Why You’ll Love Chicken Lumpia Recipe
Chicken Lumpia is the kind of dish that disappears quickly at parties and family gatherings. It’s crispy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make at home. The combination of seasoned ground chicken and fresh vegetables wrapped in thin lumpia wrappers creates an irresistible texture and taste. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe—you can prepare it ahead of time, freeze it for later, and fry it whenever you need a quick and crowd-pleasing snack.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 pound ground chicken
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 medium carrot, grated
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½ cup green beans, finely chopped
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½ cup cabbage, finely chopped
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1 tbsp soy sauce
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1 tsp fish sauce
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½ tsp black pepper
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Lumpia wrappers (spring roll wrappers)
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Vegetable oil, for frying
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Sweet chili sauce, for dipping (optional)
Directions
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground chicken until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks.
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Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the onion softens.
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Stir in the grated carrot, chopped green beans, and chopped cabbage. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
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Add soy sauce, fish sauce, and black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 1 more minute. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
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To assemble, place a lumpia wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointing toward you. Add about 2 tablespoons of filling near the bottom corner.
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Fold the bottom corner over the filling, fold in the sides, and roll tightly toward the top corner. Dab water on the top corner to seal.
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Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the lumpia in batches, 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
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Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with sweet chili sauce for dipping, if desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: 20 lumpia
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: Approximately 130 kcal per lumpia
Variations
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Spicy Chicken Lumpia: Add chopped chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
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Vegetarian Lumpia: Substitute ground chicken with tofu or mushrooms for a meat-free version.
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Pork or Beef Lumpia: Swap chicken with ground pork or beef for a richer flavor.
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Baked Lumpia: Instead of frying, brush the rolls lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway.
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Cheese Lumpia: Add a small strip of cheese inside each roll before wrapping for a creamy surprise.
Storage/Reheating
To store, let the lumpia cool completely, then place in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–12 minutes or air fry at 375°F for about 5 minutes until crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the wrappers soggy.
FAQs
How do I keep lumpia crispy after frying?
Let them drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels to maintain crispiness and prevent sogginess.
Can I make lumpia ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble and freeze them before frying. Just fry straight from frozen—no need to thaw.
What’s the best wrapper to use for lumpia?
Use thin Filipino-style lumpia wrappers for the crispiest texture. Spring roll wrappers can also work in a pinch.
Can I bake lumpia instead of frying?
Yes, baked lumpia can be a healthier option. Brush lightly with oil and bake until golden and crisp.
What dipping sauces go well with chicken lumpia?
Sweet chili sauce, vinegar with garlic and pepper, or banana ketchup are all great options.
How do I prevent lumpia wrappers from tearing?
Keep the wrappers covered with a damp towel while working to prevent them from drying out and cracking.
Can I add noodles to the filling?
Yes, adding a small amount of cooked vermicelli noodles can make the filling more substantial.
Why is my lumpia greasy?
The oil might not be hot enough. Make sure it’s around 350–375°F (175–190°C) before frying.
Can I use leftover cooked chicken for the filling?
Absolutely. Shred the cooked chicken and mix it with the sautéed vegetables and seasonings.
How long can I store cooked lumpia?
Cooked lumpia lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Chicken Lumpia is a Filipino classic that delivers everything you love about crispy, savory snacks. With its flavorful filling and satisfying crunch, it’s perfect for gatherings, quick snacks, or even meal prep. Whether you fry or bake them, serve with sweet chili sauce or vinegar dip, these golden rolls will always be a hit on any table.
