There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a perfectly crispy egg roll, especially when it’s filled with a savory, flavorful mixture. These homemade egg rolls bring all the deliciousness of your favorite Chinese takeout right into your kitchen. With a filling of tender shredded chicken and crunchy coleslaw, these egg rolls are a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a snack, or even as part of a main meal, these egg rolls are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make, so you can enjoy them anytime you’re craving that takeout experience without leaving home.
Prepare the Filling: Start by heating 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the tri-color coleslaw mix to the pan. Sauté the coleslaw for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes tender and slightly wilted. The mixture should be soft but still retain some crunch, giving your egg rolls the perfect texture.
Add the Chicken: After the coleslaw has softened, add the cooked and shredded chicken breasts to the saucepan. Sauté the mixture for another 2-3 minutes, stirring to combine the chicken with the coleslaw. Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste. The chicken adds heartiness to the egg rolls, while the coleslaw provides a fresh, crunchy contrast.
Assemble the Egg Rolls: To assemble the egg rolls, place an egg roll wrapper on a clean, dry surface with one corner pointing toward you, so it looks like a diamond. Spoon about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the chicken and coleslaw mixture horizontally across the center of the wrapper. Fold the left and right corners of the wrapper over the filling, then roll the wrapper tightly from the bottom up, enclosing the filling completely. Use a little water to moisten the top corner of the wrapper and seal it shut. Repeat this process until all the wrappers are filled.
Fry the Egg Rolls: In a medium frying pan, heat about 3/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350–375°F. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of wrapper into the oil—it should sizzle immediately. Carefully place the egg rolls into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the egg rolls for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Drain and Serve: Once the egg rolls are cooked, use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This step ensures that your egg rolls remain crispy and not greasy. Serve the egg rolls warm, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, or spicy mustard.
One of the great things about homemade egg rolls is that they are highly customizable. If you want to add more flavor or variety, try mixing in some additional ingredients like finely chopped mushrooms, bean sprouts, or green onions to the filling. For a spicier kick, you can add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili paste to the chicken and coleslaw mixture. And if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, simply swap out the chicken for tofu or more vegetables. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create egg rolls that perfectly suit your taste preferences.
Homemade egg rolls are a fantastic way to bring the taste of your favorite Chinese takeout to your own kitchen. With a filling of tender chicken and crunchy coleslaw, these egg rolls are a delightful mix of textures that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer at a party or enjoying them as a snack, they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, so you can whip up a batch whenever you’re in the mood for something delicious and crispy. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, and you have a dish that’s not only tasty but also fun to eat. Once you try these homemade egg rolls, you’ll find they quickly become a regular in your kitchen, enjoyed by family and friends alike.