These chicken spring rolls are crispy, crunchy, and full of flavor! Stuffed with seasoned chicken and fresh veggies, they make a perfect snack or appetizer.
Making these rolls is a blast! I like to serve them with a sweet sauce for dipping. You won’t just eat one, I promise! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken adds a nice protein boost. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option.
Cabbage: Finely shredded cabbage provides crunch. You can use green cabbage, but napa cabbage or coleslaw mix work well as alternatives.
Carrots: Grated carrots add color and sweetness. If fresh carrots aren’t handy, you might try using frozen matchstick carrots.
Bean Sprouts: These add a crunchy texture. If you don’t have them, you can skip them or use sliced bell peppers instead for a similar crunch.
Spring Roll Wrappers: Rice paper wrappers are a great gluten-free choice. If you can’t find spring roll wrappers, homemade dough can be used, though that requires more work.
How Do I Make Sure My Spring Rolls Are Perfectly Fried?
Frying spring rolls to golden perfection is all about managing the oil temperature. Ideally, you want your oil heated to about 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer if you have one. If not, you can test it by dropping a small piece of filling into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
- Heat the oil over medium-high, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Fry in batches; overcrowding lowers the oil temperature.
- Turn the rolls frequently with tongs for even browning.
- Drain excess oil on paper towels to keep them crispy.
These simple steps will help ensure your spring rolls are crispy and delicious every time!
How to Make Best Chicken Spring Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup carrots, grated
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup bean sprouts (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
For the Spring Rolls:
- 1 package spring roll wrappers (around 12-14 wrappers)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sweet chili sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare, plus about 10 minutes for cooking. You’ll spend a little time chopping and cooking the filling, then assembling the rolls, and frying them until golden brown. It’s a quick and fun dish to make any time you have a craving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Start by heating a little vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté them for about 1 minute until they’re fragrant and aromatic. This will give your filling a lovely flavor!
2. Add the Vegetables and Chicken:
Next, throw in your shredded chicken, finely shredded cabbage, grated carrots, chopped green onions, and bean sprouts (if you’re using them). Stir everything together and stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes, until the vegetables are just tender but still crisp. This will create a tasty mix!
3. Season the Filling:
Now, stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook this mixture for an additional minute, then remove it from the heat. Let the filling cool slightly while you prepare the wrappers.
4. Assemble the Spring Rolls:
To wrap the spring rolls, take a spring roll wrapper and lay it on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you. Place a spoonful of the chicken filling near the corner closest to you. Then, fold the bottom corner over the filling first, followed by folding in the sides. Roll it up tightly and seal the top corner with a little water. Repeat this step with the remaining wrappers and filling until you’re done!
5. Fry the Spring Rolls:
In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil is hot (about 350°F or 175°C) before carefully adding the spring rolls in batches. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan! Fry the spring rolls for about 3-4 minutes, turning them frequently until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done frying, remove the spring rolls from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. Serve them hot with sweet chili sauce for dipping. Enjoy your crispy, delicious chicken spring rolls!
Can I Substitute Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! Feel free to use shredded pork, beef, or tofu if you prefer a vegetarian option. Just ensure that any meat is fully cooked before adding it to the filling. For tofu, you might want to sauté it beforehand to give it extra flavor and texture.
Can I Prepare the Filling in Advance?
Yes, you can make the filling ahead of time! Allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to make the spring rolls, just let it come to room temperature before assembling.
How to Store Leftover Spring Rolls?
If you have any leftover spring rolls, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can place them in an air fryer or bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes for maximum crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy!
Can I Use Homemade Spring Roll Wrappers?
Yes, homemade spring roll wrappers can be a fun option! Just make sure they are thin enough to roll easily. If you haven’t made them before, be prepared for a little practice to get the right texture. Also, ensure they are well-dusted with flour to prevent sticking!
