Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls

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When I first made these Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls, I knew I’d stumbled on something crave-worthy. They’ve got that perfect combo of creamy, spicy, and crispy that hits every single note. The best part? You don’t even have to deep-fry them. The air fryer gives you that golden, crackly texture with barely any oil—and way less mess.

I’ve made these for game nights, easy weeknight dinners, and even meal prep, and they never disappoint. The spicy buffalo chicken filling, wrapped in a crunchy shell, is just the kind of satisfying bite that makes you go back for seconds… and maybe thirds. If you love the bold flavor of wings but want something handheld, crispy, and a little less messy—this is your new go-to.

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Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe

• Crispy without the grease – Thanks to the air fryer, you still get that satisfying crunch with a fraction of the oil.
• Buffalo flavor explosion – Spicy, tangy, and creamy from the chicken, hot sauce, and cheese combo.
• Perfect for parties – These are a hit at gatherings, tailgates, or potlucks. They disappear fast.
• Easy to prep ahead – You can assemble and freeze them before cooking.
• Customizable – Spice it up, tone it down, or make it vegetarian—totally up to you.

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What Kind of Wrapper Should I Use for Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls?

For the perfect texture and hold, I always go with traditional egg roll wrappers, usually found in the refrigerated section near tofu or produce. They’re thinner than spring roll wrappers, which makes them crisp up beautifully in the air fryer without becoming too chewy. Make sure they’re fresh—dry or cracking wrappers can be a headache to work with and won’t seal properly.

If you’re in a pinch, wonton wrappers could work for mini versions, but you’ll need to adjust the filling amount and cooking time. Avoid using rice paper—they’re better suited for fresh rolls and don’t crisp up the same way.

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Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be. Here are a few swap ideas depending on what you’ve got in your kitchen or dietary needs:

• Chicken – Use shredded rotisserie chicken for ease, or sub in cooked ground turkey, pulled pork, or even canned chicken.
• Buffalo Sauce – Frank’s RedHot is classic, but any hot sauce you love will work. For less heat, mix it with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
• Cheese – I usually use cream cheese for creaminess and a bit of shredded cheddar, but mozzarella or pepper jack also melt beautifully.
• Vegetarian – Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms, cauliflower rice, or a plant-based meat alternative.
• Egg Roll Wrappers – Gluten-free wrappers are available at specialty stores if needed.
• Add-ins – Feel free to mix in green onions, diced celery for crunch, or a spoonful of ranch to mellow the heat.

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Ingredients for This Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in building bold flavor and texture. Here’s why they matter:

• Shredded Cooked Chicken
  This is the base of the filling. It’s hearty, protein-packed, and soaks up that buffalo flavor beautifully. Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
• Buffalo Sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
  This gives the egg rolls their signature tangy heat. It binds the filling together and delivers that classic wing flavor in every bite.
• Cream Cheese
  Creamy and rich, it balances out the heat of the buffalo sauce while holding the mixture together.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese
  Adds a gooey, cheesy element with a sharp flavor that pairs perfectly with the spice.
• Green Onions
  These bring a fresh, mildly sharp bite that cuts through the richness of the filling.
• Egg Roll Wrappers
  The crispy outer shell that makes this dish what it is. Once air-fried, they turn golden and crackly.
• Olive Oil Spray
  A light spritz ensures the egg rolls get crispy and golden without deep frying.

Optional but Recommended:

• Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing (for dipping)
  Cool and creamy, perfect for dunking these spicy bites and rounding out the flavor.

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Step 1: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese (softened), shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Stir everything together until it’s evenly mixed and creamy. Taste and adjust with more buffalo sauce if you like it spicier.

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Step 2: Prep the Wrappers

Lay out your egg roll wrappers on a clean surface in a diamond shape (point facing toward you). Keep a small bowl of water nearby to seal the edges. If your wrappers are sticking together, lightly dust with flour or separate them carefully.

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Step 3: Fill and Roll

Spoon about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the buffalo chicken mixture onto the center of each wrapper. Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, then fold in the sides. Roll it tightly upward like a burrito, and use water to seal the top edge. Repeat for all wrappers.

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Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes. This step helps get the wrappers crispy right from the start.

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Step 5: Air Fry to Golden Perfection

Place the egg rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket—don’t overcrowd. Lightly spray them with olive oil spray on all sides. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crisp on the outside.

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Step 6: Serve Hot

Remove from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Trust me—first bite is magic.

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How Long to Cook the Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls

The sweet spot for perfectly crispy egg rolls in the air fryer is 8 to 10 minutes at 380°F (193°C). Flip them halfway through to ensure even browning on both sides. If you’re making a second batch, you may find the next set cooks a bit quicker since the air fryer will be fully heated.

If you’re cooking from frozen (yes, these freeze beautifully), add an extra 2 to 3 minutes. Just keep an eye on them around the 10-minute mark—they’ll be golden, blistered, and irresistibly crunchy when they’re ready.

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Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls

• Don’t overfill – Too much filling can cause the wrappers to tear or burst while cooking. Stick to 2 to 3 tablespoons per roll.
• Seal tightly – Use water to seal the edges well. Any loose folds can unravel in the air fryer.
• Preheat your air fryer – It helps the wrappers crisp up instantly instead of steaming.
• Don’t crowd the basket – Give them space! If the egg rolls touch, they won’t crisp evenly.
• Use oil spray – A light spritz of olive or avocado oil gives that perfect golden finish.
• Let them rest briefly – Allow the egg rolls to cool for a couple of minutes before serving to avoid burning your mouth on the molten center.
• Try parchment liners – If your air fryer tends to stick, a parchment liner with holes can help while still allowing air to circulate.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even the simplest recipes can trip you up—especially when working with delicate wrappers and high heat. Here’s what to keep in mind for success:

• Skipping the Preheat
  A cold air fryer = soggy egg rolls. Always preheat to get that initial blast of heat for crispiness.
• Overfilling the Wrapper
  It’s tempting, but overstuffing leads to splitting or uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amount.
• Not Sealing Properly
  If the edges aren’t wet and pressed firmly, your egg rolls might unravel in the fryer.
• Using Too Much Oil Spray
  A little goes a long way. Over-spraying can lead to greasy, uneven browning.
• Crowding the Basket
  They need airflow to crisp up evenly. Work in batches if needed—don’t rush.
• Using Cold Filling
  If your filling is straight from the fridge, it can prevent the centers from heating evenly. Let it come to room temp if possible.
• Walking Away from the Air Fryer
  These cook fast! Set a timer and keep an eye near the end—every air fryer’s a little different.

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What to Serve With Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls?

These egg rolls bring bold, spicy flavor, so pairing them with fresh or creamy sides is a smart move. Whether it’s a party spread or a weeknight meal, here are my favorite complements:

Coleslaw

Cool, crisp, and slightly sweet—perfect for cutting through the heat of the buffalo filling.

Dill Pickles

Crunchy, briny pickles balance the spice with an acidic pop.

Blue Cheese Dip

Classic for a reason. The sharp, creamy flavor tones down the heat and adds richness.

Celery and Carrot Sticks

No wing-inspired dish is complete without these. Crunchy and refreshing.

Sweet Potato Fries

A slightly sweet contrast that works incredibly well with the spicy, savory egg rolls.

Cucumber Salad

Light and hydrating, this keeps the meal fresh and cool.

Ranch Pasta Salad

Creamy, tangy, and easy to make ahead—great for parties or casual dinners.

Sparkling Lemonade or Iced Tea

A fizzy or citrusy drink balances the bold flavors and cools your palate.

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Storage Instructions

Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are fantastic for make-ahead meals or next-day snacking. Here’s how to keep them tasting fresh:

Refrigerator:

Store any leftover cooked egg rolls in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Let them cool completely before refrigerating to avoid condensation (which can make them soggy).

To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes until crisp again. Avoid the microwave if possible—it tends to make them chewy rather than crispy.

Freezer:

Uncooked egg rolls freeze beautifully. After assembling, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.

To cook from frozen, air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway through. No need to thaw!

Cooked egg rolls can also be frozen, but they won’t be quite as crisp once reheated.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Egg Roll)

Keep in mind these values are approximate and can vary based on exact ingredients and brands used:

• Calories: 180–200
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: <1g
• Sodium: 400–500mg

Using reduced-fat cream cheese or cheese can help lighten things up if desired. Want to keep it lower carb? Consider using a keto-friendly wrap substitute.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?

Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for ease and flavor, but you can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken, canned chicken in a pinch, or even cooked ground chicken for a twist.

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Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and keep them in the fridge before air frying. Or freeze them (uncooked) and cook straight from frozen when you’re ready.

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Are they spicy?

They’ve got a nice buffalo kick, but not overwhelming. Want more heat? Add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne. Prefer it milder? Mix in a bit of ranch or more cream cheese to mellow it out.

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Can I bake them instead of using an air fryer?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t be quite as crisp as air-fried but still delicious. Use a wire rack on your baking sheet if possible.

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Can I use blue cheese instead of cheddar?

Definitely! Blue cheese crumbles add that tangy, funky flavor that pairs perfectly with buffalo sauce. Try a mix of blue and mozzarella for balance.

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What dipping sauces go best?

Ranch and blue cheese are classics, but honey mustard, garlic aioli, or even a cool avocado crema can be fun and flavorful dips too.

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How do I keep the egg rolls from getting soggy?

Make sure they cool before storing, don’t stack them when hot, and always reheat in the air fryer (or oven) to restore crispiness. Avoid the microwave unless you don’t mind a softer shell.

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Are they gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can use gluten-free egg roll wrappers and double-check your sauces to keep the recipe gluten-friendly.

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Conclusion

Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls are a total crowd-pleaser—spicy, creamy, crispy little flavor bombs that are so easy to make. Whether you’re whipping them up for game day, a weeknight dinner, or freezer stocking, they never let you down. You get the full buffalo wing experience, minus the mess and with way more crunch.

They’re endlessly customizable and always a hit, so I hope this recipe finds a regular spot in your rotation. If you’re looking for bold flavor, easy prep, and that perfect golden bite—these egg rolls deliver every time.

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