Fast and Easy Chicken Congee in the Instant Pot®

Step 1

Whisk the chicken broth and rice in a bowl and set it aside for now. Turn on your Instant Pot to the sauté setting, spray it with some cooking spray, and cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy, about 5 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 2

Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the pot and cook them in the bacon fat until the onion softens and turns translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Scoop out half of this onion mixture into a small bowl for later. Pour in a cup of chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. Then, nestle the chicken breasts into the pot and turn off the sauté function.

Step 3

Seal the pot, set it to high pressure, and cook for 12 minutes. It’ll take about 10 to 15 minutes for the pressure to build up. When the timer goes off, carefully release the pressure using the quick-release method. Once it’s safe to open, add the rice and broth mixture from earlier, seal the lid again, and cook on the rice setting for another 12 minutes.

Step 4

After that, quick-release the pressure again. Take out the chicken breasts and shred them with two forks before returning the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in the reserved onion mixture, chopped bacon, and a splash of sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want a thinner consistency, add the remaining broth a little at a time while simmering on the soup setting until it’s just right.

Serving Inspiration

Enjoy this dish with a drizzle of soy sauce or a sprinkle of chopped green onions. Adding a boiled egg or some crispy fried shallots can give it a nice boost. Serve alongside pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it has thickened. This dish also freezes well for up to one month.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?

Yes, but jasmine rice works best for the texture. Using other rice types may change the cooking time and consistency.

How do I prevent the congee from sticking to the Instant Pot?

Make sure to deglaze the pot by scraping up browned bits after sautéing, and use enough liquid as directed.

Can I substitute chicken broth with water?

You can use water, but the congee will be less flavorful. Broth adds richness and depth.

Is it okay to use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure the chicken cooks through.

How can I make the congee thinner if it’s too thick?

Add extra broth gradually while simmering on the soup setting until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I skip the bacon if I want a lighter version?

Yes, you can omit bacon or replace it with a vegetarian option, but the bacon adds flavor and texture.

What’s the best way to shred the chicken after cooking?

Use two forks to pull the chicken apart easily once it’s cooked and tender.

How long can I store leftovers, and how do I reheat them?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding broth if needed to loosen the congee.