How to Make Steamed Chicken with Soy Sauce (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Steamed Chicken with Soy Sauce is a beloved dish found across Singapore, from bustling hawker centres to cozy kopitiams. While its roots are traditional, local chefs and home cooks have added their own fusion touches, making it a staple of Singaporean cuisine. This dish is celebrated for its simplicity and delicate flavors—tender chicken is gently steamed, then topped with a fragrant soy-based sauce, infused with ginger, spring onions, and a dash of sesame oil. In Singapore’s multicultural food landscape, Steamed Chicken with Soy Sauce is enjoyed by all ages and often served as a lighter alternative to more heavily-seasoned meat dishes. Its subtle flavors let quality ingredients shine, and the minimal use of oil aligns perfectly with a health-conscious lifestyle. Whether you’re having it as a protein-packed breakfast, a nourishing lunch, or a light dinner, this dish is a testament to the balance and harmony that define Singaporean food. Perfect for calorie trackers, it brings together local tastes, tradition, and a hint of innovation.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Prepare the chicken breast by rinsing and patting dry
Prepare the chicken breast by rinsing and patting dry. Lay the chicken on a heatproof plate suitable for steaming.
Step 2 · Scatter ginger slices and half the spring onions over the chicken
Scatter ginger slices and half the spring onions over the chicken. Sprinkle with white pepper.
Step 3 · Bring water to a boil in a wok or steamer
Bring water to a boil in a wok or steamer. Place the plate with chicken above the simmering water, ensuring it doesn't touch the water.
Step 4 · Steam chicken for 15–18 minutes
Steam chicken for 15–18 minutes, or until just cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes.
Step 5 · While chicken rests
While chicken rests, mix light soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic in a small bowl.
Step 6 · Pour the soy-garlic mixture over the steamed chicken
Pour the soy-garlic mixture over the steamed chicken. Garnish with remaining spring onions, coriander leaves, and chili if using.
Step 7 · Serve immediately with a side of steamed rice or blanched greens fo...
Serve immediately with a side of steamed rice or blanched greens for a complete Singaporean meal.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Singaporean classic is a healthy choice due to its focus on steaming instead of frying, which reduces unnecessary fats. By using chicken breast and a light soy-based sauce, the dish remains flavorful without being heavy. The addition of fresh herbs and aromatics not only enhances taste but also boosts the nutritional profile. Ideal for weight management, Steamed Chicken with Soy Sauce is filling, nourishing, and easy to digest.
A note on tradition
Steamed Chicken with Soy Sauce is a staple in Singapore’s food scene, often enjoyed at hawker centres and kopitiams across the island. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a lighter meal, especially during breakfast or lunch. The dish showcases Singapore’s knack for simple yet flavorful cooking, making it a favorite during family gatherings or as a healthier alternative to more indulgent fare. Its presence in everyday dining highlights the local emphasis on balance and wellness.