Spring Rolls with Chicken and Spicy Peanut Sauce are an irresistible appetizer or a light meal. These flavorful rolls are filled with seasoned ground chicken, complemented by a zesty slaw and fragrant jasmine rice, all wrapped in delicate spring roll wrappers. The crowning touch is the spicy peanut dipping sauce, which enhances the already incredible flavors. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or light meal, these spring rolls are always a hit!
The Irresistible Allure of Spring Rolls
If you’re someone who enjoys exploring menus, then you’ve probably noticed a certain dish that you can never pass up. For me, it’s always spring rolls. Every time I get takeout, especially from Thai restaurants, the first item I add to my order is always spring rolls. Even when I opt for classic Thai dishes like Pad Thai, curry, or pad see ew, those spring rolls are a non-negotiable starter.
This has been my go-to dish for years. As a regular customer of various Thai restaurants, I know there’s no better way to kick off my meal than with a plate of spring rolls, hot and fresh, with that crunchy texture and delightful filling. While I often indulge in takeout, over time, I’ve learned the art of making my own spring rolls at home, which adds an entirely new layer of fun to the experience.
How to Master the Art of Making Spring Rolls at Home
A few years ago, my friends Kaylee, Sara, and I set out to perfect the art of making spring rolls. Our culinary adventures usually involved making these tasty rolls, often paired with other Asian-inspired dishes such as Lettuce Wraps, Noodle Salad, or homemade ramen. We were determined to master the technique and learn how to wrap those delicate spring rolls to perfection.
But let me be clear—making spring rolls at home is not an effortless task. The wrappers themselves are quite fragile and can tear easily. They can either be over-soaked or under-soaked, which makes the process a little tricky. But with patience and some practice, you’ll be able to create spring rolls that are every bit as delightful as those you get from your favorite Thai restaurant. So don’t get discouraged if it takes a few tries!
Step-by-Step Guide to Assembling Perfect Spring Rolls
When making spring rolls, the key to success lies in organization and efficiency. You’ll need to move quickly to prevent the wrappers from drying out as you assemble each roll. Below, I’ve broken down the steps for you, so you can enjoy a seamless process.
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preparing your fillings. You’ll need to cook the ground chicken, prepare the jasmine rice, and create your slaw (which typically consists of shredded cabbage, carrots, and any other crunchy vegetables of your choice). Once your ingredients are ready, place them in separate bowls for easy access during assembly.
Step 2: Prepare the Soaking Water
Next, you’ll need a large, shallow bowl or a wide plate to soak the spring roll wrappers. Fill it with hot water—make sure the water is not boiling, as that could make the wrappers too soft. The water should be just warm enough to make the wrappers pliable. If you don’t have a large enough bowl, you can use a flat plate, although it will be a little more challenging due to the shallowness of the plate.
Step 3: Soak the Spring Roll Wrappers
One at a time, dip each spring roll wrapper into the warm water. Be sure to fully submerge the wrapper, allowing it to soften and become pliable. Let it soak for about one minute, but keep an eye on it, as the time can vary depending on how hot or warm your water is.
Step 4: Lay the Wrapper Out
Once the wrapper is soft and flexible, carefully remove it from the water and place it on a flat surface, such as a large plate or cutting board. Smooth out the wrapper and try to eliminate any wrinkles or creases that may have formed during the soaking process. This ensures that your spring rolls will look neat and hold together well.
Step 5: Start Assembling the Spring Rolls
Now comes the fun part—assembling the rolls! Begin by placing a small amount of each ingredient onto the wrapper. A little goes a long way, so be careful not to overstuff your spring roll. If you add too much filling, the wrapper may tear when you try to roll it up. Place the ingredients horizontally in the center of the wrapper, making sure they are spread evenly.
Step 6: Roll It Up Like a Burrito
Rolling up the spring roll is similar to making a burrito. Start by folding the bottom of the wrapper up over the filling, making sure the filling is securely tucked inside. Then, fold in the left and right sides of the wrapper towards the center. Once the sides are tucked in, continue rolling upwards to seal the spring roll. Be gentle during this process to avoid tearing the wrapper.
Step 7: Chill the Spring Rolls
After assembling the spring rolls, place them on a platter. Refrigerate the rolls for at least 20 minutes before serving. This step allows the filling to set and helps the wrappers maintain their shape. Chilling also makes them easier to slice.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the spring rolls have chilled, cut each roll in half to create bite-sized pieces. Arrange them on a serving platter and serve with your homemade spicy peanut sauce for dipping. If you’re a fan of this flavorful sauce, you might find yourself eating more than one! These spring rolls are irresistible!
Spring Rolls with Chicken and Spicy Peanut Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup jasmine rice, cooked
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 10 pieces spring roll wrappers
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by cooking the chicken, making the jasmine rice, and preparing the slaw with shredded cabbage and carrots. Set everything aside in separate bowls for easy assembly.
- Fill a shallow dish with warm water and soak one spring roll wrapper at a time for about 30 seconds or until softened. Place the wrapper on a flat surface.
- Start assembling the spring rolls by adding a small amount of cooked chicken, rice, and slaw in the center of each wrapper.
- Roll the spring roll tightly, folding in the sides as you go to prevent the filling from spilling out.
- Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling, placing the finished rolls on a large plate. Chill the rolls for at least 20 minutes to firm them up.
- To make the peanut sauce, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, sriracha, honey, lime juice, and a splash of water in a bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Serve the chilled spring rolls with the spicy peanut sauce on the side for dipping.
Nutrition
Tips for Perfecting Your Spring Rolls
While making spring rolls may seem daunting at first, here are some helpful tips to ensure your rolls turn out perfectly every time:
- Don’t Overstuff the Wrapper: It’s tempting to add a lot of filling, but remember that too much filling can cause the wrapper to tear. Keep the ingredients evenly distributed and in moderate amounts.
- Work Quickly with the Wrappers: Spring roll wrappers tend to dry out fast, so make sure to prepare your ingredients ahead of time and soak the wrappers just before you use them. If they dry out, they become brittle and difficult to work with.
- Use a Clean, Flat Surface: Make sure to use a smooth, flat surface like a cutting board or a large plate to assemble your spring rolls. This helps you handle the delicate wrappers with more control and precision.
- Experiment with Fillings: While this recipe uses ground chicken, don’t hesitate to get creative with your fillings. Try adding shrimp, tofu, or even beef for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with different veggies for added crunch and freshness.
- Make Extra Peanut Sauce: The spicy peanut sauce is the star of the show, so you’ll want to make enough for dipping. Consider doubling the recipe so that everyone can enjoy extra sauce with their spring rolls!
Conclusion: A Tasty and Fun Dish for Any Occasion
Spring Rolls with Chicken and Spicy Peanut Sauce are a fantastic option for anyone looking for a delicious, light meal or appetizer. These rolls are full of flavor, texture, and a hint of spice, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. With a little practice and patience, you can master the art of making spring rolls at home and create a dish that rivals your favorite restaurant’s takeout.
Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a light lunch, or just craving a flavorful snack, these spring rolls with spicy peanut sauce are sure to satisfy your taste buds. With simple ingredients, a bit of prep, and a few quick steps, you can enjoy a tasty, satisfying meal that is sure to impress everyone. Try making them today and enjoy the perfect combination of fresh, crispy rolls with creamy, spicy peanut dipping sauce!
