There’s a delightful crunch that comes just before a wave of spicy, creamy goodness hits your taste buds. These Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are my latest kitchen obsession! Inspired by a craving for that tangy-ass kick of buffalo sauce, I stumbled upon a way to elevate leftover rotisserie chicken into a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a satisfying main dish.
Picture this: gathering with friends for a game night, and you unveil a platter of these golden-brown egg rolls, perfectly paired with cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing. They’re not just delicious; they’re a breeze to whip up in under 30 minutes, all thanks to the magic of the air fryer. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone tired of the same old takeout, this recipe offers a fun and flavorful twist that makes homemade meals exciting again. Trust me, it’s time to bid farewell to fast food—your taste buds deserve better!
Why are Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls irresistible?
Crunchy Texture: The crispy exterior offers a satisfying crunch that perfectly contrasts the creamy filling.
Bold Flavor: Each bite bursts with a spicy, savory combination of buffalo sauce, cheeses, and ranch seasoning—making it an exciting alternative to bland meals.
Quick Prep: You’ll whip this together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for impromptu gatherings!
Crowd-Pleaser: These egg rolls are sure to impress your friends and family at any game night or party.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy them as a hearty appetizer or a standout main course paired with your favorite dipping sauces—like ranch or blue cheese!
Elevate your homemade meal game with this easy and flavorful dish, leaving fast food behind for good!
Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls Ingredients
Satisfy your cravings with this easy recipe!
For the Filling
- Rotisserie chicken – finely diced for ultimate flavor and convenience.
- Cream cheese – softened to create a rich, creamy consistency that holds the filling together.
- Buffalo sauce – adds the ideal spicy kick; adjust to your taste preference!
- Sharp cheddar cheese – brings a tangy flavor that complements the spiciness of the buffalo sauce.
- Mozzarella cheese – provides a gooey, melty texture that elevates every bite.
- Ranch seasoning mix – enhances the overall flavor; feel free to use a homemade version for a personal touch.
For Assembly
- Egg roll wrappers – the crunchy exterior that encases all the delicious filling!
- Water – to help seal the egg rolls tightly, ensuring no filling escapes during cooking.
For Serving
- Ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing – serve on the side for a cooling dip that balances the heat.
- Extra buffalo sauce – an optional drizzle for those who like it extra spicy!
Dive into the delicious world of Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls, your new favorite homemade snack!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the finely diced rotisserie chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and ranch seasoning. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully combined and creamy.
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Fill Wrappers: Working with one egg roll wrapper at a time, scoop about ⅓ cup of the chicken mixture and place it in the center of the wrapper. Leave enough space around the edges to fold and seal.
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Seal the Egg Rolls: Lightly wet the edges of the wrapper with water to create a sticky surface. Fold up the bottom corner to cover the filling, then fold in the right and left sides towards the center. Roll the wrapper tightly to enclose the filling completely and press the edges to seal.
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Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F, allowing it to preheat while you prepare the egg rolls.
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Air Fry Egg Rolls: Place the egg rolls in the basket of your air fryer, ensuring they aren’t crowded. Spray the tops lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Air fry for 3-4 minutes, then carefully flip them over, spray again, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the egg rolls from the air fryer and serve them hot! Pair with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping and drizzle with additional buffalo sauce for extra flavor.
Optional: For an added touch, sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls Variations
Feel free to get creative with your egg rolls, tailoring them to suit your preferences and pantry staples!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the filling for an extra layer of heat. Both fresh and pickled options work beautifully here!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a delicious, plant-based version that won’t disappoint.
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Cheesy Twist: Experiment by incorporating queso fresco or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile. The creaminess will elevate every bite!
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Crunchy Add-In: Toss in some finely chopped celery or carrots to the chicken mixture for added texture and a refreshing crunch that complements the spiciness.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh chopped cilantro or parsley to brighten the flavors. A little herb infusion can transform your egg rolls into a fresh delight.
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Low-Carb Option: Use cheese wraps or lettuce leaves instead of egg roll wrappers to create a low-carb version that retains all the yummy flavors.
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Sweet Heat: Drizzle a bit of honey in with the buffalo sauce for a sweet-and-spicy kick that will surprise your taste buds!
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Cooking Method Variation: Instead of air frying, try baking them at 425°F for a healthier bake. Just remember that baking might take a bit longer, about 12-15 minutes.
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the filling (chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, cheddar, mozzarella, and ranch seasoning) up to 3 days in advance—just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can assemble the egg rolls and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking to prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply air fry straight from the fridge for a few extra minutes if needed. This way, your delicious homemade egg rolls will be just as crispy and flavorful, making them a delightful, quick meal option!
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls
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Perfectly Seal: Ensure the edges of the wrappers are well-sealed with water to prevent any filling from leaking during cooking.
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Don’t Overfill: Keep to about ⅓ cup of the chicken mixture per wrapper. Overfilling can make sealing difficult and lead to messy results.
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Adjust Spice Level: Customize the amount of buffalo sauce according to your heat preference—less sauce for mild flavor, more for a fiery kick.
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Crowd the Basket: Avoid overcrowding your air fryer basket. This ensures even cooking and lets each egg roll achieve that glorious crunch.
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Dipping Delights: Experiment with different dips! While ranch and blue cheese are classic, honey mustard or sriracha mayo can offer a unique twist to your Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls.
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Leftover Magic: If you have any filling left, turn it into a creamy dip for crackers or veggies—making a delightful snack or lunch option.
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls
Room Temperature: Enjoy the Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls fresh for the best flavor! If needed, they can sit out for about 2 hours before requiring refrigeration.
Fridge: Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezer: Freeze un-cooked egg rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 3 months.
Reheating: From frozen, cook directly in the air fryer at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until heated through and crispy. Enjoy your homemade Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls anytime!
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls?
Creating the perfect spread to accompany your Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls can elevate your meal from good to unforgettable.
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Crispy French Fries: The golden crunch pairs well with the spicy flavors of the egg rolls, satisfying all your cravings. Who doesn’t love the classic combo of crispy fries with a side of dipping sauce?
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Coleslaw: A refreshing, creamy slaw adds a cool counterpart to the heat of the egg rolls, cutting through the richness beautifully. Its crunch provides textural contrast, making every bite delightful.
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Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: These spicy bites echo the flavors of the egg rolls, tying the meal together. Roasted and tossed in buffalo sauce, they’re a perfect vegetarian addition that everyone will love.
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Garlic Butter Rice: The buttery, fragrant rice acts as a comforting base that complements the bold flavors of the egg rolls. Pairing them creates a warming, hearty experience that fills you up.
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Vegetable Platter: Crisp, colorful veggies with ranch or blue cheese dressing are a great way to enjoy something fresh alongside your egg rolls. This adds a refreshing crunch while balancing the meal’s richness.
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Blackberry Lemonade: A sweet and tangy drink that brightens your palate after those spicy bites. It’s refreshing and a great conversational starter while you enjoy your feast.
Enhance your dining experience by choosing a couple of these pairing options that bring together flavors, textures, and enjoyment around the table!
Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is ideal as it’s already cooked, flavorful, and saves time. Just make sure to finely dice it for easy wrapping and even flavor distribution throughout the egg rolls.
How should I store leftover Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls?
Very simply! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I often reheat them in the air fryer for about 3-5 minutes to regain that crispy texture before enjoying them again!
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls?
Certainly! After assembling, freeze the uncooked egg rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag and they can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, cook them directly from frozen in the air fryer at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy.
What if my egg rolls are leaking during cooking?
Ah, the classic egg roll dilemma! If you find your filling leaking out, make sure the edges were well-sealed with water before cooking, and avoid overfilling. If using leftovers, you could also try using them as a dip with chips instead—delicious and less fuss!
Are these Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! You can easily make these egg rolls gluten-free by using gluten-free egg roll wrappers. Always check the labels and make sure your buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning are also gluten-free to keep the entire dish safe for those sensitive to gluten.
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls: Crunchy Joy in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, add the finely diced rotisserie chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and ranch seasoning. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully combined and creamy.
- Working with one egg roll wrapper at a time, scoop about ⅓ cup of the chicken mixture and place it in the center of the wrapper. Leave enough space around the edges to fold and seal.
- Lightly wet the edges of the wrapper with water to create a sticky surface. Fold up the bottom corner to cover the filling, then fold in the right and left sides towards the center. Roll the wrapper tightly to enclose the filling completely and press the edges to seal.
- Set the air fryer to 400°F, allowing it to preheat while you prepare the egg rolls.
- Place the egg rolls in the basket of your air fryer, ensuring they aren’t crowded. Spray the tops lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Air fry for 3-4 minutes, then carefully flip them over, spray again, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the egg rolls from the air fryer and serve them hot! Pair with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping and drizzle with additional buffalo sauce for extra flavor.