Picture this: a crisp, golden-brown egg roll, bursting with flavors that remind you of the best buffalo wings you’ve ever indulged in. When those hunger pangs hit after a long day, I often find myself craving something that’s both satisfying and a little unique. That’s when these Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls come to the rescue! Not only do they come together in a matter of minutes, but they also offer a scrumptious twist on classic comfort food.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Using shredded rotisserie chicken, creamy cheese, and just the right amount of spice, these egg rolls transform the weeknight dinner hustle into a joyful culinary experience. Whether you’re hosting friends for the big game or simply treating yourself to a flavorful snack, these crispy delights are sure to be a hit. Trust me; once you take that first bite, you’ll be glad you swapped takeout for something homemade! Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Why are Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls a must-try?
Crispy Texture: Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch, perfectly contrasting the gooey interior.
Flavor Explosion: The blend of rotisserie chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty hot sauce creates a savory delight.
Quick Preparation: Whip these up in minutes for a hassle-free weeknight meal.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for game day or casual gatherings, these egg rolls are a guaranteed hit!
Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite cheeses or experiment with different fillings for unique variations.
Indulge in these delicious treats and make them your go-to alternative to fast food!
Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls Ingredients
For the Filling
• Cream Cheese – Provides creaminess and binds ingredients; substitute with Neufchâtel cheese for a lower fat option.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Adds melty texture and stretch; swap for Cheddar cheese for a sharper, bolder flavor.
• Shredded Rotisserie Chicken – A flavorful source of protein; using leftover cooked chicken can save you time and effort.
• Hot Sauce – Infuses a spicy kick that perfects the flavor; reduce the amount for a milder option.
• Green Onions – Adds freshness and a nice crunch; chives can be used as a substitute if green onions are unavailable.
For the Wrapping and Frying
• Egg Roll Wrappers – Create the crispy outer layer; wonton wrappers are a great smaller alternative for bite-size treats.
• Vegetable Oil – Essential for frying, giving the egg rolls that satisfying crunch; consider using olive oil for a healthier choice.
For Dipping and Garnishing
• Ranch Dressing – Complements the flavors beautifully; you could also use bleu cheese dressing for a stronger taste.
• Crumbled Blue Cheese – Enhances the richness of the dish; feel free to omit if you’re looking for a lighter version.
• Fresh Dill – Adds aromatic freshness; substituting with fresh parsley offers a milder flavor to balance it out.
Get ready to whip up these Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls and transform your weeknight meals into a delightful experience!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls
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Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, rotisserie chicken, hot sauce, and green onions. Stir until everything is well-blended and smooth, creating a delicious filling.
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Prepare Wrappers: Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the filling into the center, then fold, tuck, and roll tightly, sealing the edges with a bit of water.
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Heat Oil: In a spacious pan, pour enough vegetable oil to submerge the bottom. Heat the oil over medium heat until it shimmers, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
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Fry Rolls: Carefully slide in a few egg rolls at a time, frying until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remember to turn them halfway through for even cooking.
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Drain & Serve: Once crispy, remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with ranch dressing and crumbled blue cheese for dipping.
Optional: Garnish with fresh dill for extra flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to save precious time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance; simply mix the cream cheese, mozzarella, shredded chicken, hot sauce, and green onions, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can assemble the egg rolls and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours—just ensure they are tightly wrapped to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, heat your oil and fry the egg rolls straight from the fridge for restaurant-quality crunch with minimal effort. Enjoy the convenience and delightful flavors that make this dish a family favorite!
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls
- Hot Oil Check: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. A small piece of egg roll wrapper should bubble and sizzle when dropped in; otherwise, wait a bit longer.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in small batches. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls.
- Moisture Control: Watch out for excess moisture in your filling. If it’s too wet, reduce the amount of hot sauce to prevent leaking during frying.
- Seal Tight: Ensure egg rolls are secured well to prevent the filling from spilling out while frying. Use water to seal edges tightly.
- Baking Option: For a healthier twist, try baking the egg rolls! Brush them lightly with olive oil and bake at 400°F until golden and crispy, about 20 minutes.
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls
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Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, consume within 2 hours. Keep them covered to maintain freshness.
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Fridge: Store leftover Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.
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Freezer: These egg rolls can be frozen uncooked for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag.
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Reheating: For best results, reheat frozen egg rolls in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through and crispy. Enjoy them as a delicious snack or meal!
Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls Variations
Customize your Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls to satisfy every craving while keeping the comfort intact!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese and mozzarella with vegan cream cheese and a dairy-free cheese blend for a guilt-free delight.
- Spicy Kick: Use a hotter variety of hot sauce, like habanero, to turn up the heat for those who love a fiery flavor!
- Veggie-Packed: Add shredded carrots, chopped spinach, or bell peppers to the filling for an extra crunch and nutrition boost.
- Whole Wheat: Choose whole wheat egg roll wrappers instead of regular ones for a healthier twist that adds a nutty flavor.
- Cheese Exchange: Switch mozzarella for pepper jack cheese to introduce a zesty flavor that complements the buffalo spirit.
- Baked Option: Brush the egg rolls lightly with olive oil and bake at 400°F until golden for a lighter, crispy alternative.
- Ground Meat: Swap rotisserie chicken for ground turkey, beef, or a meat alternative for a different protein experience.
- Sweet and Spicy: Incorporate a touch of honey or agave syrup into the filling to balance the heat with a hint of sweetness.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to find your perfect bite!
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls?
Nothing compares to a delightful spread that perfectly complements these crispy wonders!
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of coleslaw balance the spicy and savory flavors of the egg rolls.
- Spicy Sriracha Dipping Sauce: A zesty boost of heat that enhances the buffalo flavor, making every bite more exciting.
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the egg rolls’ spicy kick, satisfying all taste buds.
- Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the egg rolls.
- Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: The creamy and cool guacamole complements the heat, while the chips provide an enjoyable texture contrast.
- Beer or Hard Cider: Enjoying these egg rolls with a chilled beer or refreshing hard cider elevates the overall flavor experience.
- Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: For a fun vegetarian option, these bites echo the buffalo flavor and add a fun twist to your meal.
- Cheesy Queso Dip: Heartwarming and indulgent, this dip is perfect for those who love extra cheesy goodness alongside their egg rolls.
Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ingredients for my Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls?
Selecting ripe and fresh ingredients is crucial for the best flavors. When choosing your chicken, opt for a juicy rotisserie chicken without dark spots or unpleasant odors. For the cheeses, ensure they are fresh and stored properly, and check the expiry date on cream cheese to avoid any off-tasting surprises.
What’s the best way to store leftover Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls?
Keep any leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating them in an air fryer or conventional oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to return that delightful crispiness!
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls? If so, how?
Absolutely! You can freeze your uncooked egg rolls for up to 2 months. Here’s a simple step-by-step:
- Lay the filled and rolled egg rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Flash freeze them for about 1 hour until firm.
- Transfer them to a freezer-safe zip-top bag, and label them with the date.
To cook from frozen, fry or bake them directly without thawing, adjusting cooking time as needed.
What are common issues folks face when making Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls?
One common issue is soggy egg rolls due to overcrowding in the oil. Make sure to fry in small batches and monitor oil temperature closely. Also, if your filling is too wet, the rolls might leak while frying. Adjust hot sauce amounts for the ideal consistency—keep it creamy, not soupy!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! If serving to pets or those with allergies, be cautious with the ranch dressing or blue cheese, as dairy may affect sensitivities. You can always make a vegan version by substituting the cheese with dairy-free alternatives and ensuring the egg roll wrappers are free from animal byproducts.
How can I customize my Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls?
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility! Feel free to swap out rotisserie chicken for shredded turkey or even ground beef for a heartier option. You can also add veggies like shredded carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. The more the merrier when it comes to experimenting!
Savory Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls for Quick Comfort Food Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix Filling: Combine cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, rotisserie chicken, hot sauce, and green onions in a large bowl until well-blended and smooth.
- Prepare Wrappers: Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon filling into the center, then fold and roll tightly, sealing edges with water.
- Heat Oil: Pour enough vegetable oil into a pan to submerge the bottom. Heat over medium heat until shimmering, about 4-5 minutes.
- Fry Rolls: Slide a few egg rolls into the oil, frying until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Turn halfway through.
- Drain & Serve: Remove egg rolls and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Serve warm with ranch dressing and crumbled blue cheese.