Gourmet Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls
Highlighted under: Simple Global Recipes
I absolutely love creating gourmet versions of classic dishes, and these Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are no exception. The crunchy, golden exterior paired with the spicy, flavorful filling makes for an irresistible appetizer or snack. I love serving these at parties or even just for a cozy night in, and they never fail to impress. Plus, they're surprisingly easy to make at home! You can adjust the heat level to your liking, allowing everyone to enjoy a taste of gourmet comfort food.
I experimented with various fillings for egg rolls and hit the jackpot with this Buffalo chicken combination. Using shredded rotisserie chicken not only speeds up the prep time, but it also infuses the filling with flavor. The key is balancing the hot sauce with cream cheese, which provides a creamy contrast to the spice, making each bite perfectly harmonious.
After a few trials, I realized that a light coating of cornstarch on the egg roll wrappers prevents them from getting soggy, allowing them to crisp up beautifully in the fryer. Trust me, these are a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Crispy exterior with a spicy and savory filling
- Easy to modify for different heat levels
- Perfect for parties or a simple game-day snack
Perfecting the Filling
The filling for these gourmet Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls is where the magic happens. Combining shredded rotisserie chicken with buffalo sauce not only infuses the meat with that signature spicy kick, but it also makes for a convenient option. I recommend choosing a buffalo sauce that matches your heat tolerance; brands vary significantly in intensity. Mixing in cream cheese adds creaminess and balances the spice, yielding a smoother texture that binds the filling together beautifully.
When incorporating the green onions, consider adjusting the amount based on your preference for onion flavor. They lend a fresh, slightly sharp taste that enhances the overall flavor profile. If you're feeling adventurous, add some finely chopped celery for additional crunch or even crumbled blue cheese for an authentic buffalo wing experience.
Mastering the Frying Process
Getting the frying technique just right is crucial. Ensure your vegetable oil is heated to around 350°F (175°C) before adding the egg rolls. A handy trick is to use a wooden spoon; when bubbles form around the handle, the oil is ready. Frying in small batches, as recommended, helps maintain consistent oil temperature, ensuring even cooking and preventing sogginess. You'll want to fry them until they achieve a golden brown color, which usually takes about 3–4 minutes per batch. Overcrowding the pot can lead to uneven cooking, so it's best to fry in groups of 3-4.
After frying, place the egg rolls on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This allows steam to escape and keeps the bottoms from getting soggy, preserving that desirable crunch. If you want to make a larger batch ahead of time, you can assemble the egg rolls and freeze them before frying; just fry them from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
Serving and Variations
Presentation is key when serving these egg rolls. Slice them in half diagonally for a beautiful display that showcases the colorful filling inside. Pairing them with ranch or blue cheese dressing is traditional, but you could also experiment with spicy mayo or a garlic aioli for a fun twist. I often add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or additional green onions on top for a fresh finishing touch and vibrancy on the plate.
For those who want to switch things up, consider making a variation with different proteins or flavors. For instance, shredded turkey or even a vegetarian option with sautéed mushrooms and spinach would work well. Adjust the buffalo sauce accordingly based on the ingredients to maintain flavor balance. Remember, the beauty of these egg rolls lies in their versatility, so feel free to get creative!
Ingredients
For the Egg Rolls
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Vegetable oil for frying
Optional for Serving
Ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and green onions. Mix until well incorporated.
Fill the Egg Rolls
Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling near the corner. Roll it up tightly, folding in the sides as you go. Seal the edge with a bit of water mixed with cornstarch.
Fry the Rolls
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot over medium heat. Fry the egg rolls in batches, 3-4 at a time, for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Serve
Serve hot with your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Pro Tips
- For a healthier option, you can bake the egg rolls in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
Storage Tips
If you have leftover Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to allow them to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. When reheating, using an oven can help retain their crispiness—simply place them on a baking sheet and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked egg rolls. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method allows you to pull out just what you need without thawing the entire batch, ensuring you can enjoy gourmet snacks anytime!
Dietary Adjustments
For a gluten-free option, you can substitute the regular egg roll wrappers with gluten-free varieties available in most grocery stores. There are also rice paper wrappers that you can use, although they might require a different rolling technique and will yield a slightly different texture. Just remember to soak them briefly in water to make them pliable before filling.
If you're looking to reduce calories or make a lighter version, consider baking the egg rolls instead of frying them. Brush them lightly with oil and place them on a baking sheet, baking at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness. This method will give you a healthier option while still delivering outstanding flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the egg rolls, then freeze them before frying. Just cook them from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the frying time.
→ What can I use instead of buffalo sauce?
You can substitute buffalo sauce with any hot sauce you prefer, or even a BBQ sauce for a milder taste.
→ Are there any vegetarian options?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with shredded jackfruit or vegetables sautéed with buffalo sauce for a vegetarian version.
→ Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the egg rolls at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden, turning them halfway through for even cooking.
Gourmet Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls
I absolutely love creating gourmet versions of classic dishes, and these Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are no exception. The crunchy, golden exterior paired with the spicy, flavorful filling makes for an irresistible appetizer or snack. I love serving these at parties or even just for a cozy night in, and they never fail to impress. Plus, they're surprisingly easy to make at home! You can adjust the heat level to your liking, allowing everyone to enjoy a taste of gourmet comfort food.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Simple Global Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 rolls
What You'll Need
For the Egg Rolls
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Vegetable oil for frying
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and green onions. Mix until well incorporated.
Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling near the corner. Roll it up tightly, folding in the sides as you go. Seal the edge with a bit of water mixed with cornstarch.
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot over medium heat. Fry the egg rolls in batches, 3-4 at a time, for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Serve hot with your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Extra Tips
- For a healthier option, you can bake the egg rolls in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 820mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 8g