Ah, the joy of a crispy, golden-brown egg roll fresh out of the oven! I don’t know about you, but there’s something so satisfying about biting into that crunchy shell, revealing a deliciously savory filling inside. I love making Baked Chicken Egg Rolls because they’re not just a treat for the taste buds; they also bring back fond memories of family gatherings where we all huddled around the kitchen, sharing stories and devouring plates of homemade goodies.
This particular recipe is a winner in my house. It’s easy to whip up, and I usually have most of the ingredients on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken or veggies that are nearing their expiration. Trust me when I say, once you start making these, your friends and family will always want to come over for dinner!
What’s in Baked Chicken Egg Rolls?
Let’s break down the ingredients to see what makes these egg rolls so special:
Cooked Chicken: I usually shred some rotisserie chicken to save time. It’s a great way to use leftovers, and it packs in that savory goodness!
Coleslaw Mix: This pre-shredded mix of cabbage and carrots adds crunch and color. If you want to get fancy, using fresh cabbage and carrots works wonderfully too.
Red Bell Pepper: This sweet and vibrant addition not only enhances the flavor but gives your rolls a pop of color.
Green Onions: A sprinkle of these gives a subtle oniony zing and is a fresh contrast to the richer flavors.
Garlic: Is there anything better than the aroma of garlic cooking? It’s a must-add for flavor!
Soy Sauce: This adds that umami depth that keeps you coming back for more. I prefer low-sodium soy sauce to keep it on the healthier side.
Sesame Oil: Just a hint of this fragrant oil elevates the dish, making it taste like it came straight from your favorite Asian restaurant.
Ginger: Fresh minced ginger brings warmth and a slight kick. It’s a little touch that makes a big difference.
Egg Roll Wrappers: These are the vehicle for all this deliciousness! I get them fresh from the grocery store, but make sure to look for vegan options if that’s your preference.
Cooking Spray or Olive Oil: A light brush or spray helps achieve that crispy exterior we’re all craving.
Is Baked Chicken Egg Rolls Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about health. Who doesn’t want a tasty dish that’s a little on the healthier side?
Cooked Chicken: Loaded with protein, it’s great for muscle recovery. Plus, if you opt for lean cuts, you’re keeping the calories down.
Coleslaw Mix: Most coleslaw mixes are low in calories and high in fiber which is great for digestion. It’s a fun way to sneak in some veggies!
Red Bell Peppers: Did you know these are rich in Vitamin C? They’re not just pretty, they boost your immune system too!
Green Onions: They are low in calories and high in vitamins A and K. Win-win!
Sesame Oil: Just a smidge adds healthy fats, but use sparingly since it has a potent flavor.
Overall, these baked egg rolls are a better choice than fried versions, especially if you’re looking to cut down on calories or unhealthy fats. Just be sure to watch the soy sauce if you’re keeping an eye on salt intake!
Ingredients
– 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp ginger, minced
– 1 package egg roll wrappers
– Cooking spray or olive oil for brushing
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 4 people, depending on how hungry everyone is (you might want to make a double batch if you’re like me!).
How to Make Baked Chicken Egg Rolls?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, coleslaw mix, diced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced ginger. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Take one egg roll wrapper and place it on a clean surface with one corner facing you. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture into the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the side corners and roll tightly to create an egg roll shape. Seal the edge with a little water if necessary. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Arrange the assembled egg rolls on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or brush with olive oil.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the egg rolls are golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through baking for even crispness.
7. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet and sour sauce or soy sauce. Enjoy!
Wrap It Up and Enjoy!
So there you have it, my delicious and slightly healthier take on classic egg rolls. Whether you’re making these for a cozy night in, a game day snack, or entertaining guests, they are sure to steal the show! I’d love to hear how yours turn out. If you decide to give this recipe a try, let me know! Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
