If you’ve ever found yourself torn between the juicy comfort of a burger and the irresistible flavors of dumplings, let me introduce you to your new obsession: Chicken Dumpling Burgers. This inspired creation brings together tender ground chicken, a chorus of fresh aromatics, and a snappy, spicy slaw, all piled into a soft bun or fluffy bao. Each bite bursts with the unmistakable essence of a Chinese dumpling—ginger, scallion, soy, and sesame—reimagined in burger form for the ultimate weeknight treat. Whether you’re looking to shake up your dinner routine or wow a crowd with fusion flair, Chicken Dumpling Burgers are here to deliver huge flavor in every satisfying mouthful.
Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Chicken Dumpling Burgers lies in their fuss-free ingredient list, each piece playing an essential role in taste, texture, and color. The savory chicken, bold aromatics, and crisp vegetables all harmonize to capture that dumpling magic with burger simplicity.
- Ground chicken (1 lb): The tender, lean base soaks up every bit of marinade flavor—look for dark meat if you prefer extra juiciness.
- Green onions (2, finely chopped): Add a pop of freshness and signature dumpling aroma to the patty mixture.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings that classic savory depth every dumpling dish craves.
- Fresh ginger (1 tablespoon, grated): Creates bright, zesty warmth—a hallmark of dumpling fillings.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Delivers umami richness and a touch of saltiness to the patties.
- Soy sauce (1 teaspoon, for spicy mayo): Infuses the spicy mayo with mellow depth and a savory kick.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Adds toasty, nutty fragrance—a must for an authentic dumpling vibe.
- Rice vinegar (1 teaspoon): Brings brightness and balances the richness of the chicken.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances every savory note in the mixture.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Contributes mild heat and rounded earthiness.
- White pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Offers a subtle, almost floral spiciness that’s classic in Asian dumplings.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For an extra spark of heat that’s totally up to you.
- Burger buns or steamed bao buns (4): Soft, fluffy vehicles to cradle every flavorful morsel.
- Shredded napa cabbage (1/2 cup): Adds crisp, juicy crunch reminiscent of a dumpling’s side salad.
- Thinly sliced cucumber (1/2 cup): Brings refreshing coolness to contrast with the warm patty.
- Grated carrot (1/4 cup): Pops of color and gentle sweetness keep each bite lively.
- Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons): The creamy foundation for the spicy mayo—smooth, rich, and good for swirling.
- Sriracha (1 tablespoon): Spices things up with a garlicky, tangy heat in the mayo.
- Sesame seeds and fresh cilantro (optional): Sprinkle on top for eye-catching flair and another layer of flavor.
How to Make Chicken Dumpling Burgers
Step 1: Mix the Chicken Patty Ingredients
Start by grabbing your largest mixing bowl—it’s time to build big flavor from the ground up. Combine the ground chicken with green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, salt, both peppers, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Use a fork or your hands to gently mix until everything is evenly distributed. The secret? Don’t overmix, or your patties may turn dense rather than juicy.
Step 2: Shape and Cook the Patties
Divide your seasoned chicken mixture into four equal portions. Using damp hands helps prevent sticking as you form each into a thick patty. Heat a grill pan or sturdy skillet over medium and brush with a little oil. Cook the patties for 5–6 minutes per side, until nicely browned with a golden edge and cooked through. They should feel springy and register 165°F at their thickest point.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Spicy Mayo
While the patties do their thing on the stovetop, whisk mayonnaise, sriracha, and an extra splash of soy sauce in a small bowl. This dreamy condiment brings creamy, spicy, and savory all at once—perfect for tying together the Chicken Dumpling Burgers.
Step 4: Prep the Veggie Toppings
Slice your cabbage, cucumber, and carrots as thinly as possible so they pile on light and crunchy. Feel free to riff with other crisp veggies, but napa cabbage in particular brings a familiar dumpling shop crunch and subtle flavor.
Step 5: Toast or Steam the Buns
For classic burgers, lightly toast your burger buns in a pan or toaster until just golden on the inside. Bao buns? Gently steam them until pillowy and warm. No matter which you pick, a soft, fresh bun is key to that happy, sink-your-teeth-in moment.
Step 6: Assemble Your Chicken Dumpling Burgers
Here comes the fun part: slather the bottom bun with spicy mayo, stack on napa cabbage, cucumbers, and carrots, then nestle a hot chicken patty right in the middle. Drizzle on more spicy mayo, sprinkle with sesame seeds and cilantro if you like, then crown with the top bun. Serve right away while the contrasts are at their peak!
How to Serve Chicken Dumpling Burgers
Garnishes
Dress up your Chicken Dumpling Burgers with a flutter of toasted sesame seeds and freshly chopped cilantro. These punchy toppers not only make your burgers look restaurant-worthy, they add a touch of herbal fragrance and nutty texture that plays beautifully against the rich, juicy patties.
Side Dishes
Round out your meal with sides that echo the fresh, vibrant vibe of the burgers. Think crispy sweet potato fries, tangy Asian-style slaw, or a simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar. For a cozier spread, serve steaming miso soup or edamame sprinkled with flaky sea salt—you can’t go wrong!
Creative Ways to Present
Go beyond the basics and pile your Chicken Dumpling Burgers into steamed bao for an extra dose of fluffy goodness, or serve patty style over a big, colorful salad for a lighter twist. For parties, make mini sliders as irresistible hand-held bites, or offer a build-your-own bar with all the fixings and let everyone play chef.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the cooked chicken patties separately from the buns and veggies in airtight containers in the fridge. This helps keep your vegetables crisp and your buns from going soggy, so everything is just as fresh and delicious the next day.
Freezing
The chicken patties freeze beautifully, making them a fantastic prep-ahead option. Arrange cooled patties in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to three months, ready to reheat whenever a Chicken Dumpling Burgers craving strikes.
Reheating
Warm refrigerated or thawed patties in a skillet over medium-low heat with a lid for a few minutes, or pop them in a 350°F oven until heated through. They’ll taste freshly cooked and stay juicy—just be sure not to microwave too long, which can dry them out.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground turkey or pork for the chicken?
Absolutely! Both ground turkey and pork work beautifully in this recipe and will soak up all those dumpling-inspired flavors. Just keep an eye on the fat content; slightly higher-fat meat makes for even juicier burgers.
Are Chicken Dumpling Burgers spicy?
They have a gentle kick from the sriracha and optional red pepper flakes, but you’re totally in control—adjust the spices to make them as mild or fiery as you like, or skip the spice altogether for a family-friendly take.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Swap in your favorite gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps, and use tamari in place of soy sauce. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making Chicken Dumpling Burgers an easy, crowd-pleasing option.
How do I keep my chicken patties from falling apart?
Mix just until combined and avoid over-handling the meat. If you want extra insurance, you can chill the shaped patties for 15–20 minutes before cooking, which helps them firm up and hold their shape.
What’s the best way to steam bao buns at home?
If you have a bamboo steamer, use that to gently reheat the buns over simmering water for a few minutes. No steamer? Place buns in a heatproof colander over a pot of boiling water and cover with a lid or foil until soft and warm.
Final Thoughts
There’s so much joy in reinventing a classic, and Chicken Dumpling Burgers manage to blend comfort, flavor, and fun all on one plate. Whether you’re serving them up for a weeknight dinner or turning heads with them at your next get-together, they’re sure to earn instant fans. Give these a try—you might just find your new favorite way to satisfy both your burger and dumpling cravings!
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Chicken Dumpling Burgers Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Chicken Dumpling Burgers are a fusion of flavors, combining the essence of classic chicken dumplings with the convenience of a burger. Juicy ground chicken patties seasoned with traditional Asian ingredients are nestled in buns with a spicy mayo kick and crunchy veggie toppings.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Patties:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Serving:
- 4 burger buns or steamed bao buns
- 1/2 cup shredded napa cabbage
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber
- 1/4 cup grated carrot
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (for spicy mayo)
- Sesame seeds and fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Patties: In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, salt, black pepper, white pepper, and red pepper flakes. Shape into 4 patties.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet over medium heat, cook patties for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Make Spicy Mayo: Combine mayonnaise, sriracha, and soy sauce in a bowl.
- Assemble: Spread spicy mayo on buns, top with cabbage, cucumber, carrot, a chicken patty, more mayo, sesame seeds, and cilantro. Serve immediately.
Notes
- These burgers are a twist on classic chicken dumplings, with ground turkey or pork as alternative options.
- For a healthier choice, serve in lettuce wraps or whole grain buns.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 85mg