Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls

Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are the ultimate fusion of flavors and textures, combining the spicy kick of classic buffalo chicken with the crunch of golden-fried egg roll wrappers. This versatile appetizer is perfect for game day, parties, or as a fun dinner option. Packed with tender shredded chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, creamy cheese, and crisp vegetables, these egg rolls deliver bold flavors in every bite. Whether served with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, or simply enjoyed on their own, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with your family and friends.

While they may look like a specialty dish, Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are surprisingly easy to make. This recipe walks you through every step, offering tips on frying, baking, or air-frying, so you can customize it to your preferences. With make-ahead options and endless variations, you’ll find yourself making these crowd-pleasers again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Crunchy: The egg roll wrapper creates a perfect golden shell that’s irresistibly crunchy.
• Bold Flavors: The spicy, tangy buffalo chicken filling is perfectly balanced by the creamy cheese.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Choose from frying, baking, or air-frying to suit your preference.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at parties, potlucks, or as a snack for any gathering.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the filling and rolls in advance for easy cooking later.
• Customizable: Add your favorite cheeses, vegetables, or sauces to make it your own.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 egg rolls
• Serving Size: 2 egg rolls

Nutritional Information (per serving of 2 egg rolls)

• Calories: 340
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 17g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (Frank’s RedHot recommended)
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup diced green onions
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Egg Rolls:

• 12 egg roll wrappers (available in most grocery stores)
• 1 egg, beaten (for sealing the wrappers)
• Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)

For Dipping:

• Ranch dressing
• Blue cheese dressing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, celery, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly combined. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning or spice level by adding more buffalo sauce if desired.

Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean, flat surface with one corner pointing toward you (like a diamond shape). Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the buffalo chicken filling onto the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the two side corners to create an envelope shape. Roll the wrapper tightly toward the top corner, sealing it with a brush of beaten egg. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.

Step 3: Fry the Egg Rolls
Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (use a thermometer for accuracy). Fry 3-4 egg rolls at a time, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Alternative Cooking Methods

• Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Arrange the egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a greased wire rack. Spray the egg rolls lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
• Air-Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the egg rolls in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between them. Spray lightly with cooking spray. Air-fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.

Step 5: Serve
Serve the buffalo chicken egg rolls warm with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping. Garnish with additional diced green onions or celery if desired.

Ingredient Background

Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option, but any cooked chicken (boiled, baked, or grilled) works. It provides a tender, protein-packed base for the filling.
Buffalo Sauce: Frank’s Red Hot is a classic choice for authentic buffalo flavor, but you can use your favorite brand or homemade sauce.
Cheeses: A blend of cheddar and mozzarella ensures both bold flavor and a gooey, melty texture. Cream cheese adds creaminess to balance the heat.
Egg Roll Wrappers: Found in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores, these thin, pliable sheets become perfectly crispy when fried or baked.

Technique Tips

• Don’t Overfill: Overstuffing the wrappers can cause them to tear or not seal properly. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons of filling per egg roll.
• Seal Tightly: Ensure the edges of the wrapper are well-sealed with beaten egg to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at a steady 350°F for even frying. Too hot, and the wrappers may burn before the filling is heated through; too cool, and they’ll absorb excess oil.
• Cool Slightly Before Serving: Let the egg rolls cool for 1-2 minutes after cooking to avoid burning your mouth on the hot filling.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Buffalo Chicken Egg Roll Bowls: Skip the wrappers and serve the filling over rice or salad for a deconstructed version.
• Mini Egg Rolls: Cut the wrappers in half diagonally for bite-sized appetizers.
• Buffalo Chicken Wontons: Use wonton wrappers instead of egg roll wrappers for smaller, crispier bites.
• Buffalo Chicken Taquitos: Use small tortillas instead of egg roll wrappers and bake or fry for a different take.

Additional Tips for Success

• Adjust the Heat: For milder egg rolls, reduce the buffalo sauce and add a bit of ranch dressing to the filling. For spicier rolls, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
• Keep Wrappers Moist: Cover unused wrappers with a damp towel while assembling to prevent them from drying out.
• Double the Batch: These egg rolls freeze beautifully, so make extra to have on hand for a quick snack or appetizer.
• Serve with Veggies: Add a side of celery and carrot sticks for a complete buffalo chicken experience.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Buffalo Egg Rolls: Replace the chicken with crumbled tofu, jackfruit, or chickpeas for a plant-based option.
• Cheesesteak Buffalo Rolls: Add sautéed onions and bell peppers to the filling for a buffalo cheesesteak twist.
• Southwest Buffalo Rolls: Include black beans, corn, and diced jalapeños in the filling for a Tex-Mex flair.
• Ranch Buffalo Rolls: Mix ranch dressing into the filling for a tangy, creamy variation.

Freezing and Storage

To Store: Place leftover egg rolls in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To Freeze: Arrange uncooked egg rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.
To Reheat: Warm refrigerated or thawed egg rolls in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Baked or Air-Fried: Skip deep-frying to cut down on calories and fat.
• Whole-Grain Wrappers: Use whole-grain egg roll wrappers for added fiber.
• Low-Fat Cheese: Substitute low-fat versions of cheddar and mozzarella.
• More Veggies: Add shredded carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to the filling for extra nutrients.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Game Day Spread: Pair with nachos, sliders, and wings for the ultimate party platter.
• Potluck Favorite: Bring a tray of egg rolls with dipping sauces to your next gathering.
• Casual Dinner: Serve alongside a green salad or soup for a simple yet satisfying meal.
• Snack Time: Enjoy as a midday snack with extra buffalo sauce for dipping.

Special Equipment

• Deep Skillet or Dutch Oven: Ideal for frying the egg rolls evenly.
• Candy Thermometer: Ensures accurate oil temperature for perfect frying.
• Pastry Brush: Makes sealing the wrappers with egg wash easy and mess-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that saves time. Shred it and mix it with the other filling ingredients.

Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Absolutely! Baking at 400°F with a light spray of oil results in crispy, golden egg rolls without the extra fat from frying.

Q: What can I substitute for egg roll wrappers?
A: Wonton wrappers can be used for smaller rolls, or tortillas for a taquito-style twist.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, assemble the egg rolls and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Q: How do I prevent the egg rolls from getting soggy?
A: Serve them immediately after cooking or reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Q: Are these gluten-free?
A: Traditional egg roll wrappers contain gluten, but you can find gluten-free options at specialty stores or make your own.

Q: Can I add more cheese?
A: Of course! Feel free to increase the cheese or try a different variety like pepper jack for extra flavor.

Q: What dipping sauces work best?
A: Ranch and blue cheese are classics, but you can also try honey mustard, garlic aioli, or even extra buffalo sauce.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are the perfect combination of crispy, spicy, and creamy flavors. With their crunchy shells and flavorful filling, they’re a hit for any occasion, from game days to casual dinners. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, these versatile egg rolls are easy to make and endlessly customizable. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy the bold, irresistible taste of this fusion masterpiece! Try them today, and they’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

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