Steaming Chicken In A Rice Cooker: How Long Is Optimal?

Steaming chicken in a rice cooker is a convenient and nutritious way to prepare this versatile protein. It is a healthy cooking method that helps retain the natural flavours and nutrients of the meat. In this article, we will explore the steps to steam chicken in a rice cooker, the benefits of this cooking method, and provide tips for achieving perfectly cooked chicken every time. Whether you're using chicken pieces or a whole chicken, steaming in a rice cooker is an efficient way to prepare a tasty and tender meal.

Seasoning and spices

To ensure the seasonings and spices are evenly distributed, it is important to massage them into the chicken. This step ensures that every bite of the chicken is flavourful and tasty. After seasoning the chicken, you can place it in the rice cooker basket or directly into the cooker pot.

Additionally, marinating the chicken before steaming is not necessary but can add extra flavour to the dish. If you prefer a more flavourful chicken, you can marinate it with your desired marinade or seasonings for at least 30 minutes before steaming. This allows the flavours to penetrate the meat and enhance the overall taste of the dish.

You can also add vegetables or herbs to the rice cooker to infuse additional flavours. Sliced vegetables or whole herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or ginger can be placed in the steaming basket or tray along with the chicken. This not only enhances the taste but also provides a nutritious and well-rounded meal.

Cooking time

The cooking time for steaming chicken in a rice cooker depends on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces, as well as the type of rice cooker you have. As a general rule, boneless, skinless chicken breasts usually take around 15-20 minutes to steam thoroughly. Thicker cuts or bone-in chicken may require a longer cooking time, ranging from 20 to 30 minutes for chicken pieces and 60 to 90 minutes for a whole chicken.

It's important to note that the cooking time can also vary depending on the model of your rice cooker. Mid and high-range models can adjust their cooking times based on the temperature of the pot, ensuring that both the chicken and rice are cooked properly. However, it's always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to check if your chicken is fully cooked. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for chicken breasts or 175°F (79°C) for chicken thighs and drumsticks.

Additionally, if you prefer crispy skin on your chicken, you can transfer the steamed chicken to a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for a few minutes until the skin turns golden brown and crispy.

Chicken preparation

First, decide whether you are cooking chicken pieces or a whole chicken. If you are using chicken pieces, make sure they are bone-in for better flavour. If you are using a whole chicken, remove the giblets and excess fat.

Next, season the chicken generously with your chosen herbs and spices. You can use a mix of garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, or any other seasonings you prefer. Massage the seasonings into the chicken to ensure even distribution. If you have time, you can marinate the chicken in your chosen seasonings for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, before cooking.

Now you are ready to start cooking. Place the seasoned chicken into the rice cooker basket or directly into the cooker pot. Add enough water to the rice cooker to create steam—as a general rule, use 1 cup of water per 2 pounds of chicken.

Close the lid of the rice cooker and set it to the steam or cook function. The cooking time will depend on the size and type of chicken you are cooking. As a guide, steam chicken pieces for 20-30 minutes and a whole chicken for 60-90 minutes.

Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the rice cooker. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the juices redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavourful meat.

Rice cooker settings

To steam chicken in a rice cooker, you will need to follow the steps outlined below:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cleaning and preparing the chicken. If you are using chicken pieces, consider keeping them bone-in for better flavour. If you are using a whole chicken, remove the giblets and excess fat.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

This is your chance to get creative with flavours! Season the chicken generously with your choice of spices and herbs. You can use a mix of garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, or any other seasonings you prefer. Massage the seasonings into the chicken to ensure even distribution.

Step 3: Place the Chicken in the Rice Cooker

Place the seasoned chicken into the rice cooker basket or directly into the cooker pot. If you are cooking rice along with the chicken, follow the instructions provided by the rice cooker manufacturer for the correct water ratio. If you are steaming the chicken without rice, add enough water to create steam. A general guideline is to use 1 cup of water per 2 pounds of chicken.

Step 4: Set the Rice Cooker

Close the lid of the rice cooker and set it to the steam or cook function. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and type of chicken. For chicken pieces, steam for about 20-30 minutes. For a whole chicken, cook for approximately 60-90 minutes. If your rice cooker has an indicator light or an automatic shut-off feature, refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific details.

Step 5: Check the Chicken's Doneness

Once the rice cooker has completed its cycle, carefully remove the chicken and check its internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Ensure that the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If the chicken is not fully cooked, you may need to steam it for a few minutes longer.

Tips for Perfectly Steamed Chicken:

• Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the rice cooker. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavourful meat.
• If you prefer crispy skin, transfer the steamed chicken to a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for a few minutes until the skin turns golden brown and crispy.
• Always refer to the user manual of your specific rice cooker model for detailed instructions and guidelines on steaming chicken.

Chicken temperature

The recommended internal temperature for chicken consumption varies depending on the part of the bird. For chicken breasts, the target temperature is 165°F (74°C). This temperature ensures that any harmful bacteria are eliminated, making the meat safe to eat. For chicken thighs and drumsticks, the recommended temperature is slightly higher, at 175°F (79°C), due to the darker meat and higher fat content.

To accurately determine the internal temperature of the chicken, it is advisable to use a meat thermometer. By inserting the thermometer into the thickest portion of the meat, you can ensure that the chicken has reached the desired temperature. This step is crucial, as undercooked chicken may pose health risks.

Additionally, allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the rice cooker is beneficial. This resting period enables the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and juicy meat. It is important to note that the chicken will continue to cook slightly during this resting period, so it is crucial to take it into account when monitoring the internal temperature.

In conclusion, achieving the correct chicken temperature is essential for food safety and optimal taste. By using a meat thermometer and allowing the chicken to rest, you can ensure that your steamed chicken is both safe and delicious.

Frequently asked questions