Name: Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons avocado oil; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium shallot, minced; 2 green onions, sliced thin; 6 ounces shiitake mushrooms, stems removed and finely chopped (about 2 cups); 1 cup finely shredded cabbage; 1/2 cup grated carrot; 1/2 cup chopped cilantro; 1 pound ground chicken; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 teaspoon fine sea salt; 2 ounces thin rice noodles (vermicelli noodles); 1 large egg (for egg wash); 1 (12 oz) package square spring roll wrappers (flour-based lumpia wrappers); Basil or Thai basil leaves (optional); 4 cups peanut oil (for frying); 6 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 teaspoon Chinese mustard; 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean fermented chili paste); 1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar

If you're craving a crunchy, flavorful snack, you're going to love this Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe. These homemade spring rolls have a perfect blend of ground chicken and shiitake mushrooms wrapped in thin flour-based wrappers, fried till golden and irresistible.

Seven golden brown spring rolls with a crispy texture are neatly arranged on a white plate. To the side, there is a small clear bowl filled with smooth, amber-colored dipping sauce. The plate sits on a white marble surface, highlighting the warm tones of the spring rolls and the rich color of the sauce. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’m honestly a little obsessed with these spring rolls—they’re crunchy, juicy, and packed with fresh flavors that keep you reaching for more. Plus, they come with a dipping sauce that’s sweet, tangy, and just spicy enough to make your taste buds dance.

Perfectly Crispy Texture: Thanks to thin flour-based lumpia wrappers, these rolls crisp up beautifully without being greasy.
Flavor-Packed Filling: Ground chicken combined with umami-rich shiitake mushrooms and fresh veggies makes for a filling that’s anything but boring.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you fry them for ultimate crispiness or air-fry for a lighter approach, they turn out delicious either way.
Easy to Make Ahead: You can prep the filling in advance and freeze the cooked rolls, perfect for parties or a quick snack fix.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Before you start rolling, a quick note on ingredients: using the right type of wrapper and fresh veggies will make all the difference. Head to your local Asian market or grocery for lumpia wrappers and thin rice vermicelli noodles—they’re key to achieving that signature texture and flavor in these spring rolls.

Flat lay of fresh shiitake mushrooms with dark caps and white stems, a medium shallot with smooth purple skin, five unpeeled garlic cloves, two stalks of green onions with bright green tops, a small mound of finely shredded pale green cabbage, half a cup of grated bright orange carrot, a handful of fresh green cilantro sprigs, thin white rice vermicelli noodles loosely coiled, one large brown egg with clean shell in a small white ceramic bowl, two fresh basil leaves with deep green color, two small white ceramic bowls containing golden honey and deep red gochujang chili paste, and a small white ceramic bowl with light brown oyster sauce, all arranged symmetrically on a simple white ceramic plate and bowls, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Avocado oil: A high-smoke point oil perfect for sautéing the filling ingredients without burning.
Toasted sesame oil: Adds an irresistible nutty aroma that layers beautifully with the ground chicken.
Garlic: Freshly minced for a pungent savory base flavor.
Shallot: Offers a mild onion sweetness that complements the garlic.
Green onions: Thinly sliced for a fresh, oniony crunch in every bite.
Shiitake mushrooms: Provide meaty texture and deep umami that elevates the filling.
Cabbage: Finely shredded to add crispness and freshness inside the rolls.
Carrot: Grated for natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Cilantro: Chopped to brighten and add a fresh herbal note.
Ground chicken: Lean and tender, it binds the filling perfectly without overpowering flavors.
Oyster sauce: Injects savory depth and subtle sweetness to the filling and dipping sauce.
Fine sea salt: Essential for seasoning to bring all the flavors together.
Thin rice noodles (vermicelli): Soaked and cut to integrate seamlessly into the filling for texture.
Egg: Whisked into an egg wash to seal the wrappers securely before frying.
Square flour-based spring roll wrappers: Also called lumpia wrappers, these fry up crisp and light—key for that perfect crunch.
Basil or Thai basil leaves (optional): Add a subtle aromatic herbal pop inside your rolls if you like!
Peanut oil: For frying—it has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, ideal for getting that golden crisp.
Honey: Used in the dipping sauce to balance tangy and spicy notes with natural sweetness.
Chinese mustard: Provides a slight kick in the dipping sauce, perfect for contrast.
Gochujang: Korean chili paste adds a fermented spicy depth to the dipping sauce.
Rice wine vinegar: Brings brightness and acidity to cut through the richness.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

This Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to get creative and tailor it to your taste buds or dietary needs. Whether you want to swap ingredients, adjust fillings, or experiment with cooking methods, there’s plenty of room to make these spring rolls truly your own!

Vegetarian Variation: Swap the ground chicken for crumbled firm tofu or seasoned tempeh for a tasty plant-based option. I once made these with shiitake and minced firm tofu and was amazed at how satisfying the filling was—just as flavorful and crispy!
Seasonal Twist: Add finely diced water chestnuts or bamboo shoots for extra crunch, or toss in some julienned bell peppers or snap peas when they’re in season. I love adding a pinch of fresh mint alongside the cilantro for an unexpectedly fresh note.
Lighter Air Fryer Version: If you prefer less oil, the air fryer method is fantastic. They won’t be quite as golden and crunchy as deep-fried, but still delicious and much faster to clean up! I usually spritz with a little cooking spray to get a nice crust in my air fryer.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a bit more Gochujang or add finely chopped fresh chili peppers to the filling for a fiery bite. For a milder heat, a dash of smoked paprika or chili powder works great too.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe

A white plate on a white marbled surface holds several golden brown, crispy spring rolls arranged around a clear glass bowl filled with a dark reddish-brown dipping sauce. A woman's hand is dipping one spring roll, broken open near the end to show the inside layers of white rice noodles mixed with small bits of orange carrot, green herbs, and light brown pieces of filling. The spring rolls have a shiny, smooth texture with slight bubble patterns on the wrapper. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Get Your Veggies and Aromatics Ready

Start by mincing the garlic and shallot, slicing the green onions, finely chopping shiitake mushrooms, shredding cabbage, grating carrot, and chopping cilantro. Having everything prepped before cooking ensures the process flows smoothly. Tip: Keep all the veggies finely chopped so the filling holds together well inside the wrapper.

Step 2: Sauté Mushrooms and Aromatics Until Fragrant and Tender

Heat avocado and toasted sesame oils over medium-high heat in your skillet. Toss in the garlic, shallot, green onion, and shiitake mushrooms. Stir often and let the mushrooms brown and reduce, about 8 minutes. You’ll smell a rich, savory aroma as the mixture cooks down—this is the flavor base that makes these spring rolls so crave-worthy.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Chicken and Season

Add ground chicken next, breaking it apart into small crumbles with your spatula. Cook until it’s no longer pink, then stir in the oyster sauce and salt. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors before removing the pan from heat. Cool this mixture to room temperature so it doesn’t make the wrappers soggy when assembling.

Step 4: Soften and Prep the Rice Noodles

Place the thin rice noodles in a bowl and cover with boiling water. Let them stand for 3 minutes until softened, then drain. Cutting the noodles roughly in half with scissors or a knife is a simple trick to help distribute them evenly throughout the filling without clumps.

Step 5: Mix the Filling Thoroughly

In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrot, chopped cilantro, cut noodles, and your cooled chicken-mushroom mix. Take your time mixing—pull apart any noodle clusters so every bite has the perfect balance of veggies, meat, and noodle goodness.

Step 6: Whisk the Egg Wash

Crack a large egg into a small bowl and whisk it until smooth and blended. This egg wash will act like glue for sealing your spring rolls tightly and securely, so don’t skip this step!

Step 7: Keep Wrappers Moist and Ready

Open your package of square spring roll wrappers and cover them with damp paper towels to prevent drying out while you work. These flour-based lumpia wrappers are delicate and will tear if dry, so keeping them covered is key to smooth rolling.

Step 8: Assemble The Rolls Like a Pro

Lay one wrapper down with a corner pointing at you. If you like, add 1 or 2 basil leaves across the bottom third for an herbal lift. Spoon a generous mound of filling over the basil or directly on the wrapper. Brush all four edges lightly with egg wash. Fold the bottom corner over the filling snugly, then fold the left and right sides inward like an envelope. Roll tightly up to the top corner and seal it with more egg wash. If you notice any tears in the wrapper, just fold that part inward so it’s covered and sealed—no one will notice!

Step 9: Set Aside and Cover Your Rolls

Place each finished spring roll on a tray or plate, covering them with damp paper towels to keep them fresh and pliable while you roll the rest. This small step prevents the rolls from drying out and cracking during frying or air frying.

Step 10: Fry to Golden Crispy Perfection

Heat 4 cups of peanut oil in a deep pot to 350°F (177°C)—use a thermometer to check the temperature for safety and optimal crispiness. Fry 2 to 4 spring rolls at a time for 4 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally until they become golden brown. Transfer them to a wire rack to drain excess oil and keep crisp. This method yields those irresistibly crunchy wrappers everyone loves!

Step 11: Or Air Fry for a Lighter Touch

If you want to skip deep frying, preheat your air fryer to 390°F (198°C). Lightly spray the spring rolls with cooking spray and air fry for 10–15 minutes until crispy, turning halfway through. This version is a bit less crunchy but still full of flavor and a great option for a healthier snack.

Step 12: Whip Up the Sweet and Spicy Dipping Sauce

Mix together 6 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon Chinese mustard, 1 teaspoon Gochujang, and 1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar in a small bowl. This sauce is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and a little bit of heat that brings out the best in every crispy bite.

Top Tip

Mastering the Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe isn’t just about following the recipe—it’s about little details that truly elevate these golden delights. These tips come straight from my kitchen experiments and successes to help you get that perfect crunch with every bite.

Wrapper Care: Keep your spring roll wrappers covered with damp paper towels to prevent them from drying out and tearing. I learned that even a slight dryness makes them brittle and harder to roll tightly.
Even Filling Distribution: Separating and spreading the rice noodles well through the filling makes the texture balanced. I used to clump them all in one spot, but spreading them out made a huge difference in every crunchy bite.
Temperature Control: Maintaining the oil at 350°F (177°C) while frying ensures a golden brown exterior without greasy sogginess. Using a deep fryer or a Fry Daddy helped me keep that perfect temperature consistently.
Sealing the Rolls: Brushing all four edges with egg wash before folding keeps the rolls sealed tight and prevents filling from escaping during frying. This one little step saved me from messy pan splatters more than once!

How to Serve Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe

A square sheet of dough lies on a wooden board with a white marbled surface underneath. Near the bottom center of the dough, there is a small pile of filling made of chopped light brown cooked meat mixed with thin strips of orange carrot, light green leafy vegetables, and pale bean sprouts. Two woman's hands are folding the dough around the filling, pinching the edges to close it. The scene is bright and focused on the folding process. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like Thai basil or cilantro add a bright, herbal contrast to the warm, fried spring rolls. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or finely chopped green onions on top can also add an inviting look and an extra pop of flavor.

Side Dishes

These spring rolls shine as an appetizer or snack, but pair beautifully with light Asian-inspired salads such as a cucumber and carrot slaw, or a tangy papaya salad. Steamed jasmine rice or a bowl of hot miso soup also round out the meal perfectly if you want a heartier spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover filling, it can be stored airtight in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cooked spring rolls should be kept on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate, loosely covered, and eaten within a day for the best crunch.

Freezing

To freeze cooked spring rolls, make sure they’ve cooled completely. Then, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet—avoid touching—to freeze until firm, about 1 to 2 hours. Transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container, where they’ll keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

For the best texture on reheating, bake frozen rolls in a 375°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or air fry at 375°F for 6-12 minutes until heated through and crisp once again. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the wrappers soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground chicken with finely diced tofu or a plant-based ground alternative, and swap oyster sauce with a vegetarian mushroom sauce to keep the umami flavor.

Can I bake the spring rolls instead of frying?

While frying gives the crispiest result, you can bake spring rolls at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. Use a light spray of oil to help them crisp up, but keep in mind they won’t be as crunchy as fried or air-fried rolls.

What’s the best way to avoid spring roll wrappers tearing?

Keep the wrappers covered with damp paper towels until you use them. Also, handle each wrapper gently and peel carefully from the stack, ideally peeling from a corner to avoid sticking and tearing.

How long do spring rolls stay crispy after frying?

Spring rolls are at their crispiest immediately after frying. If they cool completely at room temperature on a wire rack, they can stay fairly crisp for a couple of hours, but it’s best to enjoy them fresh for the ultimate crunch.

Final Thoughts

Making this Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe is such a rewarding kitchen adventure. From the sizzling sound of frying to that first crisp bite, it’s a joy to share these with family and friends. Whether you choose to fry or air fry, keep practicing the little tips, and these golden delights will always impress. Happy cooking and enjoy every crunchy, flavorful spring roll!