Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls

Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are a party favorite and an easy weeknight treat that combines all the beloved flavors of buffalo wings into a crispy hand-held bite using the magic of the air fryer. I started making these when I wanted an appetizer that felt game day worthy but was quick enough for weeknights and not deep-fried. Every batch disappears before I get a second helping.

I remember the first time I tried making these for my book club and everyone kept asking for the recipe before they even finished their first roll. The air fryer makes the rolls so shatteringly crisp without the need for gallons of oil.

Ingredients

• Cooked shredded chicken: brings protein and soaks up all the spicy sauce flavors. Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or freshly poached for extra moisture
• Buffalo sauce: gives the signature zippy flavor. Look for a version that is tangy and slightly buttery without artificial colors
• Shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella: keeps the filling creamy and helps everything stick together. Use extra sharp cheddar for a punchier flavor
• Green onions chopped: add a fresh pop and subtle oniony bite. Choose bunches with bright green tops and firm white roots
• Egg roll wrappers: create the perfect crispy shell. Look for wrappers in the refrigerated section and choose ones with no cracks or dryness
• Cooking spray: ensures the egg rolls crisp up without extra grease. Go for an oil spray with a neutral flavor and no propellants if possible

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix the Filling:

Combine the shredded chicken buffalo sauce shredded cheese and green onions in a large mixing bowl. Stir gently so everything is evenly coated and cheesy but the chicken stays tender and not smashed

Fill and Roll the Egg Rolls:

Take an egg roll wrapper and lay it on a flat surface with the point facing you. Spoon about two tablespoons of the filling onto the center. Fold the bottom corner up over the filling then tuck in both sides and roll tightly to enclose. Moisten the final edge with water so it seals and nothing leaks out during air frying

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Set your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Let it heat up fully before adding the egg rolls. This ensures they start in a hot environment for the best crisp

Prepare for Cooking:

Arrange the egg rolls in a single layer in the basket. Gently spritz each roll with cooking spray to help them brown and achieve that signature crunch

Air Fry to Crispy Perfection:

Cook the egg rolls for about twelve minutes flipping them at the halfway mark. They should finish golden on all sides and audibly crisp when tapped

Serve Up:

Let the egg rolls rest for a minute before serving. Offer with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping and maybe a side of crunchy celery sticks

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Honestly my favorite part is the sharp cheddar in the filling it melts so beautifully and binds the spicy chicken together with gooey pockets in every bite. Once during a family game night the platter went so fast we had to air fry a second batch mid-game.

Storage Tips

Once cooled leftover egg rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crunch or microwave for softer rolls. For best long-term storage you can freeze uncooked filled rolls or already cooked ones. Lay them flat on a tray to freeze individually then transfer to a zipper bag to save space.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a leaner option ground turkey or even shredded rotisserie turkey works perfectly instead of chicken. To go vegetarian use pre-cooked plant-based crumbles tossed in buffalo sauce. If you run out of green onions try chives or a small scoop of finely diced red onion for that same burst of freshness. Cheddar and mozzarella play well together or you can use pepper jack for extra spice.

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Serving Suggestions

These egg rolls make a fantastic appetizer with ranch or blue cheese dip. Slice on the diagonal for easy sharing. For a meal serve with crisp carrot and celery sticks or pile them over a fresh salad for a buffalo twist. At parties I love topping a platter with extra green onions or a drizzle of buffalo sauce for color and drama.

Cultural and Historical Context

Buffalo chicken itself is a classic American comfort food originally from Buffalo New York. Turning it into egg rolls is a fun twist that merges Chinese American takeout classics with game day flavors. The air fryer updates the recipe for modern kitchens making once indulgent bar food accessible for weeknight dinners or wholesome snacking.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different meats in the filling?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or vegetarian meat alternatives both work well for a lighter or meat-free variation.

→ How do I seal the egg roll wrappers?

Moisten the edge of the wrapper with a little water before rolling. This helps hold the shape and prevents unrolling during cooking.

→ How can I keep the egg rolls crispy?

Lightly spray the rolls with cooking spray before air frying. Arrange them in a single layer to allow hot air circulation all around.

→ What dipping sauces pair well?

Ranch and blue cheese dressings complement the spicy filling. Serve warm, so the interior stays gooey.

→ Can these be made in advance?

Yes. Prepare and store uncooked rolls in the fridge for up to a day, or freeze for longer storage. Cook from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the air frying time.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store cooked egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to two months.