As I scanned through my fridge one busy weeknight, the bright green of ginger caught my eye, igniting a spark of inspiration. At that moment, I realized I needed something quick but delicious, and that’s how my 20 Minute Chinese Steamed Chicken came to life! This dish not only captivates with its gentle hint of ginger and umami flavors but also transforms ordinary chicken thighs into a tender, juicy delight.
With its simple ingredients and effortless preparation, this meal is a lifesaver on those nights when the last thing you want to do is face the takeout menu again. In just 15 minutes of steaming, you can serve up a restaurant-quality dish that brings the flavors of Chinese cuisine right to your table. Perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself, this recipe is versatile enough to make any night special. Let’s dive into how to make this flavorful, wholesome meal that’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Why is 20 Minute Chinese Steamed Chicken a must-try?
Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of steaming, this dish is a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of ginger and rich sauces creates an umami-packed experience that elevates simple chicken thighs.
Healthier Choice: A lighter alternative to greasy takeout options, this recipe keeps health in mind without compromising on taste.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or sides, making it a flexible addition to your meal rotation.
Impressive Presentation: Serve it up garnished with green onions, and watch your guests marvel at your culinary skills!
20 Minute Chinese Steamed Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• 2 Chicken Thigh – juicy and flavorful, perfect for steaming.
• 2 tbsp Soy Sauce – adds a deep umami taste to the dish.
• 1 tbsp Oyster Sauce – enhances the savory profile of the chicken.
• 1 tsp White Pepper – gives a gentle kick without overwhelming flavors.
For the Seasoning
• ½ tbsp Sugar – balances the saltiness of the soy and oyster sauces.
• 1 tbsp Sesame Oil – infuses a nutty aroma that elevates the dish.
For the Aromatics
• 1 inch Ginger – sliced thinly, it imparts a refreshing zing that pairs beautifully with chicken.
• 2 tbsp Green Onion – chopped, for a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
Optional Ingredient
• 2 tbsp Chinese Cooking Wine – enhances depth of flavor but is not necessary for a delicious meal.
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be on your way to making the delightful 20 Minute Chinese Steamed Chicken that’s sure to impress!
How to Make 20 Minute Chinese Steamed Chicken
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Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, stir together the oyster sauce, soy sauce, white pepper, sesame oil, and sugar until well combined. This flavorful blend brings out the best in your chicken thighs.
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Prepare the Chicken: Arrange the chopped chicken thighs on a deep serving plate. This ensures they hold all the delicious juices that will accumulate during cooking.
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Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce generously over the chicken, making sure every piece is coated. If using, drizzle the Chinese cooking wine on top for an extra layer of flavor.
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Top with Ginger: Place the thinly sliced ginger evenly over the chicken pieces. The ginger adds a lovely aroma as it steams, complementing the savory notes beautifully.
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Steam the Chicken: Place the plate in a steamer and cover. Steam for 15 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked, becoming tender and infused with flavor.
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Garnish and Serve: Carefully remove the plate from the steamer, sprinkle with chopped green onions, and enjoy this delightful dish while it’s hot!
Optional: Serve with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
20 Minute Chinese Steamed Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make this dish uniquely yours!
- Gluten-Free: Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option without losing flavor.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh cilantro or basil before steaming for a fragrant herbal note that brightens the dish.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some sliced bell peppers or snap peas during the last few minutes of steaming for added color and crunch.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha to awaken your taste buds with heat.
- Citrus Zest: Mix in a teaspoon of lime or lemon juice to the sauce for a refreshing citrus essence that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Sweet & Savory: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the sauce to create a delicious sweet contrast to the salty flavors.
- Sautéed Upgrade: Try briefly sautéing the ginger in sesame oil before adding it to the chicken for a deeper flavor profile.
- Nutty Finish: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds after steaming for a delightful crunch and extra nuttiness.
Each variation allows you to create your own signature version of this beloved recipe!
Make Ahead Options
These 20 Minute Chinese Steamed Chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the sauce by mixing the oyster sauce, soy sauce, white pepper, sesame oil, and sugar up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. The chicken can also be chopped and marinated in the sauce for up to 3 days before steaming, ensuring that it remains juicy and flavorful. When you’re ready to serve, simply place the marinated chicken in the steamer with ginger, and cook for 15 minutes until tender. This way, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal ready with minimal effort!
What to Serve with 20 Minute Chinese Steamed Chicken?
Imagine a table filled with vibrant dishes that highlight the tender, juicy flavors of your chicken, making every bite a celebration of taste.
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Fluffy Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice soaks up the savory sauces, providing a soft bed for the rich chicken flavors. It’s an essential partner in this culinary delight.
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Stir-Fried Broccoli: Crisp and bright, this vegetable adds a refreshing crunch. The slight bitterness complements the umami chicken, creating a balanced plate.
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Cucumber Salad: A light salad with thinly sliced cucumbers and a tangy dressing offers a crisp contrast, enhancing the overall meal experience.
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Steamed Dumplings: Add a touch of fun and authenticity to your dinner. These pockets of flavor enrich the meal, pairing beautifully with the ginger notes from the chicken.
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Garlic Green Beans: Tender, sautéed green beans tossed in garlic provide a wonderful crunch and a pop of flavor, making every bite exciting.
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Chilled Chinese Noodles: These cold noodles with sesame dressing bring a subtle nuttiness and texture, serving as a cool counterpart to the warm chicken.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat rounds off your meal perfectly, combining sticky rice, coconut milk, and fresh mango to delight your palate after the savory dish.
Mixing these sides with your 20 Minute Chinese Steamed Chicken ensures a well-rounded meal that excites every sense!
Expert Tips for 20 Minute Chinese Steamed Chicken
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Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on thighs for more flavor. Trim excess fat but not too much to keep them juicy.
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Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure chicken pieces are laid out in a single layer. This allows even steaming and prevents rubbery textures.
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Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the soy and oyster sauces. A little more sugar adds sweetness, balancing the saltiness effectively.
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Use Fresh Ginger: Fresh ginger makes a remarkable difference in flavor compared to dried. Thin slices release more of that aromatic zing.
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Keep the Steaming Time Consistent: Oversteaming can lead to dry chicken. Stick to the 15-minute cook time for perfectly tender pieces of chicken.
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Serve Immediately: Enjoy your 20 Minute Chinese Steamed Chicken right away for the best taste and texture. It’s best served hot!
How to Store and Freeze 20 Minute Chinese Steamed Chicken
Fridge: Keep any leftover steamed chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures it stays fresh and ready for quick meals.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat the chicken in a steamer or microwave until it’s warmed through. This keeps the chicken tender and juicy, just like when you first made the 20 Minute Chinese Steamed Chicken.
Reminder: Always discard any chicken that has an off smell or unusual color to ensure safety.
20 Minute Chinese Steamed Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken thighs for steaming?
Absolutely! Look for chicken thighs that are plump, with a pinkish hue and minimal dark spots. Freshness is key here; avoid any packages that show signs of discoloration or that have an off odor. Bone-in, skin-on thighs provide flavor and moisture during cooking, which is perfect for steaming.
How should I store leftover 20 Minute Chinese Steamed Chicken?
To keep your leftovers fresh, place any uneaten chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. I often place a damp paper towel on top before sealing, which helps retain moisture. Make sure it’s well-sealed to prevent any strong fridge odors from affecting the flavor.
Can I freeze 20 Minute Chinese Steamed Chicken?
Yes, you can! For longer preservation, transfer the cooled chicken to an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Label it with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then gently reheat it in a steamer or microwave to keep it deliciously tender.
What if my chicken doesn’t seem cooked after steaming?
If your chicken doesn’t look fully cooked after 15 minutes, check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C). If it’s not there yet, cover it and steam for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. This ensures tender chicken without overcooking it. Always trust your instincts—better to be safe when it comes to poultry!
Is this recipe suitable for those with allergies?
Great question! This dish contains soy and oyster sauces, which can trigger allergies for some. You can substitute tamari or coconut aminos for the soy sauce to keep it gluten-free. If seafood allergies are a concern, omit the oyster sauce or look for a plant-based alternative. Always check the ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs!
What other flavors or vegetables can I add?
The more, the merrier! You can add bell peppers, bok choy, or shiitake mushrooms to the steaming plate for added flavor and nutrients. Just be sure these vegetables steam well together with the chicken. Additionally, you can experiment with different herbs or spices—try sprinkling some chopped cilantro for a fresh twist or adding a little chili for heat!
20 Minute Chinese Steamed Chicken That'll Wow Your Tastebuds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, stir together the oyster sauce, soy sauce, white pepper, sesame oil, and sugar until well combined.
- Arrange the chopped chicken thighs on a deep serving plate.
- Pour the prepared sauce generously over the chicken.
- Place the thinly sliced ginger evenly over the chicken pieces.
- Place the plate in a steamer and cover. Steam for 15 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Carefully remove the plate from the steamer, sprinkle with chopped green onions, and enjoy.