Chicken custard is a comforting dish that blends tender chicken with a silky smooth custard base. Originating from Asian cuisine, it offers a unique twist on traditional savory meals by combining delicate flavors and creamy textures. This recipe is perfect for those looking to try something both simple and elegant.
We love how versatile chicken custard is—it can be enjoyed as a light meal or paired with rice for a heartier option. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite herbs and seasonings. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish promises a satisfying experience that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
To create a perfectly smooth and flavorful Chicken Custard, we carefully select ingredients that balance tenderness, creaminess, and seasoning. Below are the essential components for an authentic and delicious dish.
For the Chicken Custard
- 300 grams boneless chicken breast, finely diced or minced
- 4 large eggs, beaten thoroughly to create a silky base
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth, preferably homemade or low sodium for control over saltiness
- ½ cup whole milk or cream, to enrich the custard texture
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch, dissolved in 2 tablespoons cold water, to gently thicken the custard
- Salt to taste, start with ½ teaspoon and adjust later as needed
For the Seasoning and Garnishes
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce, for umami depth
- ½ teaspoon white pepper powder, for subtle heat without overpowering
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil, adds a fragrant nuttiness
- 2 green onions, finely chopped to garnish and add freshness
- Fresh coriander leaves (optional), a handful for aromatic garnish
- Light drizzle of chili oil or sliced red chili (optional) for a spicy kick
| Ingredient Category | Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Custard Base | Boneless chicken breast | 300 grams | Finely diced or minced |
| Large eggs | 4 | Beaten thoroughly | |
| Chicken broth | 1 ½ cups | Homemade or low sodium | |
| Whole milk or cream | ½ cup | Adds richness | |
| Cornstarch | 1 teaspoon + 2 tbsp water | Dissolved to thicken custard gently | |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon initially | Adjust to taste | |
| Seasoning and Garnishes | Soy sauce | 1 teaspoon | For umami |
| White pepper powder | ½ teaspoon | Subtle heat | |
| Sesame oil | 1 teaspoon | Aromatic nuttiness | |
| Green onions | 2 (finely chopped) | Fresh and vibrant garnish | |
| Fresh coriander leaves | Handful (optional) | For aroma | |
| Chili oil or sliced red chili | Light drizzle (optional) | Adds spiciness |
We focus on balancing these components to achieve a silky, savory chicken custard that delights the palate and serves as a versatile dish perfect for any meal.
Equipment Needed
To prepare the perfect Chicken Custard, having the right equipment is crucial. Each tool ensures our dish achieves that smooth texture and balanced flavor. Below is a detailed list of essential kitchen equipment along with their specific uses in this recipe:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | To beat the eggs and mix the custard base |
| Whisk | For thoroughly combining eggs and liquids |
| Fine Mesh Strainer | To strain the custard mixture for silky texture |
| Steaming Dish or Heatproof Bowl | To hold the custard during steaming |
| Large Pot with Lid | For steaming the custard gently |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | To ensure precise measurement of ingredients |
| Knife and Cutting Board | To finely dice the chicken breast |
| Small Bowl | For dissolving cornstarch |
We recommend using a steaming method as it gently cooks the custard, preserving the custard’s delicate consistency and the tenderness of the chicken. Using a fine mesh strainer before steaming removes any lumps and creates that iconic silky smooth texture that defines this dish.
Always ensure the steaming dish fits comfortably inside your pot or steamer and is shallow enough to cook the custard evenly. We find a heatproof ceramic or glass bowl works best.
Preparation
Let’s get started on preparing the essential components for our Chicken Custard Recipe. Careful preparation ensures the custard will be smooth and the chicken tender for a perfectly balanced dish.
Preparing the Chicken
- Rinse 300 grams of boneless chicken breast thoroughly under cold water.
- Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Finely dice the chicken into small, uniform pieces about ½ inch cubes for even cooking.
- Season the diced chicken lightly with ½ teaspoon salt and a pinch of white pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
- Set aside the seasoned chicken while we prepare the custard mixture.
Preparing the Custard Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, gently beat 4 large eggs using a whisk until the yolks and whites are fully combined.
- Slowly add 1 ½ cups of chicken broth along with ½ cup of whole milk or cream to the beaten eggs. Whisk continuously to blend.
- Dissolve 1 teaspoon of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this slurry into the egg mixture to improve the custard’s smooth texture.
- Add flavorings: 1 teaspoon soy sauce, a dash of white pepper, and a few drops of sesame oil to build the savory profile.
- Strain the entire mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl to remove any lumps or foam.
Tip: Straining the custard mixture is crucial. It ensures a silky smooth texture that defines the delicate chicken custard experience.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breast | 300 grams | Finely diced |
| Large eggs | 4 | Beaten |
| Chicken broth | 1 ½ cups | – |
| Whole milk or cream | ½ cup | – |
| Cornstarch | 1 teaspoon | Dissolved in water |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Mixed with chicken |
| Soy sauce | 1 teaspoon | Added to custard mix |
| White pepper | Pinch | Added to chicken and custard |
| Sesame oil | Few drops | Added to custard mix |
Now that our chicken and custard mixture are perfectly prepared, we’re ready to move on to the gentle steaming process that locks in flavor and texture.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s carefully steam our chicken custard to achieve the perfect silky texture and tender chicken. Follow each step precisely to ensure a smooth and flavorful dish that highlights the delicate balance of ingredients.
Steaming the Chicken Custard
- Prepare the steaming setup by filling a pot or steamer with about 2 inches of water. Bring the water to a steady gentle boil over medium heat.
- Lightly oil the inside of your heatproof steaming dish to prevent sticking.
- Pour the strained custard mixture with the diced chicken into the prepared dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or a heatproof lid to prevent water droplets from falling into the custard.
- Carefully place the dish into the steamer or on a rack inside the pot. Ensure that the steam circulates evenly around the dish for consistent cooking.
- Steam on low heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the custard sets and is no longer shaky in the center. Maintaining low heat ensures a silky, smooth texture without curdling the eggs.
- Avoid opening the lid frequently to keep the steam temperature steady and the custard cooking evenly.
| Step | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Water level | 2 inches | Prevents water from drying out |
| Heat setting | Medium boil to low heat | Low heat during steaming |
| Covering | Aluminum foil or heatproof lid | Prevents condensation drops |
| Steaming time | 20-25 minutes | Check for custard firmness |
Checking for Doneness
- Gently touch the surface of the custard with a clean spoon or your finger. It should be firm but slightly jiggly, indicating that it is fully cooked yet tender.
- Insert a small knife or toothpick into the center. It should come out clean without liquid egg mixture.
- If the custard appears overly wobbly or liquid, cover and steam for an additional 3-5 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Once done, carefully remove the steaming dish using oven mitts to avoid burns. Let the custard rest for 3-5 minutes. This allows residual heat to finish cooking gently and the flavors to meld.
- Note that the custard will firm slightly more as it cools—perfect for slicing or scooping.
By mastering these steps, we create a deliciously smooth, tender chicken custard that exemplifies the comforting qualities of this classic Asian dish.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our chicken custard recipe, we recommend serving it with accompaniments that enhance its silky texture and delicate flavors. Here are some creative and classic serving ideas to elevate your dish.
Pairing with Rice or Noodles
For a more filling meal, serve the chicken custard over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or alongside soft rice noodles. The mild custard flavor beautifully complements these staples, balancing the richness and providing a satisfying base.
| Serving Style | Suggested Pairings | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Light Meal | Steamed vegetables, light soup | Keeps the meal low-calorie yet nourishing |
| Heartier Option | Jasmine rice, rice noodles | Adds texture and makes it more substantial |
| Flavor Boost | Chopped scallions, fried shallots | Adds freshness and a hint of crunch |
Fresh Herb Garnishes
Enhance the dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro, green onions, or Thai basil. These provide bright, aromatic notes that contrast the custard’s creamy smoothness. A light drizzle of toasted sesame oil just before serving can also intensify the savory richness.
Side Dishes to Complement
Pair the chicken custard with these sides for a well-rounded meal:
- Pickled vegetables: Adds tang and crunch for exciting texture contrast
- Light soy dipping sauce: Enhances umami flavors without overpowering
- Simple stir-fried greens: Provides freshness and balances the custard’s creaminess
Temperature and Presentation Tips
Serve the chicken custard warm to maintain its silky texture. For an attractive presentation, gently sprinkle garnishes on top and serve in individual bowls or ramekins. Using a shallow dish can also highlight the custard’s delicate surface and tender chicken pieces.
“Serving our chicken custard with complementary textures and flavors creates a truly comforting and memorable dining experience.”
By experimenting with these Serving Suggestions, we can tailor the chicken custard to suit different occasions—from a light lunch to an impressive dinner centerpiece.
Make-Ahead Tips
Planning ahead with our Chicken Custard Recipe makes serving this silky dish even more convenient for busy days or special gatherings. Here are our top make-ahead strategies to ensure your custard retains its delicate texture and vibrant flavor.
Prepare the Custard Mixture in Advance
We recommend mixing the egg, chicken broth, milk, cornstarch, and seasonings up to 24 hours before cooking. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This resting period allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the final taste.
- Tip: Before steaming, gently whisk the custard mixture to recombine any settled ingredients for a smooth consistency.
Pre-Cook and Season the Chicken
For time-saving, you can lightly season and pre-cook the finely diced chicken by steaming or poaching it briefly. Cool completely, then refrigerate in a sealed container. Incorporate the chicken into the custard mixture just before steaming the whole dish.
Steaming and Storing
If you wish to cook the entire Chicken Custard ahead:
- Steam the dish as directed.
- Allow it to cool to room temperature.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
- Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
To reheat, steam the custard gently over low heat until warmed through, preserving the creamy texture without drying out.
| Step | Timing | Storage Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Mix custard base | Up to 24 hours in advance | Airtight container in refrigerator |
| Pre-cook chicken | Up to 24 hours in advance | Seal and refrigerate |
| Cook complete custard | Up to 2 days in advance | Cover tightly, refrigerate |
Avoid Freezing
We advise against freezing the cooked chicken custard. Freezing disrupts the custard’s delicate structure, causing it to become grainy and watery upon thawing.
“Maintaining the silky, smooth texture is key to an authentic chicken custard experience.”
Following these Make-Ahead Tips helps us streamline meal prep without sacrificing the tender flavor and delicate custard consistency that make this dish so special.
Conclusion
Chicken custard is a wonderfully comforting dish that brings together delicate flavors and a smooth texture in every bite. Its versatility makes it perfect for any meal, whether you’re looking for something light or more substantial.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe that anyone can master and customize to their taste. We’re confident that once you try this dish, it’ll become a favorite go-to for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Enjoy the satisfying warmth and silky richness that chicken custard offers every time you serve it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is chicken custard?
Chicken custard is a smooth, savory dish from Asian cuisine that combines tender diced chicken with a silky steamed egg custard base. It is comforting and versatile, served as a light meal or with rice for a fuller option.
What are the main ingredients for chicken custard?
The key ingredients are finely diced boneless chicken breast, beaten eggs, chicken broth, whole milk or cream, cornstarch dissolved in water, and seasonings like soy sauce, white pepper, sesame oil, and salt.
What kitchen tools do I need to prepare chicken custard?
You’ll need a mixing bowl, whisk, fine mesh strainer, and a heatproof steaming dish or bowl. A pot or steamer large enough to hold the dish for even steaming is also required.
How do I achieve a silky smooth texture in chicken custard?
Beat the eggs well, strain the custard mixture through a fine mesh, and steam gently on low heat for 20-25 minutes. Use a covered dish to prevent condensation from dripping onto the custard.
Can chicken custard be made ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the custard mixture and pre-seasoned chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Avoid freezing cooked custard to maintain its smooth texture.
How should I serve chicken custard?
Serve it warm, either on steamed jasmine rice or with rice noodles for a filling meal. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions, and consider sides like steamed vegetables or pickled greens.
Is chicken custard suitable for beginners to cook?
Absolutely. The recipe is straightforward and customizable, making it an excellent dish for both beginners and experienced cooks wanting a comforting, elegant meal.
What is the best cooking method for chicken custard?
Steaming on low heat is the preferred method, as it gently cooks the custard while preserving its delicate silky texture and keeping the chicken tender and flavorful.