Chicken Lumpia are tasty Filipino spring rolls filled with seasoned chicken and veggies. They’re crispy and golden, perfect for dipping in sweet and sour sauce!
These little rolls are always a hit at parties. Honestly, I could eat a whole plate by myself! They are super easy to make, perfect for sharing, or keeping all to yourself. 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This provides a nice flavor and texture for the lumpia. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or tofu (for a vegetarian alternative) can work well, too!
Vegetables: The shredded carrots and cabbage give crunch and sweetness. You can swap the cabbage for spinach or bell peppers if that’s what you have on hand or prefer.
Onions and Garlic: They add great flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder is a decent substitute. Green onions can also be replaced with chives for a similar taste.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and depth. If you need a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos instead.
Lumpia Wrappers: If you can’t find lumpia wrappers, spring roll wrappers or even homemade pastry can serve the same purpose. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
How Do I Properly Roll and Seal Lumpia?
Rolling lumpia can be tricky, but with practice, it becomes easier. Start with a clean, dry surface to work on. Keep wrappers covered to prevent drying out. Here’s a quick guide:
- Lay the wrapper with one corner facing you.
- Place 2 tablespoons of filling in the center.
- Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides snugly.
- Roll towards the top corner, sealing with egg wash to keep it tight.
Try not to overfill, as this will make sealing difficult. Practice makes perfect!
How to Make Delicious Chicken Lumpia
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Filling:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup finely shredded carrots
- 1 cup finely shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
For the Wrappers:
- 1 package lumpia (spring roll) wrappers
- 1 egg (beaten, for sealing)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Lumpia recipe will take you about 20 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded carrots, shredded cabbage, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped green onions. It’s important to mix everything well, so all the flavors combine.
2. Season the Mixture:
Add soy sauce, ground black pepper, salt, and oyster sauce (if you’re using it) to the chicken mixture. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. This will be the delicious filling for your lumpia!
3. Get the Wrappers Ready:
Grab your lumpia wrappers and lay them out on a clean surface. Keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out while you work.
4. Fill the Wrappers:
Take one lumpia wrapper and place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture on one corner. Make sure not to overfill, as this makes rolling difficult!
5. Roll the Lumpia:
Fold the corner of the wrapper over the filling, then fold the sides in. Roll tightly towards the opposite corner. You want to make it snug, but not too tight!
6. Seal the Edges:
Brush the edge of the wrapper with the beaten egg. This will help seal the lumpia so it doesn’t open while frying.
7. Heat the Oil:
In a deep frying pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough for frying but not so hot that it smokes.
8. Fry the Lumpia:
Carefully place the lumpia in the hot oil, a few at a time, to avoid overcrowding. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes. Turn them occasionally to cook evenly.
9. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the lumpia from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce or vinegar with garlic and chili.
Enjoy your crispy and delicious Chicken Lumpia!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey may have a slightly different flavor and texture, but it will still be delicious!
What if I Can’t Find Lumpia Wrappers?
If you’re unable to find lumpia wrappers, you can use spring roll wrappers as a substitute. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if they are thicker than traditional lumpia wrappers.
Can I Make the Filling in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to wrap the mixture tightly to keep it fresh.
How Do I Store Leftover Lumpia?
Store any leftover lumpia in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for extra crispiness, or heat them in the microwave with a damp paper towel to keep them moist.