These Thai-Inspired Steamed Chicken Thighs are packed with delicious flavors! Marinated in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, they are tender and juicy, making them a real treat.
Who knew steaming could be this tasty? I love to serve them with rice and veggies, and let’s be honest, the sauce is so good, you’ll want to pour it on everything! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using boneless, skin-on chicken thighs for juiciness and flavor. If you prefer white meat, boneless chicken breasts can work, but they’ll be drier.
Fish Sauce: This ingredient adds depth and saltiness. If you’re avoiding fish, try soy sauce or coconut aminos for a similar umami flavor.
Thai Chilies: Adjust the heat by using fewer chilies or substituting with jalapeños for a milder option. If you want no heat, omit them completely!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings brightness. If you dislike cilantro, flat-leaf parsley makes a good substitute for a fresh touch.
Brown Sugar: You can use white sugar or honey as a replacement for sweetness. Just adjust the amount to your taste.
How Do You Achieve the Perfectly Steamed Chicken?
Steaming can be tricky, but it’s key for keeping chicken moist. First, make sure the steaming liquid is just boiling when you start steaming the chicken. This ensures even cooking. Here are steps for successful steaming:
- Use a pot with a fitted steaming rack or a bamboo steamer for best results.
- Ensure the water doesn’t touch the chicken; it should steam, not boil.
- Cover tightly to trap steam and keep it hot!
- Check the chicken at 15 minutes with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
How to Make Thai-Inspired Steamed Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 5 boneless, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Marinade:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 red Thai chilies, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 green onions, chopped
For Steaming:
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Cooked jasmine rice, to serve
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes for marination. You’ll also need about 15-20 minutes of steaming time. Altogether, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, sliced red chilies, chopped cilantro, and green onions. This zesty mix will flavor your chicken beautifully!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Then, place them in a shallow dish or a ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, 1-2 hours will really enhance the flavor.
3. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs skin side down. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Then, flip the chicken and cook the other side for about 2 minutes. This step adds great texture!
4. Set Up for Steaming:
Transfer the seared chicken onto a heatproof plate or bowl that fits into your steamer setup. Pour any leftover marinade over the top of the chicken to keep it moist while it cooks.
5. Steam the Chicken:
Prepare a steamer or a pot with a steaming rack and bring 1/2 cup of chicken broth or water to a gentle boil. Place the chicken in the steamer, cover, and steam for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is fully cooked through and tender. The internal temperature should be 165°F (75°C).
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once the chicken is steamed, carefully remove it from the steamer and arrange it on a serving dish. Spoon some of the flavorful liquid from the steamer over the chicken for added taste.
7. Final Touches:
Garnish with extra cilantro leaves and a few slices of red chili for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve hot with lime wedges on the side and a generous portion of jasmine rice. Enjoy the delightful flavors of Thailand!
This dish combines the fragrant, fresh flavors typical of Thai cuisine with a simple cooking technique that keeps the chicken moist and tender. Enjoy!
Can I Use Skinless Chicken Thighs for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use skinless chicken thighs, but keep in mind that they may be less juicy. To compensate, consider marinating for a longer time or adding a little extra oil during the cooking process to help maintain moisture.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, start by using just one chili or omit them entirely. You can also substitute with sweet bell peppers for flavor without heat. If you love spice, feel free to add more chilies or a dash of hot sauce!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it sealed in the refrigerator. Steaming is best done just before serving for optimal texture, but you can steam, cool, and store the chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days as well.
What Should I Serve with Thai-Inspired Steamed Chicken Thighs?
Jasmine rice is a fantastic accompaniment, as it absorbs the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it with fresh vegetables, such as steamed broccoli or a simple salad, to balance the meal.