Introduction
Steamed Chicken Soup Dumplings, also known as Xiao Long Bao, are delicate dumplings filled with rich, flavorful chicken broth and tender minced chicken. These dumplings are famous for their thin, pleated dough and the burst of hot soup inside. Whether you’re a home cook or a food enthusiast, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from ingredients and techniques to steaming tips and serving suggestions.
Love homemade dumplings? Try our Easy Pork Dumplings for a traditional take on dumpling-making!
What Are Steamed Chicken Soup Dumplings?
Origins of Xiao Long Bao
- Xiao Long Bao originated in China, specifically in Shanghai.
- Traditionally made with pork, but chicken is a lighter alternative.
- The key feature is the gelatinized soup filling that melts when steamed.
Why Choose Chicken Over Pork?
- Healthier alternative with lower fat content.
- Lighter flavor that pairs well with various dipping sauces.
- Easier to digest for those avoiding red meat.
Essential Ingredients for Chicken Soup Dumplings
Dough Ingredients
- All-purpose flour – For a soft yet elastic wrapper.
- Water – Lukewarm for proper gluten development.
- Salt – Enhances the dough’s flavor.
Soup Filling (Aspic) Ingredients
- Chicken broth – Homemade or store-bought, rich in collagen.
- Unflavored gelatin – Helps create the jellied soup texture.
- Ginger & garlic – Adds warmth and depth to the broth.
Dumpling Filling Ingredients
- Ground chicken – Choose a mix of white and dark meat for juiciness.
- Soy sauce & sesame oil – Enhances umami flavor.
- Green onions & white pepper – Adds freshness and mild spice.
How to Make the Soup Gelatin (Aspic) for Dumplings
One of the key components of delicious chicken soup dumplings is the soup gelatin, also known as aspic. This gelatinized broth melts when steamed, creating the signature burst of flavorful soup inside each dumpling. Below is a detailed guide on how to make the perfect soup gelatin for your dumplings.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Broth
A rich, collagen-filled broth is essential for making soup gelatin. The more collagen extracted from the bones, the better the broth will solidify when chilled.
Ingredients for the Broth:
- 1.5 to 2 lbs of bone-in chicken parts (wings, feet, necks, or drumsticks work best)
- 6 cups of water
- 2-inch piece of ginger, sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, smashed
- 2 scallions, cut into halves
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for added depth)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
- Blanch the chicken bones:
- In a large pot, cover the chicken bones with water and bring to a boil.
- Let it boil for about 5 minutes, then discard the water and rinse the bones under cold water.
- This step removes impurities for a cleaner, clearer broth.
- Simmer the broth:
- Place the blanched bones back into the pot.
- Add 6 cups of fresh water along with ginger, garlic, scallions, soy sauce, and salt.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a low simmer.
- Let it simmer for at least 2-3 hours (longer if possible) to extract maximum flavor and gelatin from the bones.
- Strain and cool:
- Remove the bones and aromatics from the broth by straining it through a fine-mesh sieve.
- Let the broth cool slightly before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2: Add Gelatin to Create the Soup Aspic
If the broth contains enough natural collagen, it may set on its own when chilled. However, adding gelatin ensures a firm and stable aspic that melts beautifully when steamed inside the dumplings.
Ingredients for Soup Aspic:
- 2 cups of hot chicken broth (prepared in Step 1)
- 3 teaspoons unflavored gelatin powder (or 3 sheets of gelatin)
Instructions:
- Bloom the gelatin:
- If using gelatin powder, sprinkle it evenly over ¼ cup of cold water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This helps it dissolve smoothly.
- If using gelatin sheets, soak them in cold water for about 5 minutes until softened, then squeeze out excess water.
- Dissolve the gelatin in hot broth:
- Reheat the strained chicken broth if necessary (it should be hot but not boiling).
- Stir in the bloomed gelatin and whisk until fully dissolved.
- Set the aspic:
- Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or a small baking pan for easy cutting later.
- Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours (or overnight) until the broth becomes firm and jiggly.
- Cut into small cubes:
- Once set, use a sharp knife to cut the aspic into tiny cubes (about ¼-inch pieces).
- These cubes will be mixed into the dumpling filling, ensuring that each dumpling has a pocket of soup inside.
Pro Tips for the Best Soup Gelatin
- Use high-collagen bones – Chicken feet, wings, and necks are ideal for a naturally gelatinous broth.
- Simmer slowly – Low and slow cooking extracts maximum flavor and gelatin.
- Adjust seasoning – The broth should be slightly salty to ensure flavorful dumpling soup.
- Chill properly – The aspic must be firm and solid before cutting; otherwise, it will be too soft to mix with the filling.
By following these steps, you’ll create a perfect soup gelatin that gives your dumplings their signature juicy, soupy center!
Making the Dumpling Dough from Scratch
Step 1: Mixing and Kneading the Dough
- Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon salt.
- Gradually add ¾ cup warm water, mixing until dough forms.
- Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 2: Resting the Dough
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth.
- Let it rest for at least 1 hour to relax the gluten.
Preparing the Chicken Filling
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
- Combine 1 pound of ground chicken with:
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions
Step 2: Add the Soup Gelatin (Aspic)
- Fold in ½ cup of diced soup gelatin cubes.
- Mix gently to avoid breaking the cubes.
How to Wrap the Soup Dumplings
Step 1: Roll Out the Dumpling Wrappers
- Divide the dough into small pieces (about 10g each).
- Roll into thin 3-inch circles, ensuring the edges are thinner than the center.
Step 2: Fill and Pleat the Dumplings
- Place 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of the wrapper.
- Use your fingers to pleat and seal the dumpling, forming a small twist at the top.
How to Steam Chicken Soup Dumplings
Step 1: Prepare the Steamer
- Line a bamboo steamer with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking.
- Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil.
Step 2: Steaming the Dumplings
- Arrange dumplings 1 inch apart in the steamer.
- Steam over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes until the dough is translucent.
Best Dipping Sauces Steamed for Chicken Soup Dumplings
Classic Shanghai Dipping Sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- ½ teaspoon grated ginger
Spicy Garlic Chili Sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon honey
Tips and Troubleshooting for Perfect Dumplings
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Dough too thick? Roll it thinner to avoid chewy wrappers.
- Soup leaking out? Make sure the dumplings are sealed properly.
- Filling too dry? Use a mix of dark and white chicken meat for juiciness.
How to Store and Reheat
- Uncooked dumplings – Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a ziplock bag.
- Reheat – Steam frozen dumplings for 12-15 minutes without thawing.
Want a crispy dumpling alternative? Make these Pan-Fried Chicken Dumplings for a golden, crunchy texture.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Steamed Chicken Soup Dumplings
Chicken soup dumplings are a comforting and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them as a main course, an appetizer, or a side dish, the right accompaniments can enhance their taste and presentation. Here are some of the best ways to serve and customize your chicken soup dumplings.
Best Ways to Serve Chicken Soup Dumplings
1. Traditional Dipping Sauces
Pairing soup dumplings with the right dipping sauce adds an extra layer of flavor. Some popular options include:
- Classic soy sauce and vinegar – A mix of soy sauce, black vinegar, and a touch of sesame oil creates a balanced, tangy dip.
- Spicy chili oil – Adds heat and depth to every bite.
- Garlic and ginger-infused soy sauce – Brings out the savory flavors of the dumplings.
2. Side Dishes to Complement Dumplings
To create a full meal, serve chicken soup dumplings with side dishes that balance the richness of the broth-filled dumplings:
- Steamed or stir-fried vegetables – Bok choy, spinach, or snow peas add freshness and crunch.
- Asian-style salads – A cucumber or seaweed salad offers a refreshing contrast.
- Fried rice or noodle dishes – Pairing dumplings with a light garlic noodle dish or fried rice enhances the meal.
3. Beverage Pairings
The right drink can enhance the flavors of soup dumplings:
- Hot jasmine tea – Cleanses the palate and complements the dumplings’ umami flavor.
- Light beer or sake – A crisp, refreshing choice to cut through the dumplings’ richness.
- Ginger-infused lemonade – A non-alcoholic option that adds a sweet and tangy balance.
Looking for another comforting soup dish? Try our Wonton Soup with Shrimp and Chicken for a delicious broth-based meal.
Variations of Steamed Chicken Soup Dumplings
1. Different Wrappers for a Unique Texture
- Traditional thin wrappers – The classic choice for a delicate, silky texture.
- Thicker, chewy wrappers – Ideal for a heartier bite.
- Gluten-free wrappers – Made with rice flour or tapioca starch for a dietary-friendly alternative.
2. Filling Variations
While the traditional filling consists of seasoned chicken and broth, here are some creative variations:
- Spicy chicken filling – Add Szechuan peppercorns or chili oil for a kick.
- Mushroom and chicken mix – Enhances umami flavor with shiitake or oyster mushrooms.
- Herb-infused dumplings – Fresh cilantro, basil, or scallions add a fragrant twist.
3. Cooking Methods Beyond Steaming
- Pan-fried soup dumplings (Sheng Jian Bao style) – Achieves a crispy bottom while keeping the inside juicy.
- Boiled dumplings in broth – Serves dumplings directly in a rich, aromatic soup.
- Air-fried dumplings – A healthier alternative that adds a crispy texture.
Creative Serving Ideas for Special Occasions
- Dim Sum Platter – Serve alongside other dumplings like shrimp shumai or pork buns for a diverse dumpling experience.
- Fusion-style dumplings – Experiment with different flavors, such as curry-seasoned fillings or truffle-infused broth.
- Holiday or party appetizers – Serve mini soup dumplings with assorted dipping sauces for an interactive dining experience.
Pair your dumplings with a tasty side! This Garlic Bok Choy Stir-Fry is the perfect light and flavorful accompaniment.
FAQs about Steamed Chicken Soup Dumplings
1. Can I make chicken soup dumplings ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, filling, and soup gelatin a day in advance. Assemble the dumplings fresh before steaming.
2. Why do my dumplings break when steaming?
This usually happens if the wrapper is too thin or not sealed properly. Make sure to pleat tightly.
3. What can I use instead of gelatin?
Agar-agar is a vegetarian alternative, but it sets firmer than gelatin.
4. Can I pan-fry chicken soup dumplings?
Traditional soup dumplings are steamed, but you can try pan-frying them for a crispy bottom.
5. How do I prevent dumplings from sticking to the steamer?
Use parchment paper, cabbage leaves, or a light coating of oil on the steamer.
6. What’s the best way to eat soup dumplings?
Use chopsticks and a spoon. Take a small bite, let the steam escape, sip the broth, and then enjoy the rest!
Conclusion
Steamed Chicken Soup Dumplings are a delicious, satisfying dish that brings authentic flavors to your kitchen. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll master the art of making delicate dumplings filled with rich, flavorful broth. Want more homemade dumpling recipes? Check out our complete dumpling-making guide here!
Craving more Asian flavors? This Teriyaki Chicken Noodles is a flavorful and easy weeknight meal.