Spicy Chicken Wontons in Chili Sauce

Introduction

Chicken wontons with spicy sauce offer a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines flavorful shiitake mushrooms, tender chicken wontons, and a zesty sauce to create a delightful meal. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, this dish is sure to please the palate.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

3 tablespoons sesame oil, divided
14 ounces shiitake mushrooms, sliced
1 clove garlic, grated
One 12-ounce bag frozen wontons (e.g., mini chicken cilantro from Trader Joe’s or Costco)
1–2 cups chicken broth (adjust based on desired soupiness)
1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
1–2 tablespoons chili crisp

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

This simple yet flavorful dish is easy to prepare and provides a wonderful meal that everyone will love. From the rich flavors of sesame oil to the spicy kick from chili crisp, every bite is sure to be a hit. Enjoy!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Mushrooms

Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms and sauté until they are softened, stirring occasionally. In the last minute or two, add the grated garlic and continue sautéing until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Wontons and Broth

Carefully add the frozen wontons to the skillet, allowing them to layer on top of the sautéed mushrooms. Pour in the chicken broth and teriyaki sauce over the wontons. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap the steam and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the wontons are heated through.

Step 3: Finish with Oils and Garnish

Once the wontons are cooked, drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and the chili crisp over the top. Give a gentle stir to incorporate the flavors. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving hot.

Notes

Note 1: Adjusting Soupiness

You can adjust the amount of chicken broth based on your desired level of soupiness—less broth for a thicker dish, more for a soupy version.

Note 2: Choosing Wontons

For the wontons, you can use mini chicken cilantro wontons from Trader Joe’s or Costco, or any frozen wontons of your choice.

Note 3: Spice Level

The amount of chili crisp can be adjusted based on your preference for spiciness. Start with 1 tablespoon and add more if you like it hotter.

Spicy Chicken Wontons in Chili Sauce
Spicy Chicken Wontons in Chili Sauce

Cook techniques

Sautéing

Sautéing is a cooking method that involves quickly cooking food in a small amount of oil over high heat. In this recipe, the shiitake mushrooms are sautéed in sesame oil to enhance their flavor and tenderness.

Simmering

Simmering is a technique where food is cooked gently in liquid at a low temperature, just below boiling. This is used to heat the wontons and meld the flavors together in the broth.

Garnishing

Garnishing is the practice of adding decorative elements to a dish for aesthetic appeal and added flavor. Green onions and sesame seeds are used here to enhance the visual presentation and taste.

FAQ

Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of shiitake mushrooms?

Yes, you can substitute fresh mushrooms of your choice if shiitake mushrooms are not available. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How can I make this dish less spicy?

To reduce the spiciness, you can omit the chili crisp or use a milder sauce instead of teriyaki sauce.

What can I serve with chicken wontons?

Chicken wontons can be served alone or with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad for a complete meal.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth and replace the chicken wontons with vegetable-filled wontons for a vegetarian option.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

The Chicken Wontons with Spicy Sauce is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that can be enjoyed as a satisfying meal or a warming soup. The combination of sautéed shiitake mushrooms, fragrant garlic, and zesty sauces creates a rich broth that complements the wontons perfectly. Topped with fresh green onions and sesame seeds, this dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great option for gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Dumplings with Soy Sauce

Replace chicken wontons with a variety of vegetable dumplings. Sauté alongside chopped cabbage, bell peppers, and a splash of soy sauce for added depth.

Spicy Shrimp Wontons

Use shrimp-wrapped wontons instead and prepare a spicy Sriracha sauce to drizzle on top. Add extra chili crisp for an added kick.

Thai Coconut Curry Soup

Incorporate coconut milk and curry paste into the broth to create a Thai-inspired flavor profile. Serve with chicken wontons for a unique twist.

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Swap wontons with beef slices and broccoli. Stir-fry in sesame oil and teriyaki sauce for a hearty dish that can be served over rice.

Spicy Tofu Wontons

Use tofu instead of chicken in the wontons. Pair with a spicy garlic soy sauce for a plant-based variation that is rich in flavor.

Spicy Chicken Wontons in Chili Sauce
Spicy Chicken Wontons in Chili Sauce