Arroz Caldo
Breakfast • Philippines
About Arroz Caldo
Filipino chicken rice porridge with ginger, garlic, and scallions
How to Make Arroz Caldo (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Arroz Caldo is a beloved Filipino rice porridge, cherished for its warmth, comfort, and homey flavors. Traditionally enjoyed as a soothing breakfast or merienda (snack), this dish is made with glutinous rice, tender chicken, aromatic ginger, and garlic, simmered together to create a hearty and nourishing meal. Its name, meaning 'rice broth,' reflects its comforting and easily digestible nature, making it a staple during rainy days or when someone feels under the weather. Arroz Caldo holds a special place in Filipino culture, often served at family gatherings and community events. Its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it accessible to all, while garnishes like spring onions, toasted garlic, and a squeeze of calamansi add layers of flavor and freshness. This healthy adaptation uses lean chicken breast, less oil, and brown rice for added fiber, making it suitable for health-conscious eaters. Perfect for an international audience seeking a taste of the Philippines, Arroz Caldo delivers both tradition and nutrition in every spoonful.
Ingredients(for 1 large bowl (approx. 350g))
- 200g Chicken breast (skinless, boneless)
- 1/2 cup Brown rice (or glutinous rice (malagkit))
- 4 cups Low-sodium chicken broth
- 2-inch piece Ginger (peeled and sliced thinly)
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced, plus extra for garnish)
- 1 small Onion (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Fish sauce (patis)
- 1 teaspoon Cooking oil (can use olive or canola)
- 2 tablespoons Spring onions (chopped, for garnish) - optional
- 1 piece Calamansi or lemon (cut into wedges, for garnish) - optional
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground black pepper - optional
Instructions
- 1
Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the garlic, ginger, and onion until fragrant and golden.
3 minutes
Save some minced garlic for toasting as a flavorful garnish.
- 2
Add chicken breast pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
4 minutes
Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces for faster cooking and easier eating.
- 3
Stir in the brown rice and toast for 1-2 minutes with the aromatics and chicken.
2 minutes
Toasting rice enhances its nutty flavor and helps it absorb more broth.
- 4
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
12 minutes
Keep the heat low to prevent rice from burning and broth from evaporating too quickly.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Choosing lean chicken and brown rice makes this Filipino Arroz Caldo lower in calories and higher in fiber compared to traditional versions. It is filling yet light, suitable for those managing their weight or seeking balanced nutrition. With no dairy or added sugars, it supports healthy digestion and sustained energy, making it an excellent breakfast or recovery meal.
This Arroz Caldo recipe provides a balanced meal with lean protein from chicken breast, complex carbohydrates and fiber from brown rice, and immune-boosting antioxidants from ginger and garlic. It is low in saturated fat and uses minimal oil, making it heart-healthy. The broth offers hydration and electrolytes, while garnishes like spring onions and calamansi add vitamins A and C, supporting overall wellness.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Pre-soak brown rice for 30 minutes to reduce cooking time and improve texture.
- 💡Tip 2: Use homemade chicken broth for richer flavor and less sodium.
- 💡Tip 3: Adjust consistency with extra broth to suit your preference, especially after chilling.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover Arroz Caldo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to restore its creamy texture.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 80.0 kcal |
| Protein | 5.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12.0 g |
| Total Fat | 1.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
