How to Make Steamed Chicken Thigh with Teriyaki Sauce (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Steamed Chicken Thigh with Teriyaki Sauce is a modern Singaporean fusion dish, blending the tender juiciness of steamed chicken with a flavorful teriyaki glaze. In Singapore’s vibrant hawker culture, steamed chicken is a staple at kopitiams, often served with rice or noodles. This recipe adapts the traditional steamed chicken approach, infusing it with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce that pays homage to Singapore’s global culinary influences. The dish is light yet satisfying, perfect for health-conscious foodies looking for an authentic yet innovative meal. The steaming method keeps the chicken moist, while the teriyaki sauce brings a delightful umami kick, making it popular among locals and visitors alike. Singapore’s food scene is known for its multicultural fusion—this recipe is a testament to how classic hawker fare can be reinvented for today's palate. Whether you’re dining at a bustling kopitiam or preparing meals at home, Steamed Chicken Thigh with Teriyaki Sauce offers a wholesome, flavorful option that fits perfectly into Singapore’s food heritage. This dish is ideal for those seeking a lower-calorie, protein-rich meal without sacrificing the bold flavors that define Singaporean cuisine.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Clean and pat dry the chicken thighs
Clean and pat dry the chicken thighs. Trim excess fat for a leaner dish.
Step 2 · Rub chicken thighs with ginger
Rub chicken thighs with ginger, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Set aside for marination.
Step 3 · Prepare the teriyaki sauce by combining light soy sauce
Prepare the teriyaki sauce by combining light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, honey, mirin (if using), and sesame oil in a bowl.
Step 4 · Steam the chicken thighs over high heat for 15 minutes until fully ...
Steam the chicken thighs over high heat for 15 minutes until fully cooked and juicy.
Step 5 · While chicken steams
While chicken steams, simmer the teriyaki sauce in a small pan for 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 6 · Arrange steamed chicken on a plate
Arrange steamed chicken on a plate. Drizzle teriyaki sauce over, garnish with chopped spring onions.
Step 7 · Serve with steamed broccoli or your favorite local greens for a bal...
Serve with steamed broccoli or your favorite local greens for a balanced meal.
Why this recipe is healthy
This recipe is healthy because it uses steaming instead of frying, reducing calorie and fat intake. The use of honey as a sweetener lowers glycemic impact compared to refined sugar. Incorporating fresh vegetables increases fiber and vitamin content, supporting digestive health. The balance of protein and carbs makes it ideal for weight management, while the absence of heavy sauces keeps sodium levels moderate.
A note on tradition
Steamed chicken is a beloved staple in Singapore, often seen at hawker stalls and kopitiams. The teriyaki influence reflects Singapore’s openness to global flavors, blending traditional techniques with contemporary tastes. This dish is commonly enjoyed for lunch, especially in bustling city centers, and is valued for its simplicity and nutrition. It represents the fusion culture of Singapore, where classic recipes evolve to suit modern preferences.