Go Back
Print Recipe

Arroz Caldo

A comforting Filipino rice porridge featuring garlicky chicken, ginger, and warm flavors, perfect for gloomy days or when you need a hug in a bowl.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Comfort Food, Main Course
Cuisine: Filipino
Keyword: Arroz Caldo, Chicken Porridge, Chicken Soup, Filipino Comfort Food, Rice Porridge
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup jasmine or long-grain rice Rinse until water runs clear.
  • 6-8 cups water or homemade chicken stock For richer flavor, use chicken stock.
  • 2 pieces bone-in chicken thighs or legs Bone-in pieces will enhance the flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons oil For browning the chicken.
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, sliced Add during chicken browning.
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper Add to taste for seasoning.
  • 4 cloves garlic, sliced Fry for garnish until golden.
  • 2 pieces hardboiled eggs, halved For garnishing.
  • 1 tablespoon safflower Optional, for color.
  • to taste calamansi or lemon To squeeze over the top.
  • 4 tablespoons fried garlic chips For topping.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Rinse the jasmine or long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  • Cut the chicken thighs or legs into pieces.
  • In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat and sear the chicken pieces until browned.
  • Add the sliced ginger and fry for an additional minute until fragrant.

Cooking Broth

  • Toss in the washed rice and stir briefly to coat in the oil.
  • Add 6 to 8 cups of water or chicken stock and bring to a gentle boil.
  • Stir in fish sauce and simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent rice from sticking.

Seasoning

  • Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with more fish sauce, salt, or ground black pepper as needed.
  • Fry sliced garlic in a small pan until golden for garnish.

Garnishing and Serving

  • Ladle the arroz caldo into serving bowls and top each with hardboiled egg halves, fried garlic, and a squeeze of calamansi.
  • Serve hot and allow guests to add their preferred toppings.

Notes

Arroz caldo is perfect for a comforting meal during cold weather. Pair with toasted bread or traditional Filipino pandesal for dipping. Variations include using different proteins like turkey or beef.