chicken egg rolls recipe
The Best chicken egg rolls recipe
Chicken egg rolls are one of those dishes that feel like a warm hug in the kitchen—simple enough to make without fuss, but packed with flavor that makes every bite feel special. I’ve been making them for years, mostly because they’re the kind of food that makes my kids beg for seconds without me even having to tell them to eat their vegetables. They’re not complicated, but they’re not just quick either; they’re a balance of textures—crispy, tender, and just a little bit savory—that makes them feel like a treat, even when they’re served up alongside a simple side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad. My family loves them for how they hold up in the air fryer, but I’ll admit, the deep-fried version is a childhood favorite—crispy enough to make you forget about guilt, but still manageable if you’re watching your calories.
I also love how adaptable they are. You can make them a week ahead and freeze them, then reheat them right before serving, and they’ll still taste fresh. That’s why I keep them on hand for game days, family gatherings, or even just a quiet night in when everyone’s tired but still wants something satisfying. The health benefits are another reason they’re a staple in our kitchen—lean protein from the chicken, fiber from the vegetables, and a touch of good fat from the egg wash that keeps everything moist. It’s not a super healthy meal by any stretch, but it’s not a complete waste of time either, and that’s what matters. Plus, when you make them with fresh ingredients—like thinly sliced cabbage and carrots, and a homemade dipping sauce that’s just a little bit sweet and tangy—you can’t help but feel proud of what you’ve put together. My kids will tell you they’re the best part of any meal, and honestly? They’re not wrong.
Classic Chicken Egg Rolls
Crispy, golden egg rolls filled with tender chicken and savory vegetables, perfect for a satisfying appetizer or light meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup water (adjust as needed)
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (optional)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp honey
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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2 In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Gradually add water while stirring until a dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes, cover with a damp towel, and rest for 15 minutes.
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3 In a pan, sauté chicken, cabbage, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in sesame oil until chicken is cooked. Stir in soy sauce and ginger. Cool completely.
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4 Preheat a non-stick pan on medium-high heat. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface into 8 small circles (about 6 inches wide). Place 1 tbsp filling in the center of each circle.
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5 Fold the dough over the filling, sealing edges by pressing gently with a fork. Trim excess dough, then cut into wedges.
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6 Place egg rolls on the baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, then flip and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
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7 For dipping sauce, mix sweet chili sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, and honey. Serve warm with egg rolls.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Cutting board
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Rolling pin
- Frying pan (for optional pan-frying)
- Plastic wrap
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Chicken Egg Rolls Works
This chicken egg roll recipe is always a solid choice for family gatherings because it’s hearty enough to feed a crowd without being too heavy, and the crispy, savory filling makes it feel special without requiring fancy ingredients. It’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, or just a casual night in when you want something comforting that everyone can enjoy—no fuss, just delicious results that’ll have your family asking for seconds. Plus, it’s got that satisfying crunch that makes every bite feel like a little treat.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Egg Rolls
What is the best way to prepare the filling for chicken egg rolls?
The best filling for chicken egg rolls typically includes finely chopped cooked chicken breast or thigh, diced celery, carrot, onion, and a blend of seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. For extra flavor, you can add a bit of cornstarch or potato starch to help bind the mixture. Make sure the chicken is shredded finely so it blends smoothly with the vegetables.
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How should I handle the egg wash for crispy egg rolls?
For crispy egg rolls, use a mixture of beaten eggs and a small amount of water or milk (about ¼ cup) to create a thin but sturdy egg wash. Lightly brush the egg wash over the filled egg roll wrappers before sealing them. If you want extra crispiness, you can also lightly spray the egg wash with oil before baking or frying. Avoid using too much egg wash, as it can make the egg rolls soggy.
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What is the best cooking method for egg rolls: frying, baking, or air frying?
The traditional method for egg rolls is deep-frying, which gives them that classic golden, crispy exterior. However, baking or air frying can also work well if you prefer a healthier option. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the egg rolls on a lined baking sheet, spraying lightly with oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. Air frying at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes should also yield good results, depending on the size of your egg rolls.
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How can I prevent egg rolls from breaking apart while frying?
To prevent egg rolls from breaking apart while frying, ensure they are well sealed before cooking. Press the edges gently with a fork or your fingers to help them hold together. Avoid overfilling the wrappers, as this can cause them to burst. If they do break, you can still eat the filling, but it’s best to avoid this issue altogether. Additionally, frying at a moderate temperature (around 350°F/175°C) helps maintain their shape better than high heat.
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Can I make egg rolls ahead of time and store them properly?
Yes, you can make egg rolls in advance and store them properly. First, let them cool completely before refrigerating. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then fry or bake as directed. For longer storage, you can freeze them—place them on a tray to prevent sticking, freeze solid, then transfer to a bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
