Save
These crispy chicken Greggs egg rolls bring together shredded chicken, ham, and melted cheese inside golden, crunchy wrappers for an irresistible snack or party treat. They offer a delightful combination of savory flavors with a satisfying crunch that keeps everyone coming back for more.
I first made these for a casual get’together, and they vanished within minutes. Now they’re my go-to recipe whenever friends come over.
Ingredients
- Shredded cooked chicken breast: for a tender and protein-packed filling using fresh roasted or rotisserie chicken works best
- Diced cooked ham: adds a smoky, savory note that complements the chicken
- Cream cheese: creates a creamy texture that binds everything together
- Grated mature cheddar cheese: brings sharpness and depth of flavor choosing aged cheddar elevates the taste
- Chopped fresh parsley: for a pop of herbaceous freshness flat-leaf parsley is most flavorful
- Garlic powder: intensifies the savory taste without overpowering
- Onion powder: adds a subtle sweetness and complexity
- Black pepper and salt: to enhance all the flavors freshly cracked black pepper is ideal
- Egg roll wrappers: provide the crisp, golden exterior look for fresh wrappers in the refrigerated section for best results
- One large egg: beaten to seal the rolls securely during frying
- Vegetable oil: chosen for its neutral flavor and high smoke point, perfect for deep frying
Instructions
- Scoop and mix the filling:
- Combine the shredded chicken, diced ham, softened cream cheese, grated mature cheddar, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt in a large bowl. Mix everything thoroughly until well incorporated into a creamy, evenly seasoned filling.
- Prepare the wrappers:
- Place an egg roll wrapper on a clean flat surface with one corner pointing toward you. This diamond shape helps with folding neatly around the filling.
- Fill and roll the egg rolls:
- Spoon approximately two tablespoons of the prepared filling into the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling first, then tuck both sides inward like an envelope to encase the filling tightly. Roll the wrapper upward to enclose everything firmly. Brush a little beaten egg on the top corner to seal the roll securely so it doesn’t open during frying. Repeat this process for all the wrappers and filling until you have a full batch ready.
- Heat the oil for frying:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a sturdy large pot to around 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 180 degrees Celsius. Maintaining this temperature helps achieve that perfect golden crisp exterior without soaking up excess oil.
- Fry the egg rolls:
- Carefully add the egg rolls in batches to avoid overcrowding the oil, which would lower the temperature and make the rolls greasy. Fry each batch for three to four minutes, turning occasionally so all sides become evenly golden brown and crisp. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to transfer the fried rolls onto paper towels to drain off any excess oil.
- Serve hot:
- Egg rolls are best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serve them with creamy dipping sauces, ketchup, or your favorite condiments to add an extra layer of flavor.
My favorite ingredient is the mature cheddar cheese which adds a nice sharp kick that balances the richness of cream cheese and ham. I remember making these for a family game night and everyone loved the warm gooey cheese combined with the crunchy shell. These rolls always spark laughter and great conversation.
Storage Tips
If you want to store leftover egg rolls, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer instead of the microwave to keep the wrappers crispy. You can also freeze uncooked rolls by placing them on a baking sheet until solid, then transferring them to a freezer bag for up to two months. Cook from frozen by increasing frying time slightly.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative, and use a dairy-free shredded cheese or omit cheese entirely. Swap the cooked ham with cooked bacon or turkey for a different smoky flavor. You can substitute parsley with fresh cilantro or chives if you prefer a change in herbal notes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a tangy sweet chili sauce, ranch dressing, or classic ketchup for dipping. Pair with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the rolls. Offer alongside a hot bowl of soup for a comforting meal combination.
Seasonal Adaptations
Add finely chopped roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for a summer twist. Include a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an autumn-inspired spicy version. In winter months, add cooked spinach or kale finely chopped to boost the nutrition and color.
I learned the hard way: always brush enough egg on the wrapper edges to seal the rolls securely, or you risk losing your filling in the hot oil. Use tongs to turn the egg rolls gently during frying to avoid bursting the wrappers.
FAQs about Recipes
- → What cheese types are used in the filling?
Mature cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese are combined to create a rich, creamy texture in the filling.
- → How do you seal the egg rolls to prevent leaking?
Brush beaten egg onto the top corner of the wrapper to securely seal the folds and keep the filling contained during frying.
- → What oil temperature is best for frying egg rolls?
Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (180°C) to achieve a perfectly crispy and golden exterior when frying.
- → Can the filling be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, the chicken and ham mixture can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until ready to wrap and fry.
- → What seasonings enhance the filling’s flavor?
Garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and fresh parsley add savory depth and freshness to the filling.
- → Are these egg rolls suitable for parties?
Absolutely, their crispy texture and flavorful filling make them ideal as bite-sized snacks for gatherings.