Chicken Egg Rolls

Introduction

Chicken Egg Rolls are a delicious, crispy appetizer or main dish that combines tender chicken with a flavorful mix of vegetables, all wrapped in a golden, crunchy shell. These egg rolls are perfect for a snack, a party appetizer, or as part of a Chinese-inspired meal. Whether deep-fried or baked, they are full of savory flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy.

I first made these egg rolls when I was looking for a fun way to enjoy a Chinese takeout favorite at home, and they quickly became a go-to recipe. The crispy exterior gives way to a savory filling of chicken and vegetables, and paired with a tangy dipping sauce, they’re a treat that’s hard to resist. You can get creative with the fillings, adding your favorite veggies or spices to customize the flavor to your liking.

Whether you’re serving them as a light snack or as part of a larger spread, these chicken egg rolls are sure to impress. The combination of crispy and savory makes each bite a satisfying experience, and they’re always a hit with family and friends.

Perfect for:

• Party appetizers
• Game day snacks
• Chinese-inspired meals
• Meal prep
• Finger food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Egg Rolls

Here’s why Chicken Egg Rolls will become a favorite in your kitchen:

• Crispy and Crunchy: The egg roll wrapper gets perfectly crisp when fried or baked, giving each bite that satisfying crunch.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of seasoned chicken, cabbage, carrots, and spices creates a balanced, savory filling with just the right amount of flavor.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the filling ingredients to suit your taste or add extra veggies for more variety.
• Great for Meal Prep: These egg rolls are easy to make in bulk, and they freeze beautifully, so you can enjoy them whenever you want.
• Dipping Sauces: These egg rolls pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces, from classic sweet and sour to spicy sriracha.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: 12 egg rolls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Chicken Egg Rolls:

• 1 lb ground chicken (or cooked shredded chicken)
• 2 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional)
• 12 egg roll wrappers
• Vegetable oil for frying (or cooking spray for baking)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Highlights

• Ground Chicken: Ground chicken is a lean protein that keeps the filling tender and juicy while absorbing the flavors of the seasonings.
• Coleslaw Mix: The cabbage and carrots in the coleslaw mix provide crunch and texture, making the egg rolls extra satisfying.
• Soy Sauce and Hoisin Sauce: These sauces add the essential umami and sweetness to the filling, elevating the overall flavor.
• Egg Roll Wrappers: Thin and crispy wrappers create the perfect contrast to the savory filling, adding texture and structure.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Chicken Egg Rolls:

Prepare the Filling:

1. Cook the Chicken: If using ground chicken, cook it in a large skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon. If using shredded chicken, simply warm it in the skillet.
2. Add the Vegetables: To the cooked chicken, add the coleslaw mix, green onions, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften but remain crisp.
3. Season the Filling: Add soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and hoisin sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined, then remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

Assemble the Egg Rolls:

4. Prepare the Wrappers: Lay out an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner facing you, like a diamond shape.
5. Add the Filling: Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling near the bottom corner of the wrapper.
6. Roll the Egg Rolls: Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides. Continue rolling tightly to the top corner, sealing the edge with a bit of water.
7. Repeat: Continue assembling the remaining egg rolls.

Cook the Egg Rolls:

8. Frying (for crispy egg rolls): Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the egg rolls in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.Baking (for a lighter option): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Spray the tops of the egg rolls with cooking spray and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
9. Serve: Serve the egg rolls warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, or sriracha mayo.

How to Serve Chicken Egg Rolls

Chicken Egg Rolls are the perfect addition to any meal or occasion:

• As a Starter: Serve as an appetizer at your next dinner party or family gathering for a delicious beginning to any meal.
• As Part of a Chinese Meal: Pair with fried rice, spring rolls, or stir-fried vegetables for a full Chinese-inspired feast.
• For Snacking: Serve as a tasty snack or light meal, especially with a variety of dipping sauces to enjoy with each bite.
• For Game Day: They’re perfect for sharing with friends during sports events, served alongside chips, wings, or other finger foods.

Additional Tips for Chicken Egg Rolls

Here are some tips to ensure your Chicken Egg Rolls are perfect every time:

• Don’t Overstuff the Wrappers: Overfilling the egg rolls can cause them to tear while cooking. Keep the filling to a manageable amount.
• Seal the Edges Well: Be sure to seal the edges of the egg rolls tightly to prevent the filling from spilling out while frying or baking.
• Use Fresh Wrappers: For best results, use fresh egg roll wrappers, as they’re more pliable and less likely to tear.
• Cool the Filling: Make sure the filling has cooled down before wrapping it, as hot filling can cause the wrappers to tear.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Whether frying or baking, don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure the egg rolls cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.

Recipe Variations for Chicken Egg Rolls

Here are 10 variations you can try for Chicken Egg Rolls:

• Vegetarian Egg Rolls: Replace the chicken with tofu or additional vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Chicken Egg Rolls: Add chili paste or sriracha to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Curry Chicken Egg Rolls: Season the filling with curry powder for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
• Shrimp Egg Rolls: Replace the chicken with shrimp for a seafood variation.
• Cheesy Chicken Egg Rolls: Add a bit of shredded cheese to the filling for a creamy, cheesy center.
• Sweet and Sour Chicken Egg Rolls: Add a small amount of pineapple chunks to the filling for a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.
• Baked Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls: Toss the cooked chicken with buffalo sauce before rolling for a spicy, tangy version.
• Chicken and Avocado Egg Rolls: Add diced avocado to the filling for a creamy, fresh element.
• Beef Egg Rolls: Substitute ground beef for the chicken for a heartier filling.
• Breakfast Egg Rolls: Fill the rolls with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese for a breakfast twist.

Freezing and Storage for Chicken Egg Rolls

• Freezing: These egg rolls freeze well. Assemble them, but don’t cook them. Place the uncooked egg rolls on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready to cook, fry or bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a crispy texture, or microwave for a softer option.

Special Equipment for Chicken Egg Rolls

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Chicken Egg Rolls easier:

• Skillet or Wok: A large, deep skillet or wok is ideal for frying the egg rolls.
• Tongs: Use tongs to carefully flip and remove the egg rolls from the oil.
• Baking Sheet: For baking, a lined or greased baking sheet is necessary.
• Pastry Brush: Use a pastry brush to apply oil for frying or cooking spray for baking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements when making the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions for Chicken Egg Rolls

1. Can I make these egg rolls in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the egg rolls ahead of time and freeze them. Just fry or bake them when ready to serve.
2. Can I bake the egg rolls instead of frying them?
   Yes, baking is a healthier option and results in a crispy texture, especially when sprayed with a light coat of cooking spray.
3. Can I make the filling ahead of time?
   Yes, you can cook and cool the filling up to 2 days ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the egg rolls.
4. Can I use a different protein?
   Absolutely! Ground pork, shrimp, or beef work well as alternatives to chicken.

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Conclusion

Chicken Egg Rolls are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to party appetizers. With a crispy, golden exterior and a flavorful filling, these egg rolls are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Whether you’re frying or baking them, they’re easy to make, and you can customize the filling to suit your taste. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious, satisfying treat.

This recipe is as fun to make as it is to eat, making it ideal for everything from laid-back family meals to festive gatherings. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying them on your own, these chicken egg rolls bring joy with every crispy bite.

I’d love to see how your Chicken Egg Rolls turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!