Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Egg Rolls

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I’ve always had a weakness for crispy, golden egg rolls — especially the kind that’s bursting with a savory chicken filling and plenty of fresh veggies. But instead of the traditional deep-fried method, I’ve found a way to get that same satisfying crunch using my air fryer. It’s less oily, incredibly easy, and still delivers that irresistible texture I crave.

These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Egg Rolls are now one of my favorite go-to recipes for a quick appetizer, snack, or even a light dinner. They’re packed with shredded chicken, colorful vegetables, and a blend of flavorful seasonings, all wrapped up in a delicate shell that turns perfectly crisp in the air fryer. Whether you’re hosting friends or just feeding yourself, these egg rolls are always a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Egg Rolls

• They’re way healthier than the deep-fried version with zero sacrifice in flavor or crunch.
• The air fryer makes cleanup a breeze — no oil splatters or messy pans.
• They’re packed with protein and veggies, making them a well-balanced option.
• Perfect for meal prepping or freezing for later.
• Family-friendly and endlessly customizable.

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What Kind of Egg Roll Wrappers Should I Use?

I’ve found that refrigerated egg roll wrappers work best — they’re easy to handle and fry up with a beautifully crispy finish. You’ll usually find them in the produce section near the tofu. Avoid spring roll wrappers for this recipe as they’re thinner and don’t give the same satisfying crunch.

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Options for Substitutions

If you don’t have shredded chicken on hand, feel free to use ground chicken or turkey for a similar taste. Vegetarians can easily swap the meat for tofu or a hearty mix of mushrooms and cabbage. Don’t like cabbage? Try shredded zucchini or finely chopped broccoli. The seasoning is flexible too — you can go spicier with sriracha or mellow it out with hoisin sauce. Just be sure to keep the filling fairly dry to prevent soggy rolls.

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Ingredients for This Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe

• Cooked and shredded chicken breast – This is the star protein of the filling. It soaks up all the seasoning and brings a tender bite.
• Green cabbage, finely shredded – Adds crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the chicken.
• Carrots, julienned or grated – These add sweetness, color, and texture.
• Green onions – Their mild sharpness enhances the savory profile of the filling.
• Garlic and ginger, finely minced – These aromatic powerhouses deepen the flavor and bring that essential Asian-inspired zing.
• Soy sauce – For umami depth and a salty kick.
• Sesame oil – Just a little goes a long way to give the rolls a nutty, toasted aroma.
• Salt and pepper – To bring all the flavors together.
• Egg roll wrappers – These encase the filling and turn golden and crisp in the air fryer.
• Olive oil spray or cooking spray – Helps create that deep-fried effect without the oil.

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Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cabbage, carrots, green onions, garlic, and ginger. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well so the seasoning coats all ingredients evenly.

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Step 2: Lay Out the Wrappers

Place one egg roll wrapper on a clean, dry surface in a diamond shape (with one corner pointing toward you). Keep a small bowl of water nearby — you’ll need it to seal the edges.

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Step 3: Fill and Roll

Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the filling mixture into the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides. Roll up tightly, sealing the top edge with a dab of water.

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Step 4: Preheat and Prep the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.

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Step 5: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection

Place the egg rolls in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t touch. Spray the tops with a light mist of oil. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy.

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Step 6: Let Them Rest and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the egg rolls to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the wrappers to stay crisp.

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How Long to Prepare the Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Egg Rolls

Prep Time: Preparing the filling takes about 15 minutes, especially if your chicken is already cooked and shredded. Chopping veggies and seasoning the mix is quick and straightforward. Rolling the egg rolls will take another 10–15 minutes, depending on your pace and how many you’re making.

Cook Time: Air frying the rolls takes about 10–12 minutes per batch. If your air fryer is on the smaller side, you may need to cook in two or more rounds. Still, the process is faster and cleaner than deep frying.

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Tips for Perfect Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Egg Rolls

• Don’t overfill the wrappers — it makes rolling difficult and increases the chance of bursting.
• Seal the wrappers well using water to prevent them from opening while cooking.
• Always preheat your air fryer for best results — this ensures even crispiness.
• Lightly spray the egg rolls with oil for that perfect golden finish.
• Let the rolls rest for a few minutes after cooking to maintain their crispiness.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping preheat – An unheated air fryer might leave the wrappers soggy.
• Crowding the basket – This prevents air circulation, leading to uneven cooking.
• Too much moisture in filling – Excess liquid can make the rolls soggy and cause splitting.
• Not flipping halfway – You might end up with one side crispier than the other.
• Using spring roll wrappers – These don’t crisp up the same way as egg roll wrappers.

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What to Serve With Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Egg Rolls?

1. Sweet Chili Sauce

A classic pairing — the sweet and spicy dip complements the savory rolls perfectly.

2. Fried Rice

Turn these egg rolls into a full meal by serving them with a bowl of hearty chicken or vegetable fried rice.

3. Asian Slaw

A crisp, refreshing cabbage slaw balances the richness of the egg rolls.

4. Dumplings

Add a mix of steamed dumplings to create a full appetizer platter.

5. Hot and Sour Soup

This flavorful soup is a cozy, warming addition that works wonderfully alongside the crispy rolls.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 4–5 minutes to regain crispiness.

Freezer: You can freeze both cooked and uncooked egg rolls. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. For frozen uncooked rolls, air fry directly from frozen for 13–15 minutes.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per egg roll (approximate):

• Calories: 170
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 420mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent my egg rolls from bursting in the air fryer?

Make sure the filling is not too wet and that you roll them tightly. Don’t overfill, and seal the edges well.

Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can roll them up and store them in the fridge for up to a day or freeze them uncooked for longer storage.

What other fillings can I use?

Ground turkey, shrimp, tofu, or a mix of mushrooms and cabbage all work well as substitutes.

Do I need to thaw frozen egg rolls before air frying?

No need — just add 2–3 minutes to the cooking time when air frying directly from frozen.

Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?

Absolutely. Bake at 400°F on a lined baking sheet for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through.

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Conclusion

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Egg Rolls are a perfect blend of flavor, crunch, and convenience. They satisfy the craving for takeout egg rolls with a healthier twist and a fraction of the mess. Whether you’re whipping them up for a game night, family dinner, or just because, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your rotation.

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