Delicious Coconut Steamed Chicken Recipe

Coconut steamed chicken is not only a nutritious dish but also offers a naturally sweet flavor that can easily win over the taste buds of every family member. Let’s explore how to make this delicious coconut steamed chicken with the guide below!

Introduction to Coconut Steamed Chicken

Coconut steamed chicken is a traditional Vietnamese dish that beautifully combines tender chicken with the refreshing sweetness of fresh coconut water. When prepared correctly, this dish retains the natural tenderness and sweetness of the chicken while absorbing the distinctive flavors of spices like ginger, garlic, and scallions. The coconut water used in steaming also becomes an essential part, serving as a sauce or for cooking rice.

Delicious and Authentic Coconut Steamed Chicken Recipe

Health Benefits of Coconut Steamed Chicken

Nutritional Value from Chicken

• High-Quality Protein Source: Chicken is rich in protein, which helps build and maintain muscles and supports recovery after physical activity.
• Low in Saturated Fat: Compared to many types of red meat, chicken contains less saturated fat, reducing the risk of heart disease.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Chicken contains many B vitamins, selenium, and phosphorus, all essential nutrients for the body.

Benefits from Coconut Water

• Natural Electrolytes: Coconut water is rich in potassium, sodium, and magnesium, helping to hydrate and balance electrolytes in the body.
• Digestive Support: With its high fiber content, coconut water stimulates the digestive system to function more effectively.
• Immune Boost: Containing vitamin C and minerals like iron and zinc, coconut water helps strengthen the immune system, protecting the body from disease-causing agents.

Combining these two ingredients, coconut steamed chicken not only tastes delicious but also offers many health benefits such as aiding in weight loss, improving skin health, and boosting immunity.

Health Benefits of Coconut Steamed Chicken

Guide to Selecting Ingredients for Coconut Steamed Chicken

Choosing Chicken

• Free-Range Chicken: Free-range chicken typically has firmer, tastier meat compared to industrial chicken. Choose chickens with a light yellow skin, free from bruises or slime.
• Preparing Chicken: Clean the chicken with a salt water solution to remove any odor, then let it drain before marinating.

Choosing Coconut Water

• Fresh Coconut: If possible, use fresh coconut water for the most natural flavor. Choose coconuts with green husks and listen for the sound of water inside when shaken.
• Canned Coconut Water: If fresh coconuts are unavailable, you can use canned coconut water. However, choose pure coconut water without added sugar or preservatives.

Spices

• Salt, Pepper, Garlic, Shallots: These are basic spices that enhance the flavor of the dish.
• Herbs: Scallions, Vietnamese coriander, and cilantro will make the dish more appealing and refreshing.

Guide to Selecting Ingredients for Coconut Steamed Chicken

Detailed Recipe for Coconut Steamed Chicken

Method 1: Basic Coconut Steamed Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 chicken (about 1.2 – 1.5 kg)
• 1 fresh coconut or 1 can of coconut water
• 3-4 cloves of minced garlic
• 1 shallot, minced
• 1 slice of ginger, thinly sliced
• 2-3 scallions
• Salt, pepper, sugar
• 1 carrot, sliced (optional)

Steps:

1. Prepare Chicken: Clean the chicken, removing any organs and excess feathers. Marinate the chicken with salt, pepper, minced garlic, minced shallots, and sliced ginger for about 30 minutes.
2. Prepare Coconut Water: Extract the water from the coconut or pour canned coconut water into the pot.
3. Steam Chicken: Place the chicken in a steamer, add sliced carrots, and pour in coconut water to cover about one-third of the chicken. Steam for 30-40 minutes over medium heat.
4. Finish: Once the chicken is cooked, turn off the heat, sprinkle with chopped scallions, and serve with white rice.

Basic Coconut Steamed Chicken Recipe

Method 2: Coconut Steamed Chicken with Herbs

Ingredients:

• 1 chicken (about 1.5 – 2 kg)
• 2 fresh coconuts
• 1 onion, cut into wedges
• 4-5 cloves of minced garlic
• 1 ginger root, thinly sliced
• 2-3 scallions
• 1-2 sprigs of rosemary
• Kaffir lime leaves or pomelo leaves
• Salt, pepper, seasoning

Steps:

1. Marinate Chicken: Clean the chicken and marinate with salt, pepper, and minced garlic for 15 minutes.
2. Arrange Ingredients: Place onion, ginger, scallions, and kaffir lime leaves at the bottom of the pot. Then, place the chicken on top.
3. Steam Chicken: Pour coconut water into the pot to cover part of the chicken. Cover and steam for 40-50 minutes.
4. Presentation: Once cooked, arrange the chicken on a plate and garnish with scallions and rosemary.

Coconut Steamed Chicken with Herbs Recipe

Final Product and Tips for Enjoying

The finished coconut steamed chicken has a golden color, tender meat, and is well-infused with spices. The steamed coconut water has a sweet and rich flavor, perfect for serving with white rice or bread. To make the dish even more appealing, you can serve it with fresh herbs, cucumber, or shredded carrots.

Coconut Steamed Chicken Final Product

We hope that with the detailed guide above, you have mastered the coconut steamed chicken recipe. Try it out to bring a wonderful meal to your family!