There’s something incredibly delightful about transforming simple ingredients into a dish that bursts with flavor, and these Low Carb Chicken Dumplings do just that! Recently, I found myself craving something comforting yet healthy. With the enticing aroma of ginger and garlic filling my kitchen, I knew I was onto something special. These dumplings serve as both a satisfying appetizer and a scrumptious main course, packed with tender ground chicken and fragrant herbs wrapped in pliable cabbage leaves.
What makes these dumplings truly unique is their flexibility—steamed for a light bite or pan-fried for that irresistible crunch, they cater to all cravings. Best of all? They fit perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle, ensuring that you reduce those carbs without skimping on taste or satisfaction. So roll up your sleeves and join me in creating these tasty bites that are not only quick and easy but also a delightful alternative to endless takeout!
Why You’ll Love These Low Carb Chicken Dumplings
Flavor Explosion: The harmonious blend of ginger, garlic, and sriracha creates a mouthwatering taste that hearkens back to authentic Asian cuisine.
Healthy Indulgence: Each dumpling is high-protein and low in carbs, so you can indulge guilt-free!
Versatility at Its Best: Enjoy them steamed for a light option or pan-fried for a satisfying crunch—your choice!
Quick Prep Time: With easy-to-follow steps, these dumplings come together in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleaser: They are sure to impress family and friends, whether served as appetizers or a main dish, ensuring everyone leaves happy!
Low Carb Chicken Dumplings Ingredients
For the Filling
- Ground Chicken – The main protein source; can substitute with ground turkey or pork for variety.
- Peanut Butter – Adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness; almond butter can work too.
- Szechuan Pepper – Infuses a unique flavor and mild heat; recommended but optional.
- Ginger Garlic Paste – Intensifies the aromatic profile; fresh ginger and minced garlic can substitute.
- Salt – Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust according to taste.
- Cayenne Pepper – Adds spiciness; adjust based on personal heat tolerance.
- Red Onion – Offers sweetness and crunch; can replace with green onions for a milder taste.
- Scallion – Enhances freshness; chives can be a substitute if preferred.
- Cilantro – Provides a fresh earthiness; optional for those who dislike cilantro.
- Sesame Oil – Adds richness for authentic taste; optional but highly recommended.
For the Wrapper
- Green Cabbage – Acts as the dumpling wrapper; fresh is preferred. Napa cabbage can be a good alternative.
For the Seasoning
- Tamari Soy Sauce – Generally gluten-free; provides umami; check for gluten if using regular soy sauce.
- Rice Vinegar – Balances flavors with acidity; swap with apple cider vinegar if necessary.
- Lime – Adds brightness; juice is used, and lemon juice could be an alternative.
- Olive Oil – Adds moisture and is used for frying; neutral oils like avocado oil can substitute.
With these fresh and flavor-packed ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating scrumptious low carb chicken dumplings that everyone in your family will love!
How to Make Low Carb Chicken Dumplings
- Mix Filling: In a small bowl, combine peanut butter, sriracha, ginger garlic paste, tamari, rice vinegar, and cilantro. Stir until well mixed to create a flavorful base.
- Add Oils: Incorporate olive oil into the mixture, then sprinkle in salt and squeeze in lime juice. This will help balance the flavors and add richness. Set aside.
- Season Chicken: In a separate bowl, season the ground chicken with salt, Szechuan pepper, pandan powder, and cayenne pepper. This adds depth and a spicy kick to your filling.
- Combine Ingredients: Fold the seasoned chicken into the bowl of ginger garlic mixture alongside grated onion, scallions, and cilantro. If using, mix in sesame oil for an authentic taste.
- Prepare Cabbage: Boil cabbage leaves in lightly salted water for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender but still pliable. Remove and let them cool slightly.
- Stuff Dumplings: Take a cabbage leaf and place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center. Roll the leaf securely around the filling, ensuring there are no gaps.
- Steam Dumplings: Arrange the dumplings in a steamer basket over boiling water and steam for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken filling is cooked through.
- Pan-Fry Optional: If you prefer a crispy texture, heat a little olive oil in a pan and gently pan-fry the steamed dumplings until golden brown on each side.
- Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy your dumplings hot with a side of your favorite dipping sauce! They make an excellent appetizer or a main course.
Optional: Garnish with extra scallions or sesame seeds for added flavor and appeal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Low Carb Chicken Dumplings?
Pair these delightful dumplings with complementary sides and beverages to make your meal truly memorable.
- Steamed Broccoli: A light and nutritious side that balances the dumplings’ richness with vibrant greens and a satisfying crunch.
- Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad, dressed in a tangy sesame vinaigrette, adds a crisp texture and bright flavor to your meal.
- Roasted Cauliflower: With its nutty flavor and slightly caramelized edges, roasted cauliflower enhances the savory elements of the dumplings beautifully.
- Spicy Dipping Sauce: A blend of soy sauce, lime juice, and chili paste provides an extra kick, perfectly complementing the flavors in the dumplings.
- Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet, fragrant rice offers a delightful contrast to the savory dumplings, creating a comforting and satisfying combination.
- Hot Green Tea: A warm cup of fragrant green tea aids digestion and elevates your dining experience with its earthy notes.
- Fruit Sorbet: A light dessert option that cleanses the palate and refreshes the senses after enjoying the savory dumplings.
With these pairings, you’re on your way to creating a full, flavorful feast that satisfies all your senses!
How to Store and Freeze Low Carb Chicken Dumplings
Fridge: Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze unsteamed dumplings by placing them on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat frozen dumplings by steaming for about 10-12 minutes or pan-frying them for a crispy finish.
Wrapping: If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn and keep the flavors intact in your low carb chicken dumplings.
Make Ahead Options
These low carb chicken dumplings are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can assemble the dumplings up to 24 hours in advance and keep them in the fridge, ensuring you’ll have a quick meal ready to go. To maintain their quality, lay the wrapped dumplings in a single layer on a plate, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply steam the dumplings for about 10 minutes or pan-fry them in a little oil until golden brown. With this approach, you can savor restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort, making busy weeknights so much easier!
Low Carb Chicken Dumplings Variations
Feel free to get creative with these dumplings, allowing your taste buds to explore exciting new flavors!
- Ground Turkey: Substitute ground chicken with ground turkey for a leaner protein option. It still delivers the same delicious flavors!
- Spicy Szechuan: Add more Szechuan pepper or a dash of chili oil to amp up the heat. A little kick can make your taste buds dance!
- Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or mint into the filling for a refreshing twist. These herbs will add a completely new dimension to your dumplings.
- Asian Flair: Add a teaspoon of five-spice powder for an aromatic flavor experience that’s reminiscent of traditional Asian cooking.
- Cauliflower Rice: Mix in a little riced cauliflower to the filling for added texture without the carbs. It’s a sneaky way to increase the veggie content!
- Vegan Swap: Use tofu or tempeh instead of ground chicken for a delightful vegan version. Season it well, and you’ll still enjoy the same exciting flavors.
- Savory Crunch: Sprinkle in some chopped water chestnuts for an extra crunch, making the texture more interesting in every bite.
- Cabbage Alternatives: If you want to switch things up, use collard greens or kale leaves as wrappers. Each choice offers a unique flavor profile and a lovely green hue!
Let your imagination run wild as you customize these low carb chicken dumplings—each variation is a delicious adventure waiting to happen!
Expert Tips for Low Carb Chicken Dumplings
- Perfectly Cooked Cabbage: Ensure cabbage leaves are tender but not falling apart; boiling them just until pliable makes wrapping easier.
- Mindful Filling: Avoid overstuffing each dumpling to prevent tearing; a tablespoon of filling per leaf usually does the trick.
- Steaming Success: Steam the dumplings thoroughly; cooking them for about 10 minutes ensures the chicken is fully cooked and flavors meld beautifully.
- Crispy Finish: If pan-frying, keep the heat moderate to avoid burning; this gives a lovely golden crust without overpowering the filling.
- Flavor Adjustments: Taste your filling before wrapping; tweak spice levels with cayenne or sriracha to suit your personal heat preference.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently to maintain texture in your low carb chicken dumplings.
Low Carb Chicken Dumplings Recipe FAQs
What type of cabbage should I use for the dumpling wrappers?
For the best results, use fresh green cabbage, as it is pliable and easy to wrap around the filling. If unavailable, napa cabbage is a great alternative due to its tenderness.
How long can I store leftover dumplings?
You can keep leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating them gently in a steamer or skillet with a bit of water works best to maintain their texture.
Can I freeze low carb chicken dumplings?
Absolutely! To freeze unsteamed dumplings, lay them flat on a parchment-lined tray until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can last for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, steam them for about 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
What should I do if the cabbage leaves are too stiff?
If the cabbage leaves are too stiff, briefly boil them in lightly salted water for 5-7 minutes until they become tender but not mushy. This step makes wrapping easier and helps prevent tearing.
Are these dumplings safe for anyone with nut allergies?
These dumplings contain peanut butter, which is not suitable for individuals with nut allergies. Consider substituting the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or omitting it altogether for a nut-free version.
How can I make these dumplings more flavorful?
For an extra flavor kick, feel free to experiment with different spices such as five-spice powder or adjust the amount of Szechuan pepper and cayenne pepper according to your heat preference. Adding freshly chopped herbs like basil or mint can also enhance the flavor profile of your low carb chicken dumplings.
Low Carb Chicken Dumplings That Pack a Flavor Punch
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine peanut butter, sriracha, ginger garlic paste, tamari, rice vinegar, and cilantro. Stir until well mixed to create a flavorful base.
- Incorporate olive oil into the mixture, then sprinkle in salt and squeeze in lime juice.
- In a separate bowl, season the ground chicken with salt, Szechuan pepper, pandan powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Fold the seasoned chicken into the ginger garlic mixture alongside grated onion, scallions, and cilantro. Mix in sesame oil if using.
- Boil cabbage leaves in lightly salted water for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender but still pliable.
- Take a cabbage leaf and place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center. Roll the leaf around the filling.
- Arrange the dumplings in a steamer basket over boiling water and steam for about 10 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a pan and gently pan-fry the steamed dumplings until golden brown on each side, if desired.
- Enjoy your dumplings hot with a side of your favorite dipping sauce!