Craving something crispy, savory, and satisfying? Air fryer egg rolls are a healthier twist on the classic deep-fried street food. These crispy delights filled with flavorful ground chicken (or tofu for a vegetarian version) and crunchy veggies offer an irresistible snack or appetizer that you’ll want to make again and again. The best part is, with an air fryer, you get all the crunch without the excess oil!
Ingredients and Prep Work
Before we dive into rolling and air-frying, let’s first focus on the key ingredients and how to prep for these tasty, healthy egg rolls.
Ingredients List:
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce : Adds a deep umami flavor to the filling.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger : For that warm, aromatic kick.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch : Helps thicken the filling mix and hold it together.
- 1 pound lean ground chicken or turkey (or crumbled extra-firm tofu if you want a vegetarian option): A lighter yet flavorful protein option, perfect for this recipe.
- 1 tablespoon canola oil : A neutrally flavored, high-temperature cooking oil for stir-frying. Avoid olive oil because it can burn at high heat.
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms : Adds a rich, earthy flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced : Brings in more savory depth.
- 1 8-ounce bag coleslaw mix : For convenience and crunch.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper : Basic seasoning to elevate all the flavors.
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil : Adds nutty flavor near the final step.
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) : For a little spicy kick if you like.
- 18-20 egg roll wrappers : Available in the refrigerated section in most grocery stores.
- Sweet chili sauce for dipping (optional) : Adds a sweet and tangy touch when serving.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need:
- Mixing bowl : For marinating the main protein.
- Wok or deep sauté pan : Ideal for stir-frying the filling to perfection.
- Air Fryer : The magic tool that crisps up these egg rolls without the added oil.
- Nonstick spray : To prevent the egg rolls from sticking to the air fryer basket.
Preparing these ingredients before assembling the rolls ensures everything runs smoothly—and your egg rolls will be filled with beautifully seasoned goodness.
Cooking the Filling
Now that your ingredients are prepped and ready to go, let’s focus on creating the flavorful filling that will make these air fryer egg rolls simply irresistible.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking the Filling:
- Marinate the Protein:
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce , ground ginger , and cornstarch until it forms a smooth mixture. Add the ground chicken (or tofu if you’re going the vegetarian route), and stir to coat evenly. Let this marinate for about 10 minutes . This step infuses the chicken or tofu with flavor while the cornstarch helps thicken the mix and keep everything tender. - Chop the Veggies:
While the protein marinates, finely chop the cremini mushrooms and mince the garlic . Cutting the mushrooms small ensures they blend nicely with the ground meat (or tofu), creating a texture reminiscent of a meatier filling without overpowering the egg rolls. - Stir-Fry the Chicken and Veggies:
Heat a wok or large, deep sauté pan over high heat. Add the canola oil (or your neutral oil of choice). Once the oil is hot, toss in the marinated chicken. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break apart the meat and cook until it’s no longer pink (about 5 minutes ). Meat should be fully cooked through and slightly browned for that extra flavor. - Add the Mushrooms and Garlic:
Add your finely chopped mushrooms to the wok. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 2 minutes until they soften and release their moisture. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds , just until fragrant. - Soften the Coleslaw Mix:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the coleslaw mix along with the salt and black pepper . Stir everything together and cook for about 3-4 minutes , until the coleslaw softens but still retains a slight crunch. This adds texture to the egg rolls and makes them even tastier. - Final Seasoning Touch:
Stir in the sesame oil and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using) just before turning off the heat. These ingredients will give the filling a nutty, toasted flavor with just a touch of heat. Once everything is mixed in, transfer the filling to a bowl and let it cool slightly before assembling your egg rolls.
Now that your filling is cooked, you’re ready for what comes next—assembling and rolling the egg rolls!
Assembling and Air Frying the Egg Rolls
With your delicious filling prepped and ready to go, it’s time to assemble the egg rolls. This part is easy and fun, especially once you get the hang of rolling!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Assembling the Egg Rolls:
- Set up Your Wrappers: On a clean work surface, lay out 1 egg roll wrapper at a time. Arrange it like a diamond so that one corner is pointing down towards you. Keep the other wrappers covered with a damp paper towel while you work to prevent them from drying out.
- Add the Filling: Scoop about 3 tablespoons of filling into the center of the wrapper, shaping it like a small log or torpedo. You’ll want the filling to sit horizontally across the middle of the wrapper, not too close to the edges.
- Fold and Roll:
- Start by folding the bottom corner up and over the filling.
- Next, fold the left and right corners towards the center, covering the filling and resembling an envelope shape.
- Finally, roll the egg roll away from you, pulling it tight as you go, like you’re rolling a mini burrito.
- Seal the Egg Roll: Use a little bit of water (brushed or dabbed on with your fingertip) to moisten the edges of the wrapper before pressing to seal. This ensures that the egg roll stays closed while cooking. Repeat the process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Air Frying for Perfect Crispiness:
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 390°F and let it preheat for a couple of minutes.
- Arrange the Egg Rolls in the Basket: Spray the air fryer basket with nonstick spray or lightly brush it with oil to prevent sticking. Place the rolled egg rolls in a single layer inside the basket, ensuring the seam side is facing down. Make sure they don’t touch each other; this allows hot air to circulate and crisp them evenly.
- Mist for Extra Crispiness: Lightly mist the tops of the egg rolls with nonstick spray or a little oil to help create a golden, crispy finish in the air fryer.
- Air Fry to Perfect Golden Brown: Cook the egg rolls for 9 to 11 minutes , flipping them halfway through for even browning. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to make sure they don’t burn but get that beautiful golden-brown color.
For larger batches, air fry in rounds without overcrowding (you can keep finished egg rolls warm in a 225°F oven while the rest are cooking).
Serving and Storing
With your perfectly air-fried egg rolls now crispy and golden, it’s time to serve and enjoy. But before we dig in, here are a few serving tips and suggestions, as well as how to store any leftovers—if you can resist eating them all!
Final Touches for Serving:
Once your egg rolls are done and slightly cooled, you’re ready to serve them up!
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: These air fryer egg rolls pair beautifully with sweet chili sauce , adding that tangy, sweet, and spicy kick that’s simply irresistible. You can also serve them with soy sauce , sriracha , or even a peanut dipping sauce for variety.
- Presentation Tip: If you’re serving these at a party or gathering, consider arranging the egg rolls on a platter with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for garnish. They’ll look just as good as they taste!
Storing Leftover Egg Rolls:
If you have any leftover egg rolls (lucky you!), here’s how you can store and reheat them:
- Fridge Storage: Place the leftover egg rolls in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days . To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3 to 5 minutes to crisp them back up. Avoid the microwave, which can make them soggy.
- Freezing Egg Rolls (Optional): If you plan to freeze the egg rolls, do so before air frying them. After you roll the egg rolls, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months . When you’re ready to enjoy, cook them straight from frozen in the air fryer at 390°F for 12-15 minutes .
Final Thoughts:
Air fryer egg rolls are a fantastic appetizer or snack that combines all the satisfying crunch of traditional egg rolls without the guilt of deep frying. They’re easy to customize with different fillings, from vegetarian to meat-based flavors, and they’re perfect for keeping on hand for quick meals or party snacks.
Now that you’ve mastered the art of these delicious homemade air fryer egg rolls, enjoy them hot and fresh—along with that spectacular crunch!