Steam Cooking Chicken Breasts: A Simple, Healthy Guide

Steaming is a great way to cook chicken breasts, keeping them juicy and tender. This cooking method is very versatile, and the chicken can be used in salads, wraps, sandwiches, or just as it is. It is also keto-friendly. The basic steps are to season the chicken, steam it for 5-10 minutes, and then let it sit covered for 10-15 minutes. You can use water, wine, or sake for steaming, and season with salt, pepper, garlic, ginger, thyme, or bay leaf.

How to Steam Cook Chicken Breasts

Seasoning and marinating

Firstly, if you have the time, it is recommended to sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt a day before cooking. This will make the meat more tender as it allows the salt to break down the muscle of the meat. It also gives the salt time to be fully absorbed, enhancing the flavour of the chicken. You can also add other dry seasonings at this stage, such as pepper or chilli flakes, to give your chicken a kick.

On the day of cooking, you can further season your chicken. If you didn't salt your chicken the day before, now is the time to do so. You can also add oil, such as olive oil, which will add flavour and stop the outside of the chicken from drying out. You could also add aromatics such as garlic and herbs like thyme or rosemary. If you're looking for a more citrusy flavour, you could zest a lemon over your chicken breasts.

Once you've seasoned your chicken, it's a good idea to let it sit for a while so that the meat can absorb all the flavours. This can be for as little as 30 minutes, or you could even put it in the fridge for a few hours if you have the time.

Steamer setup

To steam chicken breasts, you will need a steamer basket and a saucepan or pot with a lid. You can also use a deep steaming tray and mixing bowl if you have a steaming set.

First, fill the saucepan or pot with water. The water level should be just below the bottom of the steamer basket. If you are using a deep steaming set, add water to the mixing bowl.

Next, prepare the chicken. Most recipes recommend seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and other spices. You can also add olive oil to the chicken to enhance the flavor and prevent the meat from becoming tough.

Once the chicken is prepared, place it into the steamer basket or deep steaming tray. If using a steamer basket, ensure that the water is simmering before adding the chicken.

Finally, cover the pot or bowl with a lid and let the chicken steam. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the chicken breasts and the recipe you are following. Most recipes recommend steaming for 5 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.

Cooking time

The cooking time for steamed chicken breasts varies depending on the recipe and the size of the chicken breasts.

One recipe suggests steaming the chicken for 15 minutes, while another recommends steaming for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. A third recipe recommends steaming the chicken for about 30 minutes, or until the juices run clear.

It's important to note that the cooking time may also depend on the type of steamer and the heat source used. For example, if using a stove-top steamer, the water may take longer to come to a boil compared to an electric steamer. Additionally, the thickness of the chicken breast will impact the cooking time. A thicker breast will take longer to cook than a thinner one.

To ensure that the chicken is cooked through, it's recommended to cut into the thickest part of the breast. If it's still too pink, cover and let the chicken steam for a few more minutes. This can be repeated until the chicken is cooked to the desired doneness.

Serving suggestions

Steamed chicken breasts are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to get you started:

Salads

A classic way to serve steamed chicken breasts is to slice or shred the chicken and place it on top of a bed of fresh greens. You can add other vegetables, nuts, seeds, or fruits to your salad, and choose a dressing that complements the flavours. For example, a vinaigrette or a light Caesar dressing.

Wraps and Sandwiches

Another popular option is to use steamed chicken breasts as a filling for wraps or sandwiches. You can experiment with different breads, tortillas, or wraps, and add toppings such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, or cheese. A spread of mayonnaise, pesto, or mustard can also enhance the flavour of your sandwich or wrap.

Rice Bowls

In Southeast Asian cuisine, steamed chicken is often served with rice. You can create a rice bowl by pairing steamed chicken with cooked rice and adding vegetables, sauces, or garnishes like cilantro or green onions.

With Dips and Sauces

Steamed chicken breasts can also be enjoyed as a simple main course, paired with dips or sauces on the side. Avocado dip, herb sauce, or a simple combination of olive oil and balsamic vinegar can add flavour and moisture to your chicken.

As a Side Dish

Steamed chicken breasts can also be a tasty addition to a larger meal. Serve them alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or quinoa for a well-rounded and nutritious dish.

In Recipes

Finally, don't forget that steamed chicken breasts can be used in a variety of recipes. From stir-fries to curries, soups, and casseroles, steamed chicken can be a convenient and healthy starting point for countless dishes.

Remember, these are just a few suggestions, and the beauty of steamed chicken breasts is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different flavours, spices, and cooking techniques to create your own signature dishes!

Storage

Leftover steamed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to consume it within this timeframe to ensure food safety and maintain optimal flavour and texture.

When storing, it is recommended to keep the chicken along with the juices from the cooking process. This helps retain moisture and prevents the meat from drying out. You can also sprinkle some pepper or add spices to enhance the flavour during storage.

If you wish to store the steamed chicken for a more extended period, freezing is an option. Place the chicken in airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. Properly sealed, the chicken can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

To thaw frozen steamed chicken, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator overnight or until completely thawed. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.

It is important to note that steamed chicken should only be frozen if it was cooked thoroughly in the first place. Freezing does not make bacteria disappear, so ensure the chicken was cooked to a safe internal temperature before storing it in the freezer.

Frequently asked questions