Steam Cooking Chicken Fillets: A Healthy, Tasty Option

Chicken is a versatile meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways, and steaming is one of them. Steaming chicken is a popular cooking method in Southeast Asian countries, where it is often served with chicken rice. It is also considered one of the healthiest ways to cook chicken, as it adds no extra fat or calories and helps retain nutrients and vitamins. The gentle heat of steam cooking also ensures that the chicken stays moist, juicy, and tender. This technique is suitable for boneless chicken breasts, chicken thighs, drumsticks, and even a whole chicken.

How to prepare chicken for steaming

Steaming is a popular cooking method in Chinese cuisine, and it's a great way to prepare chicken fillets. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to prepare chicken for steaming:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by choosing fresh, organic, and younger chicken if possible. Skinless and boneless chicken fillets or breasts are ideal for steaming. You can also use a half or whole chicken, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, place the chicken and sprinkle it generously with salt. Rub the salt into the chicken and let it marinate in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to an hour. If you have time, you can even do this a day in advance, as it helps the flavour soak in and makes the meat more tender. Rinse the chicken thoroughly under running water to remove the excess salt before cooking.

Step 3: Prepare the Steamer

Place a steamer basket or pan over a pot of boiling water. Make sure the water level is just below the bottom of the steamer. You can also use a heavy pot with a lid, such as a Le Creuset, or a covered saucepan.

Step 4: Steam the Chicken

Place the chicken in the steamer basket and cover. Steam the chicken for about 20-30 minutes, depending on the size of the fillets. The chicken is cooked when the juices run clear. You can also briefly steam the chicken in white wine, sake, or water for 5-6 minutes, then turn off the heat and let the residual heat slowly cook the meat, preventing it from drying out.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

To ensure the chicken is cooked through, cut into the thickest part of the fillet. If it's still pink, cover and let it steam for a few more minutes.

Once your chicken is cooked, you can serve it as-is or use it in salads, wraps, or sandwiches. It pairs well with an avocado dip, herb sauce, or a simple soy-sesame sauce. Enjoy!

Steaming equipment

Steaming chicken is a popular cooking method in Chinese and Southeast Asian cuisines. It is a great way to keep the chicken moist and juicy, and it is also very easy to do.

There are several options for the equipment you can use to steam chicken fillets. A steamer basket or pan placed over a pot of boiling water is a simple and effective method. You can also use a covered saucepan, a heavy pot like a Le Creuset, or even a rice cooker with a steamer attachment. If you want to get creative, you can set up a glass-rimmed dish on a rack in a wok of water, which will allow you to steam a whole chicken.

For steaming chicken fillets, a steamer basket placed in a saucepan is a good option. Fill the saucepan with water just below the bottom of the steamer basket. Place the chicken in the basket, bring the water to a boil, and cover the pot. Steam the chicken until the juices run clear, which should take around 30 minutes.

If you are using a covered saucepan or heavy pot, follow a similar process. Add water or another liquid such as wine, sake, or broth to the pan, along with aromatics like ginger, onion, or garlic if desired. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then turn the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the chicken cook for 5-6 minutes, then turn off the heat and let the pot sit for another 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

With any steaming method, it is important to ensure that the chicken is cooked thoroughly. Always check that the juices run clear before serving.

Seasoning and flavour

Firstly, it is recommended to season the chicken with salt and pepper before steaming. This can be done by placing the chicken in a bowl and adding salt, pepper, and oil, ensuring a good coating. Alternatively, you can rub salt into the chicken fillets and place them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rinsing and steaming. This technique, as described by one source, allows the flavour to "soak in" and makes the meat more tender.

Additionally, you can add aromatics to the boiling water used for steaming. Lemongrass is a popular choice, infusing the chicken with extra flavour. You can also experiment with different liquids for steaming, such as white wine, sake, or water, each imparting a unique flavour to the chicken.

For a more intense flavour, you can try marinating the chicken in a mixture of seasonings and liquids before steaming. For example, one recipe suggests covering the chicken with salt, rinsing it off, and then steaming, claiming that this adds "extra flavour".

Finally, after steaming, you can garnish the chicken with herbs like cilantro or thyme and a squeeze of lemon juice. You can also create a sauce by frying onions and garlic and adding soy sauce and sesame oil, which can be ladled over the chicken for an extra flavour boost.

With these seasoning and flavour techniques, you can create delicious and juicy steamed chicken fillets with a variety of tasty flavours.

Cooking methods

Steaming is a great way to cook chicken fillets, especially if you're looking for a healthy, tasty, and simple cooking method.

Preparation

Before steaming, it's important to prepare the chicken fillets properly. Firstly, ensure the chicken is as close to refrigerator temperature as possible—it shouldn't be frozen or at room temperature. For even cooking, cut boneless chicken breasts into evenly sized pieces. If you're cooking bone-in chicken, try to use similarly sized pieces, or place larger pieces towards the centre of the basket.

It's also a good idea to pat the chicken dry before steaming, as this allows the steam to penetrate the meat more efficiently. You can also season the chicken as desired before steaming. Salt, pepper, herbs, citrus, soy sauce, vinegar, and spice rubs all work well and will infuse deeply into the meat.

Steaming

When it comes to steaming chicken fillets, you have a few options. One method is to use a steamer basket placed over a pot of boiling water. Add the fillets to the steamer and cook for around 30 minutes, or until the juices run clear. You can also steam chicken in the oven. Place each chicken breast on a square of aluminium foil, season with salt and pepper, then fold the ends of the foil to create a sealed pocket. Fill the bottom of a roasting pan with about half an inch of water and place the chicken packets inside. Cook for around 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Another option is to use a heavy pot with a lid. Add onion, ginger, and chicken to the pot, then pour in water, wine, or sake. Simmer on medium heat, then turn the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for around 5-6 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the pot sit for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Serving

Steamed chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. It can be used in salads, wraps, and sandwiches, or enjoyed on its own with an avocado dip or herb sauce. In Asian cuisine, steamed chicken is often served with rice and an onion or soy sauce.

Tips

• Always allow chicken to rest for a few minutes after steaming, so the juices can redistribute and the meat stays moist and tender.
• Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, rather than relying solely on appearance or timing.
• Don't overcrowd the steamer, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
• If using a marinade, opt for homemade rather than store-bought, as these often contain high amounts of sugar and salt.

Serving suggestions

Steamed chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

Salads, Wraps, and Sandwiches

A great option for a light and healthy meal is to serve steamed chicken on top of a salad, or use it as a filling for wraps and sandwiches. This allows you to enjoy the moist and juicy texture of the chicken along with your favourite vegetables or bread. You can also add some crunch to your meal by toasting nuts and seeds to sprinkle on top.

Rice Bowl

Steaming is a popular cooking method in Southeast Asian countries, where steamed chicken is often served with a bowl of rice. You can pair it with fragrant rice and use chopsticks to enjoy the dish. This combination is a delicious way to experience the flavours of Asia.

Avocado Dip or Herb Sauce

For a creamy and indulgent treat, serve your steamed chicken with an avocado dip. The smooth texture and mild flavour of avocado complement the chicken beautifully. Alternatively, you can also enhance the flavour of the chicken with a herb sauce, adding a fresh and aromatic touch to your meal.

Side Dishes

Steamed chicken can be served with a variety of side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Consider roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. You can also offer a variety of sauces or dips to accompany the chicken, such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or a tangy yoghurt dip.

Garnishes

When plating your steamed chicken, consider adding some garnishes to enhance the presentation and flavour. Fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or thyme can add a pop of colour and a boost of flavour. Sliced green onions or chopped nuts can also provide a crunchy and tasty finishing touch to your dish.

Remember, steaming chicken is a gentle cooking method that preserves the meat's moisture, tenderness, and flavour. It pairs well with a variety of side dishes, sauces, and garnishes, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Frequently asked questions