If you love that satisfying crunch paired with juicy, flavorful filling, then this Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe is about to become your new favorite snack. Imagine tender ground chicken mingling with shiitake mushrooms, all wrapped up in a golden, crispy shell — trust me, it’s hard to stop at just one!
Jump to:
Why You'll Love This Recipe
I’m a huge fan of homemade spring rolls — there’s something so rewarding about rolling each one yourself and knowing every bite is packed with fresh ingredients. This recipe hits all the right notes for me: great texture, rich flavor, and a dipping sauce you’ll want to dive into again and again.
- Ultimate Crispiness: Using thin, flour-based wrappers gives you that perfect crackle with every bite.
- Flavorful Filling: Ground chicken and shiitake mushrooms combined with fresh herbs and veggies create a delicious, savory blend.
- Easy to Customize: You can fry for the gold-standard crunch or air-fry for a lighter version without sacrificing taste.
- Sweet & Tangy Sauce: The homemade dipping sauce perfectly balances the savory rolls, making each bite irresistible.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Before you head to the store, here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need and why these ingredients make this Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe so special. I recommend looking for fresh shiitake mushrooms and good-quality flour-based spring roll wrappers—they’re key to texture and flavor.
- Avocado Oil: Has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, perfect for frying without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Toasted Sesame Oil: Adds that wonderful nutty aroma and depth to the filling.
- Garlic: Minced for that savory punch of flavor that wakes up the palate.
- Shallot: Provides a subtle sweetness and mild onion flavor that balances the garlic.
- Green Onions: Thinly sliced for freshness and a bit of crunch inside the filling.
- Shiitake Mushrooms: Their rich umami taste elevates the ground chicken filling to another level.
- Cabbage: Finely shredded to add crunch and freshness, keeping the filling light.
- Carrot: Grated for sweetness and vibrant color.
- Cilantro: Chopped for a burst of herbal brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Ground Chicken: The lean protein base that keeps the rolls juicy without being heavy.
- Oyster Sauce: Brings in a savory sweetness that ties all the filling flavors together.
- Fine Sea Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- Thin Rice Noodles (Vermicelli): Provide a light texture and help bind the filling.
- Large Egg: Whisked into an egg wash to seal the wrappers and help them crisp up beautifully.
- Square Spring Roll Wrappers: Flour-based lumpia wrappers are your best bet for that golden, crispy outer layer.
- Basil or Thai Basil Leaves (Optional): Adds an extra aromatic layer if you want to get fancy.
- Peanut Oil: Ideal for frying due to its high heat tolerance and mild taste.
- Honey (for sauce): Sweetener that balances the tangy and spicy notes.
- Chinese Mustard: Delivers a little kick and complexity in the dipping sauce.
- Gochujang: The fermented chili paste gives the sauce a lovely spicy depth.
- Rice Wine Vinegar: Adds acidity to lighten and brighten the sauce flavors.
Make It Your Way
One of the best things about this Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe is how wonderfully adaptable it is! Feel free to tweak the filling or cooking method to suit your mood or dietary needs — the possibilities are endless and always delicious.
- Vegetarian Variation: Swap out the ground chicken for finely chopped tofu or tempeh and add extra mushrooms or shredded zucchini. I tried this once and was amazed at how the texture and flavor still came through beautifully — the crispy wrapper and sauce truly make these irresistible no matter what’s inside!
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, mixing a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce into the filling before rolling adds a fiery touch. It balances perfectly with the sweet and tangy dipping sauce, creating a delicious flavor contrast.
- Seasonal Twist: During summer, I like adding fresh grated apple or julienned mango for a subtle sweetness and crunch. It gives the spring rolls a refreshing brightness that pairs amazingly well with the savory filling.
- Air Fryer Friendly: If you want a lighter version, air-frying the rolls works great. While they won’t be quite as crispy as deep-fried, I find the result pleasantly crunchy and less greasy — perfect for a quick weekend snack!
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Veggies and Aromatics
First things first — get all your fresh ingredients prepped and ready. Mince the garlic and shallot, thinly slice the green onions, chop the shiitake mushrooms finely, shred the cabbage, grate the carrots, and chop the cilantro. Having everything chopped and measured before cooking makes the process smooth and stress-free. I like to set all the bowls in a row so I can add each component quickly when it’s time.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms and Chicken to Flavorful Perfection
Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil and 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your minced garlic, shallot, green onions, and chopped shiitake mushrooms. Stir often and cook until the mushrooms reduce in size and start to brown, about 8 minutes — take in that delicious aroma! Then add the ground chicken, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks so every bite is tender and well-seasoned. Once the chicken turns opaque and no longer pink, stir in the oyster sauce and salt, cooking for another 2 minutes before removing from the heat to cool.
Step 3: Soften the Noodles and Combine the Filling
Place your thin rice vermicelli noodles in a large bowl and cover with boiling water. Let them soak for 3 minutes until soft but still springy, then drain well. To make mixing easier, give them a rough chop to separate them. Now, combine the cabbage, carrot, cilantro, softened noodles, and cooled chicken mushroom mixture in a large bowl. Take a moment to mix thoroughly — separating the noodles and evenly distributing the veggies and meat throughout the filling is key to balanced flavor and texture in every bite.
Step 4: Prepare Your Wrappers and Get Rolling
Before rolling, whisk one large egg in a small bowl to make your egg wash — this will seal your rolls perfectly. Open your package of square flour-based spring roll wrappers and cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Work with one wrapper at a time, placing it diamond-shaped in front of you. Optionally, lay down 1-2 basil leaves at the bottom third, then add a small mound of filling. Brush egg wash along all edges, fold the bottom corner over the filling snugly, fold in the sides like an envelope, and roll tightly towards the top corner. Give it a gentle press to seal. Keep your finished rolls covered with a damp towel while you work through the rest — this prevents tearing and drying.
Step 5: Fry or Air Fry Until Golden and Crispy
For that classic crispy finish, heat 4 cups of peanut oil in a deep pot to 350°F (177°C). Be sure to leave space to avoid oil overflow. Fry 2 to 4 rolls at a time, gently lowering them in and cooking for 4 to 5 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown (they may darken slightly as they cool). Remove and drain on a wire rack to keep them crispy all around. Alternatively, preheat your air fryer to 390°F (198°C), lightly spray the spring rolls with cooking spray, and air fry them for 10 to 15 minutes to a nice crunchier texture with less oil. Both methods yield deliciously irresistible results!
Step 6: Whip Up the Sweet and Tangy Dipping Sauce
In a small bowl, combine 6 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon Chinese mustard, 1 teaspoon Gochujang, and 1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar. Stir everything well until the sauce is smooth and glossy. This sweet-spicy tang pairs beautifully with the savory spring rolls and will have everyone reaching for more.
Top Tip
Mastering the Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe is all about attention to detail—from the filling to the frying. These tips will help you get that perfect crunch and flavorful bite every time.
- Keep Wrappers Covered: Always keep your spring roll wrappers under a damp paper towel while working to prevent them from drying out and tearing. It makes rolling so much easier and keeps everything neat.
- Separate Noodles Thoroughly: When mixing your filling, take a moment to break apart the soaked rice noodles. They tend to clump, and separating them helps the filling distribute evenly for consistent texture inside each roll.
- Temperature Matters in Frying: Heat your peanut oil carefully to a steady 350°F (177°C). Too hot and the wrappers burn before the filling cooks through; too cool and the rolls get greasy. A thermometer is your best friend here.
- Use Egg Wash as Your Glue: That simple egg wash isn’t just tradition—it’s the secret to sealing each spring roll tightly so nothing leaks during frying, keeping your rolls perfectly crispy.
How to Serve Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or sliced green onions on top for a pop of color and freshness. A few Thai basil leaves on the side add an aromatic note that complements the filling beautifully. For some extra zing, serve with a wedge of lime to squeeze over the rolls just before eating.
Side Dishes
These spring rolls shine as appetizers or snacks but pair wonderfully with light Asian-inspired sides like a crisp cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar or a simple bowl of steamed jasmine rice. For a heartier meal, serve alongside hot and sour soup or a refreshing soba noodle salad tossed with sesame dressing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover spring rolls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the wrappers from getting soggy, place a paper towel underneath and between layers to absorb any moisture.
Freezing
Want to freeze these delightful crispy rolls? Place each cooked spring roll on a parchment-lined baking sheet without letting them touch. Freeze them individually until solid, about 1 to 2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep nicely for up to 3 months and are perfect to have on hand for quick snacks or entertaining.
Reheating
Reheat frozen spring rolls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through and crisp again. Alternatively, pop them in your air fryer at 375°F for 6 to 12 minutes. Avoid the microwave to keep them crispy!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Absolutely! Ground pork or turkey can be delicious alternatives. Just cook them the same way as the chicken, making sure they’re cooked through before mixing into the filling.
Make sure to seal the edges well with egg wash and avoid overfilling your rolls. Also, frying at the correct oil temperature—350°F (177°C)—helps form a crisp outer shell quickly, preventing leaks.
You can substitute the ground chicken with crumbled firm tofu or finely chopped tempeh and add extra mushrooms or veggies for texture and umami. Adjust seasoning tastefully to keep that delicious depth.
It’s a great option if you want a lighter version with less oil, though the rolls won’t be quite as crispy as traditional frying. Air frying at 390°F (198°C) for 10 to 15 minutes produces a tasty and satisfying result that's still enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about biting into a golden, crispy spring roll fresh from the fryer or air fryer combined with that sweet and tangy dipping sauce. This Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe captures the essence of homemade comfort with every fold and fry. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just savoring a solo snack, these spring rolls promise to delight and satisfy. I hope these tips and serving ideas inspire you to roll up your sleeves and enjoy the delicious process as much as the final result!
Print
Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 18 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
These Crispy Spring Rolls feature a flavorful ground chicken and shiitake mushroom filling wrapped in thin, crispy flour-based wrappers. They are perfectly fried for ultimate crispiness or air-fried as a lighter alternative. Served with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce, they make an irresistible appetizer or snack that's hard to eat just one of.
Ingredients
Spring Rolls
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium shallot, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced thin
- 6 ounces shiitake mushrooms, stems removed and finely chopped (about 2 cups)
- 1 cup finely shredded cabbage
- ½ cup grated carrot
- ½ cup chopped cilantro
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 ounces thin rice noodles (vermicelli noodles)
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 1 (12 oz) package square spring roll wrappers (flour-based lumpia wrappers)
- Basil or Thai basil leaves (optional)
- 4 cups peanut oil (for frying)
Spring Roll Sauce
- 6 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon Chinese mustard
- 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean fermented chili paste)
- 1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Mince the garlic and shallot, slice the green onions thinly, chop the shiitake mushrooms finely, shred the cabbage, grate the carrot, and chop the cilantro. Set all aside for later use.
- Cook Mushrooms and Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons avocado oil and 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic, shallot, green onions, and mushrooms. Cook, stirring often, until mushrooms reduce and brown slightly, about 8 minutes. Add ground chicken, break it into small crumbles, and cook until no longer pink. Stir in oyster sauce and salt. Cook for 2 more minutes, then remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- Prepare Noodles: Place rice noodles in a large bowl and cover with boiling water. Let stand for 3 minutes until softened, then drain. Roughly cut the noodles in half to make mixing easier.
- Make Filling: In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrot, chopped cilantro, prepared noodles, and cooled chicken-mushroom mixture. Mix thoroughly, separating noodles to distribute them evenly throughout the filling.
- Make Egg Wash: Crack the egg into a small bowl and whisk until well blended. Set aside.
- Prepare Wrappers: Open the package of spring roll wrappers and cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Keep them covered throughout the rolling process.
- Roll Spring Rolls: Remove one wrapper, placing it diamond-shaped with a corner pointing towards you. If using, place 1-2 basil leaves on the bottom third of the wrapper. Spoon a small mound of filling onto the basil or wrapper. Lightly brush egg wash on all four edges of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, pulling to make a snug roll. Fold left and right sides inward, then roll up towards the top corner. Press to seal the roll. Place rolled spring rolls covered with damp paper towels while rolling the rest.
- Fry Spring Rolls: Heat peanut oil in a deep pot to 350°F (177°C), leaving several inches space to avoid overflow. Carefully place 2 to 4 spring rolls into the hot oil, cooking until golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove and drain on a wire rack. Repeat with remaining rolls.
- Air Fry Option: Preheat air fryer to 390°F (198°C). Lightly spray with cooking spray and air fry spring rolls until crispy, about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Make Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, combine honey, oyster sauce, Chinese mustard, Gochujang, and rice wine vinegar. Stir well and serve alongside the spring rolls for dipping.
Notes
- Use flour-based square spring roll or lumpia wrappers for best crispiness; avoid round rice paper wrappers.
- Rice vermicelli noodles work best; cut them roughly to ease mixing.
- Make filling up to 2 days ahead and store airtight in the fridge.
- To freeze spring rolls, freeze individually on a baking sheet for 1 to 2 hours, then store in freezer bags up to 3 months. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 6 to 12 minutes.
- If frying, a fryer like Fry Daddy provides safer and easier handling.
- Keep wrappers covered with damp paper towels to prevent drying and tearing during assembly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 spring roll
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Leave a Reply