These crispy air fryer spring rolls are a tasty treat! Filled with fresh veggies or your choice of meat, they’re wrapped tightly and cooked to golden perfection without all the oil.
Making spring rolls in the air fryer is a game changer! I love how quickly they come out crispy and hot, just like at your favorite restaurant. Perfect for snacks or fun dinners! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spring Roll Wrappers: Look for rice paper or traditional wheat-based wrappers. If you can’t find them, use lettuce leaves for a low-carb option! They won’t be as crispy, but still tasty.
Protein: I love using shredded chicken, but feel free to swap it with cooked pork, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian version. Leftover meats work great too!
Cabbage: Shredded green cabbage gives a nice crunch. You could also use napa cabbage or even coleslaw mix for quick prep.
Bell Peppers: Thinly sliced bell peppers add color and sweetness. If you don’t have them, just leave them out or replace them with diced mushrooms for a different flavor.
Cilantro: This adds freshness, but if you’re not a fan, try fresh basil or parsley instead. Likewise, you can skip it altogether!
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a robust flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. Just use about 1/4 teaspoon instead.
How Can You Roll Perfect Spring Rolls?
Getting your spring rolls rolled tightly makes all the difference in achieving that crispy texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a spring roll wrapper laid out in a diamond shape.
- Scoop 2-3 tablespoons of filling at the closest corner to you.
- Fold the corner over the filling, ensuring it’s snug.
- Fold in the sides, which keeps everything neat inside.
- Continue rolling towards the opposite corner while keeping it tight. Wet the edge to seal.
This technique helps keep the filling in and ensures a beautiful presentation. Practice makes perfect!
How to Make Air Fryer Spring Rolls?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 12 spring roll wrappers
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (or desired protein like pork, shrimp, or tofu)
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced bell peppers (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
For Cooking:
- Cooking spray or oil mist for air fryer
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and 12 minutes to cook in the air fryer. So, you’ll have delicious homemade spring rolls ready in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cabbage, carrots, green onions, bell peppers (if using), garlic, cilantro (if using), soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and ground black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. This mixture is the heart of your spring rolls and will give them lots of flavor!
2. Assemble the Spring Rolls:
Take one spring roll wrapper and lay it down in front of you in a diamond shape, with one corner pointing towards you. Scoop about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling and place it near the corner closest to you. Keep the filling compact. Now, fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the two side corners. Finally, roll it tightly towards the opposite corner, and dab a bit of water on the edge to seal it closed. Continue this process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
3. Cook the Spring Rolls:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. While it’s preheating, lightly spray or brush the spring rolls with cooking spray or a little oil to help them crisp up. Place the spring rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve & Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully remove the spring rolls and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra chopped green onions. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, like sweet chili sauce or soy sauce. Enjoy your crispy, healthier air-fried spring rolls!
Can I Make These Spring Rolls Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the shredded chicken with cooked tofu or additional vegetables. You can use mushrooms, zucchini, or any other favorite veggies to create a flavorful filling.
How Can I Store Leftover Spring Rolls?
Store any leftover spring rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to make them crispy again.
Can I Freeze Uncooked Spring Rolls?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked spring rolls! Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to an airtight freezer bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just cook them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
What Dipping Sauces Can I Serve With These Spring Rolls?
Spring rolls are delicious with various dipping sauces! Sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or a spicy sriracha-mayo mix are all great options. Get creative and try different sauces to find your favorite pair!
