Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Spring Rolls Recipe
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They end up crispier than deep-fried while using far less oil, so you get that satisfying crunch without the heaviness.
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It’s quick and easy — you can have them ready in under 30 minutes.
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They’re healthier and a lighter version of classic spring rolls, ideal if you want something tasty but not overly greasy.
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The recipe is customizable — you can swap the filling, change vegetables, or even make a vegetarian version.
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They’re freezer-friendly — you can prepare them ahead of time and cook when you’re ready.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
olive oil
garlic cloves, minced
mushrooms, chopped small
ground chicken (93% lean recommended)
shredded green cabbage
shredded carrots (or coleslaw mix if preferred)
green onions, thinly sliced
soy sauce
rice vinegar
cornstarch
spring roll wrappers (rice-paper, wheat-based, or egg-roll wrappers)
salt and pepper
cornstarch mixed with water (slurry) to seal wraps
avocado oil spray (or regular olive oil) for air frying
Directions
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In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil, then add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
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Add the chopped mushrooms and let them brown on one side for about 5 minutes, then stir until they’re cooked through and their liquid evaporates.
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Add the ground chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is mostly done (about 4–5 minutes).
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Stir in shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and green onions. Add soy sauce and rice vinegar. Cook until the cabbage and carrots are wilted.
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Sprinkle in the teaspoon of cornstarch. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and all excess liquid evaporates — this ensures the filling isn’t too wet so wrappers stay crispy.
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Let the filling cool completely. Cooling helps avoid soggy wrappers when air-frying.
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Prepare your spring roll wrappers:
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If using rice-paper wrappers: soak each sheet in water briefly (about 10 seconds), then place on a clean surface. Add a spoonful of filling to the bottom corner, fold in the sides and roll tightly until sealed.
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If using wheat-based or egg-roll wrappers: place wrapper in diamond shape, spoon filling just above the lower corner, fold up half, fold in the sides, then roll. Use the cornstarch slurry to seal the edges.
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Preheat your air fryer to 380 °F (≈ 193 °C). Lightly spray the basket with oil. Place the assembled spring rolls in a single layer (don’t overcrowd), spray the rolls with oil spray, and air fry for 8–10 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking for even crisping.
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Once golden brown, remove and let them rest for a minute or two. Enjoy while hot and crispy.
Servings and timing
Serves about 15 spring rolls
Prep time: ~10 minutes
Cook time: ~20 minutes
Total time: ~30 minutes
Variations
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Swap ground chicken for ground turkey, pork, beef — or use a plant-based alternative for vegetarian/vegan rolls.
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Skip mushrooms and add extra vegetables (e.g. shredded zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots alone) if you prefer a lighter veggie-loaded filling.
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Use different wrappers: rice paper for a lighter, crispier shell; wheat or egg-roll wrappers for a heartier texture.
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For a gluten-free version, choose gluten-free wrappers and use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover cooked spring rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, use your air fryer for a few minutes until they are warm and crispy again.
Alternatively, reheat in a conventional oven at around 350 °F (≈ 175 °C) for 10–12 minutes.
Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the wrappers soggy.
FAQs
Can I substitute the ground chicken with another meat?
Yes — ground turkey, pork, beef, or plant-based alternatives all work well. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Are there different types of spring roll wrappers?
Yes, rice-paper wrappers are thin and light, while wheat or egg-roll wrappers are thicker and chewier, affecting the final texture.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely. Replace the meat with tofu, mushrooms, or your favorite meat-free option, and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.
What if my filling is too moist — will the rolls become soggy?
Excess moisture can make the wrappers soggy. Be sure to cook off all liquid and let the filling cool before wrapping.
Can I freeze the assembled spring rolls before cooking?
Yes. Lay them in a single layer to freeze, then store in a freezer-safe bag. Air fry straight from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cook time.
Can I bake the spring rolls if I don’t have an air fryer?
Yes. Bake at 400 °F on a lined sheet pan for 20–25 minutes or until golden and crisp.
What dipping sauces go well with these spring rolls?
They pair perfectly with sweet chili sauce, soy or tamari sauce, peanut sauce, hoisin, or a tangy vinegar-based sauce.
Can I adjust the vegetables in the filling?
Yes. Try adding shredded bell peppers, zucchini, napa cabbage, or using a coleslaw mix for ease.
How do I ensure even crispiness when air frying?
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leave space between rolls, spray with oil, and flip halfway through cooking.
Are these spring rolls suitable for serving at parties or as appetizers?
Definitely. They’re bite-sized, crispy, and a lighter option that’s sure to impress at gatherings or as a starter.
Conclusion
These air fryer spring rolls are a healthier, crispier twist on a classic appetizer. Quick to make, easy to customize, and full of savory flavor, they’re ideal for parties, snacks, or meal prep. Try them once and they’ll become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
