Crispy Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls: The Ultimate Game Day Appetizer Recipe
Prepare to elevate your appetizer game with these irresistible **crispy buffalo chicken egg rolls**! Imagine the perfect party finger food: a golden, crunchy exterior giving way to a warm, creamy, and spicy filling. Each bite is packed with the beloved flavors of classic buffalo chicken dip – tender shredded chicken, rich cream cheese, sharp cheddar, zesty ranch, and that unmistakable kick of hot sauce. They’re quick to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and guaranteed to be the first thing to disappear at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a casual get-together, or just craving a deliciously bold snack, these buffalo chicken egg rolls are an absolute must-try.
Why This Buffalo Chicken Egg Roll Recipe is a Winner
These buffalo chicken egg rolls aren’t just a clever twist on a classic; they’re a culinary triumph that brings together the best of both worlds. We’ve taken all the irresistible ingredients from a classic buffalo chicken dip – the creamy tang of cream cheese, the fiery warmth of hot sauce, the cooling zest of ranch, and an abundance of savory shredded chicken – and wrapped them snugly inside a golden-brown, irresistibly crispy shell. The result is a textural masterpiece: an initial satisfying crunch that gives way to a smooth, richly spiced, and intensely flavorful center.
They’re designed to be a crowd-pleaser and a conversation starter. We’ve seen firsthand how quickly these disappear at parties. When our friend Antoine first brought these to a football gathering, they vanished almost instantly. Our guests know that if buffalo chicken egg rolls are on the menu, showing up early is key to securing a share, or else they might just miss out on this incredible appetizer!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and familiar flavors, presented in an exciting new format. It’s less messy than a dip, perfectly portioned for snacking, and offers a delightful contrast of textures that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, they pair perfectly with classic dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese, enhancing the experience even further.
RELATED – Egg rolls are incredibly versatile and can be stuffed with a myriad of delicious fillings. Looking for more unique party appetizer ideas? Don’t miss our equally popular Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls or the fun and flavorful Big Mac Egg Rolls!
Key Ingredients for Flavorful Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls
Crafting these delectable buffalo chicken egg rolls requires a few simple, yet essential ingredients that come together to create that iconic flavor profile. Below, you’ll find a visual guide to the components, and for precise measurements and detailed instructions, be sure to check out the printable recipe card located at the very end of this post.
Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitutions
Understanding each ingredient’s role and knowing how to make smart substitutions can greatly enhance your cooking experience and adapt this recipe to your pantry or preferences:
CHICKEN: For this recipe, we opted for 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which we then cooked and shredded. This amount typically yields approximately 18 ounces of cooked shredded chicken, perfect for our filling. However, feel free to simplify your preparation by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It’s a fantastic time-saver and equally delicious! If you prefer to cook your own, boiling, baking, or even using an Instant Pot are all great methods for tender, shreddable chicken. Dark meat (like chicken thighs) can also be used for a richer flavor.
CHEESE: Our recipe calls for classic shredded cheddar cheese, which melts beautifully and adds a lovely sharpness. But don’t hesitate to get creative with your cheese choices! Pepper jack cheese would introduce an extra layer of spice, while Monterey Jack offers a milder, creamier alternative. For an even more authentic buffalo experience, consider incorporating a small amount of crumbled blue cheese directly into the filling for a pungent bite that truly complements the hot sauce.
HOT SAUCE: The star of any buffalo-flavored dish is, of course, the hot sauce! We highly recommend Frank’s Red Hot, as it’s traditionally known as the original base for buffalo sauce (especially when combined with melted butter). You have full control over the spice level here; if you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount, or if you crave extra heat, feel free to add a bit more. Experiment with your favorite brand of cayenne pepper sauce to find your ideal balance of flavor and spice.
CREAM CHEESE: Achieving a perfectly smooth and creamy filling is crucial, and the secret lies in ensuring your cream cheese is well softened. Cold cream cheese will result in a lumpy mixture that’s difficult to combine evenly. To soften, cut your cream cheese into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about an hour, or until it has no chill left. For a quicker method, you can gently microwave it in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until pliable. This step prevents any unmixed pockets of cream cheese and ensures a consistent, delightful texture throughout your filling.
RANCH DRESSING: A touch of ranch dressing adds a cool, tangy counterpoint to the spicy buffalo flavor, helping to balance the richness of the cheese and butter. You can use your favorite store-bought ranch, or even make your own for an extra fresh taste. If you’re not a fan of ranch, blue cheese dressing is another excellent option for the filling, or simply increase the cream cheese slightly for added creaminess.
BUTTER & SPICES: Melted butter helps to carry the flavor of the hot sauce and adds richness. Onion powder, garlic salt, and black pepper are essential seasonings that enhance the savory depth of the chicken and cheese, creating a well-rounded and irresistible filling. Adjust these to your taste for the perfect seasoning blend.
EGG ROLL WRAPPERS: These are the magical outer shell that transforms our dip into a crispy finger food! Look for “egg roll wrappers” in the refrigerated section of your grocery store, usually near the produce or tofu. They are thicker than spring roll wrappers and fry up to a wonderfully golden and crisp texture. Ensure they are fresh for the best results, and keep them covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent them from drying out.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe perfectly. For a concise, printable version of this recipe, complete with exact measurements and detailed instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.
- Prepare the Filling: In a mini food chopper or a larger food processor, combine all the filling ingredients: cooked shredded chicken, sliced green onions, well-softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, shredded cheddar cheese, softened butter, hot sauce, onion powder, garlic salt, and black pepper. Pulse the mixture several times until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and chunky, but avoid over-processing it into a smooth paste. You want some texture from the chicken and cheese. Be sure to stop and scrape down the sides of the chopper at least once to ensure everything is incorporated. Once mixed, transfer the flavorful filling to a separate bowl.
CHEF TIP – For optimal blending and an evenly distributed mixture, Chef Antoine recommends layering the ingredients into the chopper. Start with half of the ingredients, pulse a few times, then add the remaining ingredients and continue to blend. He finds this method helps achieve a more uniform consistency.
- Lay Out Wrappers: Arrange your egg roll wrappers on a clean, flat work surface. It’s best to work with a few at a time to prevent them from drying out. Keep any unused wrappers covered with a damp paper towel.
- Add the Filling: Place a generous scoop of the prepared buffalo chicken mixture directly in the center of each egg roll wrapper. Don’t overfill, as this can make wrapping difficult and lead to bursting during frying.
TIP – To ensure consistent size and even cooking, you can weigh the total chicken mixture and divide it by 12 (for 12 egg rolls). This gives you the precise amount of filling for each wrapper, resulting in beautifully uniform egg rolls.
- Moisten Edges: Using your finger, lightly moisten all four edges of the egg roll wrapper with a little water. This creates a seal when folded, ensuring your filling stays securely inside during cooking.
- Fold and Roll: To begin wrapping, fold one corner of the egg roll wrapper (the corner closest to you) up and over the filling, tucking it snugly. Then, bring the two side corners inwards, overlapping them slightly over the filling. Use your fingers to tuck and roll the wrapper tightly away from you, keeping the filling compact as you go. Roll the wrapper most of the way, leaving about an inch or two of the far corner exposed. Moisten the remaining far corners with a touch more water, then complete the roll to seal it completely. The goal is a tight, secure package.
- Repeat: Continue this wrapping process for all remaining egg rolls until all the filling and wrappers have been used. Place the finished egg rolls on a plate or baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch each other to prevent sticking.
- Heat the Oil: In a large, deep-sided skillet or Dutch oven, add your preferred cooking oil (canola, peanut, or vegetable oil work best) to a depth of approximately 1 inch. You need enough oil so that at least half of the egg roll is submerged during frying. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy to ensure crispy, non-greasy results.
- Fry Until Golden: Carefully place a few egg rolls into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until each egg roll achieves a beautiful, even golden-brown color and is wonderfully crispy. Use tongs to gently turn them over halfway through.
CHEF TIP – Sometimes, when you flip an egg roll, trapped air inside can cause it to try and roll back over. Simply hold it in place with your tongs for a moment or two until the wrapper relaxes and sets in its new position.
- Drain and Serve: Once fried to perfection, carefully remove the egg rolls from the oil using tongs and transfer them to a wire rack placed over a baking sheet lined with paper towels. This allows any excess oil to drip away, ensuring your egg rolls stay as crispy as possible. Repeat with the remaining egg rolls, frying in batches if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Success
Here are some common questions and essential tips to help you master these buffalo chicken egg rolls and make them the star of your next gathering:
The key to achieving that perfect, shatteringly crispy egg roll crust is the oil temperature. You need the oil to be hot enough (around 350°F / 175°C) so that the wrapper crisps up quickly upon contact. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the egg rolls will absorb too much oil, becoming greasy and soft instead of crisp. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this lowers the oil temperature and can lead to uneven cooking and sogginess. Fry in batches, allowing enough space for each egg roll to cook properly.
Allow any cooled leftover buffalo chicken egg rolls to come to room temperature before storing them. Then, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat and restore their crispiness, an air fryer is your best friend! Use the reheat function or air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes, or until heated through and crisp. A conventional oven also works well; bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes. While you can rewarm them in the microwave, be aware that the wrapper will likely lose its crisp texture and become softer.
Yes, absolutely! These egg rolls are fantastic for freezing, both before and after frying.
- To freeze before frying: Prepare the egg rolls as instructed up to the wrapping step. Place the uncooked, wrapped egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they don’t touch. Flash-freeze them until they are completely solid (this prevents them from sticking together). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or a large freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, no need to thaw; simply fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- To freeze after frying: Allow the fried egg rolls to cool completely to room temperature. Then, place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in an air fryer or oven until hot and crisp.
Yes, you can! While deep frying provides the crispiest result, baking or air frying are healthier alternatives.
- For Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush or spray the egg rolls with oil. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Air fry for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- For Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly brush or spray them with oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and firm.
Note that the texture might be slightly different than deep-fried, but they will still be delicious!
Perfect Pairings & Serving Suggestions
These buffalo chicken egg rolls are fantastic on their own, but a few simple additions can take them over the top. Optionally garnish your finished egg rolls with a sprinkling of fresh blue cheese crumbles for an extra pungent kick, thinly sliced green onions for a mild oniony bite, or freshly chopped parsley for a touch of vibrant color and freshness. The real magic, however, comes with dipping! Serve them alongside generous bowls of creamy ranch dressing, tangy blue cheese dressing, or even a side of extra hot sauce for those who crave more heat. Don’t forget some crisp celery sticks and carrot sticks to complete the classic buffalo experience and provide a refreshing crunch between bites. Enjoy these spicy, crispy delights while they’re still warm!
Explore More Delicious Buffalo Chicken Recipes
Can’t get enough of that irresistible buffalo chicken flavor? We’ve got you covered! Here are some more of our favorite recipes featuring the iconic spicy taste:
- Buffalo Chicken Dip: The classic appetizer that inspired these egg rolls!
- Buffalo Chicken Pasta: A hearty and flavorful main dish.
- Buffalo Chicken Tenders: Perfect for a lighter meal or another easy appetizer.
- Buffalo Chicken Casserole: A comforting family dinner.
- Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: The ultimate comfort food fusion.
I love to bake and cook and share my kitchen experience with all of you! Remembering to come back each day can be tough, that’s why I offer a convenient newsletter every time a new recipe posts. Simply subscribe and start receiving your free daily recipes!
Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 18 ounces cooked shredded chicken
- ½ cup sliced green onions
- 2 ounces cream cheese well softened
- ⅓ cup ranch dressing
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 Tablespoons butter very well softened
- ½ cup hot sauce such as Frank’s Red Hot
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- oil for frying. canola, peanut, or vegetable oil
Things You’ll Need
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Mini food chopper
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Mixing bowls
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Cookie scoop or large spoon
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Large deep sided skillet
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Tongs
Before You Begin
- For the crispiest egg rolls, ensure your frying oil is adequately hot (around 350°F / 175°C). This allows the wrapper to crisp quickly without absorbing too much oil.
- The secret to a smooth, lump-free filling is thoroughly softened cream cheese. Cut it into cubes and let it sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours until no longer chilled. This ensures it blends perfectly with other ingredients.
- This recipe uses approximately 18 ounces of cooked shredded chicken. You can achieve this by cooking and shredding 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, or by opting for the convenience of a store-bought rotisserie chicken.
- Keep egg roll wrappers covered with a damp cloth while you work to prevent them from drying out, which can lead to cracking.
Instructions
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In a mini food chopper or food processor, combine all ingredients for the filling (cooked shredded chicken, green onions, softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, cheddar cheese, softened butter, hot sauce, onion powder, garlic salt, and black pepper). Pulse until well combined and chunky, ensuring not to over-process into a paste. Scrape down the sides as needed. Transfer the mixture to a bowl.
TIP – For best results, consider layering half the ingredients into the chopper first, blending them briefly, then adding the remaining ingredients and continuing to blend until everything is evenly combined.
18 ounces cooked shredded chicken, 1/2 cup sliced green onions, 2 ounces cream cheese, 1/3 cup ranch dressing, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 2 Tablespoons butter, 1/2 cup hot sauce, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper -
Lay out egg roll wrappers on a clean, flat work surface, keeping unused wrappers covered with a damp cloth.12 egg roll wrappers
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Place a scoop of the buffalo chicken mixture into the center of each egg roll wrapper. Be careful not to overfill.
TIP – For consistent egg roll sizes, weigh the total filling and divide by 12 to ensure even distribution among each wrapper.
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Using your finger, lightly moisten all four edges of the egg roll wrapper with water to prepare for sealing.
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Fold the corner closest to you over the filling, tucking it snugly. Bring the two side corners inwards, overlapping them slightly. Then, tightly roll the wrapper away from you, tucking in the filling as you go. Moisten the far corners with water and complete the roll to seal securely.
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Repeat this folding and rolling process for all remaining egg rolls. Place finished egg rolls on a separate surface, ensuring they do not touch.
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Pour cooking oil into a large, deep-sided skillet to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
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Carefully place a few egg rolls (without overcrowding) into the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, then use tongs to turn them over and fry the other side until evenly browned.
If an egg roll tries to turn itself over again due to trapped air, gently hold it in place with tongs for a moment until it settles.
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Once fried, remove the egg rolls to a wire rack positioned over paper towels. This allows excess oil to drain away, maintaining their crispiness. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Expert Tips & FAQs
- Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat best in an air fryer or oven for maximum crispiness; microwaves will make them soft.
- These egg rolls freeze beautifully, both before and after frying. To freeze uncooked, flash-freeze on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. To freeze cooked, cool completely before bagging. Freeze for up to 2 months. No need to thaw before cooking or reheating from frozen.
- For alternative cooking methods, you can air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 mins, flipping halfway, or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 mins, also flipping halfway, after lightly brushing with oil.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.