Irresistible 5-Ingredient Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls (Super Crispy!)

Intro: Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls – Crispy & Flavorful

Air fryer buffalo chicken egg rolls are the perfect combination of spicy, cheesy, and crispy flavors. Whether you’re looking for a delicious snack, a party appetizer, or an easy game-day treat, this recipe has it all. The best part? You can make them quickly in the air fryer with minimal effort and maximum taste. Let’s dive into this crispy and flavorful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just minutes using the air fryer.
• Healthier Alternative: Less oil compared to deep frying.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for parties, game days, or a family snack.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, cheese type, and fillings to your liking.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses simple, readily available ingredients.

Ingredients

To make these delicious buffalo chicken egg rolls, you will need:

Essential Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or baked)
• ½ cup buffalo sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• ¼ cup green onions, chopped (for a fresh flavor)
• 8 egg roll wrappers (found in most grocery stores)
• Cooking spray (for crisping up the rolls)

Optional Ingredients:

• Cream cheese (2 tbsp) – for extra creaminess
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing – for dipping
• Jalapeños (chopped, optional) – for added spice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make crispy and delicious air fryer buffalo chicken egg rolls.

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls

1. Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface in a diamond shape.
2. Add 2-3 tablespoons of the buffalo chicken mixture to the center.
3. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides.
4. Roll tightly, sealing the edges with a little water.

Step 3: Air Fry the Egg Rolls

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
3. Arrange the egg rolls in a single layer without overcrowding.
4. Lightly spray the egg rolls with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
5. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

1. Let the egg rolls cool slightly before serving.
2. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
3. Garnish with extra green onions if desired.

Tips for Perfect Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls

• Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause the rolls to burst while cooking.
• Seal Properly: Use water to seal the edges of the egg roll wrappers to prevent leaking.
• Flip for Even Crispiness: Halfway through air frying, flip the rolls for an even golden color.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the buffalo sauce quantity to control the spice level.
• Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken.

Variations & Additions

Different Cheese Options

• Cheddar for a sharp flavor
• Mozzarella for a melty texture
• Pepper jack for extra spice

Protein Alternatives

• Shredded turkey
• Ground beef with taco seasoning
• Shredded pork with barbecue sauce

Wrapping Alternatives

• Use wonton wrappers for mini buffalo chicken bites
• Try gluten-free wraps for a GF version

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing:

• Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

• Freeze uncooked egg rolls on a baking sheet for 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• Store for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
• Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for 30-45 seconds (not as crispy).

Serving Suggestions

Pair these crispy buffalo chicken egg rolls with:

• Dips: Ranch, blue cheese, or garlic aioli
• Side Dishes: Celery sticks, carrot sticks, or coleslaw
• Drinks: Iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer

Nutritional Benefits of Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls

Making air fryer buffalo chicken egg rolls at home allows you to control the ingredients and make them healthier. These egg rolls are not just delicious but also offer nutritional benefits.

High-Protein Content

• Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, helping to keep you full longer.

• A single serving provides essential amino acids for muscle recovery and energy.

Reduced Fat Compared to Deep Frying

• Air frying uses minimal oil, making these egg rolls lower in fat.

• They have 40-50% fewer calories compared to traditional deep-fried egg rolls.

Vitamins and Minerals

• Green onions add vitamins A, C, and K, which support immune health.

• Buffalo sauce contains antioxidants from red peppers, which may help reduce inflammation.

The Science Behind the Perfect Air Fryer Egg Roll

Ever wonder what makes air fryer egg rolls so crispy and delicious? The secret lies in a few key scientific principles.

Hot Air Circulation

• The air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation mimics deep-frying, ensuring even crispiness.

• It eliminates moisture quickly, preventing soggy egg rolls.

Oil and Crisping Effect

• Lightly spraying the egg rolls with oil helps the wrappers crisp up.

• This technique creates a golden-brown texture without excessive grease.

Temperature Control

• Cooking at 375°F (190°C) is the sweet spot for crispy yet tender egg rolls.

• Flipping halfway through ensures even browning on all sides.

Pairing Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls with Dipping Sauces

Dipping sauces take these egg rolls to the next level. Try these options to complement the bold flavors.

Classic Options

• Ranch Dressing: Creamy and cooling, balancing the spicy buffalo sauce.

• Blue Cheese Dressing: A tangy and rich complement to the heat.

Unique Flavor Twists

• Garlic Parmesan Sauce: A savory, cheesy dip that enhances crispiness.

• Honey Sriracha: A mix of sweetness and heat for extra depth of flavor.

Homemade Dips

• Greek Yogurt Ranch: Mix Greek yogurt, garlic powder, dill, and lemon juice.

• Avocado Lime Sauce: Blend avocado, lime juice, cilantro, and sour cream for a creamy dip.

How to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls for Meal Prep

These egg rolls are perfect for meal prepping, saving you time while keeping meals delicious.

Steps for Meal Prepping

1. Prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

2. Assemble the egg rolls and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

3. Freeze uncooked egg rolls for up to 3 months and cook straight from frozen.

Reheating for Meal Prep

• Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes for maximum crispiness.

• Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes.

• Microwave: Heat for 45 seconds, though they won’t be as crispy.

How to Make These Egg Rolls Kid-Friendly

Spicy buffalo chicken may not always be kid-friendly, but you can adjust the recipe to make it suitable for children.

Ways to Reduce Spice

• Use mild buffalo sauce or mix it with honey for a touch of sweetness.

• Add cream cheese to the filling for a milder taste.

• Serve with ranch dip to balance the flavors.

Fun Serving Ideas for Kids

• Cut egg rolls into bite-sized pieces for easy snacking.

• Serve them with veggie sticks and dip for a balanced meal.

• Let kids customize their own fillings by setting up a DIY egg roll station.

Best Occasions to Serve Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls

These egg rolls are a hit for any event or occasion. Here’s when to serve them.

Game Day Snacks

• Perfect for Super Bowl parties or watching your favorite team.

• Pair with chicken wings and nachos for the ultimate game-day feast.

Holiday Gatherings

• Great as Thanksgiving or Christmas appetizers.

• Can be made in advance and cooked fresh when guests arrive.

Weeknight Dinners

• A quick and easy dinner option when you need something fast.

• Serve with a side salad or coleslaw for a complete meal.

Air Fryer vs. Traditional Deep Frying: Which is Better?

Many people wonder whether air frying is truly better than deep frying. Here’s a comparison.

Health Benefits

• Air Frying: Uses 75% less oil, making it the healthier option.

• Deep Frying: Higher in calories and saturated fats, increasing health risks.

Cooking Convenience

• Air Frying: No need for large amounts of oil or dealing with messy cleanup.

• Deep Frying: Requires more oil and time to heat up.

Taste and Texture

• Air Frying: Crispy but slightly lighter texture.

• Deep Frying: Extra crunchy but greasier.

Overall, air frying is the best choice for a balance of taste, convenience, and health benefits.

How to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls Extra Crispy

Want an even crispier texture? Follow these expert tips.

Choose the Right Wrapper

• Thinner wrappers create a crispier texture.

• Avoid overly thick wrappers, which may stay chewy.

Avoid Overcrowding the Air Fryer

• Leave space between egg rolls to allow proper airflow.

• Cook in batches for even crispiness.

Extra Crunch Hack

• Double-coat the egg rolls by lightly brushing with oil before and after flipping.

• Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs to the wrapper before rolling for added crunch.

The Best Buffalo Sauce Brands to Use

Not all buffalo sauces are created equal. Here are the top choices.

Mild Options

• Frank’s RedHot Mild Buffalo: Great for those who prefer less heat.

• Sweet Baby Ray’s Buffalo Sauce: A sweeter, less spicy alternative.

Medium Heat

• Frank’s RedHot Original: The classic buffalo sauce choice.

• Texas Pete Buffalo Wing Sauce: A balanced mix of spice and tang.

Extra Spicy

• Primal Kitchen Buffalo Sauce: Made with cayenne and no preservatives.

• Torchbearer Buffalo Sauce: Extremely spicy with a smoky kick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.

Can I use raw chicken?

No, the chicken should be pre-cooked before adding to the filling.

What’s the best way to prevent soggy egg rolls?

Avoid overfilling, and always preheat your air fryer or oven for crispiness.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the egg rolls and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Conclusion

Air fryer buffalo chicken egg rolls are a crispy, cheesy, and spicy delight that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and an air fryer, you can enjoy restaurant-quality egg rolls at home. Give this recipe a try and impress your guests with this irresistible snack!

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