There’s something incredibly soothing about a steaming bowl of Chicken Wonton Soup. This classic dish, with its delicate dumplings and fragrant broth, brings warmth to any day, whether you’re battling a cold or simply craving a light yet satisfying meal.
Originating from Chinese cuisine, this soup combines tender chicken-filled wontons with a savory broth that’s infused with ginger, garlic, and a hint of sesame oil for depth.
Over the years, I’ve perfected my version of this recipe, balancing the flavors to create a broth that’s both comforting and flavorful while keeping the wontons juicy and tender. It’s become a go-to in my household, especially during chilly months or when I need a quick, nourishing dinner. What I love most is how customizable it is—add your favorite greens or a dash of chili oil for a spicy kick!
In this guide, I’ll walk you through every step to make this delightful soup at home. From crafting the perfect wonton filling to simmering a broth that sings with umami, you’ll have a bowl of goodness ready to impress family or friends. Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe!
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: Chinese-inspired
- Category: Soup, Main Dish
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4
What You’ll Need
Creating a flavorful Chicken Wonton Soup requires a handful of key components, each playing a vital role in building the dish’s signature taste and texture. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters:
- Ground Chicken: The base of the wonton filling, providing a lean yet juicy protein that absorbs seasonings well.
- Wonton Wrappers: These thin dough sheets encase the filling, creating the iconic dumplings that define this soup.
- Ginger and Garlic: Essential aromatics for both the filling and broth, adding warmth and depth to every bite.
- Chicken Broth: The foundation of the soup, delivering a savory backdrop that ties all the flavors together.
- Soy Sauce and Sesame Oil: These condiments bring umami and a nutty richness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Green Onions and Bok Choy: Fresh elements that add color, crunch, and a mild sweetness to balance the savory notes.
INGREDIENTS
- – 1/2 pound ground chicken
- – 1 tablespoon finely grated ginger
- – 2 cloves garlic, minced
- – 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for filling)
- – 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for filling)
- – 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (for filling)
- – 30 wonton wrappers
- – 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- – 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for broth)
- – 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for broth)
- – 1 teaspoon sugar
- – 2 cups chopped bok choy or spinach
- – 1/4 cup sliced green onions (for garnish)
PREPARATION
- In a medium bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated ginger, minced garlic, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and chopped green onions. Mix well until fully incorporated. This will be your wonton filling.
- Lay out a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 teaspoon of the chicken mixture in the center. Wet the edges of the wrapper with water, fold it over to form a triangle, and press to seal. Bring the two bottom corners together and pinch to secure. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
- In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, and sugar. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Carefully add the prepared wontons to the simmering broth. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface and the filling is cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pot; work in batches if needed.
- Add the chopped bok choy or spinach to the pot and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until just wilted.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has a generous amount of wontons and greens. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 850mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Tips for Perfect Wontons
Getting the wonton shape and seal just right can be tricky at first. Make sure not to overfill the wrappers, as this can cause them to burst during cooking. Use a small bowl of water to dip your finger and moisten the edges for a secure seal. If you’re new to folding wontons, practice with a few wrappers before assembling the whole batch.
Customizing Your Broth
The beauty of Chicken Wonton Soup lies in its versatility. For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of chili oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the broth. If you prefer a deeper umami flavor, a splash of fish sauce or a few dried shiitake mushrooms can elevate the taste. Adjust the seasonings to suit your palate.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the wontons and broth separately to prevent the dumplings from becoming soggy. Keep them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the broth on the stovetop over low heat, adding the wontons for just a minute or two to warm through.
Chicken Wonton Soup Recipe
What You’ll Need
INGREDIENTS
PREPARATION
Notes
Enjoy your homemade Chicken Wonton Soup Recipe!
Nutrition Information
Freezing Wontons for Later
One of my favorite time-saving tricks is to make a double batch of wontons and freeze half. Lay the uncooked wontons in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When ready to use, cook them directly from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.
Health Benefits of This Soup
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. The chicken provides lean protein, while ginger and garlic offer anti-inflammatory properties. The greens, whether bok choy or spinach, add vitamins and minerals, making this a wholesome option for a light meal.
Pairing Suggestions
Serve your Chicken Wonton Soup with a side of steamed rice or crispy spring rolls for a complete meal. A small bowl of soy sauce mixed with chili oil makes a fantastic dipping sauce if you’re including appetizers. For a refreshing contrast, pair it with a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I use store-bought wontons for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought frozen wontons work well in this Chicken Wonton Soup. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they may vary slightly from homemade. Look for chicken or pork-filled wontons for the closest match to this recipe’s flavor profile.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, swap the wonton wrappers for gluten-free ones, which are available in many specialty stores. Additionally, use tamari instead of soy sauce, as it’s typically gluten-free. Double-check your chicken broth to ensure it’s free of gluten additives as well.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes, you can easily substitute ground chicken with ground pork, turkey, or even shrimp for a different twist on Chicken Wonton Soup. If using shrimp, finely chop it to ensure it binds well in the filling. Adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, ensuring the protein is fully cooked.
What if my wontons fall apart while cooking?
If your wontons are breaking apart, it could be due to overfilling or not sealing the edges properly. Make sure to use just a small amount of filling and press the edges firmly after moistening them with water. Also, avoid boiling the broth too vigorously—keep it at a gentle simmer to prevent the wontons from rupturing.
Conclusion
Making Chicken Wonton Soup at home is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with comforting aromas and your table with a nourishing meal. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor, making it accessible for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for guests. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, I hope this guide inspires you to create your own bowl of warmth.
If you’ve enjoyed this recipe, don’t hesitate to try it out and share your thoughts in the comments below. Experiment with the flavors, make it your own, and let this soup become a staple in your home as it has in mine. For more cozy recipes, be sure to explore other dishes on the blog or subscribe for updates straight to your inbox!
