Gluten-Free Mini Chicken Pao

Delight in the irresistible charm of these Gluten-Free Mini Chicken Paos, a perfect fusion of soft, pillowy buns and savory, flavor-packed chicken filling. This recipe transforms the traditional bao into a gluten-free masterpiece using a tender dough made with gluten-free all-purpose flour and xanthan gum, paired with a rich filling of soy-marinated chicken seasoned with garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Easy to prep with minimal rise time, these baked, golden-brown buns are not only a healthier alternative but also ideal for quick snacks, appetizers, or party platters. Each bite delivers a balance of fluffy dough and juicy, umami chicken filling, making them a hit for any gluten-free diet.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 2 cups Gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Xanthan gum
• 2 teaspoons Instant yeast
• 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 1 cup Warm water (110°F)
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 pound Chicken breast, boneless and skinless
• 3 tablespoons Soy sauce (gluten-free)
• 1 teaspoon Ginger, minced
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Green onions, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Sesame oil
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper

Directions

Step 1

In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, xanthan gum, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well.

Step 2

Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until the mixture becomes a sticky dough.

Step 3

Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 4

While the dough is rising, prepare the chicken filling. Cut the chicken breast into small cubes, about a quarter inch in size.

Step 5

In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken with the olive oil until it's no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 6

Add the gluten-free soy sauce, minced ginger, minced garlic, green onions, sesame oil, and black pepper to the chicken. Stir well to combine. Cook for another 3 minutes and then remove from heat.

Step 7

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 8

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and knead it a few times on a lightly floured surface.

Step 9

Divide the dough into 16 equal portions. Take one piece of dough, flatten it into a disc, and place a tablespoon of the chicken filling in the center.

Step 10

Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching to seal it tightly. Shape it into a smooth ball.

Step 11

Place each mini pao seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.

Step 12

Cover the mini paos with a towel and let them rise for another 20 minutes.

Step 13

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the buns are lightly golden on top.

Step 14

Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1078.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2170.8

Total Fat 61.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 11.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 8.5g
Cholesterol 385.6mg	0%
Sodium 4556.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 247.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 10.1g	0%
Total Sugars 26.1g
Protein 155.9g	0%

Vitamin D 59.0IU	0%
Calcium 99.2mg	0%
Iron 7.2mg	0%
Potassium 1600.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 25.6%

Protein: 28.8%

Carbs: 45.7%