Steaming Chicken: A Healthy, Delicious Cooking Method

Chicken is a versatile meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways, one of which is steaming. Steaming chicken is a popular cooking method in Chinese cuisine, as it is simple, quick, and always results in tender meat. It is also a healthy way to cook chicken, as it does not require the use of oil, which can add extra calories and fat. To steam chicken, you can use a steamer basket, a rice cooker, or even a metal colander placed over a pot of boiling water. The chicken is typically marinated first to add flavour and then placed in the steamer for around 20 minutes until cooked through.

How to prepare the chicken for steaming

When preparing chicken for steaming, there are a few key steps to ensure your meat is cooked safely and effectively. Firstly, select the right cut of chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for steaming as they have a relatively uniform shape and will cook evenly. You can also use bone-in, skin-on cuts, but these may require a longer cooking time to ensure the meat is cooked through.

Once you've chosen your chicken, trim any excess fat or tendons from the meat. These can become unpleasantly chewy when cooked, so it's best to remove them beforehand. Rinse the chicken under cold running water and pat it dry with paper towels. This ensures that any bacteria are washed away, and drying the meat helps the seasoning adhere better.

Now, it's time to season the chicken. A simple option is to rub the meat with a neutral oil, such as avocado or canola oil, and then sprinkle it generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other dried herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, paprika, or garlic powder, to enhance the flavor. If you want a more intense flavor, you can marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to an hour before steaming. Create a marinade by mixing oil with acidic ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar, along with your choice of herbs, spices, and sweeteners like honey. Place the chicken in a resealable bag, pour in the marinade, and turn to coat.

Before you begin steaming, decide if you want to include any aromatics or vegetables in the steamer basket. Items like lemon slices, garlic cloves, ginger root, or fresh herbs can be placed at the bottom of the basket to infuse flavor into the chicken as it cooks. You can also add sturdy vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or broccoli, which will cook alongside the chicken and absorb its savory juices.

How to steam the chicken

How to Steam Chicken

Steaming is a quick, healthy, and easy way to cook chicken. It is a versatile method that can be used to prepare chicken for salads, wraps, sandwiches, or as a main dish. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to steam chicken:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken. You can use salt, pepper, herbs, and spices to enhance the flavour. If you have time, sprinkle the chicken with salt a day or at least 30 minutes before cooking to tenderize the meat. You can also marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, raw honey, garlic cloves, salt, and pepper to add more flavour. Additionally, you can cut shallow slices or poke holes in the thickest parts of the chicken to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Set Up the Steamer

Fill the steamer basket with about one inch of water and place it over medium-high heat. If using a saucepan, fill it with water just below the bottom of the steamer basket. You can also use a metal colander placed above a pot of boiling water and covered with a lid.

Step 3: Steam the Chicken

Place the chicken in the steamer basket, making sure it is skin-side down. You can add some onion tops and ginger to the water for additional flavour. Cover the steamer and let the chicken cook for about 20 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken and whether you have cut slices into it. For a whole chicken, you may need to steam for about 30 minutes.

Step 4: Check for Doneness

After the recommended cooking time, check if the chicken is cooked by cutting into the thickest part. If it is still pink, cover the pot and let it steam for a few more minutes. The chicken is done when the juices run clear.

Step 5: Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, you can slice or shred it into pieces. Sprinkle with pepper or squeeze some fresh lemon juice over it for extra flavour. Steamed chicken goes well with sides like steamed vegetables, brown rice, or a dipping sauce. Enjoy!

How long to steam the chicken for

The cooking time for steamed chicken depends on the type of steamer you're using, the cut of the chicken, and your personal preference for doneness.

If you're using a stove-top steamer, most sources recommend steaming chicken breasts for around 30 minutes. One source suggests that you steam chicken thighs for 15 minutes, and another source recommends steaming chicken thighs for 20 minutes. If you're steaming a whole chicken, one source recommends steaming for 20 minutes, while another suggests doubling that time to 40 minutes.

If you're using an oven to steam your chicken, one source recommends cooking chicken breasts for 20 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

It's important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on your desired level of doneness. To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, you can use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

What to serve with steamed chicken

Steamed chicken is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides to enhance its flavour and make it a complete meal. Here are some ideas for what to serve with steamed chicken:

Rice

Steamed chicken is often served with rice, particularly in Southeast Asian countries. A simple bowl of steamed rice can be a great accompaniment to the chicken, providing a neutral base to balance out the flavours of the chicken. Alternatively, you could try making chicken rice, where the rice is cooked in a skillet with onions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil, creating a more complex flavour profile to accompany the steamed chicken.

Vegetables

Steamed vegetables are an excellent option to serve alongside steamed chicken, especially if you're looking for a healthy and low-calorie meal. Steamed broccoli or spinach are good choices, as they are packed with nutrients and have a mild flavour that won't overpower the chicken. You could also try serving the chicken with steamed baby potatoes, providing a more filling and hearty option.

Citrus

Citrus fruits such as lemons and limes can be a great way to add a burst of freshness to your steamed chicken. Simply squeeze some fresh lemon or lime juice over the cooked chicken, or serve it with a wedge of citrus on the side. This will not only enhance the flavour of the dish but also provide a nice acidic contrast to the chicken's natural sweetness.

Spices and Herbs

Using spices and herbs can elevate the flavour of steamed chicken without adding extra calories or fat. You can use dried herbs and spices, such as thyme, chilli flakes, paprika, or crushed red pepper, and sprinkle them generously on both sides of the chicken before steaming. Alternatively, you can use fresh herbs like cilantro or spring onion as a garnish, adding a pop of colour and a boost of flavour to the dish.

Dipping Sauces

If you want to add some extra flavour and moisture to your steamed chicken, consider serving it with a dipping sauce on the side. An oyster-based sauce, made with oyster sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and green onions, is a great option, providing a savoury and thick coating that complements the tender chicken. Alternatively, you can stick to a simpler sauce, such as a mixture of soy sauce and sesame oil, or even just some extra-virgin olive oil for a more subtle flavour.

What type of chicken to use for steaming

When it comes to steaming chicken, there are a few different cuts and types that you can use, depending on your preferences and what recipe you are following.

Chicken Breasts

Chicken breasts are a popular choice for steaming. They are lean and low in fat, making them a healthy option. They also have a lot of protein. When steaming chicken breasts, it is recommended to remove the skin, as it is high in fat. You can use either boneless or bone-in chicken breasts, depending on your preference. Boneless chicken breasts will cook faster and are easier to eat, while bone-in chicken breasts will have more flavour.

Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs are another option for steaming. They have slightly more fat and calories than chicken breasts, but they are still a good choice for a healthy meal. Like chicken breasts, it is recommended to remove the skin from chicken thighs before steaming. Chicken thighs will take a bit longer to steam than chicken breasts, as they have a higher fat content.

Whole Chicken

You can also steam a whole chicken, although this is less common than steaming individual cuts of chicken. Steaming a whole chicken will take longer than steaming smaller pieces, and you will need to ensure that the chicken is thoroughly cooked before serving.

Younger Chicken

Younger chicken is commonly used in steamed dishes, as it has a more delicate flavour and texture. Older chickens can have a stronger flavour and tougher texture, which may not be as appealing when steamed.

Frequently asked questions