Crispy Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Chicken Shu Mai Dumplings

If you’ve ever grabbed a box of Trader Joe’s Chicken Shu Mai dumplings and wondered how to cook them to perfection, this air fryer method is your answer! In just 9 minutes, you’ll get dumplings with crispy edges and a tender, juicy filling—no thawing needed. This easy trick using hot water for steam makes all the difference, giving your dumplings that delicious takeout-style texture right at home. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or quick meal, this air fryer recipe is the easiest and tastiest way to enjoy Trader Joe’s frozen chicken shu mai.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Chicken Shu Mai Dumplings

• These dumplings go straight from the freezer to the air fryer—no defrosting needed! You don’t have to plan ahead or prep anything in advance. Just toss them in and they’re ready in under 10 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute snacks.

• The outside gets lightly crisped while the inside stays tender and full of flavor. The steam from the hot water helps prevent the wrappers from drying out. It’s the best of both worlds—like steaming and frying in one simple step. Each bite tastes just like it came from a restaurant.

• Using hot water creates steam inside the air fryer, which keeps the dumplings from getting hard or overcooked. You don’t need to guess or adjust anything. Just set the timer and relax. This trick makes it foolproof.

• No need to order in when you can make these at home in minutes. You get all the flavors of your favorite Asian appetizer without the delivery fee. It’s convenient and budget-friendly. Plus, the included dipping sauce is already packed with flavor.

• Serve them as an appetizer for guests or enjoy them solo as a light meal or snack. They pair well with salads, soups, or rice. You can even dress them up with scallions or sesame seeds for a fancier feel. They’re always a hit!

Ingredients For Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Chicken Shu Mai Dumplings

• Trader Joe’s Chicken Shu Mai Dumplings (frozen) – These come fully prepared and frozen, so there’s no need to defrost before cooking. They include flavorful chicken filling in delicate wrappers.

• Very hot water – Adding a little hot water to the air fryer creates steam, which keeps the dumplings soft while letting the tops crisp up just right.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Chicken Shu Mai Dumplings

• Air fryer – The key appliance that crisps up the dumplings while keeping the inside juicy. Basket-style models with holes work best for the steaming method.

• Measuring cup (¼ cup) – Used to measure the hot water that helps steam the dumplings inside the air fryer.

• Tongs – Handy for safely removing the hot dumplings from the air fryer after cooking.

How To Make Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Chicken Shu Mai Dumplings

• Heat up ¼ cup of water until very hot using your preferred method.

• Pour the hot water into your air fryer. If it’s a basket-style with holes, pour it underneath the basket. If it’s a solid bottom or tray-style air fryer, use a small oven-safe dish to hold the water inside the basket next to the dumplings.

• Open the package of frozen chicken shu mai dumplings—no thawing needed.

• Place the dumplings in a single layer in the air fryer, making sure the open side with the filling faces up.

• Cook the dumplings at 350°F for 9 minutes.

• While they cook, thaw the dipping sauce packet in warm tap water.

• Once they’re done, use tongs to carefully remove the dumplings and serve them hot with the dipping sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy the included dipping sauce for a quick snack or appetizer.

• Pair with fluffy white rice or fried brown rice for a satisfying dinner.

• Serve alongside sautéed broccoli, red cabbage, or garlic snow peas to balance the meal.

• Add other frozen favorites like air-fried gyoza, spring rolls, or steamed edamame for variety.

• Top with sliced green onions or sesame seeds to make it extra special.

Tips For Success

• Use hot water for steam – The key to perfect texture is adding hot water to the air fryer. This helps create steam while the dumplings cook, so the wrappers stay soft and don’t dry out. Without the water, the dumplings may turn out hard or tough. Don’t skip this step—it really makes a big difference!

• Know your air fryer type – This trick works best with basket-style air fryers that have holes for drainage. If your air fryer doesn’t have holes, just place the hot water in a small oven-safe dish beside the dumplings. Either way, the steam effect still works. Just make sure the water is very hot when you add it.

• Don’t overcrowd the basket – Arrange the dumplings in a single layer with space around each one. This allows hot air to circulate and cook them evenly. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking or soggy bottoms. If needed, cook in batches for best results.

• Keep the filling side up – Position the dumplings so the open side with the filling is facing up. This helps the tops crisp slightly while the filling stays juicy. It also makes for a nicer presentation. Plus, they’re easier to pick up and dip this way!

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• Thaw the sauce while cooking – The included dipping sauce packet can be thawed easily in warm tap water while the dumplings cook. That way it’s ready to go when the timer ends. No extra prep needed. Just pour into a little cup and start dipping!

Variations And Substitutions

• Use different dumplings – This method works with other frozen dumplings too, like Trader Joe’s Pork Gyoza or Vegetable Gyoza. Just keep the same temperature and cooking time. The hot water trick still helps create a soft, steamed texture with a lightly crisped exterior. You can even mix different dumplings in the same batch—just make sure they’re in a single layer.

• Add your own dipping sauce – While the chicken shu mai comes with a dipping sauce, you can always switch it up. Try soy sauce with a splash of rice vinegar, chili crisp for heat, or a garlic sesame blend. Homemade or store-bought sauces can take the flavor to the next level. You can also drizzle sauce over the dumplings for a fun twist.

• Make it spicy – If you like heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or a little sriracha over the cooked dumplings. You can even mix a spicy mayo for dipping by combining mayo and sriracha. Add chili oil to the dipping sauce for extra kick. Spicy lovers will enjoy the contrast with the mild chicken filling.

• Gluten-free options – Trader Joe’s doesn’t offer a gluten-free version of this dumpling, but you can use another brand that does. Just follow the same method of cooking from frozen in the air fryer with hot water for steam. Check labels to make sure the sauce is also gluten-free. The results will still be delicious!

• Serve with sides for a full meal – These dumplings can be part of a larger meal with steamed rice, stir-fried veggies, or even a noodle salad. Add a miso soup or a side of kimchi for more flavor. You can turn them into a bento-style lunch by combining with fruit and salad. This makes a fun and balanced plate that’s satisfying and colorful.

Storage and Reheating

• Storing leftovers – If you have any cooked dumplings left over, let them cool completely first. Then transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Keep the dipping sauce in a separate small container if it’s already been opened.

• Reheating in the air fryer – To bring back that crispy texture, reheat the dumplings in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3–4 minutes. You don’t need to add more water this time—just a quick reheat to crisp them back up. Don’t overcrowd the basket so they heat evenly. Flip halfway through if needed.

• Reheating in the microwave – For a softer texture, place the dumplings on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave for about 30–60 seconds until warmed through. This won’t give you a crisp outside, but it’s super quick. Great for a fast snack or lunch.

• Freezing cooked dumplings – You can freeze leftover cooked dumplings for longer storage. Place them on a tray in a single layer to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. Reheat straight from frozen in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–6 minutes. This works well for meal prepping or saving extras.

Ingredients in Trader Joe’s Chicken Shu Mai

Trader Joe’s Chicken Shu Mai dumplings are made with a flavorful blend of chicken, cabbage, and onions, wrapped in a delicate wheat flour wrapper. The filling also includes soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and green onions, giving these dumplings a savory, slightly sweet, and umami-packed flavor. They contain egg and wheat, so they’re not gluten-free or egg-free, but they’re dairy-free. Everything is fully cooked and frozen—just heat and eat for a super easy appetizer or meal!

Nutritional Information for Trader Joe’s Chicken Shu Mai

Each serving of Trader Joe’s Chicken Shu Mai (6 pieces) has 180 calories, making it a light yet satisfying option. You’ll get 7g of protein per serving, along with 5g of fat and 24g of carbohydrates. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a portion-controlled meal or snack. With 590mg of sodium, it’s best enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re watching your salt intake. These dumplings are perfect when paired with veggies or rice for a balanced plate!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook Trader Joe’s Chicken Shu Mai without an air fryer?

Yes, you can also cook them by steaming on the stovetop or microwaving according to the package instructions. However, the air fryer method adds a light crisp to the tops while keeping the texture soft and tender. It’s the best of both worlds and requires no thawing or complicated setup. If you don’t have an air fryer, follow the package directions for alternate methods.

Do I need to thaw the dumplings before air frying?

Nope! You can cook them straight from frozen. That’s one of the best parts of this recipe—no defrosting needed. Just place them in the air fryer, and they cook to perfection in 9 minutes. The texture turns out amazing with zero prep.

What if my air fryer doesn’t have a basket with holes?

No problem! Just pour the hot water into a small oven-safe or air-fryer-safe dish and place it inside the basket next to the dumplings. This still creates the steam you need for that tender texture. It’s a great workaround if your model doesn’t allow water under the basket. Make sure the dish is heat-safe and fits alongside the dumplings.

Can I skip the hot water step?

Technically yes, but the results won’t be the same. Without the steam, the dumpling wrappers may come out too dry or tough. The hot water creates a gentle steam effect inside the air fryer, helping them cook evenly and stay soft. It only takes a few extra seconds but makes a big difference in texture.

Can I use this method with other Trader Joe’s dumplings?

Absolutely! This technique works great with their Pork Gyoza, Vegetable Gyoza, and even Shrimp Dumplings. Just keep the same temperature and timing. As long as the dumplings are in a single layer and the steam is included, you’ll get amazing results. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combo.

How do I know when the dumplings are done?

The tops will look lightly browned and the wrappers will be soft but not soggy. The filling should be hot all the way through. You can cut one open to check if you’re unsure. Nine minutes at 350°F works perfectly in most air fryers, but adjust slightly based on your model if needed.

Other Easy Trader Joe’s Recipes

Trader Joe’s Spring Rolls In The Air Fryer – Crispy and golden on the outside with a savory filling, these Trader Joe’s spring rolls cook perfectly in the air fryer in just minutes.

Frozen Tamales In The Instant Pot – Steaming frozen tamales in the Instant Pot is the fastest and easiest way to get soft, hot tamales with zero fuss.

Air Fryer Soft Pretzels From Frozen – These frozen soft pretzels turn out perfectly warm and chewy with a lightly crisped crust using just the air fryer.

Frozen Corn Ribs In The Air Fryer – Air frying frozen corn ribs makes them irresistibly crispy on the edges while staying sweet and tender inside.

Trader Joe’s Chicken Burritos Air Fryer – Cook Trader Joe’s frozen chicken burritos in the air fryer for a crispy outside and hot, melty filling every time.

Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken – This popular frozen orange chicken from Trader Joe’s cooks up crispy and coated in tangy-sweet sauce for a quick and easy dinner.

Air Fryer Cauliflower Gnocchi From Trader Joe’s – Air frying Trader Joe’s cauliflower gnocchi gives them a crispy outside and pillowy center without any sticking or mushiness.

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