Mouthwatering Chicken Momos Recipe- make juicy, spiced chicken dumplings wrapped in soft dough for a perfect snack.
If you’re a fan of flavorful, bite-sized snacks, chances are you’ve already fallen in love with momos. These soft, steamed dumplings, filled with savory chicken and paired with a zesty dipping sauce, are a popular treat in many parts of Asia. Whether you’ve had them at your favorite restaurant or seen them served at a street food stall, one thing is clear: chicken momos are a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
In this post, I’ll show you the mouthwatering chicken momos recipe at home—packed with juicy chicken, aromatic spices, and wrapped in soft dough, all complemented by a perfectly tangy dipping sauce. By the end of this chicken momos recipe, you’ll be able to create restaurant-quality chicken momos in your own kitchen, with step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and the best sauce to pair them with. So, let’s dive in and get cooking!
Table of Contents
What Are Chicken Momos?
Momos are a type of dumpling that originated in Tibet and Nepal but have become incredibly popular throughout South Asia, especially in India, Bhutan, and Nepal. They are traditionally made with ground meat and vegetables, wrapped in a dough that is either steamed or fried.
Chicken momos, specifically, are a flavorful variation where tender ground chicken is mixed with aromatic spices, creating a juicy, savory filling. The steamed dumplings are soft, comforting, and the perfect balance of flavors. Paired with a tangy dipping sauce, they make for the ultimate snack, appetizer, or even a light meal.
Ingredients for the Chicken Momos Recipe
Before we jump into the Chicken Momos recipe, let’s take a quick look at the ingredients you’ll need to make these mouthwatering chicken momos:
For the Dumpling Dough:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- ¾ cup of water (adjust as needed)
For the Chicken Filling:
- 1/2 kg ground chicken (or finely chopped chicken)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper powder
- Salt to taste
- ¼ cup finely chopped coriander leaves
- 2-3 green onions, chopped (optional)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce (adjust according to your spice level)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lime or lemon juice (optional for added tanginess)
How to Make Chicken Momos
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get into the steps of delicious chicken momos recipe!

1. Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add water while mixing, and knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic (around 8-10 minutes).
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This helps the dough become soft and flexible.

2. Make the Chicken Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onions, garlic, ginger, green chilies, soy sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and salt.
- Add the chopped coriander and green onions for extra flavor.
- Mix everything thoroughly. The filling should be moist and well-seasoned. You can adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more soy sauce or spices if needed.
3. Shape the Momos
- After the dough has rested, divide it into small, even-sized balls (about the size of a golf ball).
- Roll each ball into a small, thin circle. The edges should be thinner than the center, making it easier to pleat.
- Place a teaspoon of the chicken filling in the center of each circle.
- Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch them together to form a sealed dumpling. You can make pleats by folding and pinching the dough, or simply fold it into a crescent shape.



4. Steam the Momos

- Set up a steamer or use a steaming basket. Line the steamer with parchment paper or lightly oil it to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the momos in the steamer, making sure they don’t touch each other.
- Steam the momos over medium heat for about 10-12 minutes, or until the dough is fully cooked and the filling is tender.
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How to Make the Perfect Dipping Sauce
While your momos are steaming, it’s time to prepare the dipping sauce. This sauce adds the perfect balance of umami, spice, and tang to complement the momos.

Basic Sauce Recipe:
- In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, chili sauce, and vinegar. Stir until well-mixed.
- Add minced garlic and sugar to taste. You can adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more sugar or vinegar.
- For an extra kick, add some lime or lemon juice for a refreshing sour twist.
Variation Options:
- Spicy version: Add chili paste or extra chili flakes for a bolder, spicier flavor.
- Sweet version: Mix in honey or brown sugar for a sweeter, more balanced taste.
- Tangy version: Increase the amount of vinegar or lime juice for extra tang.
Tips the Best Chicken Momos Recipe
- Dough Tips: Ensure that the dough is not too dry or too sticky. If it’s sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour. If it’s too dry, add a few drops of water.
- Filling Tips: Don’t overstuff the momos! You want just enough filling to fill the center without overloading them, which can make them harder to seal and cook evenly.
- Steaming Tips: Avoid overcrowding the steamer. If you’re making a large batch, steam them in batches to ensure they cook properly. Also, make sure the steamer has enough water to last the entire steaming process.
Serving and Enjoying Your Chicken Momos
Once your chicken momos are steamed and the dipping sauce is ready, it’s time to serve! Arrange the momos on a platter, drizzle with a little extra sauce, and garnish with freshly chopped coriander or green onions for an added touch of color and flavor.
Pair them with a light salad or soup for a complete meal, or serve them as a fun appetizer for your next party. For a refreshing drink, try pairing them with iced tea, lemonade, or a light cocktail to complement the savory momos.
Variations and Customization
While this recipe is for traditional chicken momos, there are many ways you can make them your own:
- Vegetarian Momo Option: Swap the chicken for tofu, paneer, or a mix of vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, and spinach.
- Other Fillings: Try using ground beef, or even seafood for a different twist on the classic chicken momo.
- Momo Wrapping Styles: Experiment with different folding techniques like a pleated circle, half-moon shape, or simple crescent-shaped dumplings.
Healthier Alternatives
For a lighter version of chicken momos, you can:
- Use whole wheat flour for the dough, which adds fiber and nutrients.
- Opt for lean chicken breast or ground turkey for a lower-fat filling.
- Bake your momos instead of steaming for a crispier, less calorie-dense option.
For those with dietary restrictions, you can also make gluten-free momos by using rice flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour.
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Conclusion
Chicken momos are a delicious, versatile, and fun dish that anyone can enjoy. With the right ingredients and a little practice, you can make restaurant-quality momos right at home. From the tender chicken filling to the flavorful dipping sauce, these momos are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So, give this recipe a try, and enjoy these mouthwatering dumplings!