Name: Chinese Chicken Dumplings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1/2 pound Ground Chicken; 1/4 Cup Celery (Chopped); 1/4 Cup Carrots (Chopped); 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce (Braggs or Soy Sauce); 1 teaspoon Fresh Ginger (Peeled); 1 clove Garlic; 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil; 26 pieces Wonton Skins; 1 bowl Water (For sealing the wonton wrappers)

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When I think of comfort food, Chinese Chicken Dumplings immediately comes to mind. These little pockets of joy take me back to my childhood, where I spent weekends in the kitchen with my family, crafting these delightful dumplings together. The process of rolling out the dough and filling it with a savory mixture of ground chicken, celery, and carrots is not just about making a delicious meal; it’s a ritual filled with laughter and stories. Every bite of these dumplings is a taste of love, reminding me of the warmth of family gatherings, where we would feast and celebrate together.

There’s something so satisfying about the combination of flavors and textures in Chinese Chicken Dumplings. The tender, chewy wrappers encase a burst of flavor—from the juiciness of the chicken to the crispness of the vegetables. It’s a dish that brings everyone to the table, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive occasion. I always look forward to sharing them with friends and family, watching their faces light up with each bite. These dumplings are more than just food; they’re a connection to my roots and the cultures that have shaped my culinary journey.

So, let’s dive into the world of Chinese Chicken Dumplings. I promise that once you start making them, you’ll find joy in the process and love in every morsel. It’s easy to get lost in the rhythm of folding and sealing, and before you know it, you’ll have a platter full of delicious dumplings ready to be enjoyed.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
10 g

Diet:
Keto

Fat:
4 g

Tools Used:
Peeler, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Food Processor, Large Pot

Why This Chinese Chicken Dumplings Is a Winner

Family Tradition

What I love most about making Chinese Chicken Dumplings is that it’s a family tradition. Growing up, my grandmother taught me the art of dumpling-making. We would gather around the kitchen, and the whole family would join in. It created an atmosphere of togetherness and joy, and each dumpling was filled with not just ingredients, but memories.

Customizable Filling

The filling for Chinese Chicken Dumplings can be tailored to suit your taste. While I prefer a mixture of chicken and vegetables, you can experiment with different proteins or even go vegetarian. This versatility means everyone can enjoy them, regardless of dietary preferences.

Perfect for Meal Prep

These dumplings are fantastic for meal prep. You can make a big batch and freeze them for quick meals later. When you’re short on time, simply boil or steam a few, and you have a satisfying meal ready in minutes.

Healthy Option

Compared to many takeout options, Chinese Chicken Dumplings are a healthier choice. The fillings are packed with fresh ingredients, and you control the amount of salt and fat. It’s comforting food that doesn’t leave you feeling guilty.

Fun for Everyone

Making dumplings is a fun activity that everyone can participate in. Whether it’s your kids helping to fold or friends gathering for a cooking night, it brings people together. The shared experience of making and enjoying them creates lasting memories.

Delicious Dipping Sauces

Pairing dumplings with a variety of dipping sauces elevates the experience. From soy sauce to spicy chili oil, the options are endless. Each bite becomes an adventure in flavor, making Chinese Chicken Dumplings even more enjoyable.

What’s In This Chinese Chicken Dumplings

When it comes to the ingredients for Chinese Chicken Dumplings, simplicity is key. Each component plays a vital role in delivering a harmonious flavor profile. The star of the show is the ground chicken, which provides a rich and savory base. The addition of fresh vegetables like celery and carrots adds crunch and natural sweetness, balancing the dish beautifully. Essential seasonings like soy sauce and sesame oil enhance the overall flavor, creating a delightful umami experience.

Ground Chicken – This is the main protein in the dumplings, providing a rich and savory flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients. It’s a versatile option that remains juicy during cooking.
Celery – Chopped finely, celery adds a refreshing crunch and a mild flavor that complements the chicken.
Carrots – These chopped carrots bring sweetness and color to the filling, making every bite visually appealing and delicious.
Soy Sauce – A key ingredient that enhances the umami flavor of the filling. It brings depth and richness to the dish.
Fresh Ginger – When peeled and minced, this aromatic adds warmth and a slight zing, elevating the overall flavor profile.
Garlic – A clove of garlic infuses the filling with a wonderful aroma and adds a savory punch.
Sesame Oil – Just a teaspoon of this oil provides a distinctive nutty flavor that rounds out the filling perfectly.
Wonton Skins – These thin wrappers are essential for encasing the filling. They become tender and chewy when cooked, creating a delightful texture.
Bowl of Water – This is used to seal the wonton wrappers, ensuring the fillings stay inside during cooking.

The Method for Chinese Chicken Dumplings

Making Chinese Chicken Dumplings is a rewarding experience that’s easier than you might think. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll soon have a delicious batch ready to enjoy. Let’s dive into the process and bring these tasty treats to life!

Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a food processor, combine the ground chicken, celery, carrots, soy sauce, fresh ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture. This filling should be flavorful and aromatic.
Next, bring a large pot of water to a boil. This will be used to cook the dumplings. It’s essential to have the water boiling hot to ensure the dumplings cook evenly.
Now, take a wonton wrapper and place it on a clean surface. Be sure to keep the rest covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out. This is a crucial step to ensure your wrappers remain pliable.
Using a spoon, scoop a heaping teaspoon of the filling mixture and place it close to one of the corners of the wonton wrapper. Make sure not to overfill, as this can make sealing difficult.
Dip your finger into the bowl of water and moisten the edges of the wonton wrapper. This helps create a seal when you fold it.
Fold the edge of the wonton wrapper over the filling to form a triangle shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, ensuring no air is trapped inside. You want to achieve a tight seal to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can create a more intricate shape by moistening the center of the wonton and folding in the two opposite corners. This gives the dumpling a delightful presentation.
Once you have your dumplings ready, carefully drop about five into the boiling water at a time. Cook them for about two minutes. You’ll notice they will float to the top once they are done.
Using a slotted spoon, remove the dumplings from the water and place them on a plate. Allow them to cool slightly before serving. Repeat the process with the remaining dumplings.

Things Worth Knowing

Keep Wrappers Covered: Always cover the wonton wrappers with a damp cloth when not in use to prevent them from drying out.
Boil in Small Batches: Cooking too many dumplings at once can lower the water temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Stick to small batches.
Test First: Before serving, taste one dumpling to ensure the seasoning is to your liking. You can always adjust the seasoning in the remaining filling.
Freeze for Later: After making the dumplings, freeze them on a tray before transferring them to a ziplock bag to prevent sticking. They can be cooked from frozen when needed.

Tips and Variations

Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, these tips will help you perfect your Chinese Chicken Dumplings:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a steamer or microwave.
Freezing: To freeze, lay the dumplings out on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a ziplock bag. They will keep for up to four months.
Serving: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like soy sauce, chili oil, or tangy vinegar for an extra flavor kick.
Spicy Twist: Incorporate chopped chili peppers into the filling for a spicy version that packs a punch.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground chicken with mashed tofu and finely chopped vegetables for delicious vegetarian dumplings.
Make it a Meal: Pair the dumplings with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to create a complete meal.

Pairing Suggestions for Chinese Chicken Dumplings

When it comes to serving Chinese Chicken Dumplings, the options are endless. Here are some great pairing suggestions:

With a Side Salad: A crisp salad with a light dressing complements the dumplings beautifully, adding freshness to your meal.
Steamed Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed broccoli or bok choy to balance the flavors and textures.
As an Appetizer: Serve them as a starter at gatherings or parties. They’re always a hit and great for sharing.
Perfect for Lunch: Pack some dumplings for lunch, paired with a small container of dipping sauce for a satisfying meal.
Festive Occasions: Chinese Chicken Dumplings are perfect for celebrations like Lunar New Year, where they symbolize prosperity and good luck.
With a Warm Soup: Pair them with a light broth or miso soup for a warm and comforting meal that’s perfect any day.

FAQ

Chinese Chicken Dumplings are savory pockets filled with a mixture of ground chicken, vegetables, and seasonings, wrapped in thin wonton skins. They are typically steamed, boiled, or pan-fried and served with various dipping sauces. This dish is a popular choice in Chinese cuisine and can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main dish.

To freeze Chinese Chicken Dumplings, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a ziplock bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to four months. When you’re ready to cook them, you can boil or steam them directly from the freezer without defrosting.

Absolutely! While this recipe uses ground chicken, you can substitute other proteins like turkey, shrimp, or even a vegetarian option like tofu or mushrooms. The key is to balance the flavors and ensure the filling is well-seasoned, so feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients.

There are many delicious dipping sauces that pair perfectly with Chinese Chicken Dumplings. A classic choice is a simple soy sauce mixed with some vinegar and chili oil for a kick. You can also try a sweet and sour sauce or a sesame dipping sauce for a different flavor profile. Experiment with different sauces to find your favorite combination!

Conclusion

Chinese Chicken Dumplings are a special dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. They combine delightful flavors and textures, making them a favorite among many. I encourage you to try making them at home—it’s a fun and rewarding experience that will surely impress your family and friends. Whether you enjoy them steamed or boiled, they’re sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.