Authentic Vietnamese Com Ga Kho Gung (Ginger Chicken and Rice) Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup Jasmine rice
2 cups water
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
500 grams chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
2 tablespoons ginger, minced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped
2 green onions, chopped
1 red chili pepper, sliced
1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Steps and instructions

Rinse the Jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Add the rice and 2 cups of water to a pot. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
While the rice is cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
In the same pan, add the ginger, garlic, and onion. Cook for a few minutes until the onion is translucent.
Return the chicken to the pan and add the fish sauce, sugar, and chili pepper. Stir everything together and cook for a few more minutes.
In a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Pour this into the pan and stir well. The sauce will start to thicken.
Finally, add the chopped green onions and stir to combine. Remove the pan from the heat.
Serve the chicken over the cooked Jasmine rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Tools for making

Pot - To cook the Jasmine rice.
Large pan - To cook the chicken and sauce.
Knife - To cut the chicken and chop the onion, ginger, garlic, green onions, and chili pepper.
Cutting board - To safely chop the ingredients.
Measuring cups - To measure the rice and water.
Measuring spoons - To measure the vegetable oil, salt, black pepper, fish sauce, sugar, and cornstarch.
Spatula - To stir the chicken and sauce.
Fork - To fluff the cooked Jasmine rice.
Small bowl - To mix the cornstarch with water.
Cilantro garnish - Fresh cilantro to garnish the dish.

Recipe variations

Use brown rice instead of Jasmine rice for a healthier option.
Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
Add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
Experiment with different spices and herbs such as lemongrass, turmeric, or basil to customize the flavor.
Add a splash of coconut milk to the sauce for a creamy twist.
Try using different types of protein such as shrimp, beef, or pork instead of chicken.
For a spicier version, add more chili peppers or a dash of sriracha sauce.
Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added texture.
Serve with a side of pickled vegetables or a refreshing cucumber salad.
For a gluten-free option, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.

Recipe overview

Experience the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine with this delicious Com Ga Kho Gung recipe. This dish combines tender chicken with the distinct flavors of ginger, garlic, and fish sauce, all served over fluffy Jasmine rice. The addition of a red chili pepper provides a hint of heat, while the fresh cilantro garnish adds a pop of color and a refreshing taste. This recipe is straightforward and can be completed in under an hour, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner. Dive in and savor the blend of flavors in every bite.

Common questions

Can I use a different type of rice? Yes, you can substitute Jasmine rice with any other type of long-grain rice, such as Basmati rice or white rice. Keep in mind that the cooking time and water ratio may vary.
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken? Certainly! This recipe can be adapted to use other proteins like beef, pork, or tofu. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the protein is cooked through.
Is there a substitute for fish sauce? If you don't have fish sauce, you can use soy sauce or tamari as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
Can I make this dish spicy? Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier version, you can increase the amount of red chili pepper or add some chili flakes or sriracha sauce to enhance the heat.
What vegetables can I add to this dish? Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to the stir-fry. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked to your desired level of tenderness.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Simply reheat them in a pan before serving and prepare the rice fresh.
How should I store any leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before enjoying.

Serving dishes and utensils

Pot - Used for cooking the Jasmine rice.
Large pan - Used for cooking the chicken and sauce.
Fork - Used for fluffing the cooked Jasmine rice.
Small bowl - Used for mixing the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
Spatula - Used for stirring and flipping the chicken and sauce.
Knife - Used for chopping the ginger, garlic, onion, green onions, and red chili pepper.
Cutting board - Used for cutting and preparing the vegetables.
Measuring cups - Used for measuring the rice, water, vegetable oil, fish sauce, and sugar.

Origin stories

Com Ga Kho Gung, or Vietnamese ginger chicken, is a comfort food steeped in the rich tapestry of Vietnamese cuisine. Vietnamese cooking, much like its history, is a fusion of different cultures and influences. One of the most profound influences comes from China, which is evident in the use of staple ingredients such as ginger and fish sauce. Com Ga Kho Gung is a quintessential example of this fusion, with its use of ginger to create a warming, comforting dish. The humble chicken, a common poultry in Vietnamese households, is elevated through the aromatic and spicy kick of ginger. Traditionally, this dish is served with a side of jasmine rice, a grain that is as integral to Vietnamese culinary identity as bread is in France. The rich, flavorful gravy of the ginger chicken seeping into the fluffy grains of rice creates a simple yet satisfying meal that embodies the spirit of Vietnamese home cooking.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.