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These chicken wontons in spicy chili sauce are a quick comfort dish for when you crave something bold yet easy. You get bouncy, juicy wontons swimming in a garlicky sauce, with mushrooms soaking up every bit of flavor. It is my go-to for speedy weeknight dinners or cozy weekends when all I want is a bowlful of savory goodness.
My family loves this so much that what started as a spontaneous dinner plan became a regular request. One chilly night, we polished off the entire pot before I could even plate seconds.
Ingredients
- Sesame oil: brings nutty richness and rounds out the heat Use toasted sesame oil for a deeper flavor
- Shiitake mushrooms: earthy and meaty they really soak up the sauce Choose plump firm mushrooms with no dry spots
- Garlic: adds sharpness and complexity Freshly grated is ideal for bold taste
- Frozen chicken wontons: ultra convenient and consistent Mini chicken cilantro wontons taste best here
- Chicken broth: gives depth and makes the sauce rich Look for low sodium to control salt levels
- Teriyaki sauce: a sweet savory flavor base Choose a thick high-quality brand for best results
- Chili crisp: for bold spicy heat Spoon out as much as you like depending on your spice level
- Green onions: add fresh bite and color Slice thinly to top your bowl
- Sesame seeds: for nutty crunch and garnish Toast lightly for extra aroma
Step by Step Instructions
- Prep the Mushrooms:
- Slice mushrooms evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate Clean them gently with a damp towel to avoid sogginess
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat one tablespoon sesame oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat Add mushrooms and sauté about 4 to 6 minutes until they are soft and just starting to brown Add grated garlic for the last minute and cook until fragrant
- Simmer the Wontons:
- Add frozen wontons directly to the pan Pour in chicken broth and teriyaki sauce Cover with a lid and simmer for five minutes until the wontons are heated through and floating
- Finish and Serve:
- Drizzle in the remaining sesame oil and spoon the chili crisp over everything Gently stir to coat Top each bowl with green onions and sesame seeds Serve hot
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My favorite part is spooning extra chili crisp and letting the mushrooms soak up every drop It reminds me of the family dinners where everyone would reach for the biggest wonton first Our table was filled with laughter and lots of slurps
Storage Tips
Cool leftovers completely before transferring to airtight containers Wontons can become soft with time so store them separately from the broth if possible Refrigerate for up to two days Reheat gently in a saucepan with extra broth to avoid sticking
Ingredient Substitutions
Good chicken wontons are key but you can substitute with pork or veggie wontons for a different spin If you cannot find shiitake mushrooms button or cremini mushrooms work in a pinch For extra green add baby spinach or bok choy in the last minute of simmering
Serving Suggestions
Serve these wontons with a side of crisp cucumber salad or sautéed greens If you prefer more heat drizzle on extra chili oil or add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper For a heartier meal toss in thin cooked noodles right before serving
Spicy Wonton Traditions
These wontons are inspired by Sichuan street food but they have become a weeknight staple in my American kitchen The chili oil sauce and mushrooms catch every flavor and evoke memories of my travels where bowls like these were always a highlight
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of wontons work best?
Frozen chicken wontons, especially mini varieties with cilantro, hold up well and soak up the flavors. You can use store-bought for convenience.
- → Can I use a different mushroom?
Certainly—cremini or button mushrooms make a great substitute if shiitake mushrooms are not available.
- → How can I adjust the spiciness?
Control the heat by varying the amount of chili crisp added at the end. Taste as you go to suit your preference.
- → Do I need to thaw the wontons first?
No need to thaw. Add frozen wontons directly to the simmering broth for convenience and to keep their texture intact.
- → What garnishes should I use?
Sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds add freshness and nuttiness to the finished dish. Extra chili crisp is also delicious.