Steaming Chicken: Using Your Rice Cooker To Perfection

Steaming chicken is a healthy cooking method that helps retain the natural flavours and nutrients of the meat. While steaming is typically associated with the use of large steamers or pots, you can also steam chicken in a rice cooker. This is a convenient and nutritious way to prepare chicken, resulting in tender and juicy meat. The process is simple and only requires a standard rice cooker with a steam basket or tray. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create perfectly steamed chicken breasts that can be incorporated into various dishes such as salads, sandwiches, or enjoyed as is.

Seasoning and spices

• Choose your seasonings: You can use a mix of garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, or any other seasonings you prefer. If you want to add a bit of spice, consider using chilli oil or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to add more depth of flavour.
• Prepare the chicken: Start by cleaning and preparing the chicken breasts. Remove any excess fat or skin, and pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
• Marinate the chicken (optional): Although marinating is not necessary, it can add extra flavour to your chicken. Prepare a marinade by mixing your chosen seasonings with a liquid base such as avocado oil, rice vinegar, or chicken broth. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow bowl, and pour the marinade over them. Make sure the chicken is well-coated, then refrigerate for at least 20 minutes or up to a day in advance.
• Season generously: Whether you choose to marinate or not, it is important to season the chicken generously before placing it in the rice cooker. Massage the seasonings into the chicken to ensure even distribution. This will ensure that the flavours penetrate the meat during the steaming process.
• Add vegetables or herbs: You can enhance the flavour of your steamed chicken by adding vegetables or herbs to the rice cooker. Place sliced vegetables like onions, carrots, or peppers directly into the cooker, or add whole herbs like thyme or rosemary.
• Experiment with different flavours: Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and spices to find your favourite combinations. You can try anything from barbecue to taco or fajita seasonings. You can also try adding soy sauce, sesame oil, or monosodium glutamate (MSG) to your marinade for an Asian-inspired dish.

Cooking time

The cooking time for steaming chicken in a rice cooker depends on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. 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, anywhere from 20-30 minutes. For a whole chicken, the cooking time is approximately 60-90 minutes.

It's important to ensure that the chicken is thoroughly cooked before consuming it. The best way to determine this is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken breasts should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. For chicken thighs and drumsticks, the recommended internal temperature is 175°F (79°C). If you don't have a meat thermometer, you can also check by making sure that the chicken is white and opaque throughout, with no pink or raw parts remaining.

Additionally, it's worth noting that the cooking time may vary depending on the specific model of your rice cooker. Mid and high-range models can adjust their cook 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 double-check the final temperature of the chicken to ensure it has reached the safe internal temperature.

Chicken preparation

Cleaning and Preparing the Chicken:

Start by selecting the cut of chicken you prefer. You can use chicken breasts, thighs, wings, or even a whole chicken if your rice cooker is large enough. If you're using chicken pieces, consider bone-in cuts for better flavour. Remove any giblets and excess fat from the chicken. Rinse the chicken under cold running water and pat it dry with paper towels or a clean cloth.

Seasoning the Chicken:

This is your chance to add flavour to the chicken. You can use a variety of seasonings and spices, such as garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, or any other herbs and spices you prefer. Be generous with the seasoning as the flavours will penetrate the meat during steaming. You can also marinate the chicken in a mixture of your chosen seasonings, oil, and vinegar for at least 20 minutes or up to a day in advance for extra flavour.

Placing the Chicken in the Rice Cooker:

Place the seasoned chicken into the rice cooker basket or directly into the cooker pot. If you're cooking rice along with the chicken, make sure to add the rice and water first, following the measurements suggested by the rice cooker instructions. Place the chicken on top of the rice, ensuring it doesn't overlap. If you're steaming the chicken without rice, add about 1 cup of water per 2 pounds of chicken to create steam. The amount of water may vary depending on your rice cooker's size and capacity.

Cooking the 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 cut of the chicken. For chicken pieces, steam for approximately 20-30 minutes, and for a whole chicken, cook for about 60-90 minutes. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Remember to always consult your rice cooker's user manual for specific instructions and guidelines, as different models may have varying functions and settings. Enjoy your delicious and tender steamed chicken!

Rice cooker setup

First, ensure your rice cooker has a steaming compartment or tray. If not, you can use a metal or heatproof bowl placed on top of the rice.

Next, prepare your chicken. Bone-in chicken pieces are preferable for more flavour, but you can also use boneless chicken. Season the chicken generously with your chosen herbs and spices. You can also marinate the chicken for extra flavour.

Now, add water to the rice cooker. The amount of water will depend on the size and capacity of your cooker, but a general rule of thumb is 1 cup of water per 2 pounds of chicken. If you are cooking rice simultaneously, follow the rice-to-water ratio recommended for your cooker.

Place a rack or steamer basket inside the rice cooker, and put the seasoned chicken on top. If your cooker didn't come with a rack, you can improvise with balled-up tin foil and a small plate.

Close the lid and set the cooker to the steam or cook function. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and cut of the chicken, but a general guideline is 20-30 minutes for chicken pieces and around 60-90 minutes for a whole chicken.

Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the rice cooker. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Meat thermometer usage

A meat thermometer is an essential tool to ensure that your chicken is cooked to perfection. It is the best way to guarantee that your meat is cooked properly and is safe to consume. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a meat thermometer when steaming chicken in a rice cooker:

Step 1: Choose the Right Type of Meat Thermometer

Select a thermometer that is suitable for cooking. There are various types available, such as instant-read thermometers, probe thermometers, and infrared thermometers. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, so choose one that suits your needs and preferences.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Before steaming your chicken in the rice cooker, ensure that it is cleaned and prepared properly. If you are using chicken pieces, bone-in chicken is recommended for better flavour. If you are using a whole chicken, remove the giblets and excess fat.

Step 3: Season and Steam the Chicken

After cleaning and preparing the chicken, season it generously with your favourite spices and herbs. Massage the seasonings into the chicken to ensure even distribution. Place the seasoned chicken into the rice cooker basket or directly into the cooker pot. Add water to the rice cooker as per the general guideline of 1 cup of water per 2 pounds of chicken. Close the lid and set the cooker to the steam or cook function. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and type of chicken.

Step 4: Check the Internal Temperature

Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the rice cooker. To check if it is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to measure the internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast. For safe consumption, the internal temperature of the chicken breast should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Allow the Chicken to Rest

Before serving the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and juicy meat. The resting time will also give the internal temperature a chance to equalize, ensuring that your chicken is cooked evenly throughout.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

After the chicken has rested, it is ready to be served! You can enjoy it as is or incorporate it into various dishes, such as salads, sandwiches, wraps, or stir-fries. Steamed chicken is versatile and can be a healthy and tasty addition to your meals.

Using a meat thermometer ensures that your chicken is cooked to the correct temperature, preventing undercooking or overcooking. It is a simple and effective tool to guarantee food safety and enhance the flavour and texture of your steamed chicken.

Frequently asked questions