I’ve always had a soft spot for egg rolls — that satisfying crunch, the flavorful filling, and the way they can make any meal instantly more exciting. The problem? Deep-frying can feel like a greasy commitment I’m not always in the mood for. That’s why I fell in love with making them in the air fryer. You still get that irresistible crispiness, but without all the excess oil (and guilt).
These crispy chicken egg rolls are one of my go-to snacks when I want something quick, golden-brown, and packed with savory goodness. The combination of tender chicken, fresh veggies, and just the right amount of seasoning wrapped in a delicate egg roll wrapper is pure joy. Plus, they’re easy enough for a weekday dinner yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Trust me, after making these once, you’ll wonder why you ever ordered takeout.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Ground Chicken:
Lean and flavorful, ground chicken makes for a light yet satisfying filling. It cooks quickly and absorbs all the delicious seasonings, creating the perfect savory base for your egg rolls.
Coleslaw Mix:
This colorful blend of shredded cabbage and carrots not only saves you chopping time but also adds freshness and a slight crunch to balance the tender chicken.
Garlic:
A little minced garlic brings an aromatic punch that transforms the filling from “good” to “can’t stop eating.” It’s one of those ingredients that wakes up every other flavor.
Soy Sauce:
Salty, umami-rich, and slightly sweet, soy sauce is essential for giving the filling that classic egg roll depth. It ties all the components together in a savory harmony.
Sesame Oil:
Just a drizzle gives a nutty, toasty aroma that makes these rolls taste like they came straight from your favorite Asian restaurant.
Green Onions:
These fresh, mild onions bring a gentle sharpness and a pop of green color to the filling, brightening each bite.
Egg Roll Wrappers:
Thin sheets of dough that crisp beautifully in the air fryer. They’re the golden-brown magic that holds everything together.
Cooking Spray:
A light spritz before air frying helps the wrappers achieve that perfect crunchy texture without deep frying.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- Cooking spray
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Egg Rolls
Step 1: Cook the Chicken Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground chicken until fully browned. Break it apart as it cooks so there are no large chunks. Drain any excess liquid.
Step 2: Add Veggies and Seasonings
Stir in the coleslaw mix and garlic, cooking for about 2–3 minutes until the cabbage softens slightly. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Stir well so every bite is seasoned.
Step 3: Fill the Egg Roll Wrappers
Place a wrapper on a clean surface with one corner facing you. Spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of filling onto the lower third. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly. Seal the edge with a little water.
Step 4: Prepare for Air Frying
Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (188°C). Lightly spray both sides of each egg roll with cooking spray. Arrange them in a single layer in the basket without overcrowding.
Step 5: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Serve immediately while hot for the best crunch.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t overfill the wrappers — too much filling can cause them to burst during cooking.
- Seal the edges well with water to keep the filling inside.
- Preheating the air fryer ensures even crisping from the start.
- Work in batches so the egg rolls have space to crisp properly.
- Serve with dipping sauces like sweet chili, soy sauce, or spicy mayo for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the egg rolls, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and air fry when ready to serve.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Freeze uncooked egg rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Air fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I use other meats?
Ground turkey, pork, or even finely diced shrimp work beautifully in this recipe.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can bake them at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, or pan-fry in a small amount of oil until crispy.