If you’re craving a crispy, savory treat that bursts with flavor in every bite, this Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe is a true winner. Imagine golden, crunchy wraps hugging a perfectly seasoned, juicy ground chicken filling mixed with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices. It’s a delightful mix of textures and tastes that feels like a special appetizer but is surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just indulging in a cozy night, these egg rolls bring a wonderful homemade touch to any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays an essential role in making the perfect balance of flavor and texture in your egg rolls. From the tender ground chicken to the crisp vegetables and fragrant spices, every component adds to the overall deliciousness and vibrant color of the dish.
- 1 pound ground chicken: The hearty and lean protein base that keeps the filling moist and flavorful.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of savory aroma that’s classic in Asian cooking.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or paste): Brings a zesty, warming undertone to brighten the filling.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors in the mix.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds subtle heat that balances the savory notes.
- ¼ teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder: This signature blend offers a complex mix of sweet and spicy nuances that define the filling.
- 1 ½ cups shredded coleslaw mix: Provides crisp texture and a fresh crunch to every bite.
- ¾ cup shredded carrots: Bright orange color and a slight sweetness brighten the flavor profile.
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced: Introduces a mild onion flavor and vibrant green pops.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds unmistakable nutty richness and depth.
- Vegetable oil, for frying: Used to achieve that irresistibly crispy, golden-brown exterior.
- 20 egg roll wrappers: Thin and pliable wrappers that hold all the filling perfectly while crisping up beautifully.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Acts as the glue that seals each egg roll tight.
How to Make Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Filling
Start by heating a large skillet or wok over medium heat and cooking the ground chicken along with aromatic garlic and fresh ginger. This step is where the magic begins, as the meat picks up those beautiful fragrant flavors. Season the mix with salt, pepper, and Chinese five-spice powder to build a well-rounded and enticing flavor base. Cook until the chicken loses its pink color, ensuring it’s fully cooked but still juicy.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Next, toss in the shredded coleslaw mix, carrots, and green onions along with a splash of sesame oil. The sesame oil imparts that lovely nuttiness that makes the filling truly special. Continue cooking until the vegetables soften and any excess liquid evaporates, which prevents sogginess inside your egg rolls. Then, remove the pan from heat and let the filling cool slightly to make assembly easier.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Prepare your frying station by heating 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven until it reaches 375°F (190°C). Using a deep fryer works just as well if you have one. Maintaining this temperature is key to getting crispy, evenly cooked egg rolls without absorbing too much oil.
Step 4: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Lay one egg roll wrapper flat in a diamond shape in front of you. Place about ¼ cup of the cooled filling in the center. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then brush the edges lightly with beaten egg to act as glue. Fold in the two side corners toward the center and roll tightly upward until fully sealed. Repeat this process for all 20 egg rolls, making sure each is wrapped snugly to prevent filling leaks during frying.
Step 5: Fry the Egg Rolls
Working in batches of 3 or 4, carefully lower each egg roll into the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, turning as needed, until they are golden brown and irresistibly crispy. Be sure to let the oil return to 375°F between batches to maintain even cooking. Once done, transfer the egg rolls to paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Nothing beats biting into these freshly fried egg rolls while they’re still warm and crisp. Serve them immediately with your favorite dipping sauces to elevate their irresistible taste.
How to Serve Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can add brightness and crunch to your Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe. Sprinkle chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds over the top for a little extra flair. A handful of fresh cilantro or a drizzle of sweet chili sauce can also make your presentation pop and bring additional flavor layers.
Side Dishes
Pair these egg rolls with classic sides that complement their crispy and savory nature. A simple fried rice, steamed jasmine rice, or a light Asian cucumber salad with a tangy dressing balances the richness perfectly. You can also include a bowl of hot and sour soup or miso soup to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a beautiful presentation, arrange your Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe on a platter lined with banana leaves or shredded lettuce. Add colorful dipping sauces in small bowls around the platter for guests to explore flavors. You could also cut the egg rolls diagonally for that inviting appetizer look, showcasing the vibrant filling inside.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover egg rolls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them from getting soggy, avoid stacking them too tightly and place paper towels between layers to absorb excess moisture.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked, assembled egg rolls by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freezing until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, fry them directly from frozen, increasing the cooking time slightly until golden and crisp.
Reheating
To reheat leftover egg rolls, it’s best to use an oven or air fryer rather than a microwave to maintain crispiness. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until hot and crunchy again. This way, they taste almost as good as freshly made!
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a substitute and will provide a similarly lean and tasty filling for your egg rolls. Just keep an eye on cooking times to ensure it doesn’t dry out.
What dipping sauces go best with Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe?
Popular choices include sweet chili sauce, soy sauce with a splash of rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, or even a tangy mustard sauce. Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite pairing!
Can I bake these egg rolls instead of frying?
Yes, for a lighter alternative, you can bake the egg rolls in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy, but still delicious.
How do I prevent egg rolls from bursting while frying?
Make sure to seal the edges tightly using the beaten egg as glue, and avoid overfilling the wrappers. Also, maintain the oil temperature at 375°F to ensure quick crisping which prevents bursting.
Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
Definitely! Feel free to add finely chopped mushrooms, bean sprouts, or water chestnuts for extra crunch and flavor. Just be mindful not to add too much liquid to keep the filling from becoming soggy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply satisfying about making your own Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe from scratch. The crispy exterior, flavorful filling, and endless dipping possibilities make this a dish that’s sure to delight your taste buds and impress family and friends. Next time you want a fun cooking project or a tasty appetizer, give this recipe a try – I promise it will become a cherished favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 20 egg rolls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
These crispy Chicken Egg Rolls are packed with flavorful ground chicken and fresh vegetables, seasoned with aromatic garlic, ginger, and Chinese five-spice powder. Crisply fried to golden perfection, they make a delicious appetizer or party snack that’s perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or paste)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
- 1 ½ cups shredded coleslaw mix
- ¾ cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For Frying
- Vegetable oil, for frying (2-3 inches deep)
Assembly
- 20 egg roll wrappers
- 1 large egg, beaten (for sealing)
Instructions
- Cook Filling: In a large skillet or wok over medium heat, cook the ground chicken with minced garlic and grated ginger. Season with kosher salt, black pepper, and Chinese five-spice powder. Stir frequently until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the shredded coleslaw mix, shredded carrots, green onions, and sesame oil. Continue cooking until the vegetables are softened and any excess liquid has evaporated. Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool slightly before assembling.
- Heat Oil: Pour 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil into a large skillet or Dutch oven and heat it to 375°F (190°C). You may also use a deep fryer if available, maintaining the same temperature.
- Assemble Egg Rolls: Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointing towards you (diamond shape). Place about ¼ cup of the filling in the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then brush the edges with beaten egg. Fold the two side corners over the filling and roll it up tightly to seal completely. Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
- Fry Egg Rolls: Carefully fry the egg rolls in batches of 3 to 4 at a time in the preheated oil. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per batch, or until they turn a crispy golden brown. Make sure the oil returns to 375°F between batches to ensure proper frying temperature. Drain the cooked egg rolls on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve Hot: Serve the chicken egg rolls hot with your favorite dipping sauces for a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Ensure the filling is cooled slightly before assembling to prevent wrappers from becoming soggy.
- Maintain oil temperature at 375°F for crispy, evenly cooked egg rolls.
- Use fresh ginger for best flavor, but ginger paste can be substituted.
- Egg roll wrappers can be found in most grocery stores or Asian markets; keep them covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out while assembling.
- Leftover cooked filling can be refrigerated up to 2 days and used for other recipes.
- For a healthier version, consider baking egg rolls but note the texture will differ from frying.
