If there’s one dish that perfectly embodies the comforting soul of Hawaiian cuisine, it’s Hawaiian-Style Chicken Long Rice Soup. This soothing, brothy bowl filled with tender chicken, transparent mung bean noodles, and fragrant ginger has been loved across generations in the islands. What makes this dish so special is its beautiful blend of Asian and Polynesian culinary traditions, creating a meal that’s simple yet deeply satisfying.
Whether you’re craving something warm on a chilly day or looking to bring the taste of the islands into your home, this Hawaiian-style chicken long rice soup offers a little sunshine in every spoonful. It’s wholesome, light, and easy to make—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a quick meal prep idea for busy weeks.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn everything about this iconic Hawaiian comfort food—from its cultural roots and ingredients to expert cooking tips, serving ideas, and FAQs.
🥣 What Is Hawaiian Chicken Long Rice Soup?
Chicken Long Rice Soup is a traditional Hawaiian dish with strong influences from Chinese cuisine. In Hawaii, “long rice” refers not to grains of rice, but to mung bean thread noodles, often called glass noodles. These clear noodles absorb the savory chicken broth beautifully, creating a silky texture that glides through the soup.
The dish was introduced to the Hawaiian Islands by Chinese immigrants in the 19th century and quickly became a staple at family gatherings and luaus—Hawaiian feasts that celebrate life, love, and togetherness. Today, it’s a must-have dish at any local-style party, beloved for its simplicity and flavor.
What makes it truly stand out is the balance: the freshness of ginger, the savoriness of soy sauce, the tenderness of shredded chicken, and the soothing comfort of warm broth. Each bite feels like a warm embrace from the islands.
🌺 The Origin and Cultural Significance
The story of Chicken Long Rice Soup is one of culinary adaptation and cultural harmony. When Chinese laborers arrived in Hawaii during the plantation era, they brought their food traditions—especially noodle-based soups flavored with ginger and garlic. Over time, local Hawaiians incorporated these influences with island ingredients and tastes.
What emerged was a fusion dish that represents Hawaii’s melting-pot culture—a cuisine born from diversity, where different ethnic groups shared and reimagined their recipes together.
You’ll often see this dish served at:
- Luaus: Large celebrations featuring traditional Hawaiian foods.
- Family Gatherings: A comforting soup that pleases all ages.
- New Year or Birthdays: A symbol of long life and good fortune because of the “long” noodles.
The dish is both humble and festive, nourishing body and spirit alike.
🍗 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Hawaiian-style chicken long rice soup isn’t just about taste—it’s about comfort and connection. Here’s why it deserves a permanent place in your kitchen:
- Comforting and Nourishing: Light, soothing broth packed with protein and subtle aromatics.
- Simple Ingredients: Everything is easy to find—no fancy or expensive components.
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in under an hour, with most of it being simmer time.
- Adaptable: Works for gluten-free, low-fat, or protein-rich diets.
- Perfect for Leftovers: The flavor deepens beautifully overnight.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need for Hawaiian-Style Chicken Long Rice Soup
Each ingredient plays an essential role in building the balanced, aromatic flavor of this island-inspired soup.
Main Ingredients:
- Chicken Thighs or Breasts (1 ½ lbs) – Use bone-in thighs for a richer, deeper broth or boneless breasts for a lighter version.
- Fresh Ginger (2-inch piece, sliced) – The heart of the dish; adds warmth and freshness.
- Garlic (4–5 cloves, smashed) – Gives depth and subtle spice.
- Chicken Broth (6 cups) – Homemade or low-sodium store-bought works perfectly.
- Soy Sauce (2–3 tbsp) – For umami flavor; adjust to taste.
- Mung Bean Thread Noodles (4 oz) – Known as “long rice”; gives the dish its signature texture.
- Green Onions (4, chopped) – Adds freshness and color.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Balances all the flavors.
Optional Flavor Boosters:
- Sesame oil (1 tsp) – Adds an extra nutty aroma.
- Fish sauce (½ tsp) – For a hint of complexity (optional).
- Chili flakes or Hawaiian chili pepper water – For those who love a little kick.
🔪 Step-by-Step: How to Make Hawaiian-Style Chicken Long Rice Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Broth Base
In a large pot, combine chicken pieces, sliced ginger, smashed garlic, and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 35–40 minutes, or until the chicken becomes tender and easy to shred.
Tip: The longer the simmer, the richer the flavor. You can even add a few green onion ends or celery sticks to boost the broth.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Discard the bones and skin (if used), then return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed—some like it saltier, others prefer a lighter broth.
Step 4: Prepare the Long Rice Noodles
While the soup is simmering, soak the mung bean noodles in warm water for about 10–15 minutes, until they soften. Drain them and cut into shorter lengths if desired.
Add the softened noodles directly into the soup and simmer for another 5 minutes, until they become translucent and tender.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with chopped green onions. Drizzle with a touch of sesame oil if desired and serve hot.
The result? A clear, aromatic broth filled with glossy noodles and tender chicken—pure island comfort in a bowl.
🏝️ Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Long Rice Soup
- Use Fresh Ginger: Dried or powdered ginger won’t give you that signature aroma.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Glass noodles turn mushy if left too long in hot broth.
- Layer Flavors: Start mild, then build—soy sauce, sesame oil, and aromatics.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the soup sit for 5–10 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- Reheat Gently: Use medium heat to avoid breaking down the noodles.
🥡 How to Serve Hawaiian-Style Chicken Long Rice Soup
This soup is traditionally served in individual bowls with a sprinkle of fresh green onions. Here are a few serving ideas to make it even more special:
- With Steamed White Rice: A classic Hawaiian pairing.
- Alongside Hawaiian Sweet Rolls: Adds a touch of sweetness.
- As a Starter for a Luau: Serve before Kalua pork or Lomi salmon.
- With a Side of Kimchi or Pickles: Adds balance and contrast.
You can also drizzle it with chili oil or top it with crispy fried shallots for texture.
🧊 Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigeration:
Let the soup cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Tip:
The noodles will absorb some broth, so when reheating, add a splash of water or chicken stock to maintain the perfect soup consistency.
🥢 Variations and Creative Twists
One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is. Try these variations to give it your own spin:
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth.
- Spicy Hawaiian Style: Add chili paste or a few drops of hot sauce.
- Coconut Broth Fusion: Mix in ½ cup coconut milk for a creamy island twist.
- Asian Fusion Style: Add bok choy, mushrooms, or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Instant Pot Shortcut: Cook chicken with broth, ginger, and garlic for 15 minutes on high pressure. Shred, then add noodles and simmer for 5 minutes.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes! It’s a great shortcut. Just skip the simmering step—add pre-cooked shredded chicken to hot broth with aromatics and noodles.
Q2: What can I substitute for mung bean noodles?
If unavailable, use cellophane noodles or sweet potato glass noodles. Avoid rice vermicelli, which becomes starchy and opaque.
Q3: Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and confirm your noodles contain no wheat starch.
Q4: Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors get even better after resting overnight. Just reheat gently and refresh with extra broth.
Q5: How do I make the broth richer?
Add a small piece of chicken bone or simmer longer with extra aromatics like onion or celery.
Q6: What does “long rice” mean?
Despite the name, it’s not rice at all! “Long rice” is the local Hawaiian term for mung bean glass noodles—thin, transparent noodles made from bean starch.
🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~310 kcal |
| Protein | 26g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Sodium | 640mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
This soup is light yet filling, making it ideal for lunch, dinner, or even as a post-workout meal.
🌈 Health Benefits of Chicken Long Rice Soup
- Immune Boosting: Ginger and garlic help strengthen immunity.
- Hydrating: Broth-based soups keep you hydrated and refreshed.
- Low-Calorie Comfort Food: Satisfying without being heavy.
- Digestive-Friendly: Perfect for when you’re under the weather.
- Protein-Rich: Lean chicken supports muscle repair and recovery.
🌿 Tips for Hosting a Hawaiian-Style Meal
Turn this comforting soup into part of a full Hawaiian-themed dinner night:
- Main: Chicken Long Rice Soup
- Side Dishes: Macaroni salad, poke bowls, or steamed rice
- Dessert: Haupia (coconut pudding) or pineapple cake
- Drinks: Passion fruit juice or coconut water
Set the mood with island music, tropical table decor, and a warm aloha spirit!
📖 The Story of Comfort in a Bowl
Every culture has its version of comfort food—chicken noodle soup, congee, pho—but in Hawaii, Chicken Long Rice Soup holds a unique place. It represents togetherness, cultural harmony, and simplicity.
For Hawaiians, this soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a connection to history and family. It’s what parents cook when kids are sick, what hosts serve at luaus, and what friends share on rainy evenings. Every spoonful tells a story of community and care.
So, when you cook this dish, you’re not just making soup—you’re carrying forward a tradition that has warmed hearts for generations.
🏁 Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking a dish that’s comforting, nourishing, and steeped in cultural beauty, the Hawaiian-Style Chicken Long Rice Soup is a true gem. It’s proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors when guided by care and tradition.
From its light, savory broth to its silky noodles and tender chicken, this soup delivers a taste of Hawaii’s warmth right to your kitchen. Serve it fresh, share it with family, and enjoy the spirit of aloha in every bite.
