Chicken Long Rice is a classic Hawaiian comfort food that combines tender chicken, savory broth, and glass noodles (or “long rice”). This dish has deep cultural roots in Hawaii, blending Chinese and local island flavors into a soothing and satisfying meal. Whether you’re familiar with Hawaiian cuisine or looking to try something new, this recipe is a great way to bring a taste of the islands to your kitchen.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through an easy chicken long rice recipe that’s perfect for both beginners and experienced home cooks. It’s nutritious, flavorful, and a delightful twist on traditional chicken noodle soup.

What is Chicken Long Rice?

Chicken Long Rice is a beloved dish often served at Hawaiian luaus and family gatherings. Despite its name, it isn’t a typical rice dish — the “long rice” refers to thin, transparent glass noodles made from mung bean starch. These noodles absorb the rich chicken broth, creating a savory, silky texture that pairs beautifully with tender chicken pieces.

This dish is known for its comforting warmth and simplicity, making it a popular go-to meal in many Hawaiian homes.

Ingredients for Chicken Long Rice Recipe

To make this traditional Hawaiian dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of chicken thighs (boneless, skinless) or chicken breasts
• 4 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
• 1-inch piece of ginger peeled and thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional, for added umami)
• 1 package glass noodles (vermicelli or bean thread noodles)
• 2-3 green onions, sliced for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Optional Ingredients:

• Mushrooms for added texture
• Carrots, sliced into thin strips for sweetness
• Chili flakes for a bit of heat

How to Make Chicken Long Rice: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken thighs (or breasts) with salt and pepper. You can cut them into bite-sized pieces if you prefer smaller chunks, or leave them whole if you plan to shred them later.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, garlic, and ginger, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and the ginger becomes fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken to the pot and cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. You don’t need to cook it through completely at this point, as it will finish cooking in the broth.

Step 4: Add the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the chicken simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook fully.

Step 5: Prepare the Glass Noodles

While the chicken is simmering, prepare the glass noodles according to the package instructions. Typically, glass noodles are soaked in warm water for about 10-15 minutes until softened. Once soft, drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 6: Combine the Noodles and Chicken

After the chicken has finished cooking, shred the chicken pieces if they were left whole, and return them to the pot. Add the softened glass noodles to the broth, and let them simmer for an additional 5 minutes. The noodles will soak up the broth and become tender, creating that signature “long rice” texture.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce, salt, or pepper as needed. For an extra umami kick, add a splash of fish sauce. Once ready, ladle the chicken and long rice into bowls and garnish with green onions and fresh cilantro.

Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Long Rice Recipe

1. Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Flavor

While you can use chicken breasts, chicken thighs offer more flavor and tenderness, making them ideal for this dish. The dark meat from the thighs remains juicy and absorbs the broth beautifully.

2. Customize the Broth

For more depth of flavor, consider adding fish sauce, or even a little miso paste. These additions enhance the umami in the broth without overpowering the chicken and noodles.

3. Add Vegetables

While chicken long rice is traditionally a simple dish, adding vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or baby bok choy can provide extra nutrients and texture. They blend well with the overall flavors of the dish.

4. Control the Saltiness

Since soy sauce and broth can both be salty, start with low-sodium chicken broth and adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can always add more salt or soy sauce later, but you can’t take it out!

5. Prep Ahead of Time

Chicken long rice tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. You can make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to a month. Just be sure to store the noodles separately if you plan to freeze them, as they can become mushy when reheated.

Why Chicken Long Rice is a Hawaiian Favorite

Chicken Long Rice holds a special place in Hawaiian cuisine due to its simplicity, comforting flavors, and cultural fusion. Though it has Chinese origins, it has been adapted over time to fit local Hawaiian tastes and has become a mainstay at luaus and family gatherings.

The dish is also popular for its health benefits. With lean chicken and light glass noodles, it provides a nutritious meal that’s high in protein but low in fat. The ginger and garlic are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, making this a soothing dish, especially when you’re feeling under the weather.

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Long Rice

Chicken long rice recipe isn’t just delicious — it’s also packed with nutrients:

• Protein: The chicken provides a good source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Low Calorie: Glass noodles are low in calories and fat, making this a lighter alternative to traditional noodle dishes.
• Rich in Vitamins: Ingredients like garlic, ginger, and green onions are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, supporting overall health.
• Gluten-Free: Since glass noodles are made from mung bean starch, this dish is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Variations of Chicken Long Rice

Although the basic recipe is timeless, there are several ways you can customize chicken long rice:

• Spicy Chicken Long Rice: Add some sliced chili peppers or a spoonful of chili paste to the broth for a kick of heat.
• Coconut Chicken Long Rice: For a creamier version, add half a cup of coconut milk to the broth for a subtle tropical flavor.
• Vegetarian Long Rice: Replace the chicken with tofu and vegetable broth for a plant-based version of the dish.

A Recipe Worth Trying

This chicken long rice recipe brings the warmth of Hawaii straight to your table. With simple ingredients and an easy cooking process, it’s no wonder why this dish has become a household favorite for many. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or just to enjoy some cozy comfort food, this chicken long rice recipe is sure to satisfy.

So, the next time you’re craving something hearty yet light, give this classic chicken long rice recipe a try — you won’t be disappointed!