Both steaming and boiling are healthy and effective methods for cooking chicken. However, there are some key differences between the two techniques that can help determine which is better for your needs.
Cooking Time
One of the biggest differences between steaming and boiling chicken is the cooking time. Steaming typically takes longer than boiling. On average, boneless, skinless chicken breasts take:
- 15-20 minutes to steam
- 10-15 minutes to boil
This faster cook time makes boiling better if you need to get dinner on the table quickly. However, the longer steam time results in more tender, juicy meat as the slower cooking allows the chicken to retain more moisture.
Flavor
Steaming imparts a lighter, cleaner flavor than boiling. With steaming, the chicken won’t take on any flavors from the cooking liquid. Boiling can cause the chicken to absorb flavors from the water, resulting in a less pure chicken taste.
If you want the simple, unadulterated flavor of chicken, steaming is the better choice. But for dishes where you want the chicken to soak up seasoning from a broth or sauce, boiling may be preferred.
Nutrition
Both steaming and boiling are nutritious ways to cook chicken, but steaming has a slight edge when it comes to retaining vitamins and minerals. Here’s how the nutrition of a 6 oz chicken breast compares after cooking by each method:
| Nutrient | Steamed | Boiled |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 231 | 231 |
| Fat | 3.5g | 3.5g |
| Protein | 43g | 43g |
| Sodium | 74mg | 88mg |
| Vitamin A | 3% DV | 2% DV |
| Vitamin C | 1% DV | 1% DV |
As you can see, steamed chicken retains slightly more vitamins A and C. However, both cooking methods result in nutritious, protein-rich chicken.
Appearance
Steamed chicken emerges shiny and moist, with a soft, tender texture. Boiled chicken is often paler in color and not quite as visually appealing.
If presentation is important, such as for company or photographs, steaming provides the prettier cooked chicken.
Equipment Needed
Steaming requires a steamer basket and pot with a lid. Boiling simply needs a pot with a lid to hold the chicken and liquid. So boiling has the upper hand when it comes to minimal equipment and dishes to clean up.
Ease of Use
Both steaming and boiling chicken are quite simple cooking techniques. However, boiling requires actively monitoring the pot so the chicken doesn’t overcook. With steaming, there’s a bit more leeway and room for error since the steam provides a gentler heat.
Steaming is the easier “set it and forget it” cooking method.
Moisture Level
The slower cooking time and enclosed steam environment allow steamed chicken to retain much more moisture than boiled chicken.
If your top priority is juicy, tender meat, steaming will give you superior results over boiling.
Safety
Both steaming and boiling are considered safe methods for cooking chicken, with no significant risks if proper food handling guidelines are followed.
One thing to note is that boiling can more easily overcook the chicken, resulting in a tougher, drier texture. Steaming’s gentler heat makes it a bit more foolproof in terms of avoiding overcooked chicken.
Cost
Steaming and boiling chicken have minimal differences when it comes cost. The only additional cost with steaming is filling the pot with a couple inches of water, which is negligible.
Both methods use minimal ingredients and electricity/gas for cooking, keeping costs down.
Additional Tips for Steaming Chicken
- Place chicken in a single layer in a steaming basket for even cooking.
- Keep water simmering at a low boil, replenishing with boiling water as needed.
- Add herbs, citrus, or spices to flavor the steam.
- Let chicken rest 5 minutes after steaming for juicier meat.
Additional Tips for Boiling Chicken
- Use enough water to completely submerge the chicken pieces.
- Add aromatics like garlic, onions, or herbs to the poaching liquid.
- Use broth, wine, or other flavorful liquids instead of plain water.
- Let chicken cool in liquid before straining to keep it moist.
Conclusion
So which cooking method reigns supreme – steaming or boiling? Ultimately, it depends on your priorities when cooking chicken. Here are some final recommendations based on your needs:
- If quick cooking is essential, choose boiling.
- For the healthiest retention of nutrients, opt for steaming.
- If flavor purity is important, steam don’t boil.
- For adding seasonings from the cooking liquid, boiling works best.
- For juicy, tender meat, steam for superior moisture.
- If easy cleanup is a must, boiling requires fewer dishes and equipment.
- For foolproof cooking with less monitoring, go with steaming.
Both techniques have their merits and advantages. By evaluating your needs and preferences, you can determine if steaming or boiling chicken best fits for the meal you have in mind.
At the end of the day, as long as you are cooking chicken to a safe internal temperature of 165°F using a method you enjoy, you can feel good about serving up a healthy and delicious dinner!