Chicken Arroz Caldo is a beloved Filipino dish, often served as a comfort meal or as a remedy during cold days. This rice porridge, thick and creamy, is infused with the warmth of ginger, tender chicken, and a hint of calamansi or lemon for brightness. It’s a hearty dish that is both filling and nourishing, ideal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
The beauty of Arroz Caldo lies in its simplicity. It’s an easy-to-make dish with common ingredients, yet it delivers layers of flavor that feel like a warm embrace. Whether you’re craving something cozy or just looking to explore Filipino cuisine, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with boiled eggs, fried garlic, and a squeeze of citrus for the ultimate comforting experience.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups jasmine rice
- 1 pound chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless), cut into chunks
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, peeled and sliced
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons calamansi juice (or lemon juice)
- 2 boiled eggs, halved (for serving)
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Fried garlic bits (for garnish)
- Fish sauce, for serving (optional)
Directions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the garlic, ginger, and onions until fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
- Stir in the fish sauce, jasmine rice, and black pepper. Allow the rice to absorb some of the flavors from the pan for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice has softened and the porridge reaches a thick, creamy consistency.
- Add more broth or water if the porridge becomes too thick for your liking.
- Stir in the calamansi or lemon juice just before serving to add a bit of brightness.
- Serve hot with halved boiled eggs, fried garlic bits, chopped green onions, and an extra drizzle of fish sauce, if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 300 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
The Origins and Cultural Significance of Arroz Caldo:
Arroz Caldo, a Filipino classic, has deep roots in Spanish and Chinese influences. The name “Arroz Caldo” translates directly to “rice soup” in Spanish, but the dish closely resembles Chinese congee, a savory rice porridge. Introduced by Chinese immigrants and later adapted by the Filipino palate, this hearty meal became a staple in Filipino households, especially during colder months or when someone is feeling under the weather.
In the Philippines, Arroz Caldo is often enjoyed as a nourishing breakfast or light meal, with its warm, gingery broth known for its soothing qualities. It’s also popular during the rainy season or as a traditional food to serve to the sick due to its easy-to-digest nature and comforting flavor profile.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Arroz Caldo:
- Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor:
While you can use boneless chicken, opting for bone-in thighs or drumsticks adds more depth to the broth as it simmers. The bones release extra nutrients and flavor, making the porridge even more rich and comforting. - Achieve the Perfect Texture:
Arroz Caldo is meant to be thick and creamy. However, if you prefer a soupier texture, simply add more broth or water during the cooking process. Stir frequently as the rice cooks to prevent it from sticking to the bottom and to achieve a smooth, velvety consistency. - Adjusting the Flavor:
The combination of ginger, garlic, and fish sauce creates the distinct flavor of Arroz Caldo. For a stronger ginger flavor, you can increase the amount of ginger or add finely grated ginger towards the end of the cooking process. If you like a saltier broth, adjust the fish sauce to taste, or substitute with a bit of soy sauce. - Make It Ahead:
Arroz Caldo stores well and actually tastes better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld. When reheating, you may need to add extra broth or water to loosen the porridge, as it tends to thicken in the refrigerator.
Serving Suggestions:
- Traditional Garnishes:
The classic toppings for Arroz Caldo include fried garlic bits, chopped green onions, and boiled eggs. These garnishes not only enhance the flavor but also add texture and visual appeal to the dish. - Accompaniments:
Serve Arroz Caldo with a side of pandesal, a soft Filipino bread roll, for dipping. You can also offer patís (Filipino fish sauce) or calamansi on the side, allowing your guests to add an extra kick of flavor to their liking. - Variations:
If you’re looking for a heartier version, consider adding cooked shredded chicken instead of chicken pieces. Some Filipino households even add hard-to-find ingredients like safflower (known as “kasubha”) for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Health Benefits of Chicken Arroz Caldo:
- Nourishing and Digestible:
Arroz Caldo is gentle on the stomach, which is why it’s often served to those feeling under the weather. The combination of rice, chicken, and ginger helps soothe digestion, while the warmth of the broth can ease cold symptoms. - High in Protein:
The chicken in this dish provides a great source of lean protein, which helps in building and repairing tissues. The eggs also contribute to the protein content, making this a well-balanced, protein-rich meal. - Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
Ginger, one of the star ingredients in Arroz Caldo, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can help with digestion, reduce nausea, and relieve symptoms of cold and flu.
Cooking Variations and Customizations:
- Instant Pot Version:
To save time, you can make Chicken Arroz Caldo in an Instant Pot. Simply sauté the aromatics and chicken using the sauté function, then add the rice and broth. Cook on high pressure for 15-18 minutes, followed by a quick release. This method results in a creamy, flavorful porridge in less time. - Vegan Arroz Caldo:
For a plant-based version, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can still keep the flavors rich by including all the aromatics—ginger, garlic, and onions. - Spicy Arroz Caldo:
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili oil to the dish. This will give the Arroz Caldo a spicy kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Why Arroz Caldo is the Perfect Comfort Food:
There’s something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of Chicken Arroz Caldo. Whether it’s the creamy texture of the rice, the tenderness of the chicken, or the warm ginger broth, this dish has everything you need to feel nourished and satisfied. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth, ideal for when you need a little comfort or simply want to enjoy a wholesome, flavorful dish.
Arroz Caldo is more than just a rice porridge—it’s a reflection of Filipino home cooking, where simple ingredients are transformed into something heartwarming and unforgettable. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, dinner, or as a meal to share with loved ones, this dish is guaranteed to hit the spot.
CONCLUSION
Chicken Arroz Caldo is a comforting and hearty Filipino rice porridge, made with chicken, glutinous rice, and a flavorful blend of garlic, ginger, and onion. This dish is often enjoyed on cold days or when one needs a warm, soothing meal. Its simple preparation, paired with a rich, savory taste, makes it a beloved recipe for many households. Topped with garnishes like fried garlic, green onions, and a splash of citrus, Chicken Arroz Caldo is a versatile dish that offers both nourishment and comfort.