This incredibly flavorful and healthy Steamed Herbal Chicken recipe is a testament to the magic of simple Thai cooking. Forget greasy fried dishes; this recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken infused with the fragrant aromas of lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. It's a light yet satisfying meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a refreshing summer lunch. The vibrant herbs create a complex and aromatic broth, making even the simplest side dishes feel elevated. This dish is also incredibly versatile; adjust the herbs to your liking, adding chilies for extra heat or substituting different greens for a unique twist.
Prepare to be amazed by how quickly and easily this impressive dish comes together. The delicate balance of flavors will tantalize your taste buds, and the healthy preparation method will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. For a complete guide to recreating this delicious Thai culinary experience at home, follow the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Steamer
- Bowl
- Mortar and pestle (optional)
Ingredients
- Chicken
- Herbs (e.g., lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves)
- Spices (e.g., peppercorns, coriander seeds)
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Salt
- Fish sauce
- Soy sauce
- Sugar
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Marinate
- Prepare the herbs and spices. Pound them to a paste if desired.
- Do the initial preparation of chicken.
- Marinate the chicken with the herb and spice mixture, salt, fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar.
Step 2. Steam the Chicken
- Steam the chicken until cooked through.
- Add water to the steamer as needed.
- Continue steaming.
- Check the chicken for doneness.
Step 3. Finish and Serve
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove from steamer.
- Serve the chicken.
- Additional steps for serving, garnishing or additional sauces.
Read more: Fresh Thai Steamed Fish: A Simple, Flavorful Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your preference.
- For a richer flavor, you can add some chicken broth to the steamer.
Nutrition
- Calories: 200-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbs: 5-10g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Can I use other herbs instead of the ones listed?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment. Ginger, cilantro, and Thai basil are all great substitutes or additions.
2. How long can I store leftover chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. What can I serve with this steamed chicken?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, rice noodles, or a simple green salad. You can also add it to a stir-fry.
This simple yet elegant Herbal Steamed Chicken recipe is a delicious and healthy addition to your culinary repertoire. The fragrant herbs and tender chicken create a truly satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the fresh flavors and the ease of preparation – happy cooking!