Steamed Chicken Recipe: A Classic Hainanese Dish

Steam Chicken Recipe

Steamed chicken is a classic Chinese dish that is both healthy and delicious. The dish has been enjoyed in China for centuries and is now a popular dish worldwide. Steaming chicken is a great way to retain the nutrients and flavours of the meat, making it an ideal dish for those who are health-conscious. In this cooking guide, we will show you how to make a perfect steamed chicken recipe that is sure to impress your guests.

Steamed chicken recipe

Steamed Chicken Recipe
(Credit: Kent Ng/ Pexels)

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole chicken, preferably organic
  • 2 slices of fresh ginger
  • 3 stalks of scallions
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 2 tablespoons of light soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine
  • 1 teaspoon of sesame oil

You will also need:

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Cut the chicken into small pieces, removing any excess fat or skin.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine ginger, scallions, salt, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sesame oil to make the marinade.
  4. Place the chicken pieces in the marinade and mix well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
  5. While the chicken is marinating, prepare your steamer or large pot. If using a steamer, fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. If using a pot, fill it with water until it covers the chicken and bring it to a boil.
  6. Once the water is boiling, place the chicken pieces on a plate or heat proof dish that fits inside the steamer or pot.
  7. Place the plate or dish in the steamer or pot and cover it with a lid.
  8. Steam the chicken for 20 – 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. You can check for doneness by using a meat thermometer (available on Warehouse clearance sales) – the internal temperature should be at least 165°F (74°C).
  9. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the steamer or pot and place it on a serving plate.
  10. Serve the steamed chicken with rice or vegetables. Enjoy!

Tips for making the perfect steamed chicken recipe

To make delicious steamed chicken, start by choosing organic or free-range chicken as they tend to have better flavour and texture. Remove excess fat and skin before marinating the chicken and cut it into small pieces using a sharp knife for even cooking.

For the marinade, consider adding sliced garlic or chilli peppers for extra flavour. You can also try traditional Chinese-style ingredients like Chinese mushrooms, dried lily buds, and black fungus. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes and steam it with a tightly fitting lid to ensure even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the steamer basket or pot for best results. With these tips, you can make a mouthwatering steamed chicken that is bursting with flavour and perfectly cooked every time.

Craving for desserts after a delicious meal?

Now that you know how to make delicious and healthy steamed chicken, remember to end your meal on a sweet note with a delicious dessert. From classic favourites like ice cold slushies to healthier options like sweet lassi, there’s a dessert out there for everyone. So go ahead and indulge your sweet tooth and savour every bite.