Hainanese Steamed Chicken

A classic Asian delicacy, Hainanese Steamed Chicken is prized for its tender texture and subtle flavors, served with fragrant rice and accompanied by dipping sauces for a delightful culinary experience.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 kg)
  • 2 stalks spring onions, cut into 2-inch lengths
  • 3 slices ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • Ice water, for shocking

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

  • Calories: 300
  • Total Fat: 15g
    • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 0g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 0g
  • Protein: 40g

Step-by-step recipe instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Rub the chicken cavity with salt and stuff it with spring onions, ginger slices, and smashed garlic.

2. Boil the Water

In a large pot, bring enough water to cover the chicken to a boil.

3. Cook the Chicken

Carefully lower the chicken into the boiling water, breast side down. Bring the water back to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the chicken sit in the hot water for another 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

4. Shock and Cool the Chicken

Remove the chicken and immediately transfer it to a large bowl of ice water to shock it and stop the cooking process. Let it cool for 10 minutes.

5. Finish and Serve

Remove the chicken from the ice water and rub the skin with sesame oil. Let it rest for another 10 minutes before carving. Serve the Hainanese Steamed Chicken with steamed jasmine rice, chicken broth, soy sauce, ginger and garlic dipping sauce, and chili sauce on the side.