Chinese Steamed Chicken Recipe: Delicious and Easy to Make!

If you're looking for a healthy and authentic Chinese dish, look no further than Chinese steamed chicken. This Cantonese dish is a staple in southern China and is easy to prepare with simple ingredients. The steaming process locks in the natural juices of the chicken, resulting in a tender and flavourful dish that is perfect for any occasion.

To make Chinese steamed chicken, you'll need a whole chicken, ginger, green onion, soy sauce, and oyster sauce. You can also add seafood such as shrimp or scallops for an extra burst of flavour. The preparation process involves cleaning and marinating the chicken before steaming it for around 20 minutes. Once cooked, the chicken is served with a savoury dipping sauce made from oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil.

Key Takeaways

• Chinese steamed chicken is a healthy and authentic Cantonese dish that is easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
• Seafood such as shrimp or scallops can be added for an extra burst of flavour.
• The steaming process locks in the natural juices of the chicken, resulting in a tender and flavourful dish that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients and Substitutions

When it comes to preparing Chinese steamed chicken, the ingredients used play a vital role in determining the flavour and texture of the dish. Here are the primary ingredients, sauce and seasonings, and optional additions that you will need to prepare this dish.

Primary Ingredients

The main ingredient in this recipe is a whole chicken. It is recommended to use a young organic chicken for this dish, as it is more tender and flavourful. You can also use chicken pieces, such as thighs or drumsticks, if you prefer.

Other primary ingredients include ginger and green onion. Ginger adds a fragrant and slightly spicy flavour to the chicken, while green onion enhances the overall taste and aroma of the dish.

Sauce and Seasonings

The sauce and seasonings used in this recipe are what give the dish its distinct flavour. Soy sauce and oyster sauce are the main seasonings used in this recipe. Soy sauce adds a salty and savoury flavour to the dish, while oyster sauce provides a sweet and umami taste.

Sesame oil is another important ingredient that adds a nutty flavour and aroma to the dish. It is recommended to use toasted sesame oil for a more authentic taste.

Optional Additions

While the above ingredients are essential for making Chinese steamed chicken, you can also add other ingredients to enhance the flavour of the dish. Shiitake mushrooms are a popular addition to this recipe, as they add a meaty texture and earthy flavour to the chicken.

You can also add other vegetables, such as bok choy or carrots, to the dish for added nutrition and flavour. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even add seafood to the recipe. Shrimp or scallops are great options that pair well with the chicken and sauce.

Overall, the ingredients used in this recipe are simple and easy to find. With a few simple substitutions and additions, you can create a unique and flavourful dish that is sure to impress your guests.

Preparation Guide

Preparing Chinese steamed chicken is a simple and straightforward process. Here's a guide to help you prepare this delicious dish.

Marinating the Chicken

Before steaming the chicken, marinate it for at least 30 minutes to an hour to allow the flavours to penetrate the meat. You can marinate the chicken with salt, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and other spices of your choice. Seafood can also be used to add flavour to the chicken. For example, you can use prawns or scallops to marinate the chicken.

Preparing the Steamer

You can use either a bamboo steamer or a stainless steel steamer to cook the chicken. If you're using a bamboo steamer, make sure to soak it in water for at least 30 minutes before use. This will prevent the steamer from burning during the cooking process.

Assembling the Dish

Clean the chicken and cut it into smaller pieces for even cooking. Place the chicken in the steamer and steam it for about 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces. You can check the chicken's doneness by piercing the chicken with a fork or knife. If the juice runs clear, the chicken is cooked.

Serve the steamed chicken hot with steamed rice, vegetables, and your favourite dipping sauce. The prep time for this dish is around 10 minutes, the cook time is around 25 minutes, and the total time is around 35 minutes.

In conclusion, preparing Chinese steamed chicken is a simple and easy process that requires minimal effort. With the right ingredients and equipment, you can enjoy this delicious dish in no time.

Steaming Process

When it comes to cooking Chinese steamed chicken, the steaming process is the most crucial step. Getting the right steaming technique, timing and temperature will ensure that your chicken is cooked to perfection, tender and juicy.

Steaming Techniques

There are two steaming techniques that you can use to cook your chicken: bone-in and boneless. The Chinese generally prefer to steam the chicken bone-in as the bones add some flavour to the gravy formed on the plate after steaming. However, boneless chicken thighs can also be used.

When steaming chicken, it is important to use a steamer that allows for proper absorption of the steam. Skinless chicken is recommended as it allows the steam to penetrate the meat more easily.

Timing and Temperature

The timing and temperature of the steaming process are also important factors to consider. A general rule of thumb is to steam the chicken for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the meat. The temperature of the steam should be around 100°C.

To ensure that the chicken is cooked through, you can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach a temperature of 75°C at the thickest part.

If you want to add seafood to your steamed chicken recipe, you can use prawns or scallops. Simply place them on top of the chicken before steaming. The seafood will cook in the steam and add a delicious flavour to the dish.

Overall, steaming is a simple and healthy way to cook chicken that results in a tender and juicy meat. With the right steaming technique, timing and temperature, you can create a delicious Chinese steamed chicken dish that will impress your family and friends.

Serving and Garnishing

After steaming the chicken, it's time to plate it and add some garnishes to make it look even more appetizing. Here are some tips on how to serve and garnish your Chinese steamed chicken.

Plating the Chicken

To plate the chicken, you can either leave it whole or cut it into smaller pieces. If you're cutting it, use a sharp knife to make clean cuts. Arrange the chicken on a large plate or platter, and pour any remaining gravy over the top.

Garnishes and Toppings

Garnishing your Chinese steamed chicken will not only add colour to the dish but also enhance the flavour. Here are some garnishes and toppings that you can use:

• Green onions: Slice some green onions and scatter them over the top of the chicken. They add a fresh, oniony flavour and a pop of colour.
• Dipping sauce: Serve your chicken with a dipping sauce on the side. You can use the same sauce you made earlier or try a different one, such as a sweet chilli sauce or a soy sauce-based sauce.
• Seafood: If you want to make your Chinese steamed chicken even more special, try adding some seafood to the dish. Shrimp, scallops, and crab meat are all great options. Simply steam them along with the chicken, and serve them on the side as a topping.

Remember, garnishes and toppings are not just for aesthetics; they can also add flavour and texture to your dish. So, be creative and experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect one for you.

Nutrition and Variations

Health Benefits

Chinese steamed chicken is a healthy and nutritious dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners. The dish is low in fat and calories, making it a great option for those who are watching their weight. Steaming the chicken also helps to retain its nutrients, making it a great source of protein and other essential vitamins and minerals.

To make the dish even healthier, you can use light soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. Light soy sauce has less sodium and is a healthier option for those who are trying to reduce their salt intake.

Recipe Variations

There are many variations of the Chinese steamed chicken recipe that you can try. You can add different vegetables and herbs to the dish to give it a unique flavour. For example, you can add mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and water chestnuts to the dish to give it a crunchy texture.

If you want to add some seafood to the dish, you can use prawns or scallops. These seafood options will give the dish a delicious flavour and will make it even more nutritious.

Another variation of the dish is to use different types of meat. You can use pork or beef instead of chicken, or you can use a combination of different meats. This will give the dish a unique flavour and will make it even more versatile.

Overall, the Chinese steamed chicken recipe is a healthy and delicious dish that you can enjoy any day of the week. With a few variations, you can make the dish even more nutritious and flavourful.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the simplest way to prepare Chinese steamed chicken?

Steaming is perhaps the simplest way to prepare Chinese steamed chicken. All you need is a steamer, a chicken, and some basic seasoning. It's a technique that's widely used in Chinese cuisine, and it's known for its simplicity, quick preparation, and consistently tender texture.

Can you share a traditional Cantonese steamed chicken recipe?

Sure, a traditional Cantonese steamed chicken recipe is called "bai qie ji" or "white cut chicken". It's a simple yet delicious recipe that's been passed down for generations. To make this recipe, you'll need a whole chicken, ginger, scallions, salt, and sesame oil. The chicken is first blanched in boiling water and then steamed until cooked through. The result is a juicy and flavourful chicken that's perfect for any occasion.

What's the secret to making tender Hainanese chicken?

The secret to making tender Hainanese chicken is to first poach the chicken in hot water and then immediately cool it down in ice water. This process helps to lock in the juices and keep the chicken moist and tender. The chicken is then steamed until cooked through and served with fragrant rice and dipping sauces.

How can I steam chicken if I don't have a steamer?

If you don't have a steamer, you can still steam chicken using a few simple methods. One way is to use a wok with a lid and a metal rack. Another way is to use a large pot with a lid and a metal colander or strainer. Just add some water to the bottom of the wok or pot, place the chicken on the rack or colander, cover with a lid, and steam until cooked through.

For how long should I steam a chicken breast?

The cooking time for steaming a chicken breast depends on the size and thickness of the chicken breast. As a general rule of thumb, a chicken breast that's about 6-8 ounces should be steamed for 10-12 minutes. However, it's always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Is steamed chicken really a healthier option?

Steamed chicken is often considered a healthier option than other cooking methods because it doesn't require any added fats or oils. It's also a great way to retain the natural flavours and nutrients of the chicken. However, it's important to note that the nutritional value of steamed chicken depends on the cut of the chicken and the seasoning used. As with any food, it's all about balance and moderation.

If you want to add some seafood to your Chinese steamed chicken recipe, you can try adding some shrimp or scallops. These seafood options will add some extra flavour and texture to your dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that the seafood is cooked through.