Hoi An Chicken Rice (Com Ga) is one of the most famous local dishes in Hoi An. This flavorful dish features fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth and turmeric, giving it a beautiful yellow color. It is served with shredded poached chicken, fresh herbs, sliced onions, and pickled vegetables. The dish is often accompanied by a small bowl of chicken soup and a tangy chili sauce that brings all the flavors together. Hoi An Chicken Rice is simple yet delicious, offering a perfect balance of texture and taste. If you visit Hoi An, don’t miss the chance to try this iconic dish at one of the many local eateries around the Old Town.
Hoi An Chicken Rice – A Taste of Heritage in Every Bite
If there is one dish that perfectly captures the essence of Hoi An’s culinary soul, it’s Com Ga Hoi An - Hoi An Chicken Rice. Humble in appearance but rich in flavor and tradition, this local favorite is much more than just chicken and rice - it is a comforting, fragrant, and culturally significant dish that has been passed down through generations in this ancient riverside town.
The heart of the dish lies in its rice - a golden-yellow bed of long-grain rice, cooked not just with water but in savory chicken broth, flavored with turmeric and sometimes a hint of pandan leaves. This technique infuses the rice with a deep, rich flavor and an irresistible aroma. The rice is slightly oily, soft yet firm, with each grain separate but moist, offering a satisfying mouthfeel with every spoonful.
The chicken is equally important. Local chefs often use free-range or backyard chickens for their firmer texture and deeper taste. After being gently poached, the chicken is shredded by hand and mixed with thinly sliced onions, Vietnamese coriander (rau răm), and a splash of fresh lime juice. This combination not only enhances the taste of the meat but also gives the dish a refreshing, zesty contrast.
To complete the plate, pickled vegetables such as papaya or carrot are added, giving a crunchy texture and a touch of sweetness and acidity. A small bowl of light, clear chicken soup is usually served on the side, often garnished with spring onions. And of course, no Hoi An chicken rice is complete without the signature chili sauce - a local blend of garlic, chili, and a dash of vinegar that adds a delightful spicy note, allowing each diner to season to their taste.
.jpg)
While the ingredients may sound simple, the magic of Com Ga lies in the harmony of flavors and textures. It is a perfect balance of warm, savory, tangy, fresh, and slightly spicy - a dish that is both comforting and exciting. Every bite feels like a connection to the culture, history, and home-style cooking of Hoi An.
You can find Hoi An Chicken Rice in many local eateries, from small family-run food stalls to cozy restaurants hidden in the alleyways of the Ancient Town. Each place may have its own variation, slightly different in seasoning or presentation, but all share the same core spirit of local pride and culinary care. For travelers exploring Hoi An, trying Com Ga is not just about satisfying your hunger - it’s about tasting a piece of the city’s heritage. It’s the kind of dish that locals grow up with, that reminds them of family gatherings, and that visitors remember long after they've left.
So when you’re wandering the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, let your senses guide you to a plate of chicken rice. Sit down, take your time, and savor every bite - because in that moment, you’re not just eating food, you’re experiencing Hoi An.