Looking for a healthy yet delicious meal that’s quick to prepare? Dive into the world of "Steamed Chicken with Asparagus," a dish that’s not only packed with flavor but also brimming with nutrients! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this American classic that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. The tender chicken pairs beautifully with vibrant asparagus, all enhanced by a zesty lemon drizzle. Ready to transform your dinner routine? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Trim the woody ends of the asparagus by bending each spear until it naturally breaks at the tender point, discarding the tough bottom portion.
- Set up a steamer basket in a large pot or steamer, ensuring the water level is below the basket and does not touch the food.
- Drizzle the chicken breasts with olive oil and half of the fresh lemon juice, ensuring even coating.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in the steamer basket, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
- Place the asparagus spears alongside the chicken, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Cover the steamer and bring the water to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Steam the chicken and asparagus for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
- Carefully remove the chicken and asparagus from the steamer using tongs.
- Plate the chicken and asparagus, and drizzle with the remaining lemon juice for added brightness.
- Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Tips
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! Proper seasoning enhances the natural flavors of both the chicken and asparagus.
- Perfectly Trimmed Asparagus: To get the best texture, make sure to snap off the woody ends of the asparagus. This ensures that every bite is tender and delicious.
- Steamer Setup: Make sure the water in your pot doesn’t touch the food in the steamer basket. This allows for even cooking and prevents boiling the ingredients.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked through. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite juicy and flavorful.
- Add a Twist: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices to customize the flavor to your liking. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate this dish even further!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 358kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 54g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 140mg
