There’s something irresistibly comforting about the golden crunch of Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls, or Lumpia, as they’re known in Indonesia. The moment you bite into one, you’re greeted with the warm, savory filling mingled with the fragrant aroma of garlic wafting through the air. These delightful morsels are not just a feast for the palate; they are perfect for any gathering, especially during festive occasions like Lunar New Year.
On a weekend afternoon, I often find myself whipping up a batch of these crispy delights. The best part? The entire process takes just 50 minutes, and you can easily prepare them in bulk to keep in the freezer for those unexpected cravings. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into making these crowd-pleasing Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls that promise to elevate your snacking game!
Why Are Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls Irresistible?
Crispy exterior: There’s nothing like the satisfying crunch when you bite into these perfectly fried spring rolls, which are golden brown and undeniably tempting.
Savory filling: The combination of tender chicken, fragrant garlic, and sweet carrots creates a flavor explosion that’s simply addictive.
Quick prep time: Ready in just 50 minutes, they’re the ultimate solution for those pressed for time yet craving homemade goodness.
Versatile ingredient options: Not in the mood for chicken? Simply swap it for shrimp or tofu! It’s a flexible recipe that’s sure to satisfy everyone.
Freezable for convenience: Perfect for batch cooking, you can prep these spring rolls ahead of time, making them an easy snack to pull out whenever the cravings hit.
Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls Ingredients
For the Spring Rolls
- Spring Roll Wrappers – Essential for wrapping and providing structure; keep covered to prevent drying out.
- Chicken Breast – Main protein for the filling, adds heartiness; ensure finely chopped or shredded for even cooking.
- Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor to the filling; fresh garlic is recommended for the best taste.
- Carrots – Provides sweetness and crunch; grate finely for even distribution within the filling.
- Kecap Manis – Delivers sweetness and deep flavor; substitute with dark soy sauce and brown sugar if unavailable.
- Vegetable Oil – Necessary for deep frying, achieving that crispy texture; use a high smoke point oil like canola or peanut.
How to Make Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls
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Prepare the Filling: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook finely chopped chicken breast along with minced garlic and grated carrots until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in kecap manis for added flavor.
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Assemble the Rolls: Lay out spring roll wrappers on a clean surface. Place about a tablespoon of the chicken filling near one edge, folding in the sides as you roll tightly to seal.
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Heat the Oil: In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F. You can test the oil’s readiness by dropping in a small piece of bread; if it sizzles and turns golden in 25-30 seconds, you’re good to go.
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Fry the Spring Rolls: Working in batches, gently place the spring rolls in the hot oil. Fry for 6-8 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan.
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Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, transfer the spring rolls to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil, keeping them crispy.
Optional: Serve with sweet chili sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls (Lumpia) are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the filling and assemble the spring rolls up to 24 hours in advance, then simply cover and refrigerate them before cooking. To maintain their quality, ensure that the wrappers are kept covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out. If you’d like to go a step further, you can freeze uncooked spring rolls in a single layer, then store them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, fry them straight from frozen, adding an extra couple of minutes to the cooking time for a deliciously crispy result. This makes for a quick snack or appetizer on busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor!
What to Serve with Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls?
Creating the perfect meal around your crispy Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls can turn an appetizer into a memorable feast.
- Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce: A beloved companion, this sauce adds a delightful sweetness that balances the savory filling beautifully.
- Coconut Rice: The creamy texture of coconut rice complements the crunch of the spring rolls, enhancing their savory notes with a tropical twist.
- Crispy Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fried spring rolls, making for a balanced plate.
- Garlic Noodles: For an extra burst of flavor, serve these spring rolls alongside flavorful garlic noodles that tie in the garlic theme for a delicious harmony.
- Pickled Vegetables: The tanginess of pickled veggies adds brightness and cuts through the fried richness, ensuring each bite feels refreshing.
- Mint Tea: This herbal drink is warm and soothing, serving as a perfect palate cleanser between crunchy bites of spring rolls.
- Mango Sorbet: For dessert, a light mango sorbet offers a refreshing, fruity end to your meal, contrasting perfectly with the savory spring rolls.
- Cold Sake: If you’re feeling adventurous, a glass of chilled sake elevates the meal, adding an authentic Asian flair while complementing the flavors.
- Sesame Noodles: Nutty and slightly sweet, sesame noodles pair wonderfully, providing a unique taste that complements the crispy texture of the spring rolls.
Expert Tips for Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls
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Keep Wrappers Covered: To prevent spring roll wrappers from drying out, always cover them with a damp tea towel while you assemble the rolls.
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Proper Oil Temperature: Avoid greasy spring rolls by ensuring the vegetable oil reaches 350°F before frying. Test with a bread cube for accuracy.
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Don’t Overfill: A tablespoon of filling is enough; overfilling can lead to torn wrappers and leaks during frying.
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Batch Frying: Fry spring rolls in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and achieve that perfect golden crispiness.
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Storage Strategy: For convenience, freeze uncooked Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls on a baking sheet before transferring to bags; they can last up to 3 months.
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Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like cayenne or fresh herbs to customize your Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls to your taste!
Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls Variations
Customize your Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls for a delightful twist on this classic recipe.
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Shrimp Delight: Swap chicken for cooked shrimp for a seafood twist that adds a sweet, delicate flavor.
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Tofu Substitution: For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with firm tofu, marinated in soy sauce for added depth.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the filling for a subtle heat that lovers of spice will adore.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the filling for a refreshing burst of flavor that brightens each bite.
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Vegetable Medley: Enhance the crunch by mixing in finely chopped bell peppers or cabbage for more texture and nutrition.
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Savory Mushroom: Include finely chopped mushrooms for an earthy taste that pairs wonderfully with the garlic and chicken, introducing a new flavor dimension.
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Sweet Twist: Drizzle a bit of hoisin sauce into the filling for a touch of sweetness that complements the savory ingredients perfectly.
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Keto Friendly: Use low-carb egg wraps instead of traditional spring roll wrappers to accommodate a keto lifestyle while enjoying the same beloved filling!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls
- Room Temperature: Keep cooked spring rolls at room temperature for up to 2 hours. If serving at a gathering, it’s best to keep them warm in a low oven.
- Fridge: Store leftover Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Freezer: Uncooked spring rolls can be frozen in a single layer on a baking sheet; once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat cooked spring rolls, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of spring roll wrappers should I use?
I recommend using traditional spring roll wrappers made from wheat flour for the best results. Look for wrappers that are thin and pliable so they can create that delightful crunch when fried. Always keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out while you prepare your filling.
How should I store leftover Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls?
Store any leftover spring rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to help restore their crispy texture. Remember, you want to reclaim that crunchy exterior!
Can I freeze uncooked Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls?
Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked spring rolls to enjoy later. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to fry them, there’s no need to thaw; just fry them directly from the freezer for about 6-8 minutes.
What should I do if my spring rolls leak while frying?
If your spring rolls are leaking during frying, it usually means they were overfilled or not sealed properly. Make sure to use only about one tablespoon of filling and ensure the edges are tightly sealed when you roll them. If they do leak a little, try to monitor the temperature of the oil to avoid them getting too greasy and soggy.
Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls?
Yes, if you’re preparing these for someone with allergies, take care to check the ingredients in your spring roll wrappers, as some may contain allergens like soy or gluten. For a gluten-free option, look for rice paper wrappers instead. Also, if you’re including ingredients like kecap manis, be sure to consider any dietary restrictions regarding sugar or soy products.
How long can I keep cooked spring rolls at room temperature?
Cooked spring rolls can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours. If you’re serving them at a gathering, I recommend keeping them warm in a low oven to ensure they don’t cool down and lose that desirable crispiness.
Irresistible Chicken and Garlic Spring Rolls (Lumpia) Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Filling: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook finely chopped chicken breast along with minced garlic and grated carrots until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in kecap manis for added flavor.
- Assemble the Rolls: Lay out spring roll wrappers on a clean surface. Place about a tablespoon of the chicken filling near one edge, folding in the sides as you roll tightly to seal.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F. You can test the oil's readiness by dropping in a small piece of bread; if it sizzles and turns golden in 25-30 seconds, you're good to go.
- Fry the Spring Rolls: Working in batches, gently place the spring rolls in the hot oil. Fry for 6-8 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, transfer the spring rolls to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil, keeping them crispy.