Easy Steamed Chicken With Mushrooms: A Healthy, Flavorful Recipe Guide

Steam chicken with mushrooms is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with earthy mushrooms, creating a healthy and aromatic meal. This recipe typically involves marinating chicken pieces with basic seasonings like soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, then steaming them to lock in moisture and enhance natural flavors. Fresh mushrooms, such as shiitake or button, are added to complement the chicken, infusing the dish with a rich, umami taste. The steaming method ensures the dish remains light and nutritious, making it an ideal choice for a quick, wholesome dinner. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks looking to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal.

Explore related products

Millie's Chickens

$9.99

The Chicken Bible: Say Goodbye to Boring Chicken with 500 Recipes for Easy Dinners, Braises, Wings, Stir-Fries, and So Much More

$22.73 $40

The Steam Oven Cookbook

$29.95

Fifty Shades of Chicken: A Parody in a Cookbook

$8.9 $19.99

Easy Chicken Cookbook: 75 Simple Meals for Every Day

$14.99 $14.99

Steamer Cookbook: Plunge Into A Healthy Eating Style with Steamer Recipes

$14.95

Ingredients: Chicken, mushrooms, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, cornstarch

Steaming chicken with mushrooms is a delicate process that hinges on the interplay of flavors and textures. The chicken, preferably bone-in thighs or drumsticks, retains moisture during steaming, ensuring tenderness. Mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster varieties, add earthy depth and absorb the savory marinade. Together, they form a protein-rich base that’s both light and satisfying. The key lies in marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes—longer if time permits—to allow the soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sesame oil to penetrate the meat. This step is non-negotiable for achieving a dish that’s flavorful without being heavy.

The aromatics—ginger and garlic—are the unsung heroes of this dish. Finely minced ginger (about 1 tablespoon) and garlic (2-3 cloves) create a fragrant foundation that cuts through the richness of the chicken and mushrooms. Their sharpness is tempered by the steaming process, resulting in a subtle yet unmistakable presence. A practical tip: crush the ginger slightly before mincing to release its oils, enhancing its impact. These ingredients aren’t just flavor enhancers; they also contribute to the dish’s overall balance, ensuring no single element dominates.

Soy sauce and Shaoxing wine form the backbone of the marinade, but their proportions matter. A ratio of 3 parts soy sauce to 1 part Shaoxing wine (e.g., 3 tablespoons soy sauce to 1 tablespoon wine) strikes the right balance between saltiness and umami. Sesame oil, added sparingly (1 teaspoon), provides a nutty finish without overwhelming the dish. For those wary of alcohol, dry sherry or even chicken broth can substitute for Shaoxing wine, though the latter will alter the flavor profile slightly. The goal is to create a marinade that’s bold enough to stand up to steaming yet harmonious enough to let the ingredients shine.

Cornstarch, often overlooked, plays a crucial role in this recipe. A light dusting (about 1 teaspoon) over the chicken before steaming helps lock in juices and creates a silky texture. However, too much can make the dish gummy, so use it judiciously. Alternatively, mix the cornstarch with a splash of water and add it to the marinade for a smoother consistency. This technique is particularly useful if you prefer a slightly thickened sauce to coat the chicken and mushrooms. The result is a dish that’s not just steamed but elevated, with every ingredient contributing to a cohesive, satisfying whole.

Finally, the steaming technique itself demands attention. Use a steaming rack or a heatproof plate to elevate the chicken and mushrooms, ensuring even cooking. Steam for 15-20 minutes on medium-high heat, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Oversteaming can make the chicken rubbery, while understeaming leaves it undercooked. Once done, drizzle with a few drops of sesame oil and garnish with chopped scallions for a fresh finish. This method preserves the ingredients’ natural flavors while creating a dish that’s both comforting and refined.

Preparation: Clean chicken, slice mushrooms, mince ginger/garlic, mix marinade, prepare steamer

The foundation of any great steamed chicken with mushrooms lies in its preparation. Start by cleaning the chicken thoroughly, ensuring every nook and cranny is free from impurities. Rinse it under cold water, pat it dry with paper towels, and consider trimming excess fat for a leaner dish. This step is crucial not just for hygiene but also for allowing the marinade to penetrate effectively, ensuring a flavorful result.

Mushrooms, the co-star of this dish, require careful slicing. Aim for uniformity—thin, even slices of shiitake or button mushrooms will cook consistently and present beautifully. Too thick, and they’ll remain undercooked; too thin, and they’ll disintegrate. A sharp knife and steady hand are your best tools here. Remember, the texture of the mushrooms can elevate or undermine the dish, so precision matters.

Ginger and garlic, the aromatic powerhouses, should be minced finely to release their full potential. Use a 1:1 ratio of ginger to garlic—about 1 tablespoon each for a whole chicken—to balance their bold flavors. Mince them separately to control their texture, as ginger’s fibrous nature requires more effort to break down. This step isn’t just about flavor; it’s about creating a marinade that clings to the chicken, infusing it with depth.

The marinade is where science meets art. Combine soy sauce, Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry), sesame oil, and a pinch of sugar in a bowl. The soy sauce provides saltiness, the wine adds complexity, and the sesame oil lends a nutty aroma. Adjust the quantities based on your chicken’s size—a 1.5 kg chicken typically requires 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons wine, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Mix vigorously to emulsify, ensuring every ingredient is fully integrated.

Finally, prepare your steamer by lining it with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking. Fill the steamer pot with water, ensuring it doesn’t touch the steaming rack, and bring it to a rolling boil. This setup creates a humid environment that cooks the chicken gently, preserving its juiciness. A well-prepared steamer is the unsung hero of this dish, turning raw ingredients into a tender, aromatic masterpiece.

Marinating: Coat chicken with marinade, let sit for 30 minutes to enhance flavor

Marinating is a transformative step in the process of making steamed chicken with mushrooms, one that bridges the gap between raw ingredients and a dish bursting with flavor. By coating the chicken in a carefully crafted marinade and letting it sit for 30 minutes, you allow the ingredients to penetrate the meat, tenderizing it and infusing it with depth. This simple yet crucial step elevates the dish from ordinary to exceptional, ensuring that every bite is moist, flavorful, and memorable.

Consider the marinade as the foundation of your dish—a blend of ingredients that not only season but also tenderize the chicken. A classic marinade for steamed chicken often includes soy sauce for umami, ginger for warmth, garlic for pungency, and a touch of sugar for balance. For a lighter profile, rice wine or Shaoxing wine adds complexity without overpowering the natural flavors of the chicken. The key is to strike a balance: too much soy sauce can make the dish salty, while too little ginger may leave it flat. Aim for a ratio of 2 parts soy sauce to 1 part wine, with equal amounts of minced ginger and garlic. Apply this mixture generously, ensuring every piece of chicken is well-coated, and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. This allows the enzymes in the marinade to break down the proteins, resulting in a tender texture.

While 30 minutes is the minimum recommended time, patience yields even greater rewards. If your schedule allows, marinate the chicken for 1–2 hours in the refrigerator. This extended period deepens the flavor penetration, though be cautious not to exceed 4 hours, as the acidity from ingredients like wine or vinegar can begin to "cook" the chicken, altering its texture. For those short on time, even a quick 15-minute marinade is better than none, though the flavor impact will be less pronounced. Always discard any leftover marinade that has come into contact with raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination.

The marinating process is not just about flavor—it’s also about intention. It forces you to slow down and engage with the ingredients, a practice rooted in traditional cooking methods. This step is particularly vital in steaming, a gentle cooking technique that preserves the chicken’s natural juices. Without a robust marinade, the dish risks falling flat, lacking the complexity that distinguishes it from boiled or poached alternatives. Think of marinating as the silent hero of your recipe, working behind the scenes to ensure the final dish is harmonious and satisfying.

Incorporating mushrooms into this process adds another layer of strategy. While the chicken marinates, prepare the mushrooms separately to avoid diluting their earthy flavor. Shiitake or oyster mushrooms pair beautifully with the savory marinade, but they benefit from a brief soak or sauté to enhance their texture. Once the chicken has marinated, arrange it in the steamer with the mushrooms, allowing the flavors to meld as they cook. The result is a dish where every element—chicken, marinade, and mushrooms—complements the other, creating a symphony of taste and aroma. Master this step, and you’ll find that marinating is not just a technique but an art.

Explore related products

50 Ways to Eat Cock: Healthy Chicken Recipes with Balls!

$13.14 $14.95

The Fresh Eggs Daily Cookbook: Over 100 Fabulous Recipes to Use Eggs in Unexpected Ways – The Perfect Gift for Egg Lovers, Backyard Chicken Keepers, and Breakfast and Brunch Enthusiasts

$12.2 $29.99

Sheet Pan Chicken: 50 Simple and Satisfying Ways to Cook Dinner [A Cookbook]

$17.22 $18.99

The Steam Oven Cookbook Volume 2

$29.95

The Chicken Soup Manifesto: Recipes from around the world

$18.32 $29.99

Food52 Dynamite Chicken: 60 Never-Boring Recipes for Your Favorite Bird [A Cookbook] (Food52 Works)

$9.11 $22.99

Steaming: Place chicken and mushrooms in steamer, cook for 20-25 minutes

Steaming is a gentle cooking method that preserves the natural flavors and nutrients of ingredients, making it ideal for dishes like steamed chicken with mushrooms. This technique involves placing the chicken and mushrooms in a steamer basket over simmering water, allowing them to cook slowly in their own juices. The process takes 20-25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken pieces. For best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, as they cook evenly and absorb the earthy flavors of the mushrooms. Ensure the steamer basket is elevated above the water to prevent any liquid from seeping into the dish, which could dilute its delicate taste.

The timing of 20-25 minutes is crucial for achieving perfectly cooked chicken that remains tender and juicy. Oversteaming can lead to dry, rubbery meat, while undercooking poses food safety risks. To ensure even cooking, arrange the chicken and mushrooms in a single layer, leaving a bit of space between pieces to allow steam to circulate. If using larger chicken pieces, consider slicing them into thinner portions to reduce cooking time and promote uniform doneness. A reliable kitchen timer is your best tool here, as it eliminates guesswork and ensures consistency.

One of the advantages of steaming is its simplicity, requiring minimal hands-on time. While the chicken and mushrooms cook, you can prepare a light sauce or side dish to complement the meal. For instance, a drizzle of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of green onions can elevate the dish without overpowering its natural flavors. Steaming also makes cleanup a breeze, as there’s no oil splatter or stuck-on residue to scrub away. This method is particularly appealing for health-conscious cooks or those seeking a fuss-free cooking experience.

Comparing steaming to other cooking methods, such as frying or baking, highlights its unique benefits. Unlike frying, steaming avoids added fats, making it a healthier option. Baking, while also hands-off, often requires preheating and longer cooking times. Steaming strikes a balance by being quick, nutritious, and gentle on ingredients. It’s especially well-suited for delicate proteins like chicken and moisture-rich vegetables like mushrooms, which can lose their texture when subjected to high heat. By mastering this technique, you unlock a versatile cooking method that enhances both flavor and nutrition.

Finally, a practical tip to enhance your steaming experience is to marinate the chicken briefly before cooking. A simple mixture of ginger, garlic, and soy sauce can infuse the meat with depth and complexity. Additionally, choose mushrooms with robust flavors, such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms, to create a more dynamic dish. Once steamed, serve the chicken and mushrooms immediately to enjoy their optimal texture and warmth. With its precision and ease, steaming transforms humble ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal, proving that sometimes the simplest methods yield the most satisfying results.

Serving: Garnish with green onions, drizzle with sesame oil, serve hot with rice

A well-executed garnish can elevate a dish from ordinary to extraordinary, and steamed chicken with mushrooms is no exception. The final touches of green onions and sesame oil not only enhance the visual appeal but also add layers of flavor that complement the dish’s simplicity. Chop 2-3 green onions diagonally into 1-inch pieces, ensuring they’re thin enough to wilt slightly from the dish’s residual heat but retain their crisp texture. Sprinkle them evenly over the chicken and mushrooms just before serving to preserve their vibrant color and freshness. This garnish introduces a mild onion sharpness that balances the earthiness of the mushrooms and the subtlety of the steamed chicken.

Sesame oil, a staple in Asian cuisine, is a potent ingredient that should be used sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish. Drizzle 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil over the finished plate, allowing it to pool slightly around the edges. The oil’s nutty aroma and rich flavor will permeate the dish without dominating it, creating a harmonious blend. For best results, use a small spoon or a squeeze bottle to control the amount and distribution. Apply the oil after the green onions to ensure it doesn’t soak into the dish prematurely, which could mute its impact.

Serving the dish hot is non-negotiable, as temperature plays a critical role in both texture and taste. Steamed chicken can quickly lose its tender juiciness if left to cool, while mushrooms may become rubbery. Transfer the dish from the steamer to the serving plate immediately, ensuring minimal exposure to air. Pairing it with rice isn’t just tradition—it’s strategy. The neutral, starchy base of steamed rice absorbs the savory juices from the chicken and mushrooms, creating a cohesive bite. Use jasmine or long-grain white rice for a light, fluffy texture that doesn’t compete with the main dish.

Practicality meets presentation when serving this dish. Preheat the serving plate to keep the food hot longer, especially in cooler environments. If preparing for guests, time the steaming process so the dish arrives at the table within 1-2 minutes of completion. For a family-style meal, place the chicken and mushrooms in a shallow bowl to retain heat and allow easy access for scooping onto rice. Remember, the goal is to serve a dish that’s as inviting to the senses as it is satisfying to the palate.

Finally, consider the sensory experience as a whole. The sizzle of sesame oil meeting hot chicken, the pop of green from the onions, and the steam rising from the rice all contribute to a dining moment that feels intentional and thoughtful. This isn't just about following steps—it’s about crafting an experience. By focusing on these serving details, you transform a simple steamed dish into a meal that feels both comforting and refined, proving that sometimes, the smallest touches make the biggest difference.

Frequently asked questions