How to Make Steam Chicken with Teriyaki, Soy Sauce (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Steam Chicken with Teriyaki, Soy Sauce is a modern Singaporean favorite, blending classic steaming techniques with the savory-sweet punch of teriyaki and soy sauce. Found in trendy kopitiam stalls and fusion eateries across Singapore, this dish showcases the city’s global influences while staying rooted in local hawker tradition. The tender steamed chicken absorbs the umami-rich marinade, delivering a satisfying bite without the excess oil typical of fried dishes. Singapore’s food culture is renowned for its innovation, and this dish is a perfect example. While chicken is a staple protein, the use of teriyaki and soy sauce is inspired by the multicultural palate that defines Singaporean cuisine—melding Chinese, Malay, and Japanese flavors in a way that’s uniquely Singaporean. The dish is light, aromatic, and delicious, making it a hit at lunchtime gatherings and even as a nutritious breakfast option. Its health-conscious preparation appeals to calorie trackers and those seeking wholesome hawker fare. Enjoyed at both casual kopitiam breakfasts and modern food courts, Steam Chicken with Teriyaki, Soy Sauce is a great choice for anyone looking to experience Singapore’s dynamic food scene. The combination of steaming, fusion sauces, and high-quality local ingredients ensures every serving is both authentic and nourishing, perfect for busy Singaporeans and health-focused food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Prepare chicken by rinsing and patting dry
Prepare chicken by rinsing and patting dry. Slice into 2 serving portions.
Step 2 · Mix soy sauce
Mix soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and white pepper in a bowl.
Step 3 · Marinate chicken in the sauce mixture for at least 10 minutes
Marinate chicken in the sauce mixture for at least 10 minutes.
Step 4 · Place chicken and marinade into a heatproof plate
Place chicken and marinade into a heatproof plate. Add water to the steamer.
Step 5 · Steam chicken over medium heat for 15-18 minutes until fully cooked
Steam chicken over medium heat for 15-18 minutes until fully cooked.
Step 6 · If desired
If desired, thicken sauce by mixing cornstarch with a little water and pouring into the sauce. Steam for another 2 minutes.
Step 7 · Garnish with chopped spring onions before serving
Garnish with chopped spring onions before serving.
Why this recipe is healthy
This dish is healthy because it utilizes steaming—a method that preserves nutrients and minimizes fat. The combination of lean chicken, aromatic spices, and minimal oil makes it heart-friendly and ideal for weight management. Singaporeans seeking nutritious hawker options will appreciate its balanced macros and wholesome ingredients, making it a smart choice for daily meals.
A note on tradition
Steam Chicken with Teriyaki, Soy Sauce is a testament to Singapore’s fusion cuisine, commonly seen at kopitiam stalls blending global flavors with local techniques. The dish is popular for its lightness and quick preparation, aligning with busy Singaporean lifestyles. It’s an example of how Singapore’s hawker culture adapts traditional cooking methods to modern tastes, often enjoyed during lunchtime. The use of soy sauce and teriyaki reflects Singapore’s openness to culinary innovation.