Discover the delectable world of authentic Chinese chicken and dumpling recipes that will transform your home cooking experience. From classic dim sum staples like har gow (crystal shrimp dumplings) and siu mai to hearty, comforting dishes like wonton soup and potstickers (jiaozi), these traditional Asian recipes showcase the perfect harmony between tender poultry and delicate dumpling wrappers. Whether you’re craving steamed, pan-fried, or boiled preparations, these eight mouthwatering Cantonese and Mandarin-inspired dishes offer something for every palate—each featuring succulent chicken combined with aromatic ginger, scallions, sesame oil, and other signature Chinese seasonings.
Explore a diverse collection of time-honored dumpling techniques alongside innovative fusion creations that will elevate your culinary repertoire. From labor-intensive homemade dumpling skins to convenient store-bought wrappers, these recipes accommodate both ambitious home chefs and busy weeknight cooks. Master the art of pleating perfect xiao long bao (soup dumplings), create crispy-bottomed guotie (pot stickers), or simmer a nourishing chicken and dumpling soup that rivals the finest Chinese restaurants. With detailed step-by-step instructions, ingredient substitution options, and authentic cooking methods, these eight exceptional recipes will help you bring the vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine directly to your dining table.
Classic Chinese Chicken and Dumplings Soup: A Traditional Family Recipe
Chinese Chicken and Dumplings Soup holds a cherished place in my family’s culinary heritage, passed down through generations with each cook adding their personal touch. My grandmother would prepare this comforting dish during cold winter months, filling our home with aromatic scents of ginger, star anise, and tender chicken simmering in a rich broth. The silky homemade dumplings, delicately pleated and stuffed with a savory mixture of ground chicken, scallions, and sesame oil, were always the highlight of the meal. Making this soup was never rushed; instead, it represented a labor of love that often brought the entire family together in the kitchen. Children would gather around the table, learning to fold dumplings while elders shared stories of their childhood, creating memories as precious as the recipe itself. The clear, golden broth—simmered for hours with chicken bones, ginger, and aromatics—develops a depth of flavor that cannot be replicated with shortcuts or store-bought alternatives. This traditional recipe exemplifies the Chinese philosophy of food as medicine, combining nourishing ingredients that warm the body and soul.
– Free-range chicken with bones for deeper flavor
– Fresh ginger slices to cut through richness
– Star anise and Sichuan peppercorns for authentic aroma
– Dumpling wrappers made from scratch with high-gluten flour
– Ground chicken thighs mixed with scallions for dumpling filling
– Sesame oil and white pepper for traditional seasoning
– Chinese black vinegar for serving
– Fresh cilantro and thinly sliced green onions as garnish
– Shiitake mushrooms for umami depth
– Bamboo shoots for textural contrast
– Low-sodium soy sauce for balanced saltiness
– White pepper powder for subtle heat without changing the broth’s color
Spicy Sichuan Chicken with Red Oil Dumplings
The fiery Spicy Sichuan Chicken with Red Oil Dumplings offers a tantalizingly numbing experience that showcases the bold flavors of China’s Sichuan province. This dish combines tender chunks of chicken marinated in a complex sauce of Sichuan peppercorns, dried chilies, and aromatic spices that create the signature málà (numbing and spicy) sensation. Accompanying the chicken are delicate dumplings bathed in a vibrant red chili oil that glistens enticingly on the plate, adding another dimension of heat and richness. The dumplings themselves contain a savory filling of minced chicken, ginger, garlic, and scallions, perfectly balanced to complement the intense flavors of the main dish. Traditional preparation requires toasting and grinding the Sichuan peppercorns to release their essential oils and unique flavor profile before incorporating them into both the chicken marinade and the red oil. The contrast between the succulent chicken pieces and the silky dumplings creates a textural symphony that keeps diners reaching for more despite the mounting heat. Customarily served family-style with cooling sides of cucumber salad or fresh greens, this dish exemplifies how Chinese cuisine masterfully balances powerful flavors with thoughtful accompaniments.
• Sichuan peppercorns provide the signature numbing sensation
• Dried red chilies contribute heat and color to the oil
• Chicken thighs work better than breast meat for juiciness
• Dumpling wrappers should be thin but sturdy enough to hold filling
• Star anise and cinnamon add aromatic depth to the sauce
• Doubanjiang (fermented broad bean paste) creates rich umami flavor
• Black vinegar adds necessary acidity to balance heat
• Fresh ginger and garlic are essential aromatic foundations
• Sesame oil provides nutty finish to both chicken and dumplings
• Shaoxing wine tenderizes the chicken during marination
• Dark soy sauce contributes color and depth
• Green Sichuan peppercorns offer citrus notes as a variation
• Dumpling filling requires thorough mixing for proper texture
• Red oil should be made at least one day ahead for flavor development
• Scallions provide brightness as both ingredient and garnish
• Properly toasted chili flakes make oil more fragrant
• White pepper adds subtle heat different from chili peppers
• Chicken should be velveted (coated in cornstarch) before cooking for tenderness
Five-Spice Chinese Chicken Served with Steamed Mushroom Dumplings
# Five-Spice Chinese Chicken Served with Steamed Mushroom Dumplings
Have you been craving an authentic Chinese dish that combines tender chicken with delectable dumplings? This Five-Spice Chinese Chicken recipe, perfectly paired with Steamed Mushroom Dumplings, will transform your home kitchen into a gourmet Chinese restaurant. The aromatic blend of star anise, cloves, cinnamon, Sichuan peppercorns, and fennel seeds creates that distinctive five-spice flavor that permeates the chicken, leaving it irresistibly fragrant and bursting with authentic Asian flavors. You’ll be amazed at how the chicken becomes mouthwateringly tender when marinated in this traditional spice blend, soy sauce, and a touch of honey before being slow-cooked to perfection. Meanwhile, the steamed mushroom dumplings offer a delightful contrast with their soft, pillowy exterior and umami-rich filling that complements the five-spice chicken beautifully. The best part is that you can prepare the dumpling dough and filling ahead of time, making this impressive dish manageable even for busy weeknight cooking. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating your family to a special meal, this combination of five-spice chicken and mushroom dumplings will surely earn you compliments and requests for seconds.
**Tips for Perfect Five-Spice Chicken and Mushroom Dumplings:**
1. Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the five-spice flavors to fully penetrate the meat
2. Use a mix of shiitake, oyster, and button mushrooms for the most flavorful dumpling filling
3. Add a small amount of cornstarch to your dumpling filling to absorb excess moisture
4. Brush your steamer with oil or line with cabbage leaves to prevent dumplings from sticking
5. Let your dumpling dough rest for at least 30 minutes before rolling for optimal texture
6. Cook chicken low and slow to ensure it remains tender and juicy
7. Create pleated dumpling folds for an authentic presentation and better texture
8. Serve with a dipping sauce of black vinegar, soy sauce, and a touch of chili oil
9. Garnish with finely sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving
10. Store leftover dumplings uncooked and frozen for quick future meals
Ginger Soy Chinese Chicken Thighs with Scallion Dumpling Cups
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these mouth-watering Ginger Soy Chinese Chicken Thighs with Scallion Dumpling Cups – a perfect fusion of tender, flavorful chicken and delicate dumplings that’ll transport you straight to the bustling streets of Shanghai. The secret lies in marinating those juicy chicken thighs in a rich blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey that caramelizes beautifully when cooked. You’ll love how the chicken turns out incredibly moist on the inside while developing that irresistible sticky, glossy exterior that’s the hallmark of classic Chinese cooking. The scallion dumpling cups are the perfect companions – little edible vessels with crispy edges and tender centers, ready to hold extra sauce or be enjoyed alongside each bite of chicken. What makes this dish truly special is how approachable it is for home cooks while still delivering those authentic Chinese flavors you crave. Trust me, once you master this recipe, it’ll become your go-to whenever you’re craving a Chinese feast without the takeout!
1. Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor
2. Marinate chicken for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight
3. Include Chinese five-spice powder for authentic depth
4. Add a splash of Shaoxing wine to the marinade
5. Incorporate both fresh and ground ginger for layered flavor
6. Brush chicken with honey during the last 5 minutes of cooking
7. Create dumpling cups using wonton wrappers and muffin tins
8. Mix chopped scallions directly into the dumpling dough
9. Add water chestnuts for crunch in your dumpling filling
10. Incorporate sesame oil for an aromatic dumpling base
11. Steam dumplings before pan-frying for perfect texture
12. Serve with a side of Chinese black vinegar for dipping
13. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and cilantro
14. Use dark soy sauce for deeper color and flavor
15. Add star anise to your marinade for complex sweetness
16. Reserve some marinade to reduce into a glossy sauce
17. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts for added texture
18. Include dried shiitake mushrooms (rehydrated) in your dumpling filling
19. Serve with steamed bok choy or Chinese broccoli for a complete meal
Crispy Chinese Chicken and Pan-Fried Potsticker Dumplings
Ready to transform your dinner into a mouthwatering feast? Our Crispy Chinese Chicken paired with Pan-Fried Potsticker Dumplings brings authentic Asian flavors right to your kitchen without requiring professional culinary skills. The secret to achieving that restaurant-quality crispiness lies in double-frying the chicken at different temperatures, creating that irresistible crunch that perfectly complements the tender meat inside. Meanwhile, the potstickers offer that magical texture combination – crispy bottoms with soft, chewy tops – that makes these dumplings absolutely addictive. You’ll love how these two dishes complement each other, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will impress even your most food-savvy friends. With make-ahead options for both recipes, you can prep components in advance and assemble everything just before your guests arrive or when you need a quick weeknight dinner solution. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving homemade Chinese comfort food, this dynamic duo will satisfy your cravings and have everyone asking for seconds!
1. Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful crispy chicken
2. Marinate chicken in soy sauce, rice wine, and ginger for at least 2 hours
3. Add cornstarch to your batter for extra crispiness
4. Double-fry the chicken at different temperatures (325°F then 375°F)
5. Let dumplings rest 30 minutes before cooking to prevent wrapper tearing
6. Use a mixture of ground pork and shrimp for traditional potsticker filling
7. Include cabbage, green onions, and garlic in your dumpling mixture
8. Add a small amount of sesame oil to enhance dumpling flavor
9. Keep dumpling wrappers covered with a damp cloth while working
10. Use the pleating technique for authentic-looking potstickers
11. Create a slurry of flour and water to seal dumplings properly
12. Pan-fry dumplings until golden brown on the bottom
13. Use the steam-fry method: add water and cover to finish cooking
14. Serve crispy chicken with sweet chili sauce or honey-soy glaze
15. Make a simple dumpling dipping sauce with black vinegar, soy sauce and ginger
16. Garnish dishes with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds
17. Prep dumpling filling and fold dumplings a day ahead for convenience
18. Store uncooked dumplings in a single layer to prevent sticking
19. Freeze extra dumplings for up to three months in airtight containers
20. Serve with stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal
21. Pair with hot jasmine tea or Chinese beer for an authentic experience
Slow-Cooker Chinese Chicken Broth with Floating Cloud Dumplings
Are you craving a comforting bowl of Chinese chicken broth with pillowy dumplings but don’t have hours to stand over a stove? Your slow cooker is about to become your new best friend for creating this soul-warming Slow-Cooker Chinese Chicken Broth with Floating Cloud Dumplings that practically makes itself while you go about your day. The gentle, consistent heat of a slow cooker coaxes out every bit of flavor from chicken bones, aromatics, and Chinese herbs, resulting in a deeply nourishing broth that serves as the perfect swimming pool for delicate, cloud-like dumplings. These ethereal dumplings get their name from how they float to the surface and puff up like little clouds as they cook, absorbing the rich, savory flavors of the golden broth beneath them. You’ll be amazed at how this hands-off method delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort—just set it up in the morning and return to a kitchen filled with irresistible aromas and a dinner that’s ready to ladle into bowls. What makes this recipe truly special is the balance of traditional Chinese flavors with the convenience of modern slow-cooking techniques, giving you the best of both worlds: authentic taste without the traditional time commitment.
1. Use bone-in chicken thighs for richer flavor
2. Add chicken feet for extra collagen (optional)
3. Include star anise, cinnamon, and cloves for authentic Chinese flavor
4. Ginger slices help remove gaminess from the broth
5. Green onions should be smashed before adding to release more flavor
6. Dried shiitake mushrooms add umami depth
7. A small piece of dried tangerine peel enhances the aroma
8. Rice wine or Shaoxing wine elevates the broth’s complexity
9. Mix white pepper instead of black for traditional flavor
10. Simmer on low for at least 6-8 hours for best results
11. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve for clarity
12. Combine ground chicken with minced water chestnuts for dumpling texture
13. Add a touch of sesame oil to the dumpling mixture
14. Incorporate finely chopped green onions into dumplings
15. Use cornstarch in the dumpling mixture for fluffy texture
16. Drop small teaspoons of dumpling mixture into simmering (not boiling) broth
17. Never stir the broth while dumplings are cooking
18. Cover the slow cooker when cooking dumplings
19. Dumplings need approximately 5-7 minutes to cook through
20. Garnish with cilantro leaves and thinly sliced green onions
21. A few drops of chili oil add beautiful color and heat
22. Serve with Chinese black vinegar on the side
23. Store leftover broth and dumplings separately
24. Freeze the strained broth for up to 3 months
25. Reheat gently to avoid breaking down the delicate dumplings
Lemongrass Chinese Chicken Stir-Fry with Sesame Wonton Dumplings
Imagine transforming your weeknight dinner into an aromatic Asian feast with this mouthwatering Lemongrass Chinese Chicken Stir-Fry with Sesame Wonton Dumplings – a dish that perfectly balances bold flavors and comforting textures. The fragrant lemongrass infuses the tender chicken pieces with a citrusy, slightly sweet profile that pairs beautifully with the umami-rich sesame wonton dumplings. You’ll love how the crisp vegetables retain their vibrant colors and satisfying crunch, creating a delightful contrast to the silky dumplings. This recipe simplifies what might seem like a complex restaurant dish into manageable steps you can easily follow at home. The best part? You can prep the wonton dumplings ahead of time and freeze them for busy nights when you’re craving authentic Chinese flavors without the long wait. Your family will be impressed by how the aromatic sauce clings perfectly to both the chicken and dumplings, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re new to Chinese cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between authentic techniques and accessible ingredients you can find at most grocery stores.
1. Use chicken thighs instead of breast meat for more flavor and tenderness
2. Finely mince the lemongrass, focusing on the tender white parts only
3. Add a splash of Chinese Shaoxing wine to the stir-fry for authentic depth
4. Toast the sesame seeds before adding to wonton filling for nuttier flavor
5. Double-fold your wontons for extra durability during cooking
6. Incorporate ginger and garlic paste into both the stir-fry and dumpling filling
7. Blanch vegetables separately before adding to stir-fry to maintain vibrant colors
8. Use a combination of soy sauce and oyster sauce for complex umami flavor
9. Add a teaspoon of cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency
10. Garnish with fresh cilantro and thinly sliced scallions just before serving
11. Serve with steamed jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful sauce
12. Include water chestnuts for unexpected crunch and texture contrast
13. Drizzle toasted sesame oil at the final stage of cooking for aromatic finish
14. Allow stir-fried chicken to rest for 5 minutes before plating to retain juices
Chinese Black Bean Chicken Paired with Jade Vegetable Dumplings
Imagine transforming your kitchen into a bustling Chinese restaurant with the irresistible aroma of Black Bean Chicken sizzling alongside delicate Jade Vegetable Dumplings – a combination that perfectly balances bold flavors with delicate textures. This classic pairing brings together the savory umami punch of fermented black beans with tender chicken, while vibrant green dumplings filled with a medley of vegetables provide a refreshing contrast that’ll impress even your most discerning dinner guests. You’ll love how the rich, slightly salty sauce from the chicken seeps into steamed rice, creating the perfect foundation for this authentic Chinese feast. Making this duo at home might seem intimidating at first, but with our step-by-step instructions, you’ll master these traditional techniques while still adding your personal touch. The black bean sauce delivers that distinctive Chinese restaurant flavor that’s nearly impossible to replicate with other ingredients – it’s the secret weapon in your culinary arsenal. What makes this combination particularly special is how the jade dumplings‘ subtle vegetable flavors cleanse your palate between bites of the intensely flavored chicken. With some weekend meal prep, you can freeze extra dumplings for quick weeknight dinners that’ll make takeout seem completely unnecessary.
1. Use authentic fermented black beans (not black bean sauce) for the most traditional flavor
2. Add a splash of Shaoxing wine to enhance the chicken’s savory notes
3. Bell peppers and onions complement the black bean sauce perfectly
4. Steam the chicken briefly after stir-frying for extra tenderness
5. Mix spinach juice into dumpling dough for the beautiful jade color
6. Include water chestnuts in the dumpling filling for essential crunch
7. Balance vegetable filling with mushrooms for umami depth
8. Pleat dumplings in half-moon shapes for traditional presentation
9. Use a hot water dough for more pliable dumpling wrappers
10. Pair with a simple soy-vinegar dipping sauce with fresh ginger
11. Cook dumplings using the steam-fry method for crispy bottoms
12. Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking
13. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds
14. Serve with steamed jasmine rice to absorb the flavorful sauces
15. Add dried chili peppers to the chicken for subtle heat
16. Blanch vegetables before adding to dumpling filling to remove excess moisture
17. Prepare extra black bean sauce to keep in your refrigerator for quick weeknight stir-fries
