If you are looking for a way to satisfy your dumpling cravings without the hassle of rolling out dough or dealing with complicated wrapping techniques, these Crispy Air-Fryer Rice Paper Dumplings are going to be your new go-to. They are the perfect high-protein, low-calorie option when you want something satisfying, fast, and packed with flavor.
By using simple rice paper sheets as the wrapper, you get a beautiful, translucent pocket that turns incredibly crispy and shattered-golden in the air fryer. Inside is a lean, juicy meat filling packed with fresh green onions, sweet chili sauce, savory soy sauce, and a punchy kick of garlic and ginger. It is an effortless, macro-friendly recipe that delivers all the texture and taste of your favorite pan-fried dumplings with a fraction of the work.
Prep time, Cook time, Servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 12-15 minutes
Yield: 1-2 servings (makes 4 large dumplings)
Ingredients
The High-Protein Dumpling Filling
1 lb (approx. 450g) raw chicken breast, finely minced or ground (lean ground turkey or beef also work perfectly)
2 green onions, finely chopped
1 tbsp sweet chili sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp garlic powder (or minced garlic)
1 tsp ground ginger (or freshly grated ginger)
A pinch of salt and black pepper
The Wrappers & Coating
4-8 round rice paper sheets (use double sheets per dumpling if you want an extra sturdy crunch!)
Avocado oil spray
1 tbsp sesame seeds (a mix of black and white seeds looks beautiful)
For Serving
Soy sauce or a low-calorie dipping sauce of choice
Extra green onions, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Dumpling Filling 🥣
In a medium bowl, combine your ground chicken breast, chopped green onions, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Season with a small pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly with a spoon or your hands until everything is completely incorporated and the meat is evenly seasoned. Divide the mixture into 4 equal, round portions.
2. Hydrate and Wrap the Rice Paper 🥟
Fill a large, shallow bowl or plate with lukewarm water. Dip one sheet of rice paper into the water for about 3–5 seconds just until it begins to soften, then lay it flat on a clean cutting board or damp plate. Place one portion of your seasoned meat mixture right in the center. Fold the edges of the rice paper up and over the meat, pleating it tightly together at the top to seal it into a secure, round dumpling pouch. (Tip: If your rice paper feels too thin, dip a second sheet and wrap the dumpling a second time for extra insurance and maximum crunch!)
3. Coat with Sesame Seeds & Prep the Basket 🌾
Line your air fryer basket with a piece of parchment paper. Arrange your shaped dumplings inside, making sure they aren't touching so they don't stick together. Give the tops a generous spray of avocado oil, and sprinkle your sesame seeds heavily over each dumpling.
4. Air Fry Until Golden and Crispy 🌬️
Pop the basket into your air fryer and cook at 380°F (195°C) for 12–15 minutes. Flip them halfway through, giving the other side a light spray of oil if needed, until the rice paper is fully puffed up, deeply golden, and ultra-crispy to the touch.
5. Sauce and Enjoy! ✨
Remove the hot dumplings and place them on your serving dish. Garnish with a few extra fresh green onions. Serve immediately alongside a bowl of savory soy sauce for dipping, and enjoy that perfect, low-effort crunch!