In the heart of bustling markets, the scent of savory oyster sauce mingles with the earthy aroma of rehydrated shiitake mushrooms, instantly transporting me to a corner of Cantonese cuisine. Today, I’m sharing my take on Easy Chinese Steamed Chicken—a dish that not only boasts a delightful flavor profile but also comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights, this recipe is not only quick but also a healthy option, with high protein and low-carb benefits that make it a guilt-free indulgence. Imagine tender chicken thighs, marinated and steamed to perfection, then served alongside fluffy rice and vibrant green onions; it’s a hug in a bowl. Ready to impress your taste buds and your family with this comforting dish? Let’s dive in!
Why is this recipe a weeknight winner?
Simplicity: With just a few steps, you can create a mouthwatering meal that feels gourmet without the fuss.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory oyster sauce and earthy shiitake mushrooms creates a deliciously complex taste.
Quick Cooking: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when time is tight.
Guilt-Free Enjoyment: Packed with protein and low in carbs, it fits seamlessly into a healthy lifestyle.
Versatility: You can easily swap ingredients like the Chinese sausage and mushrooms, tailoring it to your family’s preferences.
Once you’ve mastered this dish, you might find yourself craving more tasty options like my Korean Fire Chicken or my quick and easy Lazy Chicken Parmesan.
Chinese Steamed Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken thighs (boneless) – Main protein source providing tenderness and flavor; substitute with boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- Cornstarch – Used for velveting the chicken, ensuring tenderness; no substitutes needed in this context.
For the Flavor
- Soy sauce – Provides saltiness and depth; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Oyster sauce – Adds sweet and savory notes to the marinade; can be replaced with hoisin sauce for a vegetarian variant.
- Chinese rice wine (miju) – Enhances aroma; substitute with dry sherry if necessary.
- Sesame oil – Contributes richness and nuttiness; avoid for a lighter dish.
For the Extras
- Dried shiitake mushrooms – Adds umami flavor and chewy texture; use fresh shiitake mushrooms if preferred but adjust cooking time.
- Chinese sausage (Lap Cheong) – Introduces a hint of sweetness and fat; substitute with regular sausage or bacon if unavailable.
- Green onions – Adds freshness and slight crunch; both the green and white parts are used to enhance flavor and garnish.
For Cooking
- Oil – Aids in moisture and flavor; can be omitted to reduce fat.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Chinese Steamed Chicken
Step 1: Reconstitute Shiitake Mushrooms
Start by soaking the dried shiitake mushrooms in boiling water for 20 to 30 minutes. To ensure they remain submerged, place a small plate on top of them. Once softened, they will have a robust umami flavor, perfect for enhancing your Chinese Steamed Chicken.
Step 2: Prep Vegetables
While the mushrooms soak, finely chop the green onions, separating the white parts from the green tops. Set them aside for later use—this will enhance flavor during cooking and add a lovely garnish. The white parts will infuse more flavor into the chicken.
Step 3: Prepare Chicken
Slice the boneless chicken thighs into ½-inch thick pieces. In a mixing bowl, marinate the chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, Chinese rice wine, and sesame oil, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb all the savory flavors that make this Easy Chinese Steamed Chicken shine.
Step 4: Slice Ingredients
Once the mushrooms have rehydrated, remove their stems and slice them into thin pieces. Take the Chinese sausage and slice it diagonally into bite-sized pieces. These ingredients will cook beautifully along with the chicken, adding delightful texture and flavor to the dish.
Step 5: Prepare Steamer
Fill a steamer or a pot with 2-3 inches of water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. This is crucial, as a good steam will ensure the chicken cooks evenly and remains tender, enhancing the succulent qualities of the Easy Chinese Steamed Chicken.
Step 6: Mix & Coat
Incorporate the cornstarch and a drizzle of oil into the marinated chicken. Mix well until all pieces are evenly coated. Now, fold in the sliced shiitake mushrooms, Chinese sausage, and whites of the green onions, creating a flavorful mixture ready for steaming.
Step 7: Steam
Arrange the chicken and vegetable mixture in a single layer on a heatproof plate. Carefully place the plate in the steamer and cover it with a lid. Steam for about 10 minutes, checking that the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. This ensures that your Easy Chinese Steamed Chicken turns out perfectly tender.
Step 8: Serve
Once cooked, carefully remove the plate from the steamer. Serve the Easy Chinese Steamed Chicken hot, alongside steaming bowls of rice, and garnish with the green tops of the onions for an inviting and colorful presentation. This meal will surely become a family favorite!
Storage Tips for Chinese Steamed Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a steamer or microwave with a splash of water to prevent drying out. Aim for steaming for about 5 minutes or until heated through.
Check for Quality: Always check the chicken for any off smells or discoloration; if in doubt, it’s safer to discard. Enjoy your flavorful Chinese steamed chicken!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Chinese Steamed Chicken options are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken thighs in the savory mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply. Additionally, the shiitake mushrooms can be soaked and sliced ahead of time—just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply mix the marinated chicken with the mushrooms and other ingredients, and steam it for about 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. This way, you’ll enjoy a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort—just steam, serve, and savor!
What to Serve with Easy Chinese Steamed Chicken
If you’re ready to elevate your meal experience, consider these delightful pairings that will complement the savory notes of steamed chicken.
- Fluffy Steamed Rice: The perfect base, fluffy rice soaks up the savory sauce, balancing flavors beautifully and satisfying your appetite.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds crunch and vibrant freshness to every bite.
- Chili Garlic Sauce: For a kick of heat, drizzle this flavorful sauce over your plate to enhance the umami profile of the dish.
Experience a delightful contrast in textures with each bite. The tender chicken paired with vibrant, crunchy vegetables creates layers of flavor that excite the palate.
- Sesame Cucumbers: Refreshing and slightly tangy, these chilled cucumbers cleanse the palate and are a refreshing counterpoint to the rich dish.
- Hot & Sour Soup: A steaming bowl adds warmth and complexity to the meal, enriching the dining experience with contrasting flavors.
- Jasmine Tea: This fragrant tea complements the meal, enhancing the Asian culinary experience while soothing the senses with each sip.
Treat yourself to a well-rounded feast that fills the heart and warms the soul. Enjoy each delicious pairing with your Easy Chinese Steamed Chicken!
Expert Tips for Chinese Steamed Chicken
Marination Magic: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for several hours or overnight. This allows the soy and oyster sauces to deeply penetrate the meat.
Steaming Technique: Ensure the plate sits above the boiling water; using a trivet or chopsticks keeps the chicken from direct contact with water, which can ruin texture.
Perfect Timing: Avoid overcooking the chicken. Steam just until cooked through; check for doneness to maintain that juicy texture in your Chinese steamed chicken.
Add Veggies: Feel free to toss in additional vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, cut small to ensure they cook evenly alongside the chicken.
Cornstarch Coating: Mixing cornstarch with the chicken before steaming helps create a velvety texture, elevating your dish to restaurant-quality!
Chinese Steamed Chicken Variations
Feel free to play with flavors and textures in this delightful recipe to suit your taste buds.
- Dairy-Free: Simply omit any dairy-based sauces and rely on the rich flavors of the oyster and soy sauces.
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the saltiness while keeping that delicious umami flavor intact.
- Gluten-Free: Swap regular soy sauce for gluten-free tamari, maintaining the dish’s vibrant character without gluten.
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with firm tofu, marinating it the same way to absorb all those wonderful flavors—you won’t miss the meat!
- Spice it Up: Add sliced jalapeños or drizzle in some chili oil before steaming for a tasty heat boost that’ll tickle your palate.
- Additional Veggies: Toss in some snap peas or bok choy for some vibrant crunch and additional nutrients, making your dish even more colorful!
- Flavored Rice: Instead of plain rice, cook it in chicken or vegetable broth for an aromatic side dish that complements the main event beautifully.
- Sautéed Greens: Serve with a side of stir-fried bok choy or spinach drizzled with sesame oil for an extra layer of texture and flavor—delicious and nourishing!
Once you dive into these variations, you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy this dish. If you want to explore more flavors, check out my Thai Basil Chicken or indulge in my equally delicious Chicken Chimichangas Perfectly.
Easy Chinese Steamed Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the chicken, look for boneless thighs that are pink and firm to the touch, showing no signs of discoloration. When selecting dried shiitake mushrooms, ensure they are clean and free of any dark spots or mold. If you opt for fresh mushrooms, choose those that are firm and have a pleasing aroma.
How should I store leftover Chinese steamed chicken?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before sealing, ensure the chicken has cooled completely; this helps maintain its moisture. If you’d like to keep it longer, place the chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze Chinese steamed chicken? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the chicken to cool down completely. Then, place it in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Squeeze out any excess air and label it with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy your dish again, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in a steamer or microwave with a splash of water for optimal moisture.
What if the chicken turns out dry or overcooked?
Very common! To avoid dry chicken, ensure you steam it just until cooked through—about 10 minutes is adequate for this recipe. If it does become overcooked, try slicing it thinly and serving it with a generous drizzle of oyster sauce or broth to add moisture. Adding sliced veggies can also help to retain more moisture in the dish.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Certainly! If you have gluten sensitivities, opt for tamari instead of regular soy sauce. This recipe can also cater to various dietary needs by swapping the Chinese sausage with lean turkey sausage or omitting it entirely. Always double-check for any allergies, particularly to soy or mushrooms, to ensure a safe dining experience for everyone at the table.
Can my pet have any of the ingredients?
It’s best to avoid giving pets foods that contain soy sauce, oyster sauce, or sesame oil, as they can be harmful or difficult for them to digest. Always consult your vet before offering any human food to your furry family members.
Savory Chinese Steamed Chicken That Melts in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak the dried shiitake mushrooms in boiling water for 20 to 30 minutes, placing a small plate on top to keep them submerged.
- While the mushrooms soak, finely chop the green onions, separating the white parts from the green tops.
- Slice the boneless chicken thighs into ½-inch thick pieces and marinate with soy sauce, oyster sauce, Chinese rice wine, and sesame oil for at least 30 minutes.
- Remove stems from the mushrooms and slice them thinly. Slice the Chinese sausage diagonally into bite-sized pieces.
- Fill a steamer or pot with 2-3 inches of water and bring to a rolling boil.
- Mix cornstarch and oil with the marinated chicken, then fold in shiitake mushrooms, Chinese sausage, and whites of green onions.
- Arrange the chicken and vegetable mixture in a single layer on a heatproof plate and steam for about 10 minutes.
- Once cooked, remove the plate and serve hot with rice, garnished with green tops of the onions.