If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying appetizer or snack, look no further than Chicken Fried Wontons. These delightful little pockets of flavor are filled with a savory mixture of ground chicken, vegetables, and spices, then fried to golden perfection. Perfect for parties or as a fun family dinner, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe and discover why it’s worth your time to make homemade Chicken Fried Wontons.
Why Chicken Fried Wontons is Worth Your Time
Chicken Fried Wontons are not only delicious, but they are also versatile and customizable. You can serve them as an appetizer at a gathering, a main dish accompanied by rice, or even as a snack while binge-watching your favorite show. The crispy exterior and flavorful filling will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Plus, making them from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and ensure everything is fresh.
What to Buy
To make your own Chicken Fried Wontons, you’ll need to gather a few ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken: This is the main protein and adds a delicious flavor.
- 1 cup cabbage (shredded): Adds crunch and sweetness to the filling.
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped): Provides a savory base for the filling.
- 4 green onions (thinly sliced): Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: Adds depth and umami flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground white pepper: Adds a subtle heat.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the filling with aromatic goodness.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional): For an extra layer of flavor.
- Wonton wrappers: The perfect vessel for your filling.
- Water: For sealing the wontons.
- Peanut oil (or vegetable oil for frying): For achieving that crispy texture.
What’s in the Gear List
You won’t need much in the way of equipment to make Chicken Fried Wontons:
- Mixing bowl: For combining the filling ingredients.
- Frying pan or deep fryer: Essential for frying the wontons to crispy perfection.
- Slotted spoon: Useful for removing the fried wontons from the oil.
- Cutting board and knife: For chopping your vegetables and chicken.
- Small bowl of water: To seal the wontons.
From Start to Finish: Chicken Fried Wontons
Making Chicken Fried Wontons is a straightforward process that can be broken down into simple steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cabbage, chopped onion, sliced green onions, salt, sugar, soy sauce, ground white pepper, minced garlic, and sesame oil (if using). Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 2: Assemble the Wontons
Take a wonton wrapper and place it on a clean surface. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of filling into the center of the wrapper. Dip your finger in the bowl of water and moisten the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper in half to create a triangle, pressing out any air as you seal the edges. Make sure the wonton is tightly sealed to prevent any filling from escaping during frying. Repeat this process until all the filling is used.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large frying pan or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of peanut oil over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of wonton wrapper into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
Step 4: Fry the Wontons
Carefully drop the sealed wontons into the hot oil in batches, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the wontons from the oil and drain them on a plate lined with paper towels.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once all the wontons are fried, serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet and sour sauce or soy sauce. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Fried Wontons with family and friends!
Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions
If you’re missing an ingredient or want to switch things up, consider these swaps:
- Ground turkey or pork: Can be used instead of ground chicken for a different flavor.
- Carrots or bell peppers: These can be added or substituted for the cabbage for a different texture and taste.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: If you’re watching your sodium intake, this is a great alternative.
- Olive oil: Can be used instead of peanut oil for frying if you prefer.
What Not to Do
When making Chicken Fried Wontons, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Don’t overfill the wontons, as this can cause them to burst during frying.
- Avoid frying at too low a temperature; this can result in greasy wontons rather than crispy ones.
- Don’t leave the wontons sitting for too long before frying, as the wrappers can dry out and become difficult to seal.
- Don’t skip the water sealing step; it’s crucial for keeping the filling inside the wontons.
How to Store & Reheat
If you have leftover Chicken Fried Wontons, follow these storage tips:
- Storing: Allow the wontons to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the uncooked wontons on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat fried wontons, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. If reheating from frozen, increase the time as needed.
Chicken Fried Wontons FAQs
Can I bake Chicken Fried Wontons instead of frying them?
Yes! To bake them, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the assembled wontons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush them with a little oil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
What dipping sauces pair well with Chicken Fried Wontons?
Some popular dipping sauces include sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce mixed with a little vinegar, or a spicy chili sauce. You can also serve them with a homemade ponzu sauce for a citrusy kick!
Are Chicken Fried Wontons freezer-friendly?
Yes! You can freeze uncooked wontons and fry them directly from the freezer. Just be sure to adjust the frying time as they will take a little longer to cook.
Can I use different types of meat in the filling?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, pork, or even tofu can be used to make a vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
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Hungry for More?
If you enjoyed making Chicken Fried Wontons, there are plenty of other delicious recipes waiting for you to try. From comforting pastas to hearty casseroles, there’s something for everyone. Don’t hesitate to explore new flavors and cooking techniques in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
Chicken Fried Wontons
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup cabbage (shredded)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 4 green onions (thinly sliced)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- Wonton wrappers
- water
- peanut oil (or vegetable oil for frying)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cabbage, chopped onion, sliced green onions, salt, sugar, soy sauce, ground white pepper, minced garlic, and sesame oil (if using). Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Take a wonton wrapper and place it on a clean surface. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of filling into the center of the wrapper. Dip your finger in the bowl of water and moisten the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper in half to create a triangle, pressing out any air as you seal the edges. Make sure the wonton is tightly sealed to prevent any filling from escaping during frying. Repeat this process until all the filling is used.
- In a large frying pan or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of peanut oil over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of wonton wrapper into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
- Carefully drop the sealed wontons into the hot oil in batches, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the wontons from the oil and drain them on a plate lined with paper towels.
- Once all the wontons are fried, serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet and sour sauce or soy sauce. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Fried Wontons with family and friends!
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Slotted spoon
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Small bowl of water
Notes
- Don’t overfill the wontons to prevent bursting during frying.
- Fry at the correct temperature for crispy results.
- Seal the wontons properly to keep filling inside.
