Mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls: A Game Day Favorite
If there’s one dish that never fails to make an appearance at my family gatherings, it’s my beloved Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls. Growing up, my mother would often whip these up for our game nights, filling the air with the tantalizing scent of spicy buffalo sauce mingling with gooey cheese. Just thinking about those crispy, golden bites brings a smile to my face and memories of laughter, family banter, and endless dipping sauces.
What makes these Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls so special, you ask? Well, not only are they loaded with flavor, but they also offer the perfect crunch and creamy texture that leaves you wanting more. Unlike store-bought versions that can taste overly processed, making them at home allows you to control the spice, the cheese, and, most importantly, the love that goes into them.
In this post, I promise to guide you through every delectable step of my favorite recipe for Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls. You’ll discover tips for perfecting your roll, creative dipping ideas, and ways to tweak the recipe to fit your taste. So, grab your cooking gear, and let’s make something delicious together!
What Are Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls?
Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls originated from the beloved buffalo chicken wing, which hails from Buffalo, New York. However, instead of simply relishing wings, I’ve taken that classic flavor and wrapped it in a crispy golden egg roll.
When you take a bite, you experience a delightful crunch followed by a flavorful explosion of tender chicken, melted cheddar and mozzarella, and a zingy kick of buffalo sauce. The combination creates a creamy filling that contrasts with the crisp outer layer.
These egg rolls are a perfect snack for game days, movie nights, or even just a cozy evening at home. They are versatile, crowd-pleasing, and can serve up that comforting vibe we all crave. Whether it’s a party or just a cozy weeknight dinner, Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls will make any gathering feel special!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Flavor Explosion: These egg rolls are not just your average snack; they’re packed with flavor! The combination of rotisserie chicken, buttery cheese, and tangy buffalo sauce delivers a taste that’s hard to resist.
Cost-Effective: Why spend a small fortune at your local restaurant when you can whip these up for a fraction of the cost? Using rotisserie chicken saves both time and money, making this a budget-friendly option.
Customizable: Feel like adding some heat? Go for extra spice! Want to tone it down? Use less buffalo sauce or a milder brand. You can easily tailor this recipe to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, even novice cooks can impress friends and family. Trust me, once you’ve made these a few times, you’ll feel like a kitchen pro!
Make Ahead: These egg rolls can be prepped in advance, making them a perfect choice for holiday parties or gatherings where you’ll want to relax and enjoy yourself rather than spend time in the kitchen.
Ingredients Section
For these scrumptious Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls, you will need the following ingredients:
Rotisserie Chicken: Opt for a high-quality rotisserie chicken for the best flavor. I often recommend grocery store brands like Costco’s or Kroger’s for their moist, flavorful options.
Cheddar Cheese: Use freshly shredded cheese for maximum meltiness. Feel free to substitute with a sharp or mild variety based on your cheese preference.
Mozzarella Cheese: This gives a stretchy, cheesy goodness. Again, go for freshly shredded over pre-shredded for the best texture.
Buffalo Sauce: You can use your favorite brand. I love Frank’s RedHot for its balanced spice level. Adjust the amount according to your heat tolerance!
Ranch Seasoning: This brings a delightful creaminess and complements the spice. You can make your own or buy a store-bought seasoning mix.
Egg Roll Wrappers: Look for them in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. If you can’t find egg roll wrappers, spring roll wrappers work too.
Oil: Use vegetable or canola oil for frying or a cooking spray if you plan to bake them.
Prep Notes
- Let all refrigerated ingredients sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Shred your chicken with a fork for better mixing, and consider using a food processor for a finer texture if you prefer.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch seasoning. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly integrated.
Prepare the Egg Roll Wrapper: Lay out an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, with one corner facing you. Place about two tablespoons of the chicken mixture in the center.
Roll ‘Em Up: Fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling, and then roll it up tightly from the bottom edge, sealing the top with a little water. Ensure no filling spills out!
Heat Your Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. If you’re frying, heat about a half-inch of oil in a pan over medium heat.
Cooking Time:
- Air Frying: Place the egg rolls in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Frying: Carefully place the rolls in the hot oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are crispy and golden.
- Baking: If you prefer baking, place the egg rolls on a lined baking sheet, spray with cooking spray, and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway for crispiness.
Serve & Enjoy: Once cooked, let them cool for a minute and serve warm with extra buffalo sauce or ranch for dipping. Enjoy every savory bite!
Chef’s Tips
- Visual Cues: Look for a golden brown color for frying or baking; it’s a sure sign they’re ready!
- Avoid Soggy Egg Rolls: Ensure the filling is well combined and not overly wet to avoid sogginess in your egg rolls.
Expert Tips & Tricks
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven for the best texture.
Make-Ahead Instructions: Prepare your egg rolls, but don’t cook them. Store them in the refrigerator, and they can be baked or fried straight from the fridge without thawing.
Common Mistakes: Avoid overfilling your wrappers, as this can cause them to burst during cooking. Stick to the recommended amount!
Troubleshooting: If your rolls aren’t browning, make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the egg rolls, or increase the air fryer temperature slightly.
Freezing: These egg rolls freeze beautifully! Lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to a month.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls warm alongside a fresh salad or some crunchy celery sticks to balance out the richness. A sprinkle of chopped green onions works wonders for a pop of color! They’re ideal for parties, movie nights, or a casual get-together with friends. When laid out on a colorful platter, they’ll certainly steal the show!
Variations & Substitutions
Different Flavor Combinations: Try BBQ chicken, taco-flavored ground beef, or veggie-loaded versions to mix it up!
Dietary Restrictions: Make them gluten-free by using rice papers or gluten-free egg roll wrappers. To make it vegetarian, fill with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and cheese.
Seasonal Variations: In the fall, you could even add some pumpkin puree or roasted butternut squash to the filling for a seasonal twist.
Nutrition & Storage Info
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 egg rolls
- Estimated calories per serving: 150 calories for one egg roll
- Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Frozen egg rolls can be kept for 1 month.
FAQ Section
Can I use shredded chicken instead of rotisserie?
Yes! You can easily use any cooked chicken that you have on hand, or even canned chicken if you’re in a pinch.Are these spicy?
The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce you choose. For less heat, opt for a mild brand and adjust the amount used.Can I bake them instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking them can be a healthier alternative, just ensure you keep an eye on them to achieve that crispy texture.What dipping sauces pair well with these?
Ranch and blue cheese dressing are classic options, but honey mustard, garlic aioli, or even guacamole can be delicious alternatives.How do I prevent them from falling apart?
Ensure that the wrappers are sealed tightly by using water to moisten the edges before cooking.What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
The air fryer is the best way to reheat leftover egg rolls for maintaining their crispiness. Bake or fry them at 375°F until warmed through.Can I freeze the egg rolls before cooking?
Yes! Freeze them individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook straight from frozen, adjusting the cooking time as needed.Can I use a different wrapper?
Yes! Spring roll wrappers or even puff pastry can be used for different textures and flavors.Is there a vegetarian version of these?
Definitely! Replace the chicken with a mix of sautéed vegetables, cheese, or even a bean blend.How long do these last?
In the fridge, they last up to 3 days, but for best quality, consume them within 48 hours. In the freezer, they’ll keep for about a month.
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are more than just a snack; they’re a delicious reminder of family, comfort, and joy! The blend of spicy filling and crispy exterior is sure to win over any crowd. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—each bite is a little piece of heaven!
I’d love to hear your thoughts and any modifications you make. Share your experience in the comments below! For more scrumptious recipes, don’t forget to check out my blog for delightful treats that will surely impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!
Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls
Ingredients
Filling Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken Opt for high-quality rotisserie chicken for best flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Use freshly shredded cheese for maximum meltiness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Freshly shredded is recommended for the best texture.
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce Adjust according to your heat tolerance.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning Brings creaminess and complements the spice.
Wrapper Ingredients
- 12 pieces egg roll wrappers Look for these in the refrigerated section.
- Oil for frying vegetable or canola oil Use for frying or a cooking spray if baking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Let all refrigerated ingredients sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch seasoning. Mix well.
Rolling the Egg Rolls
- Lay out an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner facing you.
- Place about two tablespoons of the chicken mixture in the center.
- Fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling and roll it up tightly, sealing the top with water.
Cooking
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F or heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- For air frying: Cook egg rolls for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway.
- For frying: Fry for about 3-4 minutes until crispy and golden.
- For baking: Place on a lined baking sheet, spray with cooking spray, and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway.
Serving
- Let egg rolls cool for a minute before serving warm with extra buffalo sauce or ranch.