Steamed chicken is a remarkably versatile and healthy dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a more elaborate part of a larger spread. Its delicate flavor allows for endless customization, from simple seasonings to vibrant sauces and accompanying vegetables. Forget dry, flavorless chicken breast; this method delivers moist, tender meat every time, without the added fats associated with frying or roasting. The simple technique makes it ideal for even novice cooks, and the minimal cleanup is a welcome bonus. This method also helps retain more of the chicken's natural juices and nutrients.
This recipe focuses on steaming chicken without added water, resulting in incredibly flavorful, juicy results. Ready to learn how to achieve perfectly steamed chicken, every single time? Let's dive into the easy step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Bowl
- Pot
- Clay Pot (optional)
- Spoon
Ingredients
- Chicken: 500g
- Salt: 0.5 tablespoon
- Ginger: 20g
- Garlic: 100g
- Shallots: 100g
- Green Onions: 2-3 stalks
- Cooking Oil: 3 tablespoons
- Sugar: 0.5 tablespoon
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Oyster Sauce: 0.5 tablespoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Chicken and Aromatics
- Wash the chicken with salt and ginger to disinfect and remove fishy smell. Massage the chicken for 5 minutes, then rinse again.
- Finely chop 50g of garlic and shallots. Slice 20g of ginger and finely chop green onions.
Step 2. Create the Flavor Base
- Heat cooking oil in a pot. Add minced onion and garlic, fry until golden brown over low heat.
- Remove the fried onion and garlic, leaving the oil. Place the onion and garlic in a bowl.
- Add sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce to the bowl with the fried onion and garlic. Mix well.
- In a clay pot (or regular pot), sauté the remaining 50g of shallots, 50g garlic, and ginger for 30 seconds.
Step 3. Steam the Chicken
- Add the chicken to the pot, cover, and cook over low heat for 10 minutes. Turn the chicken halfway through.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- After 10 minutes, add the seasoning mixture to the chicken.
- Cover and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Garnish with green onions and chili (optional).
Read more: Quick & Easy Dry Chicken Noodle Pho Recipe
Tips
- Choose chicken thighs, breast, or wings for best results.
- Cooking the chicken this way is quick and doesn't require adding water, resulting in sweet and tender chicken.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I steam chicken without water and still get it cooked through?
Yes! The steam generated from the chicken's own juices is sufficient, especially if you use a tightly covered container and a high enough heat source.
2. How long does it take to steam chicken without added water?
The cooking time depends on the size and thickness of your chicken pieces. Smaller pieces will cook faster (around 15-20 minutes), while larger pieces may take 25-30 minutes or longer. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. What kind of container is best for steaming chicken without water?
A glass or oven-safe ceramic dish with a tight-fitting lid works best. This helps trap the steam and ensures even cooking.
This simple yet effective method of steaming chicken without added water delivers incredibly juicy and flavorful results, perfect for a variety of dishes. From a quick weeknight meal to a sophisticated addition to a larger spread, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy your perfectly steamed, healthy, and delicious chicken!