Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls

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Introduction

Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are the perfect mash-up of two fan favorites—buffalo chicken and crispy egg rolls. These bite-sized delights are packed with tender, spicy buffalo chicken, creamy cheese, and savory vegetables, all wrapped in a golden, crunchy shell. Whether you’re preparing for a game day celebration, a special occasion, or simply craving a flavorful snack, these egg rolls deliver all the bold, zesty flavors of buffalo chicken in a perfectly portable, crunchy package.

The first time I made these, I was surprised by how effortlessly they came together. The combination of spicy buffalo sauce, melty cheese, and the satisfying crunch of the egg roll wrapper was a hit from the first bite. The aroma of sizzling egg rolls filled the kitchen, and by the time they were plated, there was no shortage of eager hands reaching for one.

What I love most about Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls is their versatility. They’re an easy appetizer to serve at a party, a fun addition to a meal, or a game day snack that will have everyone coming back for more. For an extra kick, try serving them with a side of ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce, or even a drizzle of honey for a sweet and spicy contrast. No matter how you serve them, these egg rolls are sure to be a crowd favorite every time.

Perfect for:

  • Game day snacks
  • Appetizer platters
  • Party appetizers
  • Casual dinners
  • Spicy food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls will become your new favorite snack:

  • Crispy and Crunchy: The crispy egg roll wrappers create a perfect crunch that complements the tender buffalo chicken filling.
  • Bold Buffalo Flavor: The spicy buffalo sauce infuses the chicken, giving these egg rolls an irresistible kick.
  • Cheesy Goodness: A creamy cheese filling adds richness that balances out the heat from the buffalo sauce.
  • Easy to Eat: These bite-sized treats are easy to eat with your hands, making them perfect for sharing at parties.
  • Versatile and Customizable: Add vegetables or extra seasonings to the filling for even more flavor options.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 8-10 egg rolls
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories per egg roll
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 12g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls:

  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 10-12 egg roll wrappers
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)
  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for dipping, optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Shredded Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience and flavor.
  • Buffalo Sauce: The key ingredient for that signature spicy and tangy flavor.
  • Cream Cheese: Adds a creamy texture and helps bind the filling together.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Provides a rich and melty addition to the filling.
  • Egg Roll Wrappers: The crispy, golden exterior that holds all the delicious filling inside.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

  1. Shred the Chicken: If not already shredded, shred the cooked chicken into small, bite-sized pieces.
  2. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, and celery. Stir until fully combined.

Assemble the Egg Rolls:

  1. Prepare the Wrappers: Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointing towards you (like a diamond).
  2. Fill the Wrapper: Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the buffalo chicken mixture in the center of the wrapper.
  3. Roll the Egg Rolls: Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly towards the top corner. Seal the edge with a small amount of water. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.

Cook the Egg Rolls:

  1. Heat the Oil: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil.
  2. Fry the Egg Rolls: Carefully add the egg rolls to the skillet, seam side down. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
  3. Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, transfer the egg rolls to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Serve with Dipping Sauce: Serve the egg rolls with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.

How to Serve

  • Appetizer Platter: Serve with a side of carrot and celery sticks for a classic buffalo pairing.
  • Game Day Snack: Place the egg rolls on a platter with other game day favorites like mozzarella sticks or sliders.
  • Finger Food: These are perfect as handheld snacks at parties or gatherings.
  • With Extra Sauce: Drizzle extra buffalo sauce over the egg rolls for more heat and flavor.

Additional Tips

  • Use a Nonstick Pan: A nonstick pan helps prevent the egg rolls from sticking and makes flipping them easier.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble the egg rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Fry them just before serving.
  • Air Fryer Option: For a healthier version, brush the egg rolls with a bit of oil and cook them in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Make it Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the filling for an extra kick.
  • Keep the Wrappers Moist: If you’re making a large batch, keep the egg roll wrappers covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out while you assemble the egg rolls.

Recipe Variations

  1. Buffalo Chicken and Bacon Egg Rolls: Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the filling for a smoky flavor.
  2. Vegetarian Buffalo Egg Rolls: Replace the chicken with diced vegetables like cauliflower or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
  3. Cheesy Garlic Buffalo Egg Rolls: Mix in some minced garlic and mozzarella cheese for an extra cheesy twist.
  4. Crispy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos: Instead of egg roll wrappers, use small flour tortillas for a crispy taquito version.
  5. Buffalo Chicken and Ranch Egg Rolls: Replace the cream cheese with ranch dressing for a tangy flavor boost.
  6. Spicy BBQ Buffalo Egg Rolls: Mix buffalo sauce with barbecue sauce for a tangy, sweet variation.
  7. Buffalo Chicken and Avocado Egg Rolls: Add mashed avocado to the filling for a creamy, fresh contrast to the spicy buffalo sauce.
  8. Buffalo Chicken and Blue Cheese Egg Rolls: For extra tang, incorporate crumbled blue cheese into the filling.
  9. Sweet and Spicy Buffalo Egg Rolls: Combine buffalo sauce with honey or maple syrup for a sweet and spicy flavor.
  10. Double Dip Buffalo Egg Rolls: Serve with both buffalo sauce and a creamy ranch dip for a double layer of flavor.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: To freeze uncooked egg rolls, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Fry or bake directly from frozen.
  • Storage: Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.

Special Equipment

  • Deep Fryer: Provides consistent temperature control for perfectly crispy egg rolls.
  • Mandoline Slicer: Great for evenly slicing vegetables like carrots or cabbage for the filling.
  • Food Processor: Quickens the process of shredding chicken or chopping vegetables.
  • Basting Brush: For evenly applying oil to egg rolls before frying to ensure a crisp, golden exterior.
  • Large Mixing Bowl: Ideal for tossing the buffalo chicken mixture and ensuring everything is coated evenly.
  • Tongs: Handy for flipping or removing egg rolls from hot oil safely without damaging them.
  • Cooling Rack: Keeps egg rolls crispy by allowing excess oil to drain after frying.
  • Rolling Mat: Helps you roll the egg rolls tightly and evenly, preventing any leakage during frying.
  • Candy/Deep-Fry Thermometer: Ensures the oil is at the right temperature for frying (around 350°F) for the best texture.
  • Wok or Large Skillet: If you don’t have a deep fryer, a wok or large skillet can be used for shallow frying egg rolls.

FAQ

  1. Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes, brush them with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  2. Can I make them ahead of time? Yes, assemble and refrigerate them until ready to cook.
  3. Can I use a different sauce besides buffalo? Absolutely! You can use barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or a combination for different flavors.
  4. Can I make these vegetarian? Yes, swap out the chicken for vegetables or plant-based protein.
  5. Can I make these in the air fryer? Yes, lightly brush with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls combine the bold flavors of buffalo chicken with the satisfying crunch of a perfectly fried egg roll wrapper. The creamy, spicy filling contrasts wonderfully with the crispy exterior, making them an addictive snack or appetizer that’s sure to impress. Whether served at a party, for game day, or as a fun dinner, these buffalo chicken egg rolls will bring the heat and satisfy all your cravings!

Easy to prepare and full of flavor, these egg rolls are a perfect way to enjoy buffalo chicken in a unique form. Pair them with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, or serve them alongside a fresh salad to balance out the heat.

I can’t wait to see your take on these buffalo chicken egg rolls! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you put your spin on them. Don’t forget to share your favorite variations in the comments. Happy cooking!

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