Is there anything better than warm, tender chicken dumplings? Whether enjoyed on a cozy winter evening or as a fun weekend cooking project, chicken dumplings are the ultimate comfort food. Bursting with flavor and wrapped in soft, pillowy dough, they win the hearts (and stomachs) of food lovers everywhere.
If you’ve always thought making chicken dumplings at home was too difficult, think again. This guide will walk you through the process, step by step, and even share tips to make the experience easier and more enjoyable. By the end of this post, you’ll be ready to impress your family or friends with a plate of homemade chicken dumplings.
Why Chicken Dumplings Are the Ultimate Comfort Food
Chicken dumplings have a long, rich history tracing back to cultures around the globe—from Chinese jiaozi to European pierogi and American-style chicken and dumplings. They’ve earned their reputation not just because of their mouthwatering taste but because they represent warmth and togetherness.
For home cooks and food enthusiasts, these little parcels of joy are a time-honored favorite. Plus, they offer endless opportunities for customization, making them ideal for anyone who likes to experiment in the kitchen.
Health Benefits of Chicken Dumplings
Chicken dumplings aren’t only delicious—they can also be nutritious, especially when made at home. Chicken is a lean protein source, providing essential nutrients like selenium, B vitamins, and phosphorus. When paired with homemade dough and thoughtfully prepared fillings, your dumplings can be lower in sodium and free of preservatives compared to store-bought versions.
The beauty lies in customizing the recipe to fit your needs. Want to make them even healthier? Swap out all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or experiment with a gluten-free option. You can also add finely chopped veggies like carrots, spinach, or mushrooms to the filling for an extra nutrient boost.
Read This – Black Eyed Peas Recipes | Easy, Healthy & Delicious Ideas
Essential Ingredients for Chicken Dumplings
For the Dumpling Filling:
- Chicken (ground or finely minced): 1 lb (450g)
- Green onions (scallions): 2–3, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2–3 cloves, minced
- Ginger: 1 tablespoon, grated or minced
- Soy sauce: 2–3 tablespoons
- Sesame oil: 1–2 teaspoons
- Oyster sauce or hoisin sauce: 1 tablespoon (optional for added depth)
- Egg: 1, lightly beaten (helps bind the mixture)
- Cabbage or Napa cabbage: 1 cup, finely chopped (optional for added moisture and flavor)
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Chili flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional for a spicy kick)
For the Dumpling Wrappers:
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups
- Water: 3/4 cup, warm
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for flavor in the dough)
Alternatively, you can use store-bought dumpling wrappers to save time.
For Cooking:
- Vegetable oil: For pan-frying
- Water or chicken broth: For steaming during pan-frying
For Dipping Sauce:
- Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Rice vinegar: 1 tablespoon
- Chili oil: 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Sesame oil: 1/2 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1/2 teaspoon (optional for balance)
- Minced garlic or grated ginger: 1 teaspoon (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Dumplings
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
- Start with 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken. Using rotisserie chicken can save time without compromising flavor.
- Mix the chicken with ½ cup of finely chopped onions, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of salt, and any herbs or spices you love. Pro tip? Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes so the flavors fully meld.
Step 2: Make the Dumpling Dough
- Combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a large mixing bowl.
- Gradually add ¾ cup cold water while mixing with a fork until the dough begins to come together.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Cover and set aside to rest for 20 minutes.
Step 3: Form the Dumplings
- Roll your dough out to 1/8-inch thickness on a floured surface.
- Cut it into 3-inch squares (you can use a cookie cutter or glass for circle shapes if you’d like).
- Place a spoonful of the prepared chicken filling in the center of each square.
- Fold the dough over into a triangle or half-moon shape and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
- Bring a large pot of water to boil. Gently drop your dumplings in, making sure not to overcrowd the pot.
- Boil for 5-6 minutes, or until they float to the top and are fully cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and serve hot.
Variations and Customization
Who says chicken dumplings have to be traditional? Try these variations to suit different dietary preferences or flavor cravings:
- Gluten-Free Dumplings: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the dough.
- Spicy Chicken Dumplings: Add diced chili or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the filling.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with a mix of tofu or mushrooms, seasoned to perfection.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle a pinch of shredded cheese inside each dumpling for gooey, melty goodness.
The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment!
Serving Suggestions
Chicken dumplings shine on their own but pair beautifully with other dishes to create an incredible meal:
- Dipping Sauces: Soy sauce, chili oil, peanut sauce, or a simple garlic butter.
- Soups: Add dumplings to a bowl of rich chicken broth for a hearty soup.
- Sides: Pair them with a crisp salad or stir-fried vegetables for a balanced feast.
Storage and Reheating
Chicken dumplings are perfect for meal prepping or enjoying as leftovers. Here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate cooked dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze uncooked dumplings on a tray until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
To reheat, simply steam or fry refrigerated dumplings or cook frozen ones directly in boiling water without thawing.
Savor the Joy of Homemade Comfort Food
Homemade chicken dumplings are more than a meal—they’re a labor of love. From preparing the filling to sealing each dumpling, it’s an experience that connects you to the timeless tradition of creating comfort food from scratch.
Whether you’re trying this recipe for the first time or are a seasoned home cook, the process is just as satisfying as the end result. Want more culinary inspiration? Subscribe to our newsletter for more easy and delicious recipes you can make at home!
Happy cooking!
For More Recipes – Join Now Newsletter
1 thought on “Easy Chicken Dumpling Recipes You’ll Want to Try Now”