There’s something magical about biting into a perfectly steamed, pan-fried, or boiled dumpling—juicy, flavorful filling wrapped in a delicate, chewy dough. While takeout is convenient, nothing beats the satisfaction of homemade dumplings, especially when they’re stuffed with tender, savory chicken and aromatic seasonings. Whether you crave crispy-bottomed potstickers, silky wontons in soup, or spicy Sichuan-style dumplings, these 12 recipes will make you forget about your usual takeout order.
Imagine golden-brown dumplings sizzling in a skillet, their bottoms crackling as you lift the lid to reveal plump, steaming parcels. Picture dipping them in a tangy soy-vinegar sauce or a fiery chili oil that makes every bite irresistible. From classic Cantonese har gow-inspired chicken dumplings with a translucent wrapper to bold Northern-style dumplings packed with ginger, garlic, and chives, these recipes cover every craving. We’ve even included quick hacks for busy cooks (store-bought wrappers are totally fine!) and pro tips for pleating like a dumpling master.
But the best part? These dumplings aren’t just delicious—they’re fun to make. Gather friends or family for a folding party, where laughter and good food go hand in hand. Or enjoy the quiet rhythm of shaping each dumpling yourself, knowing that the first bite will be worth every pinch and fold. So dust off your bamboo steamer, heat up the wok, and get ready to make dumplings so good, your favorite takeout spot will have some serious competition.
Cilantro Lime Chicken Dumplings
Cilantro Lime Chicken Dumplings are a fresh twist on a classic dish that brings a burst of flavor to your plate. These dumplings combine the zest of lime with the herbaceous notes of cilantro, creating a bright and delightful flavor profile that dances on your taste buds. Plus, they are easy to make, making them perfect for a casual lunch or dinner with friends.
Perfectly paired with a light dipping sauce, these dumplings are not just delicious but also a healthier alternative to takeout. You can whip these up in no time, impressing your family or guests with homemade goodness that’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 package dumpling wrappers
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Dumplings: Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper. Moisten the edges with water, fold over, and pinch to seal.
- Cook the Dumplings: Heat cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the dumplings and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown. Add a splash of water, cover, and steam for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve: Enjoy your dumplings warm, with extra lime wedges and your favorite dipping sauce!
Crispy Pan-Fried Chicken Dumplings
These crispy pan-fried chicken dumplings are a fantastic home-cooked treat that will have you skipping takeout. With a delightfully crunchy exterior and a juicy chicken filling, they pack a punch of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. The simple preparation makes them an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.
Whether you enjoy them with a dipping sauce or on their own, these dumplings are sure to be a hit. Plus, making them from scratch is easier than you might think, and the satisfaction of cooking them yourself is unbeatable.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 2 cups finely chopped cabbage
- 1/4 cup grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 30 dumpling wrappers
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix together ground chicken, cabbage, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Dumplings: Take a dumpling wrapper, place a spoonful of the filling in the center, moisten the edges with water, and fold to seal. Pinch the edges to create pleats if desired.
- Pan-Fry the Dumplings: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the dumplings and fry for about 2-3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.
- Add Water: Carefully pour in 1/4 cup of water and cover the skillet with a lid. Steam the dumplings for about 5 minutes until cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the lid, let any remaining water evaporate, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Spicy Szechuan Chicken Dumplings
Spicy Szechuan Chicken Dumplings bring a delightful kick to your dining experience. These dumplings are packed with bold flavors from chili oil, garlic, and ginger, making them a fantastic alternative to takeout. If you enjoy a bit of spice, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Making these dumplings is simpler than you might think. With a few basic ingredients and some easy folding techniques, you’ll have a batch ready to steam in no time. Perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests, these dumplings are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns, ground
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 package dumpling wrappers
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sriracha for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken, Szechuan peppercorns, soy sauce, chili oil, garlic, ginger, green onions, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Dumplings: Place a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon about a tablespoon of filling into the center. Moisten the edges with water, fold the wrapper in half, and pinch to seal. You can pleat the edges for a decorative touch.
- Steam the Dumplings: Arrange the dumplings in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper. Steam them over boiling water for about 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Serve: Drizzle with Sriracha for an extra kick and enjoy your homemade spicy Szechuan chicken dumplings!
Garlic Chicken Dumplings with Soy Sauce
These garlic chicken dumplings are a delightful twist on a classic dish. With a savory garlic flavor and tender chicken filling, they are sure to impress friends and family alike. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, making them a perfect weeknight dinner option!
Serve these dumplings with a side of soy sauce for dipping, which adds a salty kick that complements the chicken well. Whether you steam or pan-fry them, these dumplings are a delicious alternative to takeout.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 package dumpling wrappers
- Water, for sealing
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, garlic, ginger, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Take a dumpling wrapper and place a small spoonful of the filling in the center. Dip your finger in water and wet the edges of the wrapper. Fold it in half and pinch to seal, ensuring there are no air bubbles.
- Repeat until all the filling is used up.
- To cook, you can either steam the dumplings for about 10-12 minutes or pan-fry them in a lightly oiled skillet until golden brown, then add water, cover, and steam until cooked through.
- Serve warm with soy sauce for dipping!
Honey Sesame Chicken Dumplings
Honey Sesame Chicken Dumplings are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. These dumplings are filled with tender chicken, coated in a sweet and savory honey sesame sauce that brings a burst of flavor with every bite. They’re easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner at home or impressing your guests at a gathering.
The combination of honey and sesame creates a unique taste that balances sweetness with a hint of nuttiness. You’ll love the soft, chewy dumpling wrappers that hold a delicious filling, making these dumplings a wonderful alternative to takeout. They can be steamed, boiled, or pan-fried, allowing for versatility in cooking methods!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 package dumpling wrappers
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Extra green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped green onions, honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Place a tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center of each dumpling wrapper. Moisten the edges with a little water, fold the wrapper over, and pinch the edges to seal.
- Option 1: For steaming, place the dumplings in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper and steam for about 15 minutes until cooked through.
- Option 2: For pan-frying, heat a non-stick skillet with a little oil. Add the dumplings, add a splash of water, cover, and cook on medium heat until the bottoms are golden and the water has evaporated.
- Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and extra green onions. Enjoy your homemade honey sesame chicken dumplings!
Chicken and Vegetable Dumplings
Chicken and vegetable dumplings are a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Chinese cuisine right to your kitchen. These dumplings are packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, making them a tasty treat for any occasion. They’re not only delicious but also straightforward to make, which means you can whip them up even on a busy weeknight.
Perfect for dipping in soy sauce or your favorite condiment, these dumplings will satisfy your craving without the need for takeout. With a crispy exterior and a juicy filling, they offer a fantastic balance of textures and flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup finely chopped cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 package dumpling wrappers
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for pan-frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped cabbage, shredded carrots, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
- Take a dumpling wrapper and place a small spoonful of the filling in the center. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water, fold it over, and pinch the edges to seal. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
- In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the dumplings in batches, frying until the bottoms are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add a splash of water to the skillet and cover immediately to steam the dumplings for about 5 minutes.
- Uncover and let them cook for another minute to crisp up the bottoms. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Herbed Chicken and Mushroom Dumplings
These Herbed Chicken and Mushroom Dumplings are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, offering a savory filling that’s bursting with flavor. Made with tender ground chicken and earthy mushrooms, the combination is elevated with fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also simple to make, making them a perfect option for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends.
The dumplings are soft and chewy, with a comforting filling that warms the heart. You can steam or pan-fry them for a crispy finish, serving them with your favorite dipping sauce. They’re sure to impress anyone who tries them!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 8 ounces mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 package dumpling wrappers
- Water, for sealing
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, mushrooms, parsley, cilantro, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Fill the Dumplings: Take a dumpling wrapper and place a small spoonful of the filling in the center. Moisten the edges with water, fold the wrapper to form a half-moon shape, and pinch the edges to seal securely.
- Cook the Dumplings: Choose either to steam or pan-fry the dumplings. For steaming, place in a steamer basket and cook for about 10-12 minutes. For pan-frying, heat a bit of oil in a skillet, add the dumplings, and cook until golden brown on one side, then add a splash of water and cover to steam until fully cooked.
- Serve: Enjoy your dumplings hot, with soy sauce or your favorite dipping sauce on the side.
Savory Chicken and Scallion Dumplings
Nothing beats the satisfaction of biting into a tender dumpling packed with savory chicken and the fresh crunch of scallions. These chicken and scallion dumplings are not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make at home. With a flavorful filling and a delicate wrapper, they make for a perfect appetizer or a cozy meal.
The taste is a delightful combination of juicy chicken and aromatic scallions, all wrapped in a soft dough that complements the filling perfectly. You’ll impress family and friends with these homemade dumplings, and soon they’ll be asking for your secret recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 package dumpling wrappers
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Water, for sealing
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped scallions, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Lay out a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center of the wrapper.
- Dip your finger in water and moisten the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper in half and pinch the edges to seal, creating a half-moon shape. You can also create pleats for a decorative touch.
- Repeat until all filling is used. You can steam, boil, or pan-fry the dumplings according to your preference.
- To serve, pair the dumplings with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
Chili Oil Drizzled Chicken Dumplings
Chili oil drizzled chicken dumplings are a delightful twist on the classic dumpling experience. These little pockets are filled with tender chicken and a touch of spice, bringing a kick that makes them truly irresistible. With a simple preparation method, you can easily whip these up at home, making them a perfect choice for a cozy night in or a fun dinner party.
The combination of flavors in these dumplings is fantastic. The savory chicken filling pairs beautifully with the rich, spicy chili oil, enhancing every bite. Plus, they are great for dipping into your favorite sauce. If you’re looking for an easy, satisfying recipe that beats takeout, this one is a must-try!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 package dumpling wrappers
- Chili oil, for drizzling
- Soy sauce, for dipping
Instructions
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix the ground chicken, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger until well combined.
- Fill the Dumplings: Take a dumpling wrapper and place about a teaspoon of the chicken mixture in the center. Wet the edges with a little water, fold the wrapper over, and pinch to seal. Repeat until all filling is used.
- Cook the Dumplings: Steam the dumplings in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper for about 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve: Drizzle chili oil over the steamed dumplings and serve with soy sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy the spicy, savory goodness!
Miso Chicken Dumplings with Scallions
Miso chicken dumplings are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, blending rich umami flavors with tender chicken and fresh scallions. These dumplings are not only delicious but also quite simple to make, giving you a satisfying dish that rivals your favorite takeout.
The savory miso adds depth to the filling, while the scallions provide a fresh crunch that brightens each bite. Perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own, these dumplings will become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 2 tablespoons white miso paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 scallions, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 package dumpling wrappers
- Water (for sealing the dumplings)
- Soy sauce (for dipping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, miso paste, soy sauce, sesame oil, scallions, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
- Fill the Dumplings: Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper. Moisten the edges with water and fold, sealing tightly.
- Cook the Dumplings: Steam the dumplings for about 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Alternatively, you can pan-fry them with a bit of oil for a crispy bottom.
- Serve: Arrange the dumplings on a plate and serve with soy sauce for dipping. Enjoy your homemade miso chicken dumplings!
Coconut Curry Chicken Dumplings
Coconut Curry Chicken Dumplings bring a delightful twist to your dinner table. With tender chicken enveloped in soft dumpling wrappers, these bites are packed with flavor from the coconut milk and a hint of curry spices. Each dumpling bursts with warmth and comfort, making them a perfect dish for any occasion.
The recipe is straightforward, making it beginner-friendly while still offering a gourmet touch. Serve them in a rich coconut curry broth for an extra layer of deliciousness that’s sure to impress family and friends!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1 package dumpling wrappers
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Chili flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine ground chicken, onion, garlic, ginger, cilantro, curry powder, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Assemble the Dumplings: Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper. Wet the edges with water, fold, and seal tightly.
- Cook the Dumplings: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the dumplings and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Prepare the Broth: In a pot, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, and additional curry powder if desired. Bring to a simmer.
- Serve: Place the dumplings in bowls and ladle the hot broth over them. Garnish with chili flakes and more cilantro if you like.
Steamed Chicken and Ginger Dumplings
Steamed chicken and ginger dumplings are a delightful treat that captures the essence of Chinese cuisine. These dumplings are packed with juicy chicken, balanced with the warmth of ginger, and wrapped in a soft, tender dough. The flavor is not only comforting but also refreshing, making them a perfect dish for any occasion. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, even for those who might be new to cooking.
The process is straightforward: you’ll mix the chicken with ginger and other seasonings, wrap the mixture in dough, and then steam them to perfection. The result is a light and fragrant dumpling that’s a step above takeout. Enjoy them with a simple dipping sauce for an extra zing!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 package dumpling wrappers
- Water (for sealing dumplings)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the ground chicken, minced ginger, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
- Assemble the Dumplings: Take a dumpling wrapper and place about a tablespoon of filling in the center. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water, fold it in half, and pinch to seal, creating pleats if desired.
- Steam the Dumplings: Place the dumplings in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper. Steam for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve: Enjoy the dumplings hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
Final Thoughts
Homemade dumplings are a labor of love, but the payoff is unbeatable—fresh, customizable, and packed with flavor in every bite. With these 12 chicken dumpling recipes, you’ll discover just how easy (and rewarding) it is to recreate—and even surpass—your go-to takeout order. Whether you’re a dumpling newbie or a seasoned wrapper-folder, there’s a recipe here to inspire your next kitchen adventure. So roll up your sleeves, grab your favorite filling, and get ready to taste the difference that homemade makes. Your dumpling cravings will never be the same!