Steaming Chicken: How Long For Perfect Boneless Breasts?

Steaming is a great way to cook boneless chicken breasts, retaining flavour, tenderness and moisture without the need for additional fat. But how long do you need to steam chicken breasts for? Well, it depends on the size of the chicken and the method used. For example, one source recommends steaming chicken breasts for 15 minutes using a deep steaming tray. However, another source suggests steaming for just 5 to 10 minutes, or until the juices run clear. If you're using a traditional steamer that fits on top of a saucepan, you'll want to bring the water to a boil and then steam the chicken for 8 to 10 minutes.

How to prepare the steamer

Preparing a steamer for boneless chicken breast is a straightforward process. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Firstly, you will need a steamer basket or a deep steaming tray that fits into a saucepan or pot. Place the steamer basket or tray into the saucepan or pot, ensuring it sits comfortably inside. If you are using a steamer basket, fill the saucepan or pot with water to just below the bottom of the steamer. For a deep steaming tray, you can add water directly to the tray. The water is essential for creating the steam that will cook your chicken.

If you are using a saucepan, bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low and place the chicken in the steamer basket. Cover the saucepan with a lid to trap the steam inside. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly. If you are using a steaming tray, place the chicken in the tray before turning on the heat.

When preparing the chicken, it is recommended to coat it with oil, salt, and pepper to add flavour and prevent the meat from drying out. You can also try marinating the chicken in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let the flavours soak in. Additionally, cutting shallow slices or poking holes in the thickest parts of the breast can help ensure even cooking.

It is important to note that the steaming time may vary depending on the size of your chicken breast. A general guideline is to steam boneless chicken breast for around 15 to 30 minutes, or until the juices run clear. Always check that the chicken is cooked thoroughly before serving.

By following these steps, you will be able to prepare your steamer effectively and cook juicy and tender boneless chicken breasts.

How to prepare the chicken

Preparing the chicken for steaming is a simple process, but there are a few steps you can take to ensure the best results. Firstly, decide on your steamer setup. You can use a traditional steamer that fits on top of a saucepan, a rack that sits in the bottom of a tightly covered pan, or an electric steamer. Once you've chosen your setup, prepare the steamer by filling it with water. The amount of water you need will depend on the type of steamer you're using. For a traditional steamer, fill the pot halfway with water. If you're using a rack or tray in a large pot, add at least one inch of water.

Now it's time to prepare the chicken. Start by placing your boneless chicken breasts in a large bowl. You can use any number of chicken breasts, but make sure they're boneless so that they cook evenly. Add some oil, salt, and pepper to the bowl and coat the chicken pieces evenly. You can also add other seasonings or spices to the bowl if you want to infuse extra flavour into the chicken. For example, garlic, thyme, and red chilli flakes are great options. You could also try marinating the chicken before steaming to give it a distinctive flavour.

After the chicken has been seasoned, it's time to place it in the steamer. If you're using a traditional steamer, place the chicken pieces in a single layer, leaving a little room around each piece. This allows the steam to circulate freely and cook the meat evenly. If you're using a rack or tray in a large pot, place the chicken in a heatproof dish and put the dish on the rack or tray. Make sure the water is not boiling up over the dish.

Once the chicken is in the steamer, you're ready to start cooking. Cover the steamer and place it over the boiling water. If you're using an electric steamer, follow the manufacturer's instructions for cooking. For a traditional steamer or rack/tray method, steam the chicken for 8 to 10 minutes. Check the chicken for doneness, and if it's not quite ready, continue steaming in 1-minute intervals until it's cooked to your liking.

How long to steam the chicken for

Steaming is a great way to cook boneless chicken breasts, retaining flavour, tenderness and moisture without the need for additional fats. The length of time you should steam chicken for depends on a few factors, including the size of the chicken breasts and the type of steamer you are using.

If you are using a traditional steamer that fits on top of a saucepan, you should fill the steamer pot halfway with water and bring it to a boil. Place the chicken in the steamer, ensuring the pieces are in a single layer with a little room around each one. Cover the pot and steam for 8 to 10 minutes.

If you are using a rack or tray in the bottom of a large pot, add at least one inch of water to the pot and bring it to a boil. Place the chicken in a heatproof dish and put the dish on the rack in the pot. Again, make sure that the water is not boiling up over the dish. Cover with a tight lid and cook for 8 to 10 minutes.

If you are using a deep steaming tray, steam the chicken for 15 minutes.

Regardless of the method, it is important to ensure that the chicken is cooked through. You can check this by cutting into the thickest part of the breast – if it is still too pink, recover the pot and let it sit for a few more minutes.

What to serve the chicken with

Steamed boneless chicken breast is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are some ideas for what to serve it with:

Salads

Steamed chicken breast can be sliced or shredded and served on top of a salad. For a simple option, you could make a chicken Caesar salad, served with romaine lettuce and a Caesar salad dressing. Alternatively, you could try a kale salad with avocado, or a spring chicken salad with smashed green beans.

Rice

Chicken and rice is a classic combination. You could serve the chicken on top of a rice bowl, with instant rice, frozen vegetables and cooked chicken breast strips. For a more complex dish, try chicken divan with broccoli and rice, or chicken fried rice.

Sandwiches and Wraps

Steamed chicken is a great filling for sandwiches, wraps and rolls. You could make a chicken club sandwich, or serve the chicken in a wrap with salad and avocado dip. For something more exotic, try making your own chicken fajitas, or chicken tinga tostadas.

Pasta

Chicken goes well with pasta. You could make a simple pasta dish with a pesto cream sauce, or try something more complex like chicken piccata, chicken Marsala, or chicken scampi.

Vegetables

Chicken can be served with a variety of vegetables. Try serving it with roasted veggies, or grilled vegetables cooked en papillote. For a more complex dish, try broccoli-stuffed chicken, or chicken and broccoli with dill sauce.

Sauces

Don't forget to serve your chicken with a tasty sauce. You could make a herb sauce, or an Asian-inspired sauce with soy sauce, ginger and sesame oil. Alternatively, keep it simple with a squeeze of lemon.

How to store leftovers

Storing Leftovers:

When storing leftovers, it is important to follow food safety guidelines to prevent food spoilage and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. Here are some detailed instructions on how to properly store your leftover steamed boneless chicken breasts and other steamed foods:

Cool Down:

Allow your leftover chicken and any other steamed foods to cool down to room temperature. Do not leave the food at warm or hot temperatures for more than two hours, as this promotes bacterial growth. Place the food in a cool, well-ventilated area to speed up the cooling process safely.

Portion and Pack:

Once the food has cooled, portion it into shallow, airtight containers. Divide the food into servings that you are likely to consume in one go to avoid repeatedly handling and exposing the food to temperature changes. Use containers that are suitable for both refrigeration and freezing, as you may want to freeze some portions for longer storage.

Refrigeration:

Leftover steamed chicken breasts and most steamed foods can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Place the containers in the coldest part of your fridge, ensuring that the temperature remains at 40°F (4°C) or below. Store the leftovers separately from raw foods to avoid cross-contamination.

Freezing:

If you wish to store leftovers for longer, freezing is a great option. Steamed boneless chicken breasts can be frozen for up to 2 to 3 months without significant loss of quality. Use airtight, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn and protect the food from air exposure. Label the containers with the storage date, and remember to consume the frozen leftovers within a reasonable time frame for the best quality.

Reheating:

When reheating leftover steamed chicken, it is best to use a gentle heating method such as the stovetop, oven, or microwave. Ensure that the chicken is heated thoroughly to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any harmful bacteria. Do not reheat the chicken more than once, and avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods.

Food Safety Precautions:

Always handle leftovers with clean utensils and wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling. Keep your refrigerator and freezer clean and set to the correct temperatures. Regularly check stored foods for any signs of spoilage, and remember the adage, "When in doubt, throw it out." Properly storing leftovers ensures that you can enjoy your steamed boneless chicken breasts and other steamed foods safely and deliciously, minimizing food waste and maximizing your meal prep efficiency!

Frequently asked questions