If you’re craving a snack that’s crunchier than a fresh autumn leaf and bursting with savory flavor, you’re going to adore this Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe. These rolls strike the perfect balance between crispiness and a juicy, herby filling that keeps you reaching for more.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
I swear, once you make these homemade spring rolls, store-bought won’t cut it anymore! The filling is packed with umami-rich ground chicken and shiitake mushrooms, while the crispy wrapper is just so satisfying every single time.
- Perfectly Crispy: Using square lumpia wrappers ensures a thin, ultra-crispy shell that fries evenly.
- Flavorful Filling: Ground chicken combined with fresh herbs, mushrooms, rice noodles, and veggies creates the most delicious, multi-textured bite.
- Versatile Cooking: You can fry these classic style or air fry them for a lighter option that still delivers on crunch.
- Homemade Sauce: The tangy-sweet dipping sauce takes these rolls from great to unforgettable with a punch of honey, oyster sauce, and a hint of Gochujang.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Heading to the store? Here’s what you’ll want to keep in mind when picking up ingredients for these crispy chicken spring rolls. Look for fresh herbs and veggies, and be sure to grab the right wrappers (these are key!).
- Avocado oil: Provides a high smoke point and neutral flavor, perfect for sautéing without overpowering the filling.
- Toasted sesame oil: Adds a warm, nutty aroma that elevates the mushroom and chicken mixture.
- Garlic: Essential for that savory punch that starts the flavor base.
- Shallot: Sweeter and milder than onions, giving a gentle depth to the filling.
- Green onions: Fresh and crisp, they bring a subtle onion flavor and color contrast.
- Shiitake mushrooms: Their meaty texture and umami boost complement the chicken perfectly.
- Cabbage: Adds crunch and lightness, preventing the filling from getting too dense.
- Carrot: Sweetness and bright orange color make the filling vibrant and fresh.
- Cilantro: Brings herbal brightness and a touch of citrusy flavor.
- Ground chicken: Lean and flavorful, it soaks up all the delicious seasonings nicely.
- Oyster sauce: A secret weapon for savory depth and subtle sweetness.
- Sea salt: Balances and enhances all other flavors without overpowering.
- Thin rice noodles (vermicelli noodles): Add chewy texture and help hold the filling together.
- Egg: Used as an egg wash to seal spring rolls, ensuring they stay intact during frying.
- Square spring roll wrappers (lumpia wrappers): The flour-based square wrappers crisp up beautifully and hold the filling well.
- Basil or Thai basil leaves (optional): For a fresh herbal layer inside each roll if you want to brighten up the flavor.
- Peanut oil: Perfect for deep frying thanks to its high smoke point and neutral taste.
- Honey: Key part of the dipping sauce, giving a sweet counterpoint to savory and tangy.
- Chinese mustard: Adds a sharp, spicy kick to the dipping sauce.
- Gochujang (Korean fermented chili paste): Brings a mild heat and complexity to the sauce.
- Rice wine vinegar: Provides acidity to brighten the dipping sauce and balance all flavors.
Make It Your Way
One of the best things about this Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe is how versatile it can be! Feel free to personalize the filling, dipping sauce, or cooking method to suit your taste and lifestyle. Whether you're craving more heat, prefer a vegetarian version, or want to try baking instead of frying, there are tons of ways to make these spring rolls truly your own.
- Vegetarian Variation: Swap out the ground chicken for finely crumbled firm tofu or cooked shredded jackfruit for a plant-based twist. I tried using sautéed tofu with the same aromatics and mushrooms, and the spring rolls still came out crispy and packed with flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add extra gochujang into the filling or mix in some freshly chopped chili peppers for a spicy kick. This is my go-to when I want my appetizer to have a little fiery punch alongside the sweet dipping sauce.
- Seasonal Veggies: Depending on the time of year, mix in thinly sliced bell peppers, shredded zucchini, or bean sprouts for extra crunch and freshness. I love adding a handful of julienned carrots and cabbage in spring for that perfect crisp texture.
- Cooking Method Swap: While frying yields the crispiest results, air frying spring rolls is a fantastic option for a lighter treat. Just remember air frying takes a bit longer (10 to 15 minutes) and the texture will be less oily but still delicious.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients for a Smooth Assembly
Before diving into cooking, make sure all your vegetables and aromatics are finely minced, sliced, and shredded — garlic, shallots, green onions, cabbage, carrots, and cilantro all ready to go. This prep step cuts down the rush later and helps keep the rolling process stress-free. When everything’s ready, the cooking and assembly flow naturally.
Step 2: Sauté Mushrooms and Aromatics for Rich Flavor
Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil and 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, shallot, green onions, and chopped shiitake mushrooms. Stir frequently as the mushrooms shrink and develop light golden browning — about 8 minutes. This step builds the savory base of your filling, bringing out deep umami notes.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Chicken and Season Well
Add the ground chicken straight into the skillet. Break it apart into small crumbles so it cooks evenly and melds perfectly with the mushrooms. When no longer pink, stir in 2 tablespoons oyster sauce and 1 teaspoon fine sea salt, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. Then remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature—this ensures the filling is easier to handle when rolling.
Step 4: Soften Noodles and Combine the Filling
Place your rice vermicelli noodles in a large bowl and cover with boiling water. Let them sit for 3 minutes—just enough to soften but not overcook. Drain well, then roughly cut the noodles in half. This little trick helps prevent noodles from clumping and makes mixing them into the filling a breeze. Next, mix noodles with shredded cabbage, grated carrot, chopped cilantro, and the cooled chicken mushroom mixture in a large bowl. Take a moment to separate the noodles so they’re evenly distributed throughout all the flavors.
Step 5: Get Your Egg Wash Ready for Wrapping
Crack a large egg into a small bowl and whisk it thoroughly. You’ll use this egg wash to seal your spring rolls tightly and keep all that delicious filling tucked inside during frying or air frying.
Step 6: Assemble the Spring Rolls with Care
Keep your stack of spring roll wrappers covered with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Take one wrapper and lay it on your work surface in a diamond shape, with a corner pointing towards you. If you like, place 1 or 2 basil leaves on the bottom third for a fragrant layer of freshness. Spoon a generous 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 snugly, then fold the left and right sides inward like closing an envelope. Roll the wrapper tightly upward, sealing the top corner with egg wash to lock everything in. Place the finished roll on a tray and cover with a damp towel while you wrap the rest.
Step 7: Frying to Golden Perfection
Heat 4 cups of peanut oil in a deep pot to 350°F (177°C). Test the temperature to maintain steady heat for even cooking. Fry 2 to 4 spring rolls at a time, turning occasionally, until they’re beautifully golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack to keep them crisp. Repeat with the rest of your spring rolls. The sound of a gentle sizzle will let you know things are cooking just right!
Step 8: Air Fry Option for a Lighter Crunch
If you’re using an air fryer, preheat it to 390°F (198°C) and lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. Arrange spring rolls in a single layer without overcrowding, air frying them for 10 to 15 minutes until crisp and golden. The texture won’t be quite as crunchy as frying, but you’ll save on oil and still get a deliciously satisfying bite.
Step 9: Whip Up the Perfect Dipping Sauce
In a small bowl, stir together 6 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon Chinese mustard, 1 teaspoon gochujang, and 1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar until smooth and combined. This sweet and tangy sauce is the perfect companion for those crispy rolls—make sure you have plenty on hand for dipping!
Top Tip
Mastering your Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe is all about attention to detail. These tips come from plenty of trial and error, ensuring your spring rolls come out perfectly crispy, flavorful, and beautifully wrapped every time.
- Wrapper Handling: Always keep your spring roll wrappers covered with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out and tearing. I learned that once they dry even slightly, they become brittle and tricky to roll smoothly.
- Oil Temperature Control: Maintain your frying oil at a steady 350°F (177°C). I found that too hot and the rolls burn outside before cooking through, too cool and they absorb too much oil and get soggy.
- Rolling Technique: Use the egg wash generously along the edges for a tight seal. This keeps the filling locked in and prevents leaks during frying, saving you the frustration of burst rolls.
- Filling Prep: Mix the filling well and separate the noodles before rolling. This ensures even distribution so every bite bursts with flavor rather than clumps of noodles or dry bites.
How to Serve Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up your serving plate, add fresh garnishes like extra chopped cilantro, thinly sliced green onions, or a few whole basil or Thai basil leaves. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top of the dipping sauce adds a lovely crunch and nutty aroma.
Side Dishes
These spring rolls pair beautifully with light Asian-inspired sides such as a crisp cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil, steamed jasmine rice, or a refreshing bowl of hot and sour soup. For a fun party platter, serve alongside pickled vegetables and fresh lettuce leaves to wrap the rolls in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls are cooked and cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep them crispy, reheat them in the oven or air fryer before serving.
Freezing
You can freeze these spring rolls for up to 3 months! Lay them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet so they aren’t touching, freeze until firm (about 1 to 2 hours), then transfer to airtight freezer bags. This method avoids them sticking together and preserves their shape.
Reheating
For best reheating results, pop frozen spring rolls in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes or use an air fryer at 375°F for 6 to 12 minutes. This helps them regain their crispiness without drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions:
For the crispiest texture, use square flour-based spring roll or lumpia wrappers. Avoid round rice paper wrappers, which don’t fry well in this recipe. Egg roll wrappers can be substituted but will result in a thicker, chewier roll.
Frying produces the crispiest, most golden rolls, but the air fryer is a great, healthier alternative. Air fry spring rolls at 390°F for 10 to 15 minutes—they won’t be quite as crispy but still delicious.
Keep your wrappers covered with damp paper towels to maintain moisture and elasticity. If a tear occurs, simply overlap an extra wrapper layer when rolling to seal it neatly.
Absolutely! You can prep the filling up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, which makes assembly a breeze when you’re ready to cook.
Final Thoughts
Making these Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe at home is such a rewarding experience. They bring together incredible flavors, textures, and a dash of fun in the kitchen. Whether for a casual snack or a party appetizer, these spring rolls never fail to impress. I hope these tips and storage ideas help you create them perfectly every time—happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 20 spring rolls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
These crispy spring rolls feature a flavorful filling of ground chicken, shiitake mushrooms, rice noodles, cabbage, and fresh herbs wrapped in thin square wrappers and fried to golden perfection. Served with a tangy and sweet dipping sauce made with honey, oyster sauce, Chinese mustard, gochujang, and rice wine vinegar, these spring rolls offer the perfect balance of textures and tastes, ideal as a delicious appetizer or snack.
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 (170g) 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 (450g) 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 (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: Before starting, finely mince garlic, shallot, and slice green onions. Shred cabbage, grate carrot, and chop cilantro for use later.
- Cook mushrooms and aromatics: 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 chopped shiitake mushrooms. Cook, stirring frequently, until mushrooms reduce and brown, about 8 minutes.
- Cook chicken: Add ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it up into small crumbles. Cook until no longer pink, then stir in 2 tablespoons oyster sauce and 1 teaspoon fine sea salt. Cook for 2 more minutes, then remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- Prepare noodles: Place rice vermicelli noodles in a large bowl and cover with boiling water. Let stand for 3 minutes, then drain. Roughly cut the noodles in half to make mixing easier.
- Make spring roll filling: In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrot, chopped cilantro, noodles, and cooled chicken-mushroom mixture. Mix thoroughly, separating noodles to distribute evenly.
- Make egg wash: Crack egg into a small bowl and whisk well. Set aside for sealing wrappers.
- Prepare wrappers: Remove one spring roll wrapper from the package, keeping the rest covered with damp paper towels to prevent drying.
- Assemble spring rolls: Place the wrapper on a work surface with a corner pointing toward you (diamond shape). Optionally, lay 1-2 basil leaves on the bottom third. Spoon a small amount of filling onto the basil or wrapper. Lightly brush all four edges of the wrapper with egg wash. Fold the bottom corner over the filling snugly, fold left and right sides inward, then roll up tightly toward the top, sealing with egg wash on the top corner.
- Set aside rolled spring rolls: Place finished rolls on a tray and cover with damp paper towels to prevent drying. Continue rolling the remaining wrappers.
- Fry spring rolls: Heat peanut oil in a deep pot to 350°F (177°C), leaving space from the top. Fry 2 to 4 spring rolls at a time until golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove and drain on a wire rack. Repeat with remaining rolls.
- Alternatively, air fry spring rolls: Preheat air fryer to 390°F (198°C). Lightly spray basket with cooking spray. Air fry spring rolls for 10 to 15 minutes until crispy.
- Make dipping sauce: In a small bowl, stir together honey, oyster sauce, Chinese mustard, Gochujang, and rice wine vinegar until combined. Serve alongside spring rolls.
Notes
- Use square flour-based spring roll or lumpia wrappers for the crispiest texture; avoid round rice paper wrappers.
- Rice vermicelli noodles can be found in the Asian food aisle; alternatively use noodles from a single-serving instant rice noodle soup packet without seasoning.
- You can prepare the filling up to 2 days ahead and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- To freeze spring rolls, freeze them individually on a lined baking sheet until firm, then transfer to airtight bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in oven at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 6 to 12 minutes.
- Frying tip: Use a deep fryer or a heavy deep pot with a thermometer to maintain oil temperature at 350°F for even cooking.
- Keep wrappers covered with damp paper towels while assembling to prevent drying and tearing.
- If wrappers tear, cover tears by overlapping with extra wrapper layers during rolling.
- Oil used for frying is not included in nutritional estimates as amounts vary based on cooking method.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 spring roll
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 310 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
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