Ginger Steamed Chicken – Healthy & Flavorful Chinese Recipe

This ginger steamed chicken is a light, delicious dish perfect for when you want something healthier without sacrificing flavor. The tender, juicy chicken combined with savory sauce and fragrant scallion oil topping makes it a comforting meal that’s especially loved when served with hot steamed rice.

In Chinese cuisine, ginger is highly valued not only for its strong aromatic flavor but also for its natural health benefits. Ginger contains gingerol, a bioactive compound often associated with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It is also believed to help support digestion and reduce nausea.

The sauce in this steamed chicken recipe is a beautiful balance of savory and subtle sweetness. Light soy sauce provides depth, while oyster sauce adds rich umami flavor. A small amount of sugar, salt, and pepper helps round out the taste. Cornstarch is used as a thickening agent, creating a smooth sauce that coats the chicken pieces perfectly.

Steaming is a traditional cooking method in Chinese cuisine because it preserves nutrients and natural flavors while keeping the chicken moist and tender without using excess oil.

🌿 Scallion Oil Topping

The key finishing touch is the scallion oil topping. Finely chopped spring onions are mixed with salt, seasoning, and hot cooking oil, then drizzled with sizzling hot oil to release an irresistible aroma. Sesame oil is added for extra fragrance and flavor.

🥢 Ingredients

Chicken

• 750 g boneless chicken thighs
• Some ginger slices
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• ½ tsp pepper
• 2 tbsp cornstarch

Topping (Scallion Oil)

• 4 spring onions
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp seasoning mix
• 3 tbsp very hot cooking oil
• 1 tsp sesame oil

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken with light soy sauce, oyster sauce, salt, sugar, pepper, cornstarch, and ginger slices. Mix well and let it rest for 30 minutes for better flavor absorption.
2. Prepare the topping by finely chopping spring onions, adding salt and seasoning, then pouring very hot oil over the mixture until it sizzles. Add sesame oil and mix well.
3. Place the marinated chicken on a plate and steam over high heat for 30 minutes.
4. Add the scallion oil topping and serve hot.

✨ Enjoy your healthy, flavorful steamed chicken!