Buffalo chicken dip is a crowd-pleaser, but have you ever considered transforming it into crispy, flavorful egg rolls? This recipe elevates the classic buffalo chicken experience with a satisfying crunch, all achieved in the convenience of your air fryer. Forget greasy takeout; these homemade air fryer buffalo chicken egg rolls are a healthier, tastier alternative. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's perfect for game day, parties, or a satisfying weeknight snack.
What Makes Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls So Good?
The magic lies in the combination of crispy, golden-brown egg roll wrappers and the intensely flavorful buffalo chicken filling. The air fryer cooks them to perfection, resulting in a delightfully crunchy exterior and a warm, juicy interior. Compared to deep-frying, the air fryer offers a significantly healthier option with less oil, while still achieving that coveted crispiness.
How to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients:
- For the Filling:
- 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing or cream cheese (for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
- For the Egg Rolls:
- 1 package (about 20) egg roll wrappers
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo wing sauce, ranch dressing/cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, and blue cheese (if using). Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Egg Rolls: Lay out an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture in the center of the wrapper.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the side corners. Roll tightly from the bottom up, tucking in the edges as you go to create a sealed roll. Dampen the top corner with water to help seal it.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the egg rolls with cooking spray and arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they're not overcrowded. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as extra ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or a spicy mayo.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use pre-made buffalo chicken dip for the filling?
Absolutely! Pre-made buffalo chicken dip can be a fantastic shortcut. Just make sure it's well-drained before adding it to the egg roll wrappers to prevent them from becoming soggy.
How do I store leftover egg rolls?
Leftover egg rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Can I freeze these egg rolls before air frying?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled egg rolls before air frying. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag for longer storage. To air fry frozen egg rolls, add a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
What other dipping sauces pair well with these egg rolls?
Beyond ranch and blue cheese, consider honey mustard, sriracha mayo, or even a sweet chili sauce for a delightful flavor contrast.
Can I bake these egg rolls instead of air frying them?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, but the air fryer will generally produce crispier results.
Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: This ensures even cooking and crispiness. Work in batches if necessary.
- Use a cooking spray with a high smoke point: This will help prevent burning.
- Adjust the cooking time: Depending on your air fryer and the size of your egg rolls, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Experiment with different cheeses: Pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses can add a unique flavor dimension.
Enjoy your delicious and easy air fryer buffalo chicken egg rolls! This recipe is sure to become a new favorite appetizer or snack. Remember to adjust the spice level to your liking – have fun with it!
