If you’re looking for a fun, easy, and crowd-pleasing appetizer, these Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are an absolute must-try. They pack bold flavors, crispy exteriors, and creamy, spicy fillings. Best of all, they’re made without excess oil, thanks to the magic of the air fryer! Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, a casual dinner, or a party, these egg rolls are guaranteed to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy Without the Guilt
One of the standout features of this recipe is the air fryer. It gives the egg rolls that perfect crispy exterior without the need for deep frying. Say goodbye to excess oil, and enjoy the same texture with a healthier twist.
Bold Flavors
The combination of tangy buffalo sauce, creamy dressing, and savory chicken creates an irresistible filling. The addition of shredded cheese gives it an indulgent gooey center that pairs perfectly with the crispy wrapper.
Quick & Easy
Ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe requires minimal prep and cleanup, making it perfect for busy nights when you’re craving a flavorful snack or appetizer.
Customizable
You can adjust the spice level of these egg rolls by adding more or less buffalo sauce. Plus, feel free to swap ingredients to suit your taste, whether that means going vegetarian or experimenting with different dipping sauces.
Crowd-Pleasing
Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a victory on game day, or preparing a casual dinner, these egg rolls are always a crowd favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe makes 8–10 egg rolls, and here’s everything you’ll need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (adjust according to your preferred spice level)
- 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing (for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional, for extra gooeyness)
- 1/4 cup diced celery (adds crunch and balances the buffalo flavor)
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced (optional, for freshness)
For Assembly:
- 8–10 egg roll wrappers
- 1 tablespoon water (to seal the wrappers)
For Serving:
- Extra buffalo sauce (for dipping)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for dipping)
- Celery sticks and carrot sticks (optional, for a classic buffalo wing-inspired presentation)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating these air fryer buffalo chicken egg rolls is quick and easy! Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. This ensures the egg rolls cook evenly and achieve that crispy golden-brown texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ranch or blue cheese dressing, shredded cheese (if using), diced celery, and green onions. Stir everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, positioning it in a diamond shape. Place about 2–3 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the wrapper.
Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides. Roll it tightly, sealing the top corner with a dab of water. Repeat this process for the remaining wrappers and filling.
Step 4: Cook in the Air Fryer
Lightly spray the assembled egg rolls with cooking oil. Avocado oil or olive oil works well for this purpose. Arrange the egg rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each roll for optimal airflow.
Cook the egg rolls at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy. The exact cooking time might vary slightly depending on your air fryer model, so keep an eye on them.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the egg rolls hot and fresh from the air fryer with extra buffalo sauce, ranch, or blue cheese dressing for dipping. For a complete meal or appetizer, add celery and carrot sticks on the side for that classic buffalo wing experience.
Why This Recipe Works
Buffalo Flavor Magic
Buffalo sauce is the star of this dish, bringing a perfect balance of heat and tang. When combined with creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing and shredded chicken, it creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will love.
Air Fryer Crispiness
The air fryer gives these egg rolls that crispy exterior we all crave, but without the heavy oiliness of deep frying. The circulating hot air ensures the egg rolls cook evenly, while the result is that perfect crunch with every bite.
Cheese Pull Factor
If you add shredded cheese to the filling, it creates a gooey, cheesy center that’s hard to resist. It complements the buffalo sauce perfectly, adding a rich and indulgent element to each roll.
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with your egg rolls by trying out one or more of these fun variations:
Spice Level
Adjust the spiciness of your egg rolls by using mild or extra-hot buffalo sauce, depending on your heat preference. You can even experiment with different types of hot sauces to achieve a flavor that suits your taste.
Vegetarian Option
Substitute the chicken with shredded jackfruit, which has a similar texture, or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian alternative. Both options soak up the buffalo sauce beautifully.
Gluten-Free Option
To make these egg rolls gluten-free, use gluten-free egg roll wrappers. Be sure to check that all the other ingredients, such as buffalo sauce and dressing, are gluten-free.
Extra Veggies
For an added nutritional boost, you can toss in shredded carrots, cabbage, or spinach into the filling. These veggies will add crunch and freshness to balance the richness of the buffalo sauce.
Asian Twist
For an international flavor twist, swap out the buffalo sauce for sweet chili sauce. Add some shredded cabbage and soy sauce for a tasty Asian-inspired egg roll.
Tips for Success
Seal Tightly
Make sure to seal the egg rolls tightly. If the wrappers aren’t sealed well, the filling may leak out during cooking, and the egg rolls may lose their shape.
Don’t Overfill
Be careful not to overfill the wrappers. Too much filling can make the egg rolls difficult to roll tightly and may cause the filling to spill out. Aim for just enough filling to create a balanced, bite-sized snack.
Storage
Leftover egg rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat and preserve their crispy texture, place them back in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
Serving Suggestions
These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are perfect for any occasion, and here are some great ways to serve them:
Game Day Staple
Serve the egg rolls alongside sliders, nachos, and wings for the ultimate sports feast. They’re a perfect addition to your game day spread!
Romantic Touch
For a more refined presentation, plate each egg roll individually and drizzle with buffalo sauce. Sprinkle a few fresh green onions on top for an elegant touch.
Party Platter
Arrange the egg rolls on a serving tray, surrounded by dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, and extra buffalo sauce. Add fresh veggies like celery and carrot sticks for variety and color.
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are a flavorful and healthier alternative to deep-fried appetizers. With their crispy exterior, creamy filling, and bold buffalo flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion—from casual dinners to special celebrations. Whether you’re looking to indulge or make a healthier choice, these egg rolls deliver both taste and texture in every bite.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for the filling? Yes! Rotisserie chicken is an excellent choice for this recipe. It saves time and adds great flavor to the filling.
Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the egg rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or parchment paper to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze these egg rolls? Absolutely! To freeze, place the assembled egg rolls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. To cook from frozen, add an extra 3-5 minutes to the cooking time in the air fryer.
How can I adjust the heat level? Simply adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your spice preference. If you like it milder, use less buffalo sauce or opt for a mild variety. For extra heat, use a hotter sauce or add some chili flakes.