On those brisk evenings when the chill in the air calls for comfort food, I find myself turning to a pot of steaming Sesame Chicken Dumplings in Spicy Broth with Garlic Crisps. There’s something undeniably cozy about the process—wrapping fragrant ground chicken mixed with fresh ginger and bok choy in delicate dumpling wrappers, all while the rich aroma of simmering broth fills my kitchen. This dish is not just a feast for the senses; it transforms a typical weeknight into something special, offering warmth and satisfaction that rivals any takeout.
Best of all, these dumplings are a healthier option, allowing you to indulge without the guilt. Topped with crispy garlic and drizzled with sesame oil, every bite is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that scream homemade goodness. So, if you’re looking to ditch the fast food and add a little Asian-inspired comfort to your dinner table, this is the perfect recipe for you! Join me in creating these little pockets of joy, and let’s savor the warmth together.
Why love Sesame Chicken Dumplings?
Comforting Warmth: These Sesame Chicken Dumplings are perfect for chilly nights, offering a cozy bowl of spice and flavor.
Healthier Alternative: Enjoy the rich and savory experience without the guilt, utilizing fresh ingredients for a delicious homemade treat.
Creative Versatility: Experiment with different fillings, like pork or mushrooms, to make this dish uniquely yours.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, everyone will adore the crispy garlic topping and steamy broth.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can impress loved ones with this comforting dish.
Sesame Chicken Dumplings Ingredients
Note: Gather these ingredients to create delicious Sesame Chicken Dumplings immersed in a spicy broth.
For the Filling
- Ground Chicken – Main protein source; can substitute with pork or turkey for variety.
- Fresh Ginger – Adds warmth and aromatic flavor; always opt for fresh for the best taste.
- Garlic – Brings depth of flavor; fresh garlic is essential for a sharper taste.
- Baby Bok Choy – Provides nutrition and great texture; can swap with spinach or other leafy greens.
- Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Infuses umami flavor; tamari serves as a gluten-free alternative.
- Black Pepper – Adds seasoning; using freshly ground pepper yields the best flavor.
For the Wrappers
- Dumpling Wrappers – Encapsulates the filling; wonton wrappers are a good backup option.
- Raw Sesame Seeds – Imparts delicious texture and nutty flavor; poppy seeds can be used for a twist.
For the Broth
- Shallots – Infuses the broth with richness; yellow onions can be a substitute.
- Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Forms the broth base; vegetable broth can work for a vegetarian version.
- Rice Vinegar – Balances flavors with acidity; apple cider vinegar can stand in if needed.
- Sesame Oil – Adds nuttiness; olive oil is a fallback but may alter the flavor.
For the Topping
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Add crunch to the garlic crisps; regular breadcrumbs are acceptable but can be omitted for gluten-free.
- Garlic (for crisping) – Enhances the flavor of the topping; keep a close eye while browning to avoid burning.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Adjust to your desired heat level; optional for those who prefer milder flavors.
- Green Onions – Perfect for garnish; adds freshness and a pop of color to your dish.
How to Make Sesame Chicken Dumplings
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Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped bok choy, minced ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and black pepper. Mix until well combined, and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
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Assemble Dumplings: Place a teaspoon of filling onto the center of each dumpling wrapper. Lightly brush the edges with water, fold the wrapper over the filling, and pinch to seal tightly. Optionally, dredge the sealed dumplings in sesame seeds for extra crunch.
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Cook Broth: In a large pot, sauté the shallots until fragrant and translucent. Then, add fresh ginger, low sodium chicken broth, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to develop.
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Cook Dumplings: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Pan-fry the dumplings until golden brown on the bottom. Add a few tablespoons of water to the skillet, cover, and steam for about 5 minutes until cooked through.
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Make Garlic Crisps: In the same skillet, lower the heat and add panko breadcrumbs and minced garlic. Sauté until the mixture turns golden and crispy, adding crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of extra heat.
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Serve: Ladle the steaming broth into bowls, place 3-4 dumplings in each bowl, and top with crispy garlic and sliced green onions for garnish.
Optional: Drizzle with a touch of extra sesame oil before serving for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Sesame Chicken Dumplings
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Perfectly Seal: Tightly pinch the edges of the dumplings to prevent any filling from leaking out while cooking; a leak can spoil the dish.
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Adjust Spice Level: If you like milder flavors, start with fewer crushed red pepper flakes in the broth and adjust to your taste later.
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Watch the Garlic: When making garlic crisps, keep a close eye while sautéing to ensure it doesn’t burn; burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the dish.
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Prepping Ahead: For a quick meal later, assemble the dumplings and flash freeze them. They can easily be cooked from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to cooking time.
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Dumpling Wrapper Substitutes: If you can’t find traditional dumpling wrappers, wonton wrappers work well; just make sure to adjust the cooking time if they’re thicker.
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Flavor Boost: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding chopped cilantro to the filling— it complements the flavors beautifully in these Sesame Chicken Dumplings in Spicy Broth.
Make Ahead Options
These Sesame Chicken Dumplings in Spicy Broth are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare the filling and assemble the dumplings up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in the refrigerator, tightly covered, to maintain their fresh taste and prevent drying out. For longer storage, consider flash freezing the uncooked dumplings for up to 3 months and cook them straight from the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy your dumplings, just pan-fry them until golden and steam in water as directed, allowing for a quick meal with restaurant-quality results. Prepare the broth as usual when serving, and your cozy bowl of dumplings will be just as delicious!
What to Serve with Sesame Chicken Dumplings in Spicy Broth?
Warm up your dining experience with delightful side dishes that enhance the flavorful journey of this cozy favorite.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: Adds a fluffy, fragrant base that absorbs the spicy broth beautifully, complementing the dumplings’ savory notes.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: A medley of colorful veggies like bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas brings crunch and a fresh contrast to the rich broth.
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Cucumber Salad: Cool and crisp, a lightly dressed salad offers a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of the spicy dumplings.
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Egg Drop Soup: This classic Asian soup’s silky texture and mild flavor are a perfect balance to the dumplings’ kick, creating a harmonious meal.
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Chili Garlic Edamame: Spiced and garlicky, these tender soybeans add a pop of flavor and a delightful finger food option for your hearty meal.
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Refreshing Green Tea: Complement your dish with a warm cup of green tea, which aids digestion and offers a soothing finish to your flavorful feast.
By pairing these simple yet delicious sides, you can create a complete dining experience that celebrates the warm comfort of homemade dumplings.
Sesame Chicken Dumplings Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these warm and comforting dumplings with these exciting variations!
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Pork Filling: Swap ground chicken for ground pork for a richer flavor. Pork adds a delightful sweetness to the filling.
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Vegetable Option: Use finely chopped mushrooms and carrots instead of meat for a hearty vegetarian option. They’ll absorb the delicious broth perfectly!
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Shrimp Twist: Replace chicken with cooked shrimp, offering a fresh and seafood-inspired take that pairs wonderfully with the spicy broth.
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Spicy Kick: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or fresh chili slices to the broth for those who love an extra punch of heat. It’s sure to warm you right up!
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Alternative Greens: Substitute baby bok choy with Swiss chard or kale for a unique twist while keeping it nutritious. They add a different earthy flavor.
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Wonton Wrappers: If traditional dumpling wrappers are hard to find, wonton wrappers work great and lend their own flavor and texture.
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Broth Variety: Experiment with a coconut milk base for a creamy, slightly sweet broth that beautifully complements the dumplings.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil to the filling for a fragrant boost that brightens the overall dish. It’s a refreshing twist!
Storage Tips for Sesame Chicken Dumplings
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Room Temperature: Serve the dumplings hot right after cooking. Any leftovers should be refrigerated within 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
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Fridge: Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
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Freezer: Freeze uncooked dumplings individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, simply pan-fry and steam from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to your cooking time.
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Reheating: To reheat cooked dumplings, steam them for about 5 minutes until heated through, or warm them in the broth for an extra flavor boost.
Sesame Chicken Dumplings in Spicy Broth Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the freshest and tastiest dumplings, choose ground chicken that is bright pink and moist, avoiding any that appear grey or slimy. Fresh ginger should feel firm and have a nice spicy aroma. When it comes to bok choy, look for vibrant green leaves and firm, crisp stalks. If you see dark spots all over the leaves, it’s best to avoid those.
How should I store leftover dumplings?
It’s best to refrigerate any leftover dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If stored properly, they’ll stay just as delicious! Reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Always remember to refrigerate within 2 hours to maintain safety.
Can I freeze the assembled dumplings?
Definitely! To freeze the uncooked dumplings, first arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer the frozen dumplings to a zip-top bag and keep them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook them, pan-fry and steam them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What should I do if the dumpling wrappers tear while assembling?
Oh no! If your dumpling wrappers tear, don’t worry. Try to patch the tear with a little water and press it together to seal. If it continues to cause difficulty, simply use a new wrapper. To avoid tearing in the first place, ensure your wrappers are not too dry; keep them covered while you work.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Very much so! Keep in mind that ingredients like garlic, onions, and certain spices can be harmful to pets, particularly dogs and cats. If you’re serving them a portion or allowing them in the kitchen while you cook, be sure to keep these ingredients away. Additionally, if you’re cooking for someone with food allergies, be cautious to avoid items like soy sauce (check for gluten), sesame seeds, or other allergens.
Can I modify the filling for dietary preferences?
The more the merrier! You can absolutely adjust the filling to suit various dietary needs. For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground chicken with a mix of mushrooms, diced tofu, or finely chopped vegetables. You can also use gluten-free wrappers and tamari instead of soy sauce to cater to gluten-sensitive eaters. Just be sure to experiment and have fun with the flavors!
Savory Sesame Chicken Dumplings in Spicy Broth Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped bok choy, minced ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and black pepper. Mix until well combined, and set aside.
- Assemble Dumplings: Place a teaspoon of filling onto the center of each dumpling wrapper. Lightly brush the edges with water, fold the wrapper over the filling, and pinch to seal tightly.
- Cook Broth: In a large pot, sauté the shallots until fragrant. Then, add fresh ginger, low sodium chicken broth, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cook Dumplings: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Pan-fry the dumplings until golden brown on the bottom. Add water, cover, and steam for about 5 minutes.
- Make Garlic Crisps: In the same skillet, lower the heat and add panko breadcrumbs and minced garlic. Sauté until golden and crispy, adding crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve: Ladle the broth into bowls, place 3-4 dumplings in each bowl, and top with crispy garlic and sliced green onions.