Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe
If you are craving a fresh, vibrant, and utterly delicious appetizer that bursts with flavor and texture, this Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe is an absolute must-try. These rolls combine tender shredded chicken, crisp vegetables, fragrant basil, and silky rice noodles all wrapped delicately in translucent spring roll skins. Paired with a tangy, slightly sweet dipping sauce, each bite is a perfect balance of crunch, creaminess, and zest. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a light meal that feels special, these spring rolls will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to making this Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe truly shine. Each one plays an essential role in building the layers of flavor and contrast that make every roll a delight.
- Spring roll skins: These thin wrappers are perfect for soft but sturdy rolls that hold fillings beautifully.
- Rice noodles (vermicelli-style): Cooked and lightly seasoned, they add a light, chewy texture that complements the crisp vegetables.
- Fresh basil leaves: Their aromatic herbal notes elevate the overall freshness of the rolls.
- Shredded carrots: Provide a crunchy sweetness and vibrant color that brightens the rolls.
- English cucumber, julienned: Adds a cool, crisp bite that balances the meat and noodles.
- Cooked chicken, shredded: The star protein, tender and flavorful, making these rolls hearty yet light.
- Avocado, thinly sliced: Offers creamy richness to contrast the crisp veggies.
- Apple cider vinegar: Brings tanginess to the dipping sauce, cutting through the flavors.
- Soy sauce: Adds umami depth and saltiness to the sauce.
- Sesame oil: A tiny amount enhances the sauce with a toasty, nutty aroma.
- Granulated sugar: Balances acidity and saltiness for a well-rounded dipping sauce.
- Sweet chili sauce: Gives a gentle kick of heat and sweetness to enliven every bite.
How to Make Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dipping Sauce
Start by whisking together the apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, granulated sugar, and sweet chili sauce in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar fully dissolves. This vibrant sauce will be the perfect accompaniment that ties all the spring roll flavors together.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice Noodles
Cook the rice noodles as per the package instructions until tender but still slightly chewy. Drain them well, then toss with a couple of tablespoons of the dipping sauce. This slight seasoning ensures the noodles are flavorful inside every roll, rather than bland.
Step 3: Soften the Spring Roll Skins
To make the rolls easily foldable without cracking, dip each spring roll skin into a shallow dish of hot water for about 5 to 10 seconds. Lay the softened skin flat on your workspace to prepare for assembly.
Step 4: Assemble the Spring Rolls
Place one fresh basil leaf neatly in the center of the softened skin. Add a small handful of the dressed rice noodles, followed by shredded carrots, julienned cucumber, shredded chicken, and finish with a few delicate slices of avocado. Using about one-eighth of each ingredient per roll ensures balanced flavors and perfect portions.
Step 5: Roll the Spring Rolls
Fold the bottom edge of the spring roll skin over the fillings, then tuck in the sides to encase everything snugly. Roll tightly but gently up to seal the edges. This technique keeps the fillings secure while maintaining a neat, elegant look. Repeat the process for the remaining wraps and fillings.
Step 6: Serve
Present the Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe immediately with the tangy dipping sauce on the side. The combination of fresh ingredients and zesty sauce is at its best when enjoyed fresh, so dive in without delay and savor each delicious bite.
How to Serve Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can take your spring rolls to the next level. Sprinkle some chopped roasted peanuts over the dipping sauce or add a few extra basil leaves for color and aroma. A wedge of lime on the side provides guests an option for an added citrus zing if desired.
Side Dishes
Pair these rolls with light and refreshing sides to keep the meal balanced. A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette or a bowl of miso soup complements the lightness of the rolls without overpowering them. For a heartier option, serve alongside jasmine rice or a noodle salad.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the rolls cut in half diagonally to showcase the colorful fillings inside. Arrange them on a large platter decorated with edible flowers or fresh herbs to impress your guests. You could also wrap each roll individually in parchment paper for a charming picnic or party presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, wrap the spring rolls tightly in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to enjoy them within 1 to 2 days, as the rice paper can become tough and the fillings lose their freshness over time.
Freezing
Since these spring rolls rely on fresh vegetables and soft rice paper, freezing is not recommended. The texture of the ingredients will suffer significantly after being frozen and thawed, losing the delightfully fresh quality that makes this Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe so special.
Reheating
For the most satisfying experience, it’s best to enjoy these spring rolls fresh and cold. Reheating is not ideal because the rice paper can become chewy and the crisp vegetables wilt. If needed, you can leave them at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften the skins slightly.
FAQs
Can I use other proteins besides chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! This Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe is versatile — you can substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, pork, or even beef depending on your preference. Just make sure the protein is cooked and shredded or sliced thinly for easy rolling.
What can I do if I don’t have spring roll skins?
Spring roll skins can sometimes be tricky to find; rice paper wrappers are the best alternative for this recipe. If unavailable, very thin wheat-based tortillas could be experimented with, though the texture and flavor will differ.
Is it possible to make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for the dipping sauce and double-check your rice noodles and spring roll skins to ensure they are gluten-free. Most rice paper skins naturally do not contain gluten, but it’s always good to verify the packaging.
How long do I soak the rice paper wrappers?
Just a quick dip for about 5 to 10 seconds in hot water is enough to soften the rice paper wrappers. Soaking them longer will make them too fragile and prone to tearing, so it’s best to work quickly and gently.
What vegetables work best inside chicken spring rolls?
Crunchy, fresh vegetables like shredded carrots, julienned cucumber, bell peppers, and fresh herbs such as basil or mint work beautifully to add texture and brightness. Avoid watery veggies that might make the rolls soggy, like tomatoes or cooked mushrooms.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a light yet satisfying meal that feels fresh, colorful, and full of exciting textures. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying something new, this recipe is approachable and guarantees delicious results every time. I encourage you to give it a try—the joy of assembling and the pleasure of eating these vibrant rolls is truly unforgettable!
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Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
These fresh and flavorful Chicken Spring Rolls are light, healthy, and easy to prepare. Packed with tender shredded chicken, crisp vegetables, fresh basil, and rice noodles, wrapped in delicate spring roll skins and served with a tangy sweet chili dipping sauce, they make a perfect appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
Spring Rolls
- 8 spring roll skins
- 4 ounces rice noodles (vermicelli-style)
- 8 large fresh basil leaves
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup English cucumber, julienne cut
- ½ cup cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ avocado, thinly sliced
Dipping Sauce
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
Instructions
- Make the Dipping Sauce: Combine the apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and sweet chili sauce in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Set the sauce aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Rice Noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them thoroughly and place into a mixing bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of the prepared dipping sauce and stir gently until the noodles are evenly coated. Set aside.
- Soften the Spring Roll Skins: Fill a shallow dish or pie plate with hot water. Dip one spring roll skin into the water for about 5 to 10 seconds until it just begins to soften. Lay the softened skin carefully on a flat clean surface to prepare for filling.
- Assemble the Spring Rolls: Place one large fresh basil leaf in the center of the spring roll skin. Layer with approximately 1/8 of the coated noodles, shredded carrots, julienned cucumber, shredded cooked chicken, and top with thin slices of avocado. Distribute ingredients evenly for balanced flavor and texture.
- Roll the Spring Rolls: Fold the bottom edge of the spring roll skin over the filling. Then fold in both sides towards the center to enclose the ingredients. Finally, roll tightly upwards to form a compact spring roll, ensuring the end seals itself for secure wrapping. Repeat the process for all remaining skins and fillings.
- Serve: Arrange the completed spring rolls on a serving platter and serve immediately with the remaining dipping sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy fresh for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken from leftovers or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Ensure rice noodles are not overcooked to maintain a firm texture inside the rolls.
- Dip spring roll skins quickly in hot water just until they soften, as over-soaking can cause tearing.
- These rolls are best served fresh to prevent sogginess and maintain crispness.
- You can customize fillings by adding herbs like mint or cilantro for extra freshness.
- For a spicy kick, add a few slices of fresh chili inside the rolls or to the dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
