Chicken Spring Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Spring Rolls are a delightful combination of crunch and flavor. The tender chicken, paired with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, creates a satisfying and well-balanced filling. The thin, crispy exterior adds the perfect contrast to the soft and savory interior. Not only are these spring rolls tasty, but they are also versatile. You can dip them in a variety of sauces, such as sweet chili sauce or soy sauce, for an added kick. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a treat, these spring rolls are a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded

• 1 cup cabbage, shredded

• 1/2 cup carrots, julienned

• 1/2 cup cucumber, julienned

• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp ginger powder

• Rice paper wrappers

• Vegetable oil, for frying

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cabbage, carrots, cucumber, cilantro, and green onions.

2. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and ginger powder to make the seasoning sauce.

3. Pour the seasoning sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss well to coat everything evenly.

4. Fill a shallow bowl with warm water. Dip each rice paper wrapper into the water for about 5 seconds until it softens.

5. Place the softened rice paper onto a flat surface, such as a cutting board, and add a spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center.

6. Fold in the sides of the rice paper and then roll it up tightly, making sure to secure the filling inside.

7. Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the spring rolls in batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden and crispy.

8. Remove the spring rolls from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

9. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12 spring rolls. The preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and the frying time is around 15 minutes.

Variations

• Vegetarian Spring Rolls: Replace the chicken with tofu or more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a vegetarian-friendly version.

• Spicy Spring Rolls: Add some chili flakes or sriracha to the filling mixture for a spicy kick.

• Baked Spring Rolls: If you prefer a healthier version, try baking the spring rolls at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden, instead of frying them.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: You can store leftover spring rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the spring rolls on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet with a bit of oil.

FAQs

1. Can I make Chicken Spring Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the spring rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before frying. Just be sure to cover them with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out.

2. Can I freeze Chicken Spring Rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked spring rolls. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Afterward, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

3. What dipping sauce goes well with Chicken Spring Rolls?

Sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or peanut sauce are all excellent options for dipping Chicken Spring Rolls.

4. Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can use shrimp, pork, or even beef as a substitute for chicken in this recipe.

5. Can I make Chicken Spring Rolls without frying them?

Yes, you can make non-fried spring rolls by skipping the frying step and serving them as fresh spring rolls. They will have a different texture but will still be delicious.

6. How do I prevent the spring rolls from becoming soggy when frying?

Ensure the rice paper wrappers are not over-soaked before wrapping. A quick dip in warm water (5 seconds) is sufficient. Additionally, frying them at the right temperature helps maintain a crispy texture.

7. Can I make the spring rolls without rice paper?

If you don’t have rice paper, you can use wonton wrappers as an alternative. They will have a different texture, but they still make a great crispy spring roll.

8. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken is a convenient option for this recipe. Just shred it and mix it with the vegetables and sauce.

9. Can I make the spring rolls spicier?

Absolutely! Add chili paste, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra spicy flavor.

10. How can I keep the spring rolls crispy after frying?

To keep the spring rolls crispy after frying, place them on a wire rack instead of a plate lined with paper towels, which can cause them to become soggy.

Conclusion

Chicken Spring Rolls are a delightful snack or appetizer that combines crispy, golden wrappers with savory and flavorful fillings. Whether you’re making them for a gathering or just craving a tasty treat, these spring rolls are sure to satisfy. With their versatility, you can easily customize the ingredients to your taste. Enjoy them fresh or fried, paired with your favorite dipping sauce, and experience the perfect balance of texture and flavor in every bite!