Cozy Up with Hawaiian-Style Chicken Long Rice Soup

Warm up your dinner with rich, comforting Hawaiian-Style Chicken Long Rice Soup, perfect for cozy nights and flavorful meals. This beloved Hawaiian classic brings together tender chicken, silky long rice noodles, and a savory broth infused with ginger and garlic. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, blending simple ingredients into something truly special. Whether you’re craving something nostalgic or new, this soul-satisfying soup fits every occasion beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple yet hearty: Combines minimal ingredients into a deliciously filling meal without any fuss.
• Comfort that heals: The soothing broth and tender chicken are great for when you’re feeling under the weather.
• Cultural goodness: Experience a taste of Hawaii’s diverse culinary traditions in your own kitchen.
• Versatile and forgiving: Easy to tweak with what you have on hand without losing its essence.
• Perfect for any season: Enjoy it as a cozy winter warmer or a light lunch year-round.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create exactly the right balance of taste, texture, and color. Each item plays an essential role—from the natural sweetness of the chicken to the silky smoothness of long rice noodles.

• Chicken thighs or breasts: Choose boneless and skinless for tender, juicy meat.
• Long rice noodles: Also called cellophane or glass noodles, they melt into the soup with a delicate chew.
• Chicken broth: Use a rich homemade or good-quality store-bought broth to build deep flavor.
• Fresh ginger: Adds a bright, warming spice that complements the savory broth perfectly.
• Garlic cloves: Enhances the aroma and adds a subtle depth to the soup.
• Soy sauce: For just the right touch of savory umami seasoning.
• Green onions: Provide a fresh, crisp contrast when sprinkled on top.
• White pepper: A gentle heat that rounds out the flavors without overpowering.

Variations for Hawaiian-Style Chicken Long Rice Soup

This dish is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your dietary needs or flavor preferences. Feel free to experiment and make this soup your own comfy go-to.

• Use turkey instead of chicken: A great lean alternative that works just as well with the broth and noodles.
• Add mushrooms: For an earthy note and extra texture, sliced shiitake or button mushrooms complement the flavors beautifully.
• Go gluten-free: Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free-friendly twist.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and add tofu for protein.
• Extra veggies: Toss in bok choy, carrots, or snap peas for color and nutrition.

How to Make Hawaiian-Style Chicken Long Rice Soup

Step 1: Prep Ingredients

Begin by soaking the long rice noodles in warm water until they soften but are not fully cooked, usually about 10–15 minutes. Dice or shred chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mince garlic and grate fresh ginger to release their fragrant oils.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, heat a little oil and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add the chicken and cook until it starts turning opaque, sealing in the juices for a tender finish.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and add soy sauce and white pepper for seasoning. Bring to a gentle simmer and let all the flavors meld together for about 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 4: Add Noodles and Finish

Drain the soaked noodles and add them to the simmering soup. Cook just until the noodles turn translucent, about 3 to 5 minutes—they should remain tender without getting mushy.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat, sprinkle chopped green onions over the top, and serve hot for the fullest flavor and comfort.

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian-Style Chicken Long Rice Soup

• Use quality broth: A rich chicken broth enhances the soup and gives a comforting depth that store-bought versions often lack.
• Don’t overcook the noodles: Soak first and add late in cooking to keep a perfect texture that doesn’t get slimy.
• Fresh ginger is key: Grate it yourself to unlock that bright, authentic Hawaiian flavor.
• Adjust soy sauce carefully: Add gradually; you can always add more, but you can’t take it out if it gets too salty.
• Let it rest: If you make it ahead, the flavors deepen after a few hours in the fridge, making leftovers extra delicious.

How to Serve Hawaiian-Style Chicken Long Rice Soup

Garnishes

Sprinkle fresh green onions or finely chopped cilantro on top. For a little extra zing, add a squeeze of fresh lemon or a dash of chili flakes, if you like some heat.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed white rice, Hawaiian sweet bread rolls, or lightly steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that feels both filling and nourishing.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in individual bowls with a small side plate of chili garlic sauce for dipping. You can also garnish with a few crunchy fried garlic chips for texture contrast and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftover soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The noodles may soak up broth, so keep some extra broth or water handy when reheating.

Freezing

Hawaiian-Style Chicken Long Rice Soup freezes well—just store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze the broth and chicken separately from the noodles, then combine after thawing.

Reheating

Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened. Avoid overheating to keep the noodles from becoming mushy.

FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this soup?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, but chicken breasts work well if you prefer a leaner option.

Can I use dried noodles instead of long rice?

Traditional long rice noodles give the authentic texture, but rice vermicelli or even angel hair pasta can be substitutes in a pinch.

Is this soup spicy?

No, Hawaiian-Style Chicken Long Rice Soup is mild by nature, but you can easily add chili flakes or hot sauce if you prefer some heat.

How long does it take to make this soup?

The entire process takes about 35-40 minutes, making it a great choice for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Can this soup be made vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken with tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Culinary simplicity and heartfelt flavor come together beautifully in this Hawaiian-Style Chicken Long Rice Soup. It’s a soothing, nourishing dish that’s easy to prepare and endlessly satisfying, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying solo. Give it a try the next time you crave something cozy, and let this delightful soup become your new kitchen favorite.

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