the soup’s flavor profile.
- Green onions – 1 bunch, thinly sliced; these provide a fresh crunch and vibrant color for garnish.
- Bok choy – 1 small head, chopped; offers a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the dish.
Whip these ingredients together to experience the cozy embrace of this Chicken Long Rice Soup, perfect for any day you crave warmth and comfort!
How to Make Chicken Long Rice Soup
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Boil the chicken broth, chicken leg quarters, Hawaiian sea salt, and sliced ginger in a large pot over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer until the chicken is tender and no longer pink, about 35 minutes. Remove the chicken, strain the broth into a new pot, and discard any solids.
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Soak the noodles by placing them in a large bowl and covering them with hot water. Let them sit until softened, about 30 minutes. This step rehydrates the bean threads perfectly to soak up the flavors.
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Add the cubed Maui sweet onion into the strained broth and bring it back to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. While it simmers, remove the skin and bones from the chicken; discard them and roughly chop the chicken meat into bite-sized pieces.
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Combine the softened noodles, chopped chicken, sliced green onions, and chopped bok choy into the broth. Simmer until the noodles are tender, allowing all the delicious flavors to meld together.
Optional: Garnish with extra green onions for a fresh touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Long Rice Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Long Rice Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze portions of the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to revive the noodles.
Separation Tip: The noodles may absorb broth when stored, so it’s best to keep them separate from the soup if you plan to freeze leftovers.
What to Serve with Chicken Long Rice Soup?
To elevate your Chicken Long Rice Soup experience, consider these delightful pairings that create a well-rounded meal.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery crunch of garlic bread adds a luxurious touch, perfect for dipping into the rich soup.
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Steamed Dumplings: Their soft, pillowy texture complements the soup’s flavors while providing a satisfying bite. A side of soy sauce adds extra zing!
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Fresh Mango Salad: Bright, juicy mangoes bring a sweet contrast to the savory broth, while a zesty lime dressing adds a lively kick.
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Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: The sweet and savory glaze on tender chicken skewers pairs wonderfully with the heartfelt flavors of the soup; a delightful addition to your meal.
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Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice offers a fragrant touch that harmonizes beautifully with the robust chicken flavors.
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Herbed Rice: Lightly seasoned with fresh herbs, this fluffy side amplifies the warmth of the soup while adding a lovely texture.
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Chilled Sake: For drink lovers, a cold glass of sake offers a unique flavor profile that enhances the soup’s Hawaiian notes beautifully.
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Fruit Sorbet: End your meal on a refreshing note with a light sorbet; its fruity flavors cleanse the palate and brighten your senses.
These pairings create an inviting dining experience, drawing family and friends together over a delicious, heartwarming meal. Enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
Chicken Long Rice Soup is an excellent candidate for meal prep, allowing you to savor its heartwarming flavors even on the busiest of nights! You can prep all components separately and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Start by cooking the broth and chicken, then strain it and store in an airtight container. Chop the chicken and refrigerate it alongside any veggies you’ve prepared, such as bok choy and onions. The bean thread noodles can be soaked and kept in the refrigerator as well—just make sure they are covered to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the broth, add the noodles, chicken, and vegetables, and simmer until everything is warmed through for a comforting meal that’s just as delicious as on the first day!
Chicken Long Rice Soup Variations
Get ready to put your own spin on this beloved dish!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute bean threads with gluten-free rice noodles for the same delightful texture without the wheat.
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken for tofu and use vegetable broth to create a hearty, plant-based version.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of Sriracha for a fiery twist that warms both the heart and soul.
- Herbaceous Boost: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil at the end for a pop of color and herbal freshness.
- Coconut Creamy: Stir in a can of coconut milk when adding the broth for a rich, creamy texture with a tropical flair.
- Mushroom Magic: Include shiitake or oyster mushrooms for an earthy depth of flavor that elevates the soup beautifully.
- Crispy Toppings: Top with fried garlic or shallots for a crunchy contrast that adds texture and extra flavor in every bite.
- Extra Veggie: Bulk up the nutrition by adding a medley of your favorite vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for additional sweetness and crunch.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own signature Chicken Long Rice Soup!
Helpful Tricks for Chicken Long Rice Soup
- Broth Seasoning: Use low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier option. It balances flavor while keeping sodium levels in check—keep an eye on the salt!
- Chicken Shredding: Allow the chicken to cool slightly before shredding to avoid burns. This makes the process easier and creates tender, bite-sized pieces.
- Noodle Soaking: Soak bean threads in hot water until softened but not mushy. Over-soaking can lead to a clumpy texture in your Chicken Long Rice Soup.
- Vegetable Freshness: Add bok choy just a few minutes before serving for the best texture. Overcooking diminishes its crispness and vibrant color!
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh green onions enhance flavor and presentation. Don’t skip this simple yet impactful finishing touch!
Enjoy each spoonful of your homemade Chicken Long Rice Soup with these helpful tricks!
Chicken Long Rice Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Chicken Long Rice Soup?
Using chicken leg quarters is ideal because they add moisture and richness to the broth. However, you can also use boneless chicken thighs or breasts if preferred; just remember that cooking times may vary slightly.
How should I store leftovers from my Chicken Long Rice Soup?
Absolutely! You can store leftover Chicken Long Rice Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to retain maximum freshness.
Can I freeze Chicken Long Rice Soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! Pour the soup into freezer-safe containers and store it for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space at the top for the soup to expand as it freezes. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
What should I do if my soup ends up too salty?
Very good question! If your Chicken Long Rice Soup tastes too salty, you can balance it out by adding more water or low-sodium chicken broth gradually until you reach your desired flavor. Adding a raw potato to the pot and simmering for 15 minutes can also help absorb some saltiness.
Can I substitute fresh ginger with ground ginger in this recipe?
While fresh ginger gives a distinct flavor and aromatic quality to the soup, you can use ground ginger in a pinch. Generally, use about 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger for every tablespoon of fresh ginger. Just keep in mind that the flavor may not be as vibrant.
Is this recipe safe for my pets to eat?
No, it’s best to avoid giving your pets this Chicken Long Rice Soup. Ingredients like onions and salt can be harmful to animals. If you’d like to share a treat with them, consider cooking plain, unseasoned chicken without any of these ingredients.
Soulful Chicken Long Rice Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil the chicken broth, chicken leg quarters, Hawaiian sea salt, and sliced ginger in a large pot over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer until the chicken is tender and no longer pink, about 35 minutes. Remove the chicken, strain the broth into a new pot, and discard any solids.
- Soak the noodles by placing them in a large bowl and covering them with hot water. Let them sit until softened, about 30 minutes.
- Add the cubed Maui sweet onion into the strained broth and bring it back to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. While it simmers, remove the skin and bones from the chicken; discard them and roughly chop the chicken meat into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine the softened noodles, chopped chicken, sliced green onions, and chopped bok choy into the broth. Simmer until the noodles are tender.