Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! I’m so excited to share one of my absolute favorite snacks that’s sure to blow your taste buds away: Baked Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls! These little bundles of joy are not only deliciously crispy on the outside, but they are also packed with that spicy, tangy flavor we all love about buffalo chicken.
I fell in love with this recipe during a Super Bowl party. I had just finished devouring way too many buffalo wings and was searching for a snack that would use up leftover chicken. That’s when I stumbled upon this fantastic idea to combine my two favorites: crispy egg rolls and spicy buffalo chicken! Trust me, these egg rolls are perfect for movie nights, game days, or just any day that could use a bit of excitement. So without further ado, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of making these fabulous treats!
What’s in Baked Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls?
Now, let me break down the ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering that crunchy, spicy goodness:
Cooked Chicken: Shredded, cooked chicken forms the base of the filling. It’s perfect for using up leftovers or rotisserie chicken from the store for convenience.
Buffalo Sauce: This is where the magic happens! The buffalo sauce gives the egg rolls a fiery and tangy kick. I tend to use Frank’s RedHot, but feel free to choose your favorite brand – just adjust the quantity based on how much heat you can handle!
Shredded Carrots: These provide a wonderful crunch and a touch of sweetness that balances the heat of the buffalo sauce.
Cream Cheese: This creamy goodness adds richness to the filling, making it super decadent. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing!
Blue Cheese Crumbles: Okay, this is optional, but if you’re a blue cheese lover like me, it’s an absolute game changer! It adds a delicious tang that complements the buffalo flavors perfectly.
Green Onions: A sprinkle of these adds freshness and flavor. Plus, they look pretty too!
Egg Roll Wrappers: These are the magic envelopes that hold all that goodness. You can find them in the refrigerated section of your grocery store.
Cooking Spray or Olive Oil: A light coat helps achieve that golden-brown, crispy exterior.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
Celery and Carrot Sticks: These are perfect for serving alongside the egg rolls and add a healthy crunch!
Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: For dipping, of course! It’s a must-have for any buffalo-flavored dish.
Is Baked Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls Good for You?
Let’s be real – these egg rolls are definitely a delicious indulgence, but they also pack a nutritious punch:
Chicken: A fantastic source of lean protein, which is great for muscle recovery and will keep you feeling full longer.
Carrots: Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, these little orange wonders support both your vision and immune system.
Cream Cheese: While it adds creaminess, keep in mind it is high in fat, so moderation is key.
Blue Cheese: Fully loaded with calcium and some healthy fats, but if you’re watching your cholesterol, skip it.
Overall, these baked egg rolls are a fun way to get some protein and veggies in your snack game while satisfying your cravings!
Ingredients List
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
– 12 egg roll wrappers
– Cooking spray or olive oil for brushing
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Celery sticks and carrot sticks for serving
– Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
**Yields:** About 12 egg rolls, depending on how generously you fill them!
How to Make Baked Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls?
Alright, let’s get cookin’! Here’s how I make these scrumptious egg rolls:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help your egg rolls crisp up beautifully.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, shredded carrots, cream cheese, blue cheese crumbles (if using), and chopped green onions. Mix it up until everything is well combined, and don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your liking!
3. Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean, flat surface, with a corner pointing toward you. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the bottom third of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly to seal the egg roll. Moisten the top corner with a little water to secure it – we want no egg roll explosions in the oven!
5. Place the finished egg rolls seam side down on the lined baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush the tops with cooking spray or olive oil.
6. Bake those beauties in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Be sure to flip them halfway through for even crispiness!
7. Serve the baked buffalo chicken egg rolls hot out of the oven with crunchy celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Extra Tidbits for Egg Roll Perfection
I can’t resist sharing my extra tips for egg roll magic:
– **Gather the Crew:** This recipe is perfect for gathering a group. You can have everyone help in rolling – it’s fun and a great way to bond.
– **Heat Level:** If you want more heat, mix in some diced jalapeños or use a hotter buffalo sauce.
– **Freezer Friend:** You can freeze these egg rolls before baking. Just freeze them individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
– **Any Dipping Sauce Works:** Don’t feel limited to just ranch or blue cheese. Any sauce you enjoy can work – think honey mustard or sriracha mayo!
I hope you give these Baked Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls a try! They’re super easy to make and even more fun to eat. Feel free to let me know how they turn out or any variations you tried! So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your friends (and yourself!) with these delicious bites. Happy cooking!
