These tasty chicken spring rolls are crispy on the outside and packed with juicy chicken and fresh veggies inside. They make a perfect snack or appetizer!
Honestly, I can never eat just one! Perfect for dipping in sweet chili sauce, these rolls are a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they are super easy to make any day of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main protein in the spring rolls. For a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or even shredded tofu for a vegetarian version.
Cabbage: Shredded green cabbage is great for crunch. If you’d like a different flavor, try Napa cabbage or even coleslaw mix for an easy swap!
Carrots: Grated carrots add sweetness and color. Use pre-grated carrots for convenience, or if you’re looking for variations, try shredded zucchini or bell peppers.
Bean Sprouts: They enhance the texture. If you can’t find them, try using fresh spinach or peas for a different crunch.
Oyster Sauce: This adds depth, but if you want to avoid it, skip it or use a dash of soy sauce or hoisin sauce instead for a different flavor.
How Do You Make Sure Spring Rolls Don’t Fall Apart When Frying?
Ensuring your spring rolls stay together during frying is crucial. Here’s how to do that:
- Seal Well: When rolling your spring rolls, make sure the edges are sealed tightly. Use a little water on the edge of the wrapper to help it stick.
- Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan. This helps maintain the temperature of the oil, ensuring the rolls fry evenly and get crispy.
- Temperature Check: The oil should be hot enough that the spring rolls sizzle when you place them in. If the oil isn’t hot, the rolls can absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Using these tips makes the process smoother and results in spring rolls that stay intact and turn out deliciously crispy!
Best Chicken Spring Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup grated carrots
- ½ cup bean sprouts
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling:
- 20 spring roll wrappers
- Oil for frying
- Sweet chili sauce (for dipping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. So, you can have a delicious batch of chicken spring rolls ready in about 35 minutes! Perfect for a quick snack or an appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Start by heating a little oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute until they smell great! Then, add the ground chicken to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Vegetables:
Next, stir in the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and bean sprouts into the chicken mixture. Pour in the soy sauce, and if you’d like, add the oyster sauce. Season everything with a bit of salt and pepper. Cook for another 3-5 minutes. You want the vegetables to be tender but still a little crisp. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool for a few minutes.
3. Assemble Spring Rolls:
Now it’s time to roll! Take a spring roll wrapper and place it on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling onto the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides snugly, and roll it up tightly to form a spring roll. Use a little water on the edge to seal it closed. Repeat this with the remaining wrappers and filling.
4. Fry the Spring Rolls:
Heat oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add a few spring rolls at a time, being careful not to crowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove them and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
5. Serve:
Your chicken spring rolls are ready! Serve them hot with sweet chili sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your tasty homemade snack!
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some proteins may require a bit more or less cooking time to reach the desired texture.
What If I Don’t Have Spring Roll Wrappers?
If you can’t find spring roll wrappers, other options include using egg roll wrappers, which are slightly thicker, or even thin pancakes or crepes for a unique twist. Just remember that cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on them while frying!
Can I Make the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling in advance. Simply let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!
How to Store Leftover Spring Rolls?
Store any leftover spring rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as they may turn soggy.
