Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! Steamed chicken breast is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. This easy recipe delivers moist, tender chicken that’s packed with protein and flavor, making it an ideal choice for healthy meals and a fantastic base for countless dishes. Forget dry, flavorless chicken – this method ensures a succulent result every time. It’s one of those best recipes that’s surprisingly simple, yet incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them steam evenly and develop a nice texture.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If using fresh herbs, chop them finely and add them to the mixture. Rub this seasoning blend generously all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are coated evenly.
Step 3: Steam the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a heatproof dish or steamer basket. Pour the water or chicken broth into the bottom of the pan or steamer. The liquid should not touch the chicken. Cover the pan tightly with a lid.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Steam the chicken over medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the steamer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in extra tender and juicy chicken. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Steamed Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the steamer: Make sure there's enough space between the chicken breasts to allow for even steaming.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect flavor combination.
Variations:
- Citrus zest: Add some lemon or orange zest to the seasoning for an extra burst of flavor.
- Spicy chicken: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Asian-inspired chicken: Use soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for an Asian-inspired flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 165-190
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 0-1g
This easy recipe for steamed chicken breast provides a delicious and healthy meal option perfect for quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking. It’s versatile, adaptable to different tastes, and a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and best recipes. Enjoy!