How to Make Steamed Chicken with Teriyaki Sauce (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Steamed Chicken with Teriyaki Sauce is a flavorful fusion dish that reflects Singapore’s vibrant culinary scene, where East meets West. This recipe pays homage to our local hawker culture, blending tender steamed chicken—a staple at many kopitiams—with a sweet, savory teriyaki glaze that’s popular among Singaporeans who enjoy global influences. The dish is light, moist, and aromatic, making it a favorite for those seeking both taste and health-conscious dining. In Singapore, steamed chicken is often associated with Hainanese chicken rice, but the addition of teriyaki sauce modernizes the classic, providing a unique twist that appeals to the city’s cosmopolitan palate. Served in casual eateries and trendy hawker stalls, Steamed Chicken with Teriyaki Sauce is perfect for breakfast or lunch, offering a satisfying meal that’s easy to digest and packed with nutrients. Its balanced flavors and wholesome preparation make it an excellent choice for calorie-conscious Singaporeans, especially those who appreciate the fusion of traditional and contemporary tastes.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Clean and pat dry the chicken breast
Clean and pat dry the chicken breast. Season lightly with white pepper.
Step 2 · Prepare the steamer and place chicken on a heatproof plate
Prepare the steamer and place chicken on a heatproof plate. Steam over medium heat until cooked through.
Step 3 · While chicken is steaming
While chicken is steaming, make the teriyaki sauce by combining soy sauce, mirin/rice vinegar, maple syrup/honey, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil in a saucepan. Simmer until aromatic.
Step 4 · If desired
If desired, mix cornstarch with a little water and add to sauce to thicken. Stir well.
Step 5 · Once chicken is done
Once chicken is done, slice and arrange on serving plates. Drizzle teriyaki sauce over the top.
Step 6 · Garnish with fresh spring onion and a dash more white pepper
Garnish with fresh spring onion and a dash more white pepper.
Step 7 · Serve immediately while hot
Serve immediately while hot, paired with steamed rice or a salad for a complete meal.
Why this recipe is healthy
Steamed Chicken with Teriyaki Sauce is a healthy choice because it uses lean chicken breast, minimal oil, and natural, low-sodium seasonings. Steaming is a traditional Singaporean cooking method that retains nutrients without adding unnecessary fats, making it suitable for weight management, diabetic diets, and family meals. The sauce can be easily adjusted for dietary needs, ensuring a wholesome, balanced meal.
A note on tradition
Steamed chicken is a beloved staple in Singapore, commonly found at hawker stalls and kopitiams, often served as part of Hainanese chicken rice. The teriyaki sauce reflects Singapore’s openness to global culinary influences, creating a fusion that appeals to modern tastes. This dish is popular for its simplicity and healthfulness, making it a favorite for busy locals seeking nutritious meals.