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 (170g) 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 (450g) 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 (12oz) 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 that perfect crunchy bite filled with savory goodness, you’ve got to try this Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe. I love how these rolls balance a flavorful chicken and shiitake mushroom filling with a crispy golden wrapper — and that honey-based dipping sauce? Game changer!

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 honestly can’t stop making these crispy chicken spring rolls every time I want a crowd-pleaser or a snack that feels special. They’re addictive, simple enough to prepare at home, and because you can fry or air-fry them, they’re super versatile for any occasion.

Crisp and tender: The thin flour-based wrappers turn golden and crunchy, while the filling stays juicy and flavorful.
Flavor-packed filling: Ground chicken, shiitake mushrooms, fresh herbs, and vermicelli noodles create a wonderful texture and taste.
Sweet and tangy dipping sauce: A honey and oyster sauce blend laced with Chinese mustard and gochujang gives you complex, addictive flavors.
Flexible cooking methods: Fry them for ultimate crispiness or air-fry for a lighter option without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun — and trust me, picking up thin lumpia wrappers (flour-based, not rice paper) is key for that perfect crispy crunch. Here’s a quick rundown of what you'll need and why each ingredient matters.

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: Its high smoke point makes it perfect for browning the filling and frying the rolls without breaking down.
Toasted sesame oil: Adds a nutty depth to the filling that’s subtle but essential.
Garlic, shallot, and green onions: Aromatics that build the base layer of flavor.
Shiitake mushrooms: Offer a meaty texture and umami boost that pairs wonderfully with chicken.
Cabbage, carrot, and cilantro: Fresh vegetables that add crunch, color, and brightness to the filling.
Ground chicken: Lean and tender protein that soaks up the savory sauce perfectly.
Oyster sauce: Provides a savory, slightly sweet, and salty note, integral to the filling and dipping sauce.
Fine sea salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
Thin rice noodles (vermicelli): Give the filling a delicate chew and help bind ingredients together.
Egg (for egg wash): Acts as the glue that seals your spring rolls, so they stay intact during frying.
Flour-based spring roll wrappers: The key to that incredible crispiness you’re craving — avoid rice paper for this recipe.
Basil or Thai basil leaves (optional): Add a fresh herbal note if you want a little green surprise in every bite.
Peanut oil: Perfect for deep frying thanks to its neutral flavor and high smoke point.
Honey, Chinese mustard, Gochujang, and rice wine vinegar: These ingredients combine to make a dipping sauce that is sweet, spicy, tangy, and totally addictive.

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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

One of the best things about this Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe is how easy it is to tailor it to your personal taste or dietary needs. Feel free to mix and match ingredients or try different cooking methods to make these spring rolls truly your own!

Vegetarian Variation: I once swapped the ground chicken for crumbled firm tofu and added extra shiitake mushrooms for an umami-packed vegetarian version that still delivered a great texture and flavor punch.
Spice it Up: Adding a bit more gochujang directly into the filling gave my rolls a lovely kick that paired perfectly with the sweet honey sauce—it’s a fun way to bring some heat to the party.
Air Fryer Delight: If you want a lighter option without giving up much on crispiness, air frying at 390°F (198°C) for 10 to 15 minutes works beautifully. I like to spray the rolls lightly with cooking spray beforehand for the crispiest finish.
Fresh Herb Boost: Using Thai basil instead of regular basil adds a hint of anise flavor that freshens up each bite—definitely try it if you want to brighten these rolls.
Noodle Alternatives: Don’t have rice vermicelli? I’ve had great results using thin glass noodles soaked and chopped similarly, giving a slightly different texture but still absorbing all the savory juices wonderfully.

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: Ready Your Veggies and Aromatics

Start by mincing garlic, shallot, and green onions, plus chopping those shiitake mushroom stems finely. Shred the cabbage, grate the carrot, and chop the cilantro so everything’s prepped and ready. Having all your ingredients ready before cooking makes the process smooth and stress-free.

Step 2: Cook Mushrooms and Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil and 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your minced garlic, shallot, green onions, and chopped shiitake mushrooms. Stir frequently as you cook until the mushrooms soften, reduce, and turn slightly golden, about 8 minutes. This step builds so much flavor in your filling—don’t rush it!

Step 3: Add and Cook Ground Chicken

Next, add the ground chicken to the skillet. Break it into small pieces and cook until there’s no pink left—this should take just a few minutes. Stir in 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce and 1 teaspoon of fine sea salt, then cook for another 2 minutes to let the flavors meld. Remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature before mixing with the other ingredients.

Step 4: Soak and Prep the Noodles

Place the rice vermicelli noodles in a bowl and cover with boiling water. Let them soak for 3 minutes, then drain well. Cutting the noodles roughly in half makes mixing easier and helps distribute them evenly throughout the filling.

Step 5: Combine Filling Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss together the shredded cabbage, grated carrot, chopped cilantro, prepared noodles, and the cooled chicken-mushroom mixture. Take a moment to pull apart noodle clumps so every spring roll gets a perfect filling balance.

Step 6: Whisk Egg Wash and Prepare Wrappers

Crack one large egg into a small bowl and whisk until smooth—that egg wash will help seal your spring rolls beautifully. Meanwhile, open the package of spring roll wrappers and cover them with damp paper towels to keep them from drying out while you work.

Step 7: Assemble Your Spring Rolls

Place a wrapper on your surface in a diamond shape with a corner pointing towards you. Optionally, add 1-2 basil leaves across the bottom third of the wrapper for an aromatic boost. Spoon a generous portion of filling onto the basil or wrapper bottom, then brush a light coating of egg wash along all four edges to help seal.

Step 8: Roll and Seal the Rolls

Fold the bottom corner over the filling tightly, then fold in the sides like envelope flaps to encase the filling. Roll upwards firmly until you reach the top corner, then seal the edge with more egg wash. Place completed rolls on a plate covered with damp paper towels to keep them from drying while you finish rolling the rest.

Step 9: Fry or Air Fry ‘Em Up

For the crispiest golden texture, heat 4 cups of peanut oil in a deep pot to 350°F (177°C). Fry 2 to 4 rolls at once for 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown. Drain on a wire rack and repeat with remaining rolls. Alternatively, preheat your air fryer to 390°F (198°C), lightly spray the rolls with cooking spray, and air fry for 10 to 15 minutes to get a lighter yet still crunchy treat.

Step 10: Whip Up the Perfect Dipping Sauce

While your spring rolls crisp, mix 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 that perfect sweet, tangy, and spicy companion your spring rolls deserve.

Top Tip

Mastering the Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe is all about small details that make a big difference in texture and flavor. Here are some tips gathered from my own kitchen adventures that will elevate your rolls every time.

Keep Wrappers Covered: Always keep your lumpia wrappers under damp paper towels while you work. It prevents them from drying out and tearing, which can be frustrating mid-roll.
Control the Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to heat your peanut oil to a steady 350°F (177°C) before frying. The perfect temperature ensures the rolls get golden, crispy, and not greasy.
Separate the Noodles: When mixing the filling, take time to gently pull apart the soaked rice vermicelli noodles. Clumps in the filling can cause uneven cooking and texture.
Don't Skip the Egg Wash Seal: Brushing egg wash on the edges seals your rolls firmly and helps keep them from bursting open while frying or air frying.

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 really brighten these spring rolls—try a handful of chopped cilantro, Thai basil leaves, or even some thinly sliced green onions sprinkled on top. Lime wedges on the side add a lovely tangy contrast that pairs beautifully with the honey-based dipping sauce. For an extra pop of texture, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds just before serving.

Side Dishes

Serve your spring rolls alongside a light Asian slaw or cucumber salad to add freshness. Steamed jasmine rice or a simple fried rice also make great companions if you want to turn this appetizer into a more filling meal. And don't forget a cold beer or a crisp white wine to complement those crispy bites!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover spring rolls, store them uncovered on a wire rack in the fridge for up to 2 days to keep them crisp. If you cover them tightly, the moisture can soften the crispy exterior.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked spring rolls for up to 3 months. After frying or air frying, let them cool completely, then place on a parchment-lined tray, making sure they don't touch. Freeze until solid (1-2 hours), then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating

To reheat frozen spring rolls, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 6 to 12 minutes until heated through and crispy again. This keeps them from turning soggy like a microwave would.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of mushrooms instead of shiitake?

Absolutely! While shiitake mushrooms add an earthy flavor and great texture, you can substitute with cremini or button mushrooms. Just chop them finely and cook until browned to get the best flavor.

What’s the difference between lumpia wrappers and rice paper wrappers?

Lumpia wrappers are thin, flour-based, square sheets that become wonderfully crispy when fried. Rice paper wrappers are thinner, round, and tend to be more delicate — they don’t crisp up the same way and can tear easily, so lumpia wrappers work best for this recipe.

Can I make these spring rolls vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ground chicken with a plant-based protein like crumbled tofu, tempeh, or finely chopped roasted vegetables. Adjust the seasoning and oyster sauce accordingly or use vegetarian oyster sauce alternatives.

Is air frying a good alternative to deep frying?

Air frying is a great lighter alternative and yields crispy rolls, though they won't be quite as golden and crunchy as deep-fried ones. It’s perfect if you're avoiding oil but still want a tasty result.

Final Thoughts

Making this Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe has been such a joyful journey. The mix of aromatic mushrooms, tender chicken, and crunchy wrappers paired with that perfectly balanced dipping sauce never fails to impress. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or just indulging yourself, these spring rolls bring warmth and happiness to the table – enjoy every crunchy, savory bite!