Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

The first step in preparing Chicken Long Rice is to cook the chicken.

1. Sear the Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook them for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they’re browned on the outside. This helps to lock in the flavor and juices.
2. Add the Aromatics: After searing the chicken, add the sliced ginger and minced garlic to the pot. Stir for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
3. Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and fish sauce. Bring the broth to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the chicken simmer for 20-25 minutes until it’s tender and cooked through.

Pro tip: You can also add a dash of sherry wine or mirin to enhance the broth’s flavor. These ingredients help deepen the broth’s savory taste, adding a touch of sweetness.

Step 2: Prepare the Long Rice (Bean Thread Noodles)

While the chicken is simmering, it’s time to prepare the noodles. Long rice, or bean thread noodles, are very easy to cook and require minimal effort.

1. Soak the Noodles: Place the bean thread noodles in a bowl of warm water and let them soak for about 10 minutes, or until they are softened. Once they’re ready, drain them and set aside.
2. Cook the Noodles: After the noodles are softened, they can be added directly to the pot in the final cooking stages. The noodles will soak up the broth and take on a delicious flavor.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken and Combine

After the chicken has finished simmering and is fully cooked:

1. Remove and Shred: Remove the chicken thighs from the pot and shred them into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
2. Add Noodles to the Broth: Add the softened long rice noodles into the pot, letting them simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the noodles to absorb the savory flavors of the broth.
3. Return the Chicken: Place the shredded chicken back into the pot and stir to combine. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Now that your Chicken Long Rice is ready, it’s time to serve!

1. Garnish: Top the dish with sliced green onions and freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor.
2. Optional Add-ins: You can also sprinkle some chili flakes or add a few drops of sesame oil for extra depth of flavor.

Serve the Chicken Long Rice in deep bowls and enjoy while it’s hot. The broth, chicken, and noodles make a wonderfully balanced and comforting dish.