Chinese Steamed Chicken Recipe
Introduction
Chinese Steamed Chicken is a classic dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Steaming gently locks in natural juices, yielding tender, succulent chicken with subtle aromatics from ginger, scallion, and sesame. It’s both healthy and satisfying, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a standout at a festive meal.
Whether you’re in search of a lighter cooking technique or want to capture authentic Chinese flavors, this recipe is unfussy yet crowd-pleasing—letting the quality of the ingredients shine.
Why Chinese Steamed Chicken is a Must-Try
This dish stands out thanks to its simplicity and the clean flavors it showcases. Steamed chicken is moist and delicate, soaking up a savory splash of seasoned soy sauce, and accented with a tangle of fragrant ginger and scallion. You get a protein-rich, soul-soothing meal that pairs effortlessly with rice or steamed vegetables. Its straightforward process also makes cleanup a breeze.
Essential Prep for Steamed Chicken
Start with high-quality, bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for maximum flavor. A good bamboo or metal steamer fits easily into most kitchens, but even a plate inside a lidded pot works if you’re improvising. For prepping aromatics like ginger and scallions, a fast-chopping tool such as the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper saves time and ensures even slices.
Pat the chicken dry, then rub with a little salt and Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry; optional) for seasoning and extra tenderness.
The Steaming Process Step by Step
Arrange the chicken in a single layer on a heat-safe plate that fits inside your steamer. Scatter julienned ginger and chopped scallions over the top. For even steam circulation, line your steamer basket or plate with parchment, such as Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll. This makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking.
Steam for around 25–30 minutes, until the chicken registers at least 165°F in the thickest part. For peace of mind and perfect doneness, check temperature with a reliable tool like the ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking.
Serving Chinese Steamed Chicken
Right before serving, heat a little neutral oil until shimmering and pour over the chicken—this “scalds” the aromatics for heightened flavor. Drizzle with a simple sauce of light soy and a splash of sesame oil.
Shred chicken easily and elegantly with the Chicken Shredder Tool Twist for Kitchen, Elegant Black, if desired. Serve over fluffy rice and garnish with extra scallion curls. For a fresh, balanced meal, pack leftovers in a Bentgo Salad Container – 54 oz Bowl, Khaki Green for lunch the next day.
Nutritional Benefits and Portion Size
A serving of Chinese Steamed Chicken is well-balanced—lean protein, minimal oil, and fresh aromatics. Each portion (serving about 4) is around 200–250 calories (depending on whether skin is kept on). It’s rich in protein and low in saturated fat, making it a smart, satisfying option.
Chinese Steamed Chicken (Recap)
With just a handful of ingredients and a gentle cooking process, Chinese Steamed Chicken offers pure flavor and crave-worthy, juicy texture. Impress guests or nourish your family with this timeless favorite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pat chicken pieces with paper towels and place in a bowl. Rub with salt and Shaoxing wine. Let sit while preparing aromatics.
- Slice ginger and scallions using a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper (or by hand). Reserve half the scallion for garnish.
- Line a heat-safe plate or steaming tray with a piece of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll and arrange the chicken in a single layer. Scatter ginger and half the scallions on top.
- Place plate in the steamer. Cover and steam over simmering water for 25–30 minutes, until juices run clear and the ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking registers 165°F+ in the thickest part.
- Meanwhile, heat neutral oil in a small saucepan until shimmering (but not smoking).
- Transfer chicken to a serving platter. Scatter reserved scallions on top. Carefully pour hot oil over chicken to sizzle aromatics.
- Mix soy sauce and sesame oil, then drizzle over the chicken. Add pepper, chili, and cilantro as desired.
- Serve with fluffy rice and steamed greens. Optionally, shred chicken quickly using the Chicken Shredder Tool Twist for Kitchen, Elegant Black.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Enjoy this healthy, irresistible Chinese Steamed Chicken and savor authentic comfort with every bite!