
Momo is one of the most popular dumplings in Nepal, enjoyed by food lovers worldwide. These bite-sized delights are soft, juicy, and packed with flavour. Among the many variations, Chilli Chicken Momo stands out for its spicy and tangy twist.
In this blog, we’ll explore what makes Chilli Chicken Momo special, how it tastes, and a step-by-step momo recipe.
Table of Content
What Are Chilli Chicken Momo?
Chilli Chicken Momo is a delicious and spicy variation of Nepali dumplings, where steamed or fried chicken-filled momos are tossed in a bold, tangy, and spicy sauce. This dish combines the juicy, flavourful taste of chicken momo with the heat and richness of chilli sauce, making it a favourite among spice lovers.
What Does Chilli Chicken Momo Taste Like?
Chilli Chicken Momo is a flavour explosion! The dumpling itself is soft and juicy, with a perfectly seasoned chicken filling inside. When tossed in the signature spicy sauce, the momo absorbs a mix of garlic, soy sauce, chilli paste, and vinegar, creating a dish that is:
✅ Spicy 🌶️
✅ Tangy 🍋
✅ Slightly sweet 🍯
✅ Savoury 🍗
If you’re not a fan of chicken or prefer a vegetarian option, you can enjoy Chilli Veggie Momo. It’s made with a similar chilli sauce and spices, but instead of chicken, the filling is packed with finely chopped vegetables like carrots, cabbage, and peas. The flavours are just as bold and satisfying, offering a spicy, tangy kick that’s perfect for those looking for a plant-based alternative.
Ingredients for Chilli Chicken Momo
Want to try this at home? Here’s a simple momo recipe to make your own Chilli Chicken Momo
For the Momo Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup water (adjust as needed)
For the Chicken Filling:
- 1 cup minced chicken
- ½ cup finely chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ginger paste
For the Chilli Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
- 1 tablespoon chopped ginger
- 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon red chilli paste (adjust to spice preference)
- ½ teaspoon vinegar
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- Spring onions for garnish
Step-by-Step Recipe to Make Chilli Chicken Momo
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Mix flour and salt in a bowl.
- Gradually add water and knead until the dough is soft and smooth.
- Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Chicken Filling
- In a bowl, mix minced chicken, chopped onions, garlic, ginger paste, soy sauce, black pepper, and salt.
- Let the mixture rest for 15 minutes for better flavour.
Step 3: Shape the Momo
- Divide the dough into small balls and roll them into thin circles.
- Place a spoonful of chicken filling in the centre of each circle.
- Fold and pinch the edges together to seal the momo.
Step 4: Steam or Fry the Momo
- For steamed momo: Place the dumplings in a greased steamer and steam for 10–12 minutes.
- For crispy momo: Deep fry or pan-fry the momo until golden brown.
Step 5: Prepare the Chilli Sauce
- Heat oil in a pan and sauté the chopped garlic and ginger.
- Add tomato sauce, soy sauce, red chilli paste, vinegar, and sugar.
- Stir and cook for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Toss the Momo in the Sauce
- Add the steamed or fried momo to the pan and toss until well-coated.
- Garnish with chopped spring onions and serve hot.
Calories in Momo
Wondering about the calories in Momo? Here’s a quick look:
Type of Momo | Serving Size (6 pieces) | Calories |
Steamed Chilli Chicken Momo | 6 pieces | 300–350 kcal |
Fried Chilli Chicken Momo | 6 pieces | 400–450 kcal |
Steamed momo is lighter, while fried momo has a crispy texture with extra flavour. If you want a balance between health and taste, try pan-frying the steamed momo with just a little oil!
Where to Find the Best Momo Near You in Whitby and Niagara Falls
Don’t feel like cooking? You can enjoy Chilli Chicken Momo at Balti Indian Restaurant, where we serve freshly made Nepali momo in different styles. Whether you prefer steamed, fried, or tossed in a spicy chilli sauce, we have the perfect momo for you!
If you’re looking for momo near you in Whitby or momo near you in Niagara Falls. Our delicious momo recipe is made with fresh ingredients and authentic Nepalese flavours, ensuring a perfect dining experience.
FAQs About Chilli Chicken Momo
1. What is a chicken momo?
Chicken momo is a type of Nepalese dumpling that’s filled with minced chicken, onions, garlic, and spices like cumin, coriander, and black pepper. It’s either steamed or fried and sometimes, it’s tossed in a spicy chilli sauce to make Chilli Chicken Momo. It’s typically served with a tangy dipping sauce or chutney.
2. What part of chicken is used in momo?
In chicken momo, boneless chicken is usually used. The meat is finely minced, and the most commonly used parts are the chicken breast or thighs. These parts offer tender meat that blends well with the spices and creates a juicy filling.
3. Is fried momo unhealthy?
Fried momo is higher in calories and fat compared to steamed momo because it’s cooked in oil. While it’s not considered “unhealthy,” it’s best to enjoy it in moderation, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake. Steamed momo is a healthier alternative, as it retains more nutrients without added fats.
4. What is the difference between chicken momo and dumplings?
While chicken momo and dumplings are both types of stuffed dough, there are a few differences:
- Momo is typically a Nepalese or Tibetan dish, often filled with spiced chicken, vegetables, or other meats, and it is traditionally steamed or fried.
- Dumplings can be found in many cuisines around the world, from Chinese to Polish to American, and the fillings can vary widely from vegetables to meats, with different cooking methods like boiling, frying, or steaming.
5. Which country made chicken momo?
Chicken momo originated in Tibet and Nepal. The dish has deep roots in Tibetan culture, and it was brought to Nepal by Tibetan immigrants. Today, momo is widely enjoyed across South Asia, particularly in Nepal, India, and Bhutan, where it has been adapted to local tastes and spice levels.