Seeking a healthy and flavorful weeknight meal? Look no further than this delightful recipe for fragrant steamed chicken with squash. This dish is a perfect balance of tender, succulent chicken and sweet, subtly earthy squash, all achieved with a simple steaming method that preserves the natural goodness of the ingredients. The minimal oil and reliance on aromatic herbs and spices create a light yet satisfying experience, ideal for those watching their calorie intake or simply seeking a wholesome, nourishing dinner. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adapt the spices and herbs to your liking.
Ready to experience the ease and deliciousness of this steamed chicken and squash? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions that will guide you through creating this healthy and flavorful masterpiece. You'll be surprised at how quickly this comes together, leaving you with more time to enjoy your delicious and nutritious meal.
Tools Needed
- Steamer
Ingredients
- Chicken: Half a bird (small family), whole chicken (large family)
- Squash
- Mushrooms
- Sweet corn
- Onion
- Green onions
- Vietnamese coriander
- Ginger: 1 piece
- Chili
- Salt
- Seasoning powder
- MSG
- Pepper powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Chicken
- Cut the squash into bite-sized pieces.
- clean, wash, and slice them.
- Prepare the chicken. If using a whole chicken, it will take longer to cook but will be sweeter.
- Marinate the chicken with salt, seasoning powder, MSG, ginger, onion, and chili. Marinate inside and out.
Step 2. Steam the Chicken and Squash
- Place the chicken in the steamer.
- Steam the chicken with the squash and other vegetables, adding a little water if needed.
- Steam until the chicken is almost cooked, then add the remaining squash and vegetables.
- Steam for another 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked.
Step 3. Finishing Touches
- Garnish with green onions and Vietnamese coriander.
Read more: Vietnamese Chicken Stew (Ca Ri Ga): A Flavorful Comfort Dish
Tips
- Add green onions, Vietnamese coriander, and onions to sweeten the broth.
- Add ginger to mask the fishy smell of the chicken.
- Add chili for spiciness.
- Don't add too much squash at once to prevent it from being crushed and releasing too much water.
- Add more pepper powder if desired.
Nutrition
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbs: 15-25g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of squash?
Yes! Butternut, acorn, and kabocha squash all work well. Just adjust cooking time depending on the squash's density.
2. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The chicken is cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and squash ahead and steam them just before serving. Store prepared ingredients in the refrigerator.
This fragrant steamed chicken with squash recipe offers a healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly quick meal perfect for any night of the week. The simple technique allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine, creating a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make recipe!