Chicken Potstickers (Pan Fried Dumplings)

introduction

Chicken Potstickers, also known as pan-fried dumplings, are a delightful blend of tender chicken and fresh vegetables encased in a thin dough. This dish, originating from Chinese cuisine, has gained worldwide popularity due to its savory flavor profile and irresistible texture. With their crispy bottoms and steamed tops, potstickers are both appealing to the eye and satisfying to the palate.

why make this recipe

Making Chicken Potstickers at home not only allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and quality, but it also presents an enjoyable cooking experience. This recipe introduces you to the art of dumpling-making, which can be a fun activity to share with family and friends. Plus, potstickers are incredibly versatile; they can be served as an appetizer, snack, or part of a main meal. By preparing them yourself, you can customize the filling to your preferences, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.

how to make Chicken Potstickers

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1 lb circular dumpling wrapper
  • 2 cups napa cabbage (chopped)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 4 green onions (sliced)
  • 6 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 2-inch ginger (minced)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp chicken bouillon
  • 1 tsp white pepper
  • Dumpling dipping sauce
  • Green onions (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Napa Cabbage: Start by adding the chopped napa cabbage and salt to a bowl. Toss to evenly coat, then let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out the moisture. Afterward, rinse off the salt and squeeze the cabbage to release any excess moisture.

  2. Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, napa cabbage, sliced green onions, minced garlic, minced ginger, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, chicken bouillon, and white pepper. For optimal flavor, pan fry a small piece of the mixture to taste and adjust any seasonings as necessary.

  3. Fold the Dumplings: Moisten the edge of a circular dumpling wrapper with a little water. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center, then fold the wrapper in half. Create three pleats toward the middle with the front half, pinch the end to seal, and repeat on the other side. Keep the dumpling wrappers and formed dumplings covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out while you finish folding the rest.

  4. Cook the Potstickers: Heat a drizzle of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add about 10 dumplings, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the bottoms for about 2 minutes until golden brown. Then, add just enough water to cover the bottom of the pan, cover with a lid, and steam for about 5 minutes.

  5. Freeze for Later: You can choose to cook all the dumplings or freeze some for later. To freeze, lay uncooked dumplings flat on a wax sheet or a plastic wrap-lined baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch. Once frozen, transfer them to a container or bag to save freezer space.

  6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your chicken potstickers with a delicious dumpling dipping sauce, and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

how to serve Chicken Potstickers

Chicken Potstickers can be served as a standalone dish or as part of a larger meal. Pair them with a variety of dipping sauces such as soy sauce, vinegar, or even a spicy chili oil for an extra kick. They accompany well with steamed vegetables or a light salad, making them a versatile addition to your dining experience. Enjoy them hot and crispy for the best flavor and texture.

how to store Chicken Potstickers

If you have leftover potstickers, allow them to cool completely before storing. For refrigerator storage, place them in an airtight container and consume within 3 days. For longer storage, uncooked dumplings can be frozen as described earlier. For cooked potstickers, try to consume them within 2 to 3 months for the best taste; simply reheat in a skillet or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

tips to make Chicken Potstickers

  • Make sure not to overload the filling when folding the dumplings; this will make them difficult to seal.
  • Use a non-stick pan to prevent the potstickers from sticking and tearing during cooking.
  • Experiment with different fillings, such as ground pork, shrimp, or vegetables, to cater to various tastes.
  • When pleating the wrappers, practice makes perfect; don’t be discouraged if your first few don’t look picture-perfect!
  • Keep a damp cloth handy to cover the wrappers and prevent them from drying out while you work.

variation

While the traditional chicken filling is delicious, feel free to get creative by adding other ingredients, such as finely chopped carrots or mushrooms. You can also switch to a vegetarian version using tofu or mushrooms as the main filling. Spicy or flavored oils can add a different dimension to your dipping sauce, catering it to your taste preferences.