Air Fryer Copycat Panda Express Chicken Egg Rolls

I’ve always been a fan of Panda Express’s Chicken egg rolls. The crunch and savory filling are amazing. I wanted a healthier version to make at home.

That’s when I found out about making egg rolls in an air fryer. It’s a copycat recipe that tastes just like the original. The egg rolls are crispy, filled with chicken, cabbage, and carrots. They’re also lighter and less oily, making them a guilt-free snack.

Key Takeaways

Homemade egg rolls are healthier and customizable.
Air frying reduces oil use by 60% compared to deep-frying.
Each serving saves 400-600 calories versus restaurant versions.
Preparation and cooking take just 50 minutes total.
Egg rolls can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing quality.

Why Make Homemade Chicken Egg Rolls

Making your own chicken egg rolls at home is rewarding. You get to enjoy a delicious snack and control the ingredients. This easy egg roll recipe is definitely worth trying.

Cost-Effective Alternative to Takeout

Ordering Asian egg rolls from restaurants can be expensive. Making them at home saves money and still tastes great. A batch can feed many, making it perfect for gatherings or meal prep.

Healthier Air Fryer Version

Traditional egg rolls are deep-fried, which is high in calories. Using an air fryer makes them lighter and crisper. It’s a guilt-free way to enjoy your favorite snack.

Customization Options

One great thing about making homemade egg rolls is you can customize them. You can pick your favorite protein, like chicken, and add your favorite veggies. This way, everyone can enjoy what they like.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Egg Rolls

To make savory egg rolls, you need the right ingredients. Each one is crucial for the perfect flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken breast: Lean and flavorful, it’s the protein base of your filling.
Cabbage and carrots: These add crunch and a touch of sweetness.
Onion and garlic: Essential for building depth of flavor.
Soy sauce and sesame oil: These bring umami and a hint of nuttiness.
Egg roll wrappers: The crispy outer layer that holds everything together.

Choosing fresh ingredients is important. Go for crisp veggies and top-notch chicken. For an authentic taste, use traditional egg roll wrappers. They are thinner and crispier than spring roll wrappers. With these ingredients, you’re ready to make delicious homemade egg rolls.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

Making baked egg rolls at home is easier with the right tools. The air fryer is key, but you’ll also need a few more items. Here’s what you’ll need to start.

Air Fryer Specifications

For the best results, pick an air fryer with a large basket and high wattage. This ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior. Look for models with adjustable temperature settings for better control.

Additional Tools Required

A sharp knife for chopping vegetables
A sturdy cutting board
A mixing bowl for combining ingredients

Optional Equipment

A pastry brush is handy for applying oil to the egg roll wrappers. A mandoline slicer can also help with vegetable prep if you’re making a lot.

With these tools, you’re set to make delicious baked egg rolls. Now, let’s prepare the filling!

Preparing the Authentic Chicken Filling

The secret to great egg rolls is in the filling. I start by chopping the veggies and seasoning the mix. This way, every bite is full of flavor. Here’s how I do it:

Vegetable Preparation

I chop 1 cup of celery, 1/2 cup of carrots, and 1/2 cup of yellow onion. I also add 3/4 cup of crimini mushrooms and 8 ounces of bean sprouts. These ingredients give a nice mix of crunch and taste.

Seasoning the Mixture

To make it even tastier, I season the filling. I use 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 2 teaspoons of five-spice powder. A pinch of salt and freshly grated black pepper finish it off.

Cooking the Filling

I cook 1 pound of ground chicken in 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil until it’s done. Then, I add the chopped veggies and stir-fry until they’re tender. This makes a savory filling perfect for egg rolls.

1 pound ground chicken
1 cup celery
1/2 cup carrots
1/2 cup yellow onion
3/4 cup crimini mushrooms
8 ounces bean sprouts
3 cloves garlic
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 teaspoons five-spice powder

Master Guide to Rolling Perfect Egg Rolls

Rolling homemade egg rolls is an art. It makes sure your egg rolls are crispy and perfect. The trick is to handle the wrappers gently, place the filling right, and seal the edges well. Here’s how to get it right.

Begin by placing an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Put about 1 heaping tablespoon of filling in the center. Make sure it’s spread out evenly. Don’t overfill, as it makes rolling hard and can break during cooking.

Fold the bottom corner over the filling, tucking it snugly.
Fold the left and right corners toward the center, creating an envelope shape.
Roll the wrapper tightly upward, sealing the top corner with a dab of water or egg wash.

To get extra crispy egg rolls, seal the edges well. This stops oil from getting in during frying. If you’re making a lot, cover the rolled egg rolls with a damp cloth. This keeps them moist. With these steps, your homemade egg rolls will be perfectly rolled and ready for the air fryer or deep fryer.

Air Fryer Cooking Techniques for Crispy Chicken Egg Rolls

Getting crispy Asian egg rolls is easy with an air fryer. This recipe makes them golden and crunchy every time. Let’s explore the key techniques for air fryer cooking.

Temperature Settings

For the best results, set your air fryer to 400°F. This high temperature ensures the egg rolls cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior. Preheating the air fryer for a few minutes can also help achieve consistent results.

Timing Guidelines

Cook the egg rolls for 12 minutes total, flipping them halfway through. This ensures both sides are evenly browned and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the basket to allow proper air circulation.

Batch Cooking Tips

If you’re making a large batch, cook the egg rolls in smaller groups. Keep the cooked ones warm in the oven at 200°F while you finish the rest. Use a light spray of no-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and enhance crispiness.

With these simple air fryer techniques, you’ll have restaurant-quality Asian egg rolls right at home. Experiment with fillings and enjoy this easy egg roll recipe with your favorite dipping sauces!

Dipping Sauce Recommendations

Choosing the right dipping sauce can make your egg rolls even better. A good sauce adds flavor and texture. Here are three great options that go well with authentic egg rolls.

Sweet Chili Sauce

This sauce is loved by many. It’s made with chili, sugar, vinegar, and garlic. It’s ready in just 5 minutes! It’s perfect for those who like a mix of sweet and spicy.

Classic Sweet and Sour

Sweet and sour sauce is a classic choice. It’s made with pineapple juice, vinegar, and sugar. It’s easy to make and goes great with egg rolls. It’s a must-try for traditional flavors.

Peanut Sauce Option

Peanut sauce adds a rich, nutty taste. It’s made with peanut butter, soy sauce, and a bit of Sriracha. It’s creamy and adds depth to your egg rolls. It’s great for those who like bold flavors.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	36 kcal
Carbohydrates	1 g
Protein	1 g
Fat	3 g
Sodium	543 mg

Try out these sauces to find your favorite for authentic egg rolls. Each one adds something special to your meal, making it more enjoyable.

Storage and Reheating Methods

Keeping your baked egg rolls fresh is key. Let them cool down completely before storing. Then, put them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet first. Then, move them to a freezer-safe bag. They can stay good for up to 2 months this way.

Reheating your egg rolls is easy and keeps them crispy. Use the air fryer at 350°F for 1-4 minutes, depending on size. Or, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

But, avoid microwaving unless you’re in a rush. It can make them soggy. If microwaving, use a trivet and heat in short bursts.

Refrigerator storage: Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer storage: Up to 2 months in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: Air fryer or oven for best results.

Follow these tips to enjoy your baked egg rolls as if they were just made. They’re perfect for a quick snack or side dish anytime!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making flavorful egg rolls at home can be rewarding, but a few common mistakes can ruin the experience. Let’s dive into the most frequent issues and how to avoid them for perfect results every time.

Filling Issues

Overfilling is a common problem. Using more than 1-2 tablespoons of filling per wrapper can lead to uneven cooking. The outside may crisp up while the inside stays undercooked. Draining vegetables for at least an hour is crucial to reduce moisture and prevent sogginess. Fresh, high-quality meat also ensures the filling stays flavorful.

Rolling Problems

Poor wrapping can cause egg rolls to fall apart during frying. To avoid this, ensure the edges are sealed tightly. Use a small amount of water or egg wash to help the wrapper stick. Rolling too loosely can also lead to leaks, so keep the wrapper snug around the filling.

Cooking Errors

Using the wrong oil or temperature can ruin your flavorful egg rolls. Maintain the oil temperature between 350-375°F for even cooking. Oils with high smoke points, like vegetable or peanut oil, are ideal. After frying, drain the egg rolls on a wire rack or paper towels to prevent sogginess.

Use 1-2 tablespoons of filling per wrapper.
Seal edges tightly to prevent leaks.
Maintain oil temperature between 350-375°F.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll create flavorful egg rolls that are crispy, delicious, and perfectly cooked every time.

Conclusion: Mastering Your Homemade Egg Rolls

Making Chicken Egg Rolls at home is a fun and rewarding experience. It combines creativity with tradition. You can make them crispy or try different fillings, making it a fun process.

Homemade egg rolls let you choose the ingredients. This means you can make them healthier and tastier than takeout. It’s a great way to enjoy a meal that’s both good for you and delicious.

Learning to roll and cook egg rolls takes time and practice. But it’s worth it. You can make it a fun activity with family or friends. Together, you can prepare the filling and learn how to make them crispy in the air fryer.

Don’t get discouraged if it’s not perfect at first. With a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll make egg rolls that are just as good as your favorite takeout. So, get your ingredients ready, turn on your air fryer, and start making delicious homemade egg rolls.

FAQ

What are the benefits of making homemade chicken egg rolls compared to buying them from a restaurant or store?

Making homemade chicken egg rolls is cheaper and healthier. You can pick your own filling and skip deep-frying by using an air fryer.

What are the essential ingredients needed to make perfect egg rolls?

For perfect egg rolls, you need chicken, cabbage, carrots, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and egg roll wrappers. Fresh, quality ingredients are key for the best taste and texture.

What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make homemade egg rolls?

You’ll need an air fryer for a crispy outside without deep-frying. Also, a cutting board, knife, and a pastry brush for sealing are helpful.

How do I prepare the authentic chicken filling for the egg rolls?

To make the chicken filling, cook the chicken, chop veggies, and mix in seasonings. Cooking the filling right and balancing flavors are important for great egg rolls.

What are the steps to roll perfect egg rolls?

Rolling egg rolls right means handling wrappers gently, placing filling in the center, and sealing edges. Getting the rolling technique right is crucial for keeping the shape during cooking.

What air fryer cooking techniques are required to achieve crispy chicken egg rolls?

To get crispy egg rolls in the air fryer, focus on temperature, cooking time, and batch tips. Using the right air fryer techniques is key for a crispy outside.

What dipping sauces are recommended to serve with the egg rolls?

Try sweet chili sauce, sweet and sour sauce, or peanut sauce with your egg rolls. These sauces add flavor and texture.

How should I store and reheat the homemade egg rolls?

Store egg rolls in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to keep them crispy and fresh.

What are the common mistakes to avoid when making homemade egg rolls?

Avoid overfilling, not sealing edges well, and undercooking. Focus on these details for perfect homemade egg rolls.