Fried Chicken Dumplings Recipe

Introduction

Fried Chicken Dumplings are a delicious and comforting dish that combines two beloved culinary traditions: the crispy, savory goodness of fried chicken and the soft, doughy richness of dumplings. This recipe takes the familiar flavors of fried chicken and transforms them into bite-sized, golden parcels that are perfect for sharing at any occasion. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or part of a hearty meal, Fried Chicken Dumplings are sure to impress with their crunchy exterior and juicy, flavorful chicken filling.

These dumplings are versatile and can be customized to suit various preferences, adding a delicious twist to classic comfort food. With a simple yet flavorful filling, a light, crispy crust, and plenty of seasonings to complement the chicken, they are sure to satisfy both casual and gourmet tastes alike. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner, a potluck, or a more formal gathering, Fried Chicken Dumplings make a versatile and crowd-pleasing choice.

Why You’ll Love Fried Chicken Dumplings

• Perfect Flavor Balance: The combination of tender, seasoned chicken and the crispy, golden dumpling shell creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by the savory taste of the chicken filling.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Fried Chicken Dumplings are the epitome of comfort food. The warm, flavorful filling inside each dumpling provides a sense of satisfaction, while the crispy exterior adds an extra layer of texture that everyone loves.
• Customizable: You can easily personalize this recipe to your liking. Add extra spices for more heat, vegetables for added texture, or even cheese for a creamy twist. These dumplings are a great base for creativity in the kitchen.
• Easy to Make: Though they may sound fancy, Fried Chicken Dumplings are relatively simple to prepare. With a few key ingredients and some patience, you’ll have an irresistible appetizer or meal on your hands in no time.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether you’re preparing a casual dinner for the family, hosting a game night, or looking for a fun dish for a party, Fried Chicken Dumplings are a hit every time.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 24 dumplings
• Calories per Serving: Around 120-150 calories per dumpling, depending on portion size and ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 120-150 kcal
• Fat: 8-10g
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g
• Protein: 7-9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1-2g

Ingredients

For the Fried Chicken Dumplings:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cooked and shredded
• 1 cup diced onions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated carrots (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 tsp ground thyme
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or cream (for added moisture)
• 1 package of dumpling wrappers (wonton wrappers or gyoza wrappers work well)
• 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 egg, beaten (for sealing the dumplings)

For the Dipping Sauce (optional but recommended):

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
• A pinch of red pepper flakes (for heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Filling

To begin, cook your chicken thighs or breasts. If you’re using leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, this will save you time. Otherwise, cook the chicken by grilling, baking, or pan-frying until it’s fully cooked through and tender. Once the chicken is cooked, allow it to cool slightly before shredding it with two forks into small, bite-sized pieces.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the diced onions, minced garlic, grated carrots, chopped parsley, and spices like thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix everything together well, ensuring that the chicken is coated with the seasoning and vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the filling.

Next, add the chicken broth or cream to the mixture. This helps to keep the filling moist and flavorful, preventing it from becoming dry when frying. Stir everything together until you have a well-mixed, slightly creamy filling.

2. Prepare the Dumpling Wrappers

Now it’s time to work with your dumpling wrappers. You can purchase wonton wrappers or gyoza wrappers from most grocery stores, or make your own if you’re up for the challenge. To avoid the wrappers drying out, cover them with a damp cloth as you work with them.

Place one dumpling wrapper on a clean, flat surface. Using a small spoon, place about 1 tablespoon of the chicken filling in the center of each wrapper. Be careful not to overstuff the dumplings, as this can make them difficult to seal and may cause them to break open during frying.

3. Seal the Dumplings

Once the filling is added, dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper to moisten them. This will help the dumpling seal properly. Carefully fold the wrapper over the filling to create a half-moon shape, pressing down gently on the edges to seal it shut.

If you’re using square wrappers (wonton wrappers), you can fold the edges into a triangle or even gather the edges together to create a pouch-like shape, ensuring that the filling is completely enclosed.

4. Fry the Dumplings

Heat the vegetable oil in a large, deep frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll want enough oil to submerge the dumplings halfway, allowing them to fry evenly.

Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil—if it bubbles immediately, the oil is ready), carefully add the dumplings in batches, being sure not to overcrowd the pan.

Fry the dumplings for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Turn the dumplings gently with tongs or a slotted spoon to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.Once the dumplings are cooked, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

5. Prepare the Dipping Sauce

While the dumplings are frying, you can prepare the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine, and set aside.

The dipping sauce adds an extra layer of flavor to the dumplings and is especially helpful if you like a salty, tangy, and slightly spicy accompaniment.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once the dumplings are golden and crispy, and the dipping sauce is ready, it’s time to serve. Arrange the dumplings on a serving platter, and provide small bowls of dipping sauce on the side for guests to enjoy.

Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken Dumplings

• Use Tender Chicken: The key to a good dumpling filling is using tender, juicy chicken. Chicken thighs are preferred for their flavor and moisture, but chicken breasts will work just as well. Be sure to shred the chicken finely so it integrates well with the other ingredients.
• Don’t Overfill the Dumplings: While it may be tempting to pack in a lot of filling, avoid overstuffing the dumplings. If the filling is too much, it can cause the wrappers to break open during frying.
• Seal the Dumplings Well: Make sure that the edges of the dumplings are sealed tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying. Use a little water along the edges of the wrapper to ensure a secure seal.
• Fry in Batches: Fry the dumplings in batches to ensure that they cook evenly. Overcrowding the pan can result in soggy dumplings or uneven frying.
• Use a Thermometer: If you’re unsure if the oil is at the right temperature, use a cooking thermometer to check. The oil should be around 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.

Variations of Fried Chicken Dumplings

• Spicy Chicken Dumplings: For a spicy kick, you can add finely chopped jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce to the chicken filling. This variation adds a nice level of heat that pairs well with the crispy dumpling wrapper.
• Vegetable Fried Chicken Dumplings: Add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the filling for a more complex flavor and extra texture.
• Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Dumplings: For a creamy twist, add some cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or even cream cheese) to the chicken filling. The melted cheese inside the dumplings creates a delicious surprise.
• Chicken and Bacon Dumplings: Adding cooked bacon to the chicken filling creates a smoky, savory flavor that will delight anyone who loves the combination of bacon and chicken.

Storage and Shelf Life

If you have leftover dumplings, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can bake the dumplings in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or heat them up in a skillet with a little oil.

For longer storage, you can freeze uncooked dumplings. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dumplings to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, simply fry them from frozen—there’s no need to thaw them.

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Conclusion

Fried Chicken Dumplings are a comforting, crispy, and flavorful dish that is sure to become a family favorite. The juicy, seasoned chicken filling inside the crispy, golden wrapper creates an irresistible combination of textures that will delight your taste buds. Whether served as an appetizer or as part of a larger meal, these dumplings are perfect for any occasion.

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a batch of these delicious dumplings in no time. Try out the variations, experiment with different spices and fillings, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce for the ultimate dumpling experience. You’ll be sure to have a crowd-pleasing dish on your hands every time!