How To Cook Chicken In Steamer

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Introduction

Welcome to the world of steaming, a cooking method that is not only healthy but also incredibly convenient. If you’re looking for a fuss-free way to cook chicken, then steaming is the perfect technique for you. Steaming preserves the natural flavors and nutrients of the chicken, resulting in tender and juicy meat.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking chicken in a steamer. Whether you are a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, we have all the tips and tricks you need to achieve perfectly steamed chicken every time.

Steamed chicken is not just a healthy option; it is also a versatile ingredient that you can incorporate into a variety of dishes. From salads and sandwiches to stir-fries and soups, the possibilities are endless. So let’s dive in and learn how to cook chicken in a steamer!

Choosing the Right Chicken Cuts

When it comes to cooking chicken in a steamer, choosing the right cuts is essential. Different chicken cuts have different cooking times and textures, so it’s important to select the most suitable ones for steaming. Here are some popular chicken cuts that work well in a steamer:

1. Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: This is one of the most common choices for steaming. Chicken breasts cook relatively quickly and have a tender texture. They are versatile and can be used in various recipes.
2. Chicken Thighs: If you prefer a more flavorful and moist result, chicken thighs are a great option. They have a higher fat content compared to chicken breasts, which adds richness and juiciness to the cooked meat.
3. Chicken Drumsticks: Drumsticks are another cut that is perfect for steaming. They have a slightly higher cooking time due to the bone, but the result is succulent, fall-off-the-bone meat.

When selecting chicken cuts for steaming, make sure to choose fresh, high-quality chicken. Look for cuts that have a fresh pink color and no signs of discoloration or foul odor.

Additionally, consider the portion sizes when choosing your cuts. If you’re cooking for a smaller group, chicken breasts or thighs may be more suitable, while drumsticks are ideal for larger gatherings or when you want to have leftovers for future meals.

Preparing the Chicken

Before you start steaming the chicken, it’s necessary to properly prepare the meat to enhance its flavor and ensure even cooking. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Cleaning the Chicken: Start by rinsing the chicken cuts under cold running water. This helps remove any dirt or residue that may be present on the surface of the meat. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Marinating the Chicken (optional): Marinating the chicken can add extra flavor to the meat. You can choose to marinate the chicken in your preferred marinade for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Some popular marinade options include lemon and herb, teriyaki, or garlic and soy sauce. Ensure the chicken is fully coated in the marinade for maximum flavor.
3. Seasoning the Chicken: If you decide not to marinate the chicken, you can still season it with your preferred spices and seasonings. Common options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or any other herbs and spices that you enjoy.
4. Slicing or Butterflying the Chicken (optional): Depending on the recipe you are planning to make, you may need to slice or butterfly the chicken. This allows the steam to penetrate the meat more evenly and speeds up the cooking process. Follow the specific instructions of your recipe if this step is required.

After preparing the chicken, allow it to sit at room temperature for around 15 minutes. This helps the meat cook more evenly when it is placed in the steamer.

Remember to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water after handling raw chicken to avoid any cross-contamination.

Setting up the Steamer

Now that your chicken is prepared, it’s time to set up the steamer. Here’s how you can get your steamer ready:

1. Choose the Right Steamer: There are various types of steamers available, including bamboo steamers, electric steamers, and stovetop steamers. Choose the one that suits your needs and equipment availability.
2. Add Water to the Steamer: Fill the bottom part of the steamer with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The amount of water needed may vary depending on the size and type of steamer you are using. Avoid overfilling the steamer as it may cause water to splash onto the chicken.
3. Preheat the Steamer: Turn on the steamer and let it preheat. This ensures that the steam is generated quickly when the chicken is placed inside, reducing cooking time.
4. Line the Steamer Basket (optional): If desired, line the steamer basket with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent the chicken from sticking to the surface. This step is optional but can make it easier to remove the chicken later.

Make sure to follow the specific instructions provided with your steamer for optimal results. Each type of steamer may have slightly different setup requirements.

While the steamer is preheating, you can start preparing any accompanying vegetables or side dishes that you plan to serve with the steamed chicken.

Cooking the Chicken

With the steamer set up and preheated, it’s time to cook the chicken. Follow these steps to ensure perfectly cooked, moist, and flavorful chicken:

1. Place the Chicken in the Steamer: Carefully place the prepared chicken cuts in the steamer basket, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not overcrowded. This allows the steam to circulate freely around each piece of chicken.
2. Cover the Steamer: Put the lid on the steamer to create a sealed environment. This traps the steam and helps cook the chicken evenly.
3. Start the Steaming Process: Turn the heat to medium-high and let the chicken steam for the recommended cooking time. The cooking time will vary depending on the type and thickness of the chicken cuts. As a general guideline, boneless, skinless chicken breasts typically take about 10-15 minutes, while chicken thighs or drumsticks may take around 20-25 minutes.
4. Avoid Opening the Steamer: It’s best to resist the temptation to peek or open the steamer during the cooking process. Opening the steamer releases valuable steam and heat, which can increase the cooking time and compromise the overall result.

While the chicken is steaming, you can prepare any sauces or dressings you plan to serve with the chicken. Consider making a light soy-ginger sauce or a tangy lemon herb dressing to enhance the flavors even further.

Remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly for larger or thicker chicken cuts. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.

After the specified cooking time, turn off the heat and carefully remove the steamer basket from the steamer. Use caution as the steam can be hot. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.

When cooking chicken in a steamer, make sure to season the chicken with your favorite herbs and spices before placing it in the steamer. This will help infuse the chicken with flavor as it cooks.

Checking for Doneness

Checking for the doneness of the steamed chicken is crucial to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat. Here are a few methods you can use to check if the chicken is cooked through:

1. Visual Inspection: Take a close look at the chicken. The meat should no longer be pink in the center and the juices should run clear. If there are any traces of pink or bloody juices, continue steaming the chicken for a few more minutes.
2. Temperature Check: Using a meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the chicken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
3. Texture and Firmness: Gently press the chicken with a fork or your fingertips. If the chicken feels firm and springs back, it is likely cooked through. Avoid overcooking the chicken as it can result in dry and tough meat.

Remember that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness and type of chicken cuts you are using. It’s always better to be cautious and rely on visual cues and temperature measurements to ensure the chicken is properly cooked.

If you find that the chicken is not fully cooked yet, simply return it to the steamer and continue cooking for a few more minutes before rechecking for doneness.

Once the chicken is cooked through and reaches the desired doneness, it’s time to remove it from the steamer and get ready to serve!

Serving the Steamed Chicken

Now that your steamed chicken is perfectly cooked, it’s time to plate it up and enjoy the delicious flavors. Here are some tips on how to serve the steamed chicken:

1. Resting the Chicken: Allow the steamed chicken to rest for a few minutes after it is cooked. This helps the juices redistribute and results in moist and tender meat.
2. Slicing or Shredding: Depending on your preference and the recipe you are making, you can either slice the steamed chicken into thin strips or shred it into smaller pieces.
3. Pairing with Sauces or Dressings: Steamed chicken can be served as-is for a simple and healthy option. However, if you want to add extra flavor, consider pairing it with your favorite sauces or dressings. Some popular options include teriyaki sauce, lemon herb dressing, peanut sauce, or a zesty salsa.
4. Accompaniments: Steamed chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, quinoa, rice, or even on a bed of noodles. Consider adding a splash of lime juice or garnishing with fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.
5. Garnishing: To enhance the presentation and add an extra touch of flavor, garnish the steamed chicken with some chopped herbs, such as cilantro, parsley, or green onions.
6. Enjoying Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Steamed chicken can be used in a variety of dishes like wraps, sandwiches, stir-fries, or even added to soups for a quick and convenient meal.

Get creative with your serving options and experiment with different flavors and combinations to find your favorite way to enjoy the steamed chicken.

Remember to practice safe food handling and refrigerate any leftovers promptly to ensure food safety.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to help you further enhance your steamed chicken cooking experience:

1. Flavorful Marinades: Experiment with different marinades to add unique flavors to your steamed chicken. Try combinations of lemon and garlic, soy sauce and ginger, or honey and mustard. Marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight can take the flavor to the next level.
2. Herb and Spice Rubs: Instead of marinating, you can create a delicious herb and spice rub to coat the chicken before steaming. Combine your favorite herbs, such as oregano, thyme, and basil, along with spices like paprika, cumin, or chili powder.
3. Asian Flavors: For an Asian twist, steam the chicken with soy sauce, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Serve it alongside steamed bok choy or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
4. Citrus Infusion: Add a burst of freshness by steaming the chicken with citrus fruits like lemon, lime, or orange slices. The citrus flavors will infuse into the meat, resulting in a zesty and vibrant taste.
5. Vegetable Combination: To incorporate more vegetables into your meal, place a layer of sliced carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli florets on top of the chicken in the steamer. The vegetables will cook alongside the chicken and make it a complete and nutritious meal.
6. Adding Aromatics: Enhance the aroma of the steamed chicken by placing aromatic herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or bay leaves, in the water of the steamer. As the steam rises, it will carry the fragrant scents and impart them into the chicken.
7. Customize the Seasoning: Adapt the seasoning to your taste preferences. Add a bit of heat with crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of your favorite spice blend to give the chicken a unique twist.

These tips and variations are meant to inspire you to get creative with your steamed chicken recipes. Don’t be afraid to explore different flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques to make your steamed chicken dishes truly your own.

Remember, cooking is all about experimentation and finding what works best for your taste buds!

Conclusion

Steaming chicken is a fantastic cooking method that results in tender, moist, and flavorful meat. Not only is it a healthier option compared to frying or grilling, but it also allows the natural flavors of the chicken to shine through. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily master the art of cooking chicken in a steamer.

We started with choosing the right chicken cuts, ensuring they are fresh and of high quality. Then, we walked through the process of preparing the chicken, from cleaning and marinating to seasoning and slicing. Setting up the steamer correctly is crucial for optimal results, and we provided tips on adding water, preheating, and lining the steamer basket if desired.

Cooking the chicken involved placing it in the steamer, covering it, and allowing it to steam for the recommended cooking time. We emphasized the importance of not opening the steamer during the process to maintain the steam’s integrity and even cooking.

Checking for doneness is essential to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked. We discussed visual cues, temperature checks, and testing the texture and firmness of the meat. Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to serve it creatively. We explored various serving options, including pairing it with sauces or dressings, choosing complementary side dishes, and garnishing for an extra visual and flavor appeal.

To further enhance your experience, we provided tips and variations, encouraging you to experiment with marinades, herb and spice rubs, Asian flavors, citrus infusions, vegetable combinations, and customized seasonings. All of these suggestions help you personalize your steamed chicken dishes according to your preferences.

Now that you have the knowledge and techniques, it’s time to embark on your steaming culinary journey. Use your creativity, explore different flavors, and enjoy the wholesome and tasty results of steaming chicken.

Remember, cooking is an art, and your kitchen is your canvas. Have fun, savor every bite, and delight in the joy of preparing delicious and nutritious meals with steamed chicken!