Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls: A Beginner’s Guide to Crispy, Spicy Deliciousness

I’m a huge fan of game-day snacks and party appetizers, and these Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are always a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They hit that perfect sweet spot between crispy, savory, and spicy, and the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make at home. I remember the first time I made them – I was a little intimidated by the idea of working with egg roll wrappers. I’d only ever had them from restaurants, and they seemed like something complicated and best left to the professionals. But it turned out to be much simpler than I expected! The result? Crispy, golden-brown egg rolls bursting with a creamy, spicy buffalo chicken filling. They were a massive hit with my friends and family, and they disappeared in minutes!

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This recipe is absolutely ideal for beginner cooks. It breaks down the entire process into manageable, easy-to-follow steps, it’s relatively quick (especially if you use pre-cooked chicken, which I highly recommend for ease and speed), and it’s a fun and impressive way to show off your culinary skills to your friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen. If you’re looking for a delicious and easy appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion, from game day gatherings to casual get-togethers, these Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are an absolute must-try! They’re a fantastic way to satisfy your cravings for something spicy and crispy without resorting to takeout. Plus, making them at home means you can control the spice level and customize the filling to your liking.

Ingredients and Preparation: The Building Blocks of Flavor

This recipe uses a combination of simple, readily available ingredients that, when combined, create a symphony of delicious flavors. Here’s a detailed list with added tips and tricks to ensure success:

For the Filling:

• Cooked Chicken (Shredded): 2 cups. Using pre-cooked chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves you a ton of time and effort, making this recipe even weeknight-friendly. Rotisserie chicken from the grocery store is a perfect option – it’s already cooked, seasoned, and ready to be shredded. You can also use leftover chicken from a previous meal, such as roasted chicken or grilled chicken. Just make sure it’s shredded and ready to go. If you need to cook chicken specifically for this recipe, poaching or baking chicken breasts are quick and easy methods. Poaching chicken results in tender and juicy chicken, while baking is a hands-off approach. For poaching, simply simmer chicken breasts in water or broth until cooked through. For baking, season chicken breasts and bake at 375°F (190°C) until cooked through.  
• Buffalo Sauce: ½ cup (adjust for spice preference). Buffalo sauce is the undisputed star of the show, providing the signature spicy and tangy flavor that makes these egg rolls so irresistible. You can choose mild, medium, or hot buffalo sauce depending on your heat tolerance and the preferences of your guests. Frank’s RedHot is a popular and widely available brand, but feel free to experiment with other brands to find your favorite. Some brands offer variations like “wing sauce” or “hot sauce,” so choose the one that best suits your taste. Start with a smaller amount of buffalo sauce and add more to taste, especially if you’re unsure about the spice level.
• Cream Cheese (Softened): 1 cup. Softened cream cheese adds a luxurious creaminess and richness to the filling, beautifully balancing the spiciness of the buffalo sauce and creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s absolutely crucial that the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. If it’s cold, it will be difficult to combine smoothly and will result in a lumpy filling. You can speed up the softening process by cutting the cream cheese into smaller cubes and letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can also microwave it for short bursts (10-15 seconds at a time) until it’s softened, but be careful not to melt it completely. Over-softened or melted cream cheese will not have the same texture in the filling.  
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup. Cheddar cheese adds a savory and melty element to the filling, complementing the buffalo sauce and providing a satisfying cheesy pull. You can use mild or sharp cheddar, or even a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a more complex flavor. Pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and has a better flavor. If you have the time, grating your own cheese is worth the extra effort. It also allows you to choose the type of cheese you prefer.
• Green Onions (Chopped): ½ cup. Green onions add a touch of freshness, a mild onion flavor, and a pop of color to the filling. They also provide a subtle crunch. You can substitute chives if you don’t have green onions on hand. Both green onions and chives add a mild oniony flavor, but chives are slightly more delicate. Chop the green onions finely so they distribute evenly throughout the filling.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Salt and pepper are essential for enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients and balancing the spiciness of the buffalo sauce. Don’t be afraid to season the filling generously. Taste it before you start assembling the egg rolls and adjust the seasoning as needed. You want the filling to be flavorful and well-balanced. Use kosher salt for more even seasoning.

For the Egg Rolls:

• Egg Roll Wrappers: 12. Egg roll wrappers are readily available in the refrigerated or frozen section of most grocery stores. Look for wrappers that are fresh and pliable; avoid any that are dry or cracked. They are usually sold in packs of around 20-30, so you’ll likely have some leftover wrappers. You can store them in the refrigerator for several days or in the freezer for several months. If you freeze them, be sure to thaw them completely before using them. Thawing them in the refrigerator overnight is the best method.  
• Egg (Beaten, for Sealing): 1. A beaten egg acts as a natural “glue” to seal the egg rolls and prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking. You can also use a mixture of flour and water (1 tablespoon flour mixed with 2 tablespoons water) as a sealant if you prefer. The egg wash also helps the egg rolls to brown nicely during cooking, creating a beautiful golden color.  
• Cooking Oil (for Frying, Optional): If you choose to fry the egg rolls (which is the traditional method and results in the crispiest texture), you’ll need enough oil to partially submerge them. Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all good choices for frying because they have a high smoke point. A high smoke point is important because you’ll be heating the oil to a high temperature. Using a deep fryer is also an option if you have one.  

For Serving:

• Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: For dipping. Ranch or blue cheese dressing are classic accompaniments to buffalo chicken, providing a cooling and creamy contrast to the spiciness of the egg rolls. You can also make your own dipping sauce by combining mayonnaise, sour cream, and your favorite herbs and spices. Consider adding a touch of garlic powder or onion powder to your homemade dipping sauce for extra flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten up the dipping sauce.
• Extra Buffalo Sauce: For drizzling. A drizzle of extra buffalo sauce over the finished egg rolls adds an extra kick of flavor and makes them look even more visually appealing. It also allows guests to customize the spice level to their liking. You can also use a flavored buffalo sauce, such as a garlic parmesan buffalo sauce or a honey buffalo sauce.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions (Expanded and Detailed):

• Chicken: You can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for a richer and more flavorful filling. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, as chicken thighs typically take a little longer to cook than chicken breast. You can also use shredded turkey (leftover turkey is a great option, especially around Thanksgiving) or even shredded pork for a different flavor profile. Pulled pork would be a delicious and unexpected twist. You can also use ground chicken or ground turkey if you prefer. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the filling.
• Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to complement the buffalo chicken filling. Monterey Jack, pepper jack (for extra spice), or a blend of cheeses would all be delicious. Pepper jack cheese will add an extra kick of spice. You can also use a reduced-fat cheese option if you’re looking to make the recipe a bit healthier. Just keep in mind that reduced-fat cheese may not melt as smoothly as regular cheese. You can also use a plant-based cheese alternative if you are vegan or dairy-free.  
• Vegetables: Adding other vegetables to the filling can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the egg rolls. Diced celery, carrots (finely diced), red onion (finely diced), or even corn would all be great additions. Sauté the vegetables lightly before adding them to the filling to soften them slightly and bring out their flavor. You can also add some finely chopped jalapeno for extra heat. Adding vegetables also adds texture and makes the filling more interesting.
• Wrappers: You can also use wonton wrappers instead of egg roll wrappers for a smaller appetizer. Wonton wrappers are thinner and crisp up more quickly than egg roll wrappers. They are also a good option if you are looking for a more delicate appetizer or if you want to make mini egg rolls. You can also use spring roll wrappers, which are even thinner than wonton wrappers, but they are more delicate and require a bit more skill to work with.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating Your Buffalo Chicken Egg Roll Masterpiece

1. Prepare the Filling: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, buffalo sauce (start with the smaller amount and add more to taste), softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Use a spoon or spatula to mix the filling thoroughly until everything is well combined and the filling is evenly distributed. Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to taste the filling and adjust the seasoning as needed. You want the filling to be flavorful and well-balanced. Use a spoon or spatula to mix the filling, making sure that the cream cheese is fully incorporated and there are no lumps. If the cream cheese is too cold, it can be difficult to mix smoothly.
2. Assemble the Egg Rolls: Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean, dry surface with one corner pointing towards you (like a diamond shape). This diamond shape makes it easier to fold and roll the wrapper neatly and creates a nice pointed end on the finished egg roll. Make sure the surface is dry, as a wet surface can make the wrappers stick and tear. Work with one wrapper at a time, keeping the remaining wrappers covered with a damp cloth or plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out and becoming brittle. Dry wrappers are more likely to crack and tear during filling and rolling.
3. Fill the Wrappers: Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the buffalo chicken filling in the center of the wrapper, closer to the bottom corner. Don’t overfill the wrappers, or they will be difficult to seal properly and may burst during cooking, resulting in a messy and less-than-appetizing appetizer. It’s better to use a little less filling and have neatly sealed egg rolls than to overfill them and have them fall apart. Distribute the filling evenly across the wrapper.
4. Fold and Roll: Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, tucking it in snugly. This creates a neat package and helps to keep the filling contained. Then, fold in the two side corners, like you’re folding an envelope. This further secures the filling and prevents it from spilling out during cooking. Roll the wrapper tightly towards the top corner, like you’re rolling a burrito. The tighter you roll, the crispier the egg rolls will be. A tight roll also helps to prevent the egg rolls from absorbing too much oil during frying.
5. Seal the Edges: Use a pastry brush or your finger to lightly brush the top edge of the wrapper with the beaten egg. This will act as a “glue” to seal the edge and prevent the egg rolls from opening up during cooking. Make sure the seal is secure. You can also use a mixture of flour and water (1 tablespoon flour mixed with 2 tablespoons water) as a sealant if you prefer. The egg wash also helps the egg rolls to brown nicely during cooking, creating a beautiful golden color.
6. Cook the Egg Rolls (Frying Method): In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium heat. The oil temperature is absolutely crucial for achieving crispy, golden-brown egg rolls. Use a deep-fry thermometer to check the oil temperature; aim for around 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small piece of wrapper into it. If it sizzles immediately and floats to the surface, the oil is hot enough. Carefully add the egg rolls to the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature and prevent the egg rolls from getting crispy. Fry the egg rolls for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to carefully flip the egg rolls during frying.
7. Cook the Egg Rolls (Baking Method – A Healthier Alternative): Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents the egg rolls from sticking to the baking sheet. Lightly brush or spray the egg rolls with oil (vegetable oil, olive oil, or cooking spray). This helps them to brown evenly and get crispy. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Flipping them halfway through ensures even browning on both sides. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent them from burning.
8. Serve: Serve the buffalo chicken egg rolls warm with ranch or blue cheese dressing and extra buffalo sauce for dipping. Arrange them attractively on a platter for serving.

Beginner Tips and Notes: Mastering the Art of Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls

• Troubleshooting: Filling is too runny: If your filling is too runny, you can add a little more shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) or a tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs to absorb the excess moisture. You can also let the filling sit for a few minutes to allow the cream cheese to firm up.
• Troubleshooting: Egg rolls are not crispy (Frying): The most common reason for soggy egg rolls is not having the oil hot enough. Make sure the oil reaches 350°F (175°C) before adding the egg rolls. Don’t overcrowd the pan, and don’t try to fry too many egg rolls at once. This will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy egg rolls. Fry in batches, and allow the oil to come back up to temperature between batches.
• Troubleshooting: Egg rolls are not crispy (Baking): If your baked egg rolls aren’t crispy enough, make sure you brush or spray them with oil before baking. You can also bake them for a longer period of time at a slightly lower temperature (400°F or 200°C) to help them crisp up. Flipping them halfway through is also essential for even browning and crispiness.
• Efficient Prep: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This is a great time-saver, especially if you’re making these for a party. You can also assemble the egg rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator (covered tightly with plastic wrap) for a few hours before cooking. However, it’s best to fry or bake them just before serving for the crispiest results.
• Wrapping Technique: Practice makes perfect when it comes to wrapping egg rolls. Don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts aren’t perfect. Just keep practicing, and you’ll get the hang of it. The key is to roll tightly and seal the edges well.
• Oil Temperature (Frying): Using a deep-fry thermometer is the best way to ensure that your oil is at the correct temperature. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can use the bread test mentioned earlier. Another way to test the oil is to drop a single egg roll into the oil. If it sizzles immediately and floats to the surface, the oil is hot enough. If it sinks to the bottom and doesn’t sizzle, the oil is not hot enough.
• Baking Spray: Using a cooking spray (like Pam) on the egg rolls before baking can help them to brown more evenly and get crispier.

Serving Suggestions: Completing Your Buffalo Chicken Egg Roll Feast

These Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are delicious on their own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your appetizer experience:

• Dipping Sauces: In addition to ranch or blue cheese dressing, consider serving other dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, avocado ranch, a spicy mayo (mix mayonnaise with sriracha or hot sauce), or even a creamy cilantro lime dipping sauce.
• Garnishes: Garnish the egg rolls with chopped green onions, cilantro, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor and visual appeal. A sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese or shredded cheddar cheese also makes a nice garnish.
• Side Dishes: Serve the egg rolls with other game-day snacks or party appetizers, such as chicken wings, nachos, sliders, onion rings, or potato skins. A side of celery and carrot sticks is also a classic accompaniment to buffalo chicken.

Storage Tips for Leftovers:

Store leftover buffalo chicken egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer for best results. Microwaving them can make them soggy. Reheating in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) can help to crisp them up again. The air fryer is also a great option for reheating leftover egg rolls. Just heat them for a few minutes until they are crispy and heated through.

Conclusion: Share Your Culinary Creations!

These Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are a fantastic and easy way to impress your friends and family with your cooking skills. I encourage you to try this recipe out and let me know how it turns out in the comments below! I love hearing about your cooking adventures and any modifications you make to the recipe. Did you try a different type of cheese or vegetable? Did you adjust the spice level? Did you use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast? Share your tips and photos with other readers! Your feedback is invaluable and helps others who are trying the recipe for the first time. Let us know what dipping sauces you enjoyed most with the egg rolls. Did you make your own dipping sauce? Share your recipe in the comments!

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique version of this dish. Perhaps you’ll discover a new favorite combination! Get creative with the filling – try adding different spices, herbs, or even a touch of sweetness. You can also experiment with different types of wrappers, such as wonton wrappers or spring roll wrappers. Share your photos and tag me on social media – I can’t wait to see your Buffalo Chicken Egg Roll masterpieces! Use #BuffaloChickenEggRolls and #EasyAppetizerRecipes so I can find your creations. I also love seeing your variations on Instagram stories – tag me so I can see what you’re cooking up in your kitchen! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear from you!