Pot stickers, popularly known in Chinese cuisine as 'guotie', are a delightfully crispy treat often enjoyed as a side dish or appetizer. This light pot stickers recipe offers a healthier take on the traditional version, using lean ground chicken and a steamed cooking method to reduce fat content without sacrificing the savory taste and satisfying crunch that make pot stickers so beloved.
Photos of Light Pot Stickers Recipe
Our key ingredients include ground chicken, wonton wrappers and sesame oil. Ground chicken is a leaner substitute for the usual pork filling, easy to find in the meat section of your local supermarket. Wonton wrappers, which you can usually find in the refrigerated section or frozen aisle of most grocery stores, are used to encase the filling. If you have trouble locating them, Asian food stores will definitely carry them. Sesame oil used for frying brings a distinct, nutty flavor to the dish, and is also commonly found in the Asian section of grocery stores.
Ingredients for Light Pot Stickers
Ground chicken: Leaner than beef or pork, ground chicken serves as the main protein in our pot stickers. It's tender, flavorful and easy to cook.
Scallions: Also known as green onions, these add a subtle onion flavor without overpowering the chicken.
Soy sauce: This adds the necessary saltiness and a depth of umami flavor to the filling and dipping sauce.
Wonton wrappers: These are thin sheets of dough used to encapsulate the filling. They cook up to a delightful, lightly crispy texture.
Sesame oil: Used for frying the pot stickers, sesame oil imparts a unique, fragrant aroma and taste.
Chicken broth: This is used to steam the pot stickers, making them juicy and tender inside.
Teriyaki sauce: Adds sweetness and tanginess to the dipping sauce.
Chile oil: Adds a dash of heat to the dipping sauce, but can be adjusted based on preference.
One reader, Farlee Mcdonnell says:
The light pot stickers recipe was a game-changer for me! The chicken filling was flavorful, and the dipping sauce was the perfect complement. The cooking process was easy to follow, and the end result was absolutely delicious. I'll definitely be making these again!
Mastering the Art of Pot Sticker Making
How to make pot sticker filling: Combine ground chicken, scallions, and soy sauce in a bowl, then season with salt and pepper.
How to fill and seal wonton wrappers: Place a small amount of the chicken mixture in the center of each wonton wrapper, moisten the edges with water, then fold and press to seal.
How to cook pot stickers: Brown the pot stickers in sesame oil, then steam them in chicken broth until opaque.
How to make dipping sauce: Mix scallions, soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, and chile oil together to create a flavorful dipping sauce.
How To Make Light Pot Stickers
With a sweet teriyaki-soy sauce dip, these pot stickers serve light meals made from ground chicken and scallion-stuffed wontons steamed in chicken broth.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbground chicken
- ¼cupscallions,chopped, divided
- 1tbspsoy sauce
- salt and ground black pepper,to taste
- 16ozwonton wrappers,(1 package)
- 2tbspsesame oil
- 1cupchicken broth
For Dipping Sauce:
- ¼cupsoy sauce
- ¼cupteriyaki sauce
- 2dropschile oil,or more to taste
Instructions
-
Mix chicken, 2 tablespoons scallions, and 1 tablespoon soy sauce together in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
-
Place ½ teaspoonful of chicken mixture in the center of each wonton wrapper. Dip a finger in water and run it along the edge of each wrapper. Bring corners together in the center and press to seal. Pinch edges together.
-
Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook pot stickers, in batches if necessary, for 2 to 3 minutes until browned on the bottom. Reduce heat to medium.
-
Pour in chicken broth and cover skillet. Steam pot stickers for 5 to 6 minutes until opaque. Drain any excess broth.
-
Mix remaining scallions, ¼ cup soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, and chile oil together to make dipping sauce.
-
Serve sauce alongside pot stickers and enjoy.
Nutrition
- Calories: 67.25kcal
- Fat: 2.07g
- Saturated Fat: 0.46g
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 0.82g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.60g
- Carbohydrates: 8.08g
- Fiber: 0.29g
- Sugar: 0.41g
- Protein: 3.92g
- Cholesterol: 12.17mg
- Sodium: 287.64mg
- Calcium: 9.11mg
- Potassium: 100.65mg
- Iron: 0.63mg
- Vitamin A: 0.95µg
- Vitamin C: 0.14mg
Expert Advice for Perfecting Your Pot Sticker Technique
When sealing the wonton wrappers around the chicken filling, make sure to press firmly to create a tight seal. This will prevent the filling from spilling out during the cooking process. If you're having trouble getting the wrappers to stick, try using a bit more water along the edges. It acts like a glue, helping to keep everything contained. Also, when browning the pot stickers in the sesame oil, don't overcrowd the pan. Leaving some space between each pot sticker will allow them to cook evenly and achieve a nice, crispy bottom.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Light Pot Stickers
Prep ahead: Prepare the filling and wrap the pot stickers in advance to save time when cooking.
Freeze for later: Make a large batch and freeze the uncooked pot stickers for future use. Just thaw and cook when ready to eat.
Use store-bought wrappers: Save time by using pre-made wonton wrappers instead of making them from scratch.
Double the batch: Make a larger quantity and freeze the extra pot stickers for a quick and convenient meal later.
Organize ingredients: Gather and organize all the ingredients and tools needed before starting to cook for a more efficient process.
Cook in batches: Cook the pot stickers in batches to ensure they cook evenly and prevent overcrowding in the pan.
Invest in a dumpling press: Use a dumpling press to quickly and easily seal the pot stickers, saving time and ensuring uniform shape.
Pre-made dipping sauce: Use store-bought dipping sauce to save time, or make a larger batch and store it for future use.
Use a non-stick skillet: Cooking pot stickers in a non-stick skillet can help prevent sticking and make the cleaning process quicker.
Substitute Ingredients For Light Pot Stickers Recipe
ground chicken - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a lean and healthy alternative to ground chicken, with a similar texture and flavor profile.
wonton wrappers - Substitute with rice paper wrappers: Rice paper wrappers are a gluten-free alternative and can be used to create a lighter and crispier texture for the pot stickers.
sesame oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a light, neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for sesame oil in this recipe.
Plating Ideas for Delightful Pot Stickers
Elevate the plating: When presenting the pot stickers, ensure that the plating is elegant and visually appealing. Use clean lines and minimalistic design to showcase the beauty of the dish.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Introduce colorful elements to the plate to create visual interest. Consider using garnishes such as microgreens or edible flowers to add a pop of color.
Balance the elements: Arrange the pot stickers in a visually balanced manner on the plate. Pay attention to the placement of each component to create a harmonious presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the pot stickers to stand out. Avoid overcrowding the plate and let the dish take center stage.
Add a touch of sophistication: Consider incorporating a subtle drizzle of sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds to add a touch of sophistication to the presentation without overwhelming the dish.
Emphasize precision: Pay attention to the placement of each pot sticker and ensure that they are aligned and presented with precision, reflecting attention to detail.
Highlight the dipping sauce: Present the dipping sauce in a separate, small vessel to emphasize its importance and allow guests to engage with the dish interactively.
Consider the plate selection: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the dish and enhances the overall presentation. Opt for a plate with a modern and refined design.
Incorporate texture: Introduce textural elements such as crispy fried shallots or toasted sesame seeds to add depth and complexity to the presentation.
Focus on finesse: Approach the plating with finesse, ensuring that every component is meticulously placed to create a visually stunning presentation that reflects the culinary artistry behind the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Pot Stickers
Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Mixing bowl: Used for combining ingredients and mixing.
Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides, used for frying, searing, and browning ingredients.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade, used for lifting and flipping food items.
Steamer: A cooking utensil used to cook food with steam by suspending it over boiling water.
Tongs: Used for gripping and lifting hot pots, pans, and other cookware.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients for recipes.
Large skillet: A larger frying pan used for cooking larger quantities of food.
Strainer: Used for straining liquids and separating solids from liquids.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for boiling, simmering, and making sauces.
Grater: Used for grating cheese, vegetables, and other ingredients.
Basting brush: A kitchen tool used for applying sauces or marinades to food items.
Rolling pin: Used for flattening and shaping dough for various recipes.
Pastry brush: Used for applying egg wash, butter, or glazes to pastries and other baked goods.
Plates and serving platters: Used for serving and presenting the finished dish.
Preserving Pot Stickers: Storage and Freezing Guidelines
- Let the cooked pot stickers cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For short-term storage, place the cooled pot stickers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze:
- Arrange the cooled pot stickers in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours, or until the pot stickers are frozen solid.
- Transfer the frozen pot stickers to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Frozen pot stickers can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat frozen pot stickers:
- Option 1: Place the frozen pot stickers in a steamer basket over boiling water and steam for 6-8 minutes, or until heated through.
- Option 2: Heat a small amount of sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the frozen pot stickers and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bottoms are crispy. Add a splash of water to the skillet, cover, and steam for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until heated through.
- Avoid refreezing thawed pot stickers, as this can affect their texture and quality.
- Always ensure that the pot stickers are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving to ensure food safety.
How To Reheat Leftover Pot Stickers
Reheating in a skillet is one of the best methods for leftover pot stickers. Heat a small amount of oil or butter over medium heat, add the pot stickers, and cook for 1-2 minutes until the bottoms are crispy. Add a splash of water or broth, cover the skillet, and steam for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
To reheat pot stickers in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pot stickers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and lightly brush them with oil. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.
Microwaving is a quick and easy option for reheating pot stickers. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the pot stickers to become rubbery.
For a crispy texture, you can also reheat pot stickers in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the pot stickers in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.
If you have a steamer basket, you can reheat the pot stickers by steaming them for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and softness of the pot stickers.
Interesting Trivia About Pot Stickers
Pot stickers are also known as Chinese dumplings and are a popular dish in many Asian cuisines. They are traditionally served during the Chinese New Year as they symbolize wealth and prosperity due to their resemblance to ancient Chinese gold ingots.
Budget-Friendly Pot Stickers: Is Homemade More Economical?
This light pot stickers recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Ground chicken is an affordable and versatile protein, and the remaining ingredients are also budget-friendly. The use of wonton wrappers allows for a larger yield, making it suitable for a family. The estimated cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $15. Overall, this recipe receives a rating of 8 for its affordability, flavor, and ease of preparation.
Are Pot Stickers a Healthy Choice?
This pot sticker recipe has some healthy elements, but there's room for improvement. Here's a breakdown:
Positives:
- Using ground chicken instead of pork reduces the fat content
- Scallions add flavor and some nutrients
- Steaming the pot stickers helps retain moisture without added oil
Negatives:
- The wonton wrappers are likely high in refined carbs and low in fiber
- Soy sauce and teriyaki sauce are high in sodium
- The dipping sauce contains added sugar from the teriyaki sauce
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following tweaks:
- Opt for whole wheat or vegetable-based wonton wrappers for added fiber and nutrients
- Reduce the amount of soy sauce and teriyaki sauce, or choose low-sodium versions
- Add more vegetables to the filling, such as finely chopped cabbage, carrots, or mushrooms, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content
- Use a leaner protein, such as turkey or tofu, for a lower-fat option
- Replace the dipping sauce with a mixture of rice vinegar, grated ginger, and a touch of honey for a lower-sodium, less sugary alternative
- Serve the pot stickers with a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables to balance the meal
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Pot Sticker Recipe
This light pot stickers recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of ground chicken and scallions creates a savory filling, while the wonton wrappers provide a satisfying crunch. The cooking method ensures a perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness. The dipping sauce adds a burst of umami and a touch of heat, complementing the pot stickers beautifully. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful choice for a light and flavorful appetizer or snack.
Enhance Your Light Pot Stickers Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Light Pot Stickers Recipe:
This recipe is a trusted choice for your next meal. The ground chicken provides a lean and flavorful protein base, while the scallions and soy sauce add depth and complexity to the filling. The use of wonton wrappers ensures a light and crispy texture, and the addition of sesame oil infuses a nutty aroma. The chicken broth steams the pot stickers to perfection, locking in moisture and flavor. The accompanying dipping sauce featuring soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, and a touch of chile oil completes the dish with a burst of umami and heat.
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