When I first tried my hand at making potstickers, I was instantly enamored by the crispy, golden bites that held savory goodness within. Each little dumpling was a delightful surprise, bursting with scrumptious flavors. This recipe for Air Fryer Potstickers takes that experience up a notch! By combining the smokiness of bacon with the tender richness of ground chicken, these dumplings are not only incredibly tasty but also quick to whip up in a bustling kitchen.
Imagine reaching for a snack that’s both satisfying and homemade, instead of reaching for that fast-food bag again. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just looking for a cozy weeknight meal, these potstickers don’t disappoint. Plus, with the air fryer doing all the work, you’ll have crispy perfection on your plate with minimal fuss. Let’s dive into this luscious recipe that showcases versatility and flavor, making meal prep not just easy, but truly delightful!
Why Love These Air Fryer Potstickers?
Crispy Texture: The air fryer gives these potstickers a golden crunch that’s simply irresistible.
Savory Filling: A delicious blend of bacon and chicken infused with fresh flavors hits every savory note.
Quick Preparation: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can whip these up in no time!
Versatile Ingredients: Easily adapt to suit your taste or dietary needs—swap the meats or veggies.
Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: Serve them at parties or gatherings; they’ll be the star of the show!
Lightened-Up: Enjoy a healthier version of this beloved dish without sacrificing flavor.
Air Fryer Potstickers Ingredients
For the Filling
- Napa Cabbage – Provides texture and moisture to the filling; substitute with bok choy for a similar crunch.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning and drawing moisture from the cabbage.
- Sliced Bacon – Adds a smoky, rich flavor; freeze for 10 minutes before chopping for easier handling.
- Ground Chicken – Acts as the main protein for the filling; ground turkey or pork can also work.
- Scallions – Offers freshness and a mild onion flavor; use both white and green parts for depth.
- Ginger (minced) – Brings a spicy, aromatic essence to the filling.
- Garlic (minced) – Enhances flavor with a rich, pungent aroma.
- Fish Sauce – Contributes umami and a hint of salt; use sparingly for a balanced flavor.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Provides essential seasoning without overwhelming the mix.
- Cornstarch – Helps bind the filling together for perfect texture.
- White Pepper – Introduces a mild heat and unique flavor profile.
- Toasted Sesame Oil – Enriches the filling with a delightful nutty aroma.
- Granulated Sugar (pinch) – Balances the savory flavors beautifully.
For the Wrapping
- Dumpling Wrappers (25 to 30) – Encloses the flavorful filling; available in wheat or rice varieties.
- Vegetable Oil – For brushing the potstickers, ensuring a crispy texture in the air fryer.
For the Garnish
- Sliced Scallions – Perfect for a colorful garnish and added flavor.
- Dipping Sauce – A mix of equal parts soy sauce and Chinese black vinegar—delicious alongside your air fryer potstickers!
These air fryer potstickers are a treat for the senses, promising crispy bites filled with a savory symphony of flavors. Enjoy exploring the possibilities!
How to Make Air Fryer Potstickers
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Prepare Cabbage: Finely chop the Napa cabbage and sprinkle with kosher salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out moisture, then drain it well to prevent a soggy filling.
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Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the drained cabbage, chopped bacon, ground chicken, scallions, minced ginger, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, cornstarch, white pepper, sesame oil, and a pinch of sugar. Mix everything together until well combined and cohesive.
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Assemble Potstickers: Take a dumpling wrapper and place a spoonful of the filling in the center. Moisten the edges with a little water and fold the wrapper over, pressing to seal the dumpling tightly to prevent leakage.
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Prepare for Air Frying: Lightly brush or spray each potsticker with vegetable oil, ensuring they are well coated for a golden crispness during cooking.
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Cook: Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (188°C). Cook the potstickers in batches for around 8-10 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy, making sure they don’t overlap in the basket.
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Serve: Once cooked, transfer the potstickers to a serving platter. Garnish with sliced scallions and pair with a dipping sauce made from equal parts soy sauce and Chinese black vinegar. Optionally, serve with a side of spicy mayo for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crispy Air Fryer Potstickers?
Treat your taste buds to a meal that brings flavors and textures together beautifully, elevating your potsticker experience.
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Steamed Bok Choy: A light and crisp side that adds freshness, perfectly balancing the savory potstickers.
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Sesame Noodles: These noodles coated in sesame oil and soy sauce offer a nutty flavor that complements the umami richness of the filling beautifully.
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Spicy Dipping Sauce: A mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of chili oil will intensify the flavors of your potstickers, giving them a delightful kick.
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Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side, this adds a crunchy texture and slight sweetness, cutting through the richness of the bacon and chicken filling.
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Egg Drop Soup: This warm, comforting soup is a classic pairing, with its delicate flavors enhancing your potsticker feast.
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Sweet Chili Sauce: Perfect as a dip, its sweetness complements the savory potstickers, giving a delightful contrast in flavors.
Each of these pairings creates a wholesome dining experience that highlights the crispy goodness of your air fryer potstickers!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Potstickers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing together the drained cabbage, bacon, ground chicken, and seasonings, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can assemble the potstickers and refrigerate them, ensuring they are tightly sealed to maintain quality. When you’re ready to cook, just brush them with vegetable oil and air fry for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy. This way, you can enjoy a delicious homemade snack while saving valuable time on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Potstickers
Fridge: Store leftover potstickers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for about 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze un-cooked potstickers on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, cook frozen potstickers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Avoid Sogginess: Always ensure potstickers are fully cooled before storing to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess when reheating.
Air Fryer Potstickers Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic recipe that will tantalize your taste buds!
- Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the bacon with diced mushrooms and replace ground chicken with firm tofu for a hearty, plant-based version.
- Seafood Twist: Use minced shrimp or crab for a seafood-inspired filling that brings a fresh twist to your potstickers, perfect for special occasions.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a heat that enhances the savory flavors beautifully.
- Herb-Infused: Introduce fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the filling for an aromatic burst of flavor that elevates each bite.
- Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate shredded cheese such as mozzarella or cheddar into the filling for a gooey, delicious surprise inside each dumpling.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free dumpling wrappers made from rice flour and adjust the soy sauce to a gluten-free variety for those with dietary restrictions.
- Bacon-Free: For a healthier alternative, omit the bacon entirely and use finely chopped bell peppers for a sweet crunch that complements the chicken.
- Asian Fusion: Experiment by adding curry powder to the filling for a unique fusion flavor that marries classic dumpling elements with exotic spice notes.
With these variations, your air fryer potstickers can be tailored to all tastes and preferences, ensuring every bite is a new adventure!
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Potstickers
- Drain Cabbage Well: Properly draining the cabbage prevents a watery filling, which is crucial for crispy air fryer potstickers.
- Moisten Edges: Ensure you moisten the edges of the dumpling wrappers before folding to create a secure seal; this prevents any filling from leaking out.
- Work in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cooking in small batches helps each potsticker achieve that beautiful golden-brown crispiness.
- Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to switch up proteins or use more veggies; these air fryer potstickers are versatile and adaptable to your personal taste!
- Let Rest Before Frying: Allow assembled potstickers to rest for a few minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape better during frying.
Crispy Air Fryer Potstickers with Bacon and Chicken Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting Napa cabbage?
When selecting Napa cabbage, look for heads that feel heavy for their size and have crisp, tightly packed leaves. Avoid cabbage with dark spots or wilting, as these indicate age or spoilage. Fresh cabbage should have a light, immaculately white to pale green color.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
You can store leftover potstickers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For optimal taste and texture, I recommend re-heating them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to revive their crispy exterior.
Can I freeze uncooked potstickers?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked potstickers, lay them flat on a baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch, and place them in the freezer until firm (about 1-2 hours). After that, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, simply pop them in the air fryer straight from the freezer; no need to thaw!
What should I do if my potstickers are turning soggy?
If your potstickers are turning soggy, it’s usually due to excess moisture in the filling. Make sure to drain the Napa cabbage thoroughly and avoid overfilling the dumpling wrappers, which can lead to leakage. If you’ve already assembled the potstickers, let them rest for a few minutes before air frying to help them firm up—this can also improve their overall texture!
Are there any dietary considerations for these potstickers?
Yes! If you’re sensitive to gluten, consider using gluten-free wrappers made from rice flour. Additionally, if you’re making this for someone with a fish allergy, you can substitute the fish sauce with a mixture of soy sauce and a little bit of lime juice for a touch of similar acidity without the seafood flavor. Always be sure to check labels on pre-packaged ingredients for potential allergens.
Can pets eat these potstickers?
While the ingredients in these potstickers aren’t toxic to pets, it’s best to avoid sharing them with your furry friends. The seasonings—like soy sauce and garlic—aren’t ideal for pets and can cause stomach upset. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet!
Crispy Air Fryer Potstickers: Bacon-Chicken Delight!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Finely chop the Napa cabbage and sprinkle with kosher salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out moisture, then drain it well to prevent a soggy filling.
- In a large bowl, combine the drained cabbage, chopped bacon, ground chicken, scallions, minced ginger, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, cornstarch, white pepper, sesame oil, and a pinch of sugar. Mix everything together until well combined and cohesive.
- Take a dumpling wrapper and place a spoonful of the filling in the center. Moisten the edges with a little water and fold the wrapper over, pressing to seal the dumpling tightly to prevent leakage.
- Lightly brush or spray each potsticker with vegetable oil, ensuring they are well coated for a golden crispness during cooking.
- Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (188°C). Cook the potstickers in batches for around 8-10 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy, making sure they don't overlap in the basket.
- Once cooked, transfer the potstickers to a serving platter. Garnish with sliced scallions and pair with a dipping sauce made from equal parts soy sauce and Chinese black vinegar. Optionally, serve with a side of spicy mayo for an extra kick!