Chicken Egg Rolls

There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a crispy, golden egg roll filled with savory goodness. Chicken egg rolls are a delightful combination of tender ground chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, all wrapped up in a crunchy shell. Whether you enjoy them as an appetizer, a snack, or part of a meal, these egg rolls are sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make at home! Let’s dive into the details.

Why I Love This Recipe

This chicken egg rolls recipe captures the essence of authentic Asian cuisine while allowing room for creativity and customization. The juicy ground chicken melds perfectly with the crisp vegetables and fragrant spices, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. I love that you can make a big batch and freeze some for later, ensuring that deliciousness is just a fry away whenever the craving strikes!

The Ingredient Lineup

• 1 pound ground chicken: The star of the show, providing protein and a juicy base for the filling.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced): Adds aromatic depth and flavor.
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated; or ginger paste): Brings a zesty kick and warmth to the filling.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds subtle heat.
• 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder: Infuses the filling with a delightful, complex flavor.
• 1 cup shredded coleslaw mix: Provides crunch and freshness.
• ½ cup shredded carrots: Adds color and sweetness (be sure to shred your own for the best texture).
• 2 green onions (thinly sliced): Offers a fresh, mild onion flavor.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil: For a nutty aroma and flavor.
• Vegetable oil (for frying): Ensures that your egg rolls fry up crispy and golden.
• 20 egg roll wrappers: The perfect outer shell for your filling.
• 1 large egg (beaten): Used as an egg wash to seal your egg rolls.

Setup & Equipment

• Large skillet: For cooking the filling.
• Mixing bowl: To combine all your ingredients.
• Frying pan or deep fryer: For frying the egg rolls.
• Spatula: To flip the egg rolls while frying.
• Paper towels: For draining excess oil after frying.

The Method for Chicken Egg Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Sprinkle in the kosher salt, ground black pepper, and Chinese five-spice powder. Mix well to ensure the spices evenly coat the chicken.

Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables

Add the shredded coleslaw mix, shredded carrots, and sliced green onions to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are just tender but still crunchy. Drizzle the sesame oil over the mixture, giving it a final stir. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 5: Wrap the Egg Rolls

Lay out an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, with one corner pointing toward you. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling onto the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly away from you. Seal the top corner with the beaten egg to hold it together.

Step 6: Fry the Egg Rolls

In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully add the egg rolls in batches, frying for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your chicken egg rolls hot, with your favorite dipping sauce, like sweet and sour or soy sauce. Enjoy the crunchy exterior and savory filling!

Health-Conscious Tweaks

• Swap ground chicken for ground turkey or tofu for a lighter option.
• Use whole wheat egg roll wrappers for added fiber.
• Air fry the egg rolls instead of deep frying for a healthier alternative.
• Incorporate more veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition.

What Not to Do

• Don’t overfill the egg rolls; this can cause them to burst while frying.
• Avoid frying at too high a temperature, as this can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.
• Do not skip the egg wash—this is crucial for sealing the egg rolls properly.
• Don’t let the filling cool completely before wrapping, as it can become difficult to handle.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

If you have leftover chicken egg rolls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the uncooked egg rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, and they can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, you can fry them straight from the freezer, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I bake the chicken egg rolls instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the egg rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and spray with cooking spray. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.

What dipping sauces pair well with chicken egg rolls?

Some popular dipping sauces include sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or even a spicy chili sauce for those who enjoy some heat!

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to wrap and fry the egg rolls.

How can I make these vegetarian?

Simply replace the ground chicken with crumbled tofu or a mix of your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, and bell peppers to create a delicious vegetarian filling.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Baked Vegetable Spring Rolls
• Stuffed Bell Peppers
• Grilled Chicken Lettuce Wraps
• Zucchini Fritters

Hungry for More?

If you loved these chicken egg rolls, be sure to check back often for more delicious recipes that are both simple and satisfying. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, there’s always something exciting to try. Happy cooking!