There’s something truly satisfying about the crunch of a crispy potsticker, especially when you bite into it and a burst of savory flavor fills your mouth. I’ll never forget the first time I decided to swap out the traditional boiling method for my air fryer—it transformed the way I experienced these delicious little parcels. These Air Fryer Potstickers with Bacon and Chicken are a delightful twist on a classic favorite that offers convenience and flavor in every bite. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an appetizer that will impress guests, this recipe pairs the smokiness of bacon with tender ground chicken, nestled in a crisp, golden wrapper.
What’s even better? You can customize the fillings to fit your own preferences, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, you’ll find this dish not only easy to make but also a true crowd-pleaser. So let’s dive into this flavorful adventure and elevate your cooking game with these irresistible air fryer potstickers!
Why are Air Fryer Potstickers a must-try?
Crisp Texture: Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch with a golden, crispy exterior that contrasts perfectly with the tender filling.
Savory Goodness: The combination of bacon and ground chicken infuses your potstickers with a rich, smoky depth that’s hard to resist!
Quick Prep: Ready in just 30 minutes, these potstickers are the perfect solution for busy weeknights.
Versatile Creations: Customize your filling with other meats or make a veggie version using tofu and mushrooms for a delightful twist.
Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family dinners or entertaining guests, these potstickers are sure to impress with their delicious flavors.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Freeze uncooked potstickers for a quick meal option that’s always on hand—simply cook from frozen for added convenience!
Air Fryer Potstickers Ingredients
Get ready to create some delicious Air Fryer Potstickers!
For the Filling
- Napa cabbage – Adds crunch and moisture to the filling; can substitute with bok choy or other greens.
- Kosher salt – Enhances flavor by drawing out moisture from the cabbage; essential for seasoning.
- Sliced bacon – Provides a smoky depth of flavor; for a healthier option, use turkey bacon or omit for a vegetarian variety.
- Ground chicken – The protein base of the filling; can be replaced with ground pork or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Scallions – Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor; use chives as an alternative.
- Ginger – Offers fragrant warmth; fresh ginger is best, but ground ginger can be used in a pinch.
- Garlic – Boosts overall flavor; garlic powder can be used if fresh is unavailable.
- Fish sauce – Adds umami depth; can replace with soy sauce for a vegetarian version.
- Low-sodium soy sauce – Seasoning that complements other flavors; regular soy sauce can be used but may add additional saltiness.
- Cornstarch – Helps bind the filling and provides a slight crunch when fried; can substitute with arrowroot powder.
- White pepper – Adds subtle heat without the black specks; black pepper can be substituted, but the flavor profile will shift slightly.
- Toasted sesame oil – Adds a nutty aroma; can replace with olive oil for a lighter option.
- Granulated sugar – Balances savory flavors; optional for those monitoring sugar intake.
For the Wrappers
- Dumpling wrappers (25-30) – The vessel for the filling; use store-bought or make homemade wrappers for a fresh touch.
For Brushing and Serving
- Vegetable oil – For brushing and added crispness; can substitute with any neutral oil.
- Sliced scallions and dipping sauce – For serving to enhance flavor and enjoy with your potstickers!
Dive into making these scrumptious Air Fryer Potstickers and impress your family with delightful bites full of flavor!
How to Make Air Fryer Potstickers
- Mix the Cabbage: In a bowl, combine the chopped napa cabbage with kosher salt. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes to draw out moisture, ensuring a flavorful filling.
- Combine the Filling: Drain the salted cabbage, then mix it in a large bowl with sliced bacon, ground chicken, scallions, ginger, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, cornstarch, white pepper, sesame oil, and granulated sugar. Stir until well-blended and flavorful.
- Prepare the Wrappers: Lay out the dumpling wrappers on a clean surface. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each wrapper, making sure not to overfill.
- Seal the Potstickers: Wet the edges of each wrapper with water, then fold them over to create a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges firmly to seal tightly, ensuring no filling escapes during cooking.
- Brush with Oil: Lightly brush the tops of the sealed potstickers with vegetable oil, giving them that beautiful crispiness when air-fried.
- Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the potstickers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t touching each other for even cooking.
- Air Fry: Cook in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure they cook evenly until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the potstickers from the air fryer and serve hot with sliced scallions and your choice of dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost.
Optional: Try a mixture of soy sauce and black vinegar for a delicious dipping experience!
Exactly quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Potstickers
• Proper Salting: Ensure to salt and drain the napa cabbage thoroughly; excess moisture can lead to soggy filling.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; this allows for even cooking, resulting in uniformly crispy air fryer potstickers.
• Sealing Technique: Pinch the edges of the dumpling wrappers tightly to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
• Experiment with Fillings: Don’t shy away from mixing different meats or vegetables to find your perfect flavor combination; variations elevate your potstickers!
• Dipping Sauce Delight: Enhance your experience by trying different dipping sauces, such as a mix of soy sauce and black vinegar for extra tang!
Air Fryer Potstickers Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delectable potstickers to suit your taste buds.
- Pork Swap: Replace ground chicken with ground pork for a richer, more indulgent flavor.
- Vegetarian Delight: Use a mix of finely chopped mushrooms and tofu for a hearty vegetarian option that’s still full of flavor.
- Different Greens: Swap napa cabbage for bok choy or spinach for a fresh twist; each vegetable brings its unique taste and texture.
- Seasoning Shift: Add a splash of lime juice and zest in the filling for a bright, zesty flavor that lifts the entire dish.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes into the filling to give your potstickers a delightful heat.
- Sweet and Savory: Mix in a bit of chopped pineapple or a teaspoon of hoisin sauce for a sweet touch that complements the savory filling perfectly.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an aromatic boost, bringing a lovely freshness to each bite.
- Crunchy Add-In: Toss in some finely chopped water chestnuts for an extra crunch that pairs beautifully with the delicate texture of potstickers.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Potstickers?
Looking to create a delightful spread to accompany these crispy bites? Here are some perfect pairings that will enhance your meal experience.
- Steamed Bok Choy: A light, fresh side that adds a gorgeous green element to your table while complementing the savory potstickers effortlessly.
- Sesame Noodles: These flavorful noodles are the perfect complement, offering a silky base with sesame goodness that pairs beautifully with the crunchy texture of potstickers.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing dish that adds crunch and brightness, making it an excellent palate cleanser between bites of rich potstickers.
- Spicy Dipping Sauce: Elevate your meal by serving with a zesty blend of soy sauce, sriracha, and a splash of lime juice for an extra kick.
- Chili Garlic Edamame: For an authentic touch, serve edamame sprinkled with chili and garlic for a quick, flavorful snack that complements your potstickers.
- Hot Tea or Sake: Offering a soothing beverage option like hot tea or a glass of chilled sake perfectly balances the meal, enhancing the potstickers’ flavors.
- Fruit Sorbet: As a light dessert, fruit sorbet refreshes your palate and provides a sweet finish to your dinner—a delightful contrast to the savory potstickers!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Potstickers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the drained cabbage, bacon, ground chicken, and spices, then refrigerating them in an airtight container. Additionally, you can assemble the potstickers completely and freeze them for up to 3 months—simply lay them out on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy your potstickers, cook them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the air frying time. This way, you’ll always have a delicious, homemade meal at your fingertips with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Air Fryer Potstickers
Room Temperature: Store cooked air fryer potstickers at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Keep them covered to maintain their crispness.
Fridge: Place leftover potstickers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven for a crispy texture.
Freezer: Uncooked air fryer potstickers can be frozen in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: For best results, reheat leftover air fryer potstickers in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy.
Air Fryer Potstickers Recipe FAQs
What type of cabbage should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! Napa cabbage is ideal for potstickers, as it adds both crunch and moisture. If you can’t find it, bok choy or other leafy greens work just as well.
How can I store leftover potstickers?
Very simple! Store any cooked air fryer potstickers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes until they regain their crispy texture.
Can I freeze uncooked potstickers?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked potstickers, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re frozen solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, simply air fry them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What if the potstickers are too soggy?
If you find your potstickers have a soggy filling, it’s usually because the cabbage wasn’t drained well enough. After salting, be sure to thoroughly drain and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing it with your other ingredients. It also helps to avoid overcooking them in the air fryer, which can contribute to sogginess.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily customize this recipe. Substitute the sliced bacon with turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian option. Additionally, ground chicken can be replaced with ground pork or tofu to suit different dietary needs. Always check the labels of sauces and wrappers for potential allergens like gluten or soy.
How long does it take to cook the potstickers in the air fryer?
Typically, air fryer potstickers cook for about 10-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). It’s essential to shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispness. Keep an eye on them towards the end, as cooking times might vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.
Crispy Air Fryer Potstickers: Easy, Flavorful and Fun!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine the chopped napa cabbage with kosher salt. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
- Drain the salted cabbage, then mix it in a large bowl with sliced bacon, ground chicken, scallions, ginger, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, cornstarch, white pepper, sesame oil, and granulated sugar. Stir until well-blended.
- Lay out the dumpling wrappers on a clean surface. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each wrapper.
- Wet the edges of each wrapper with water, then fold them over to create a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges firmly to seal tightly.
- Lightly brush the tops of the sealed potstickers with vegetable oil.
- Place the potstickers in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook in the air fryer at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Remove the potstickers from the air fryer and serve hot with sliced scallions and your choice of dipping sauce.
