Chicken Lumpia are delicious, crispy rolls filled with savory chicken and veggies. They’re great for snacking or as a fun appetizer for sharing!
These little bites are perfect for dipping in sweet and sour sauce. I love making a big batch and watching them disappear at parties—everyone gets hooked! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: For a leaner option, ground turkey works well too. If you want a richer flavor, you could use ground pork or beef.
Cabbage: Finely shredded green cabbage is key for crunch. You can substitute it with Napa cabbage or even coleslaw mix if you’re in a pinch.
Carrots: Fresh, finely chopped carrots add sweetness and color. If you don’t have fresh carrots, you could use frozen ones – just make sure to thaw them before adding to the mix.
Green Onions: These add a nice fresh flavor. If you’re out, try using shallots or even regular onion, but use them sparingly as they can be stronger.
Lumpia Wrappers: If you can’t find lumpia wrappers, spring roll wrappers can work too. Just be sure to soak them in water for a few seconds before use to make them pliable.
How Do You Properly Roll Lumpia?
Rolling lumpia can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it right! Begin with one wrapper laid flat. Place your filling close to the edge nearest you, leaving space on the sides. Fold the edge over the filling, then tuck in the sides. Roll away from you tightly and seal it at the end with egg wash.
- Always keep your wrappers covered with a clean towel to prevent them from drying out.
- If the mixture is too wet, your lumpia might burst while frying. Make sure it’s well combined!
- Practice makes perfect when rolling, so don’t be discouraged if your first ones aren’t perfect.
How to Make Chicken Lumpia
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup finely shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots
- 1/2 cup finely chopped green onions
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
For Assembly:
- 1 egg, beaten (for sealing the wrappers)
- Lumpia wrappers (spring roll wrappers), about 20 pieces
- Vegetable oil, for deep frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 20 minutes to prepare the filling and assemble the lumpia. Then, allow approximately 10-15 minutes to fry them until crispy. In total, you’re looking at about 35-40 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cabbage, chopped carrots, green onions, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything thoroughly until well combined. This ensures that all flavors blend beautifully!
2. Prepare Your Workspace:
Clear a clean space on your kitchen counter. Lay one lumpia wrapper flat with the side closest to you. It should look like a diamond shape rather than a square.
3. Fill the Wrapper:
Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture near the corner closest to you, spreading it out in a line, but make sure to leave space on both sides. This will help when it comes time to roll!
4. Roll the Lumpia:
Start by folding the edge of the wrapper over the filling. Then, fold the sides inward to enclose the filling. Continue rolling tightly toward the far edge of the wrapper. You want it snug so the filling won’t fall out!
5. Seal the Edges:
To seal the lumpia, brush a little of the beaten egg on the far edge of the wrapper. This will hold it in place. Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and filling until everything is rolled up.
6. Heat the Oil:
In a deep frying pan or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want it to reach about 350°F (175°C) for frying. To test if the oil is ready, you can drop a small piece of the filling in it; if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
7. Fry the Lumpia:
Carefully place the lumpia in the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally until they become golden brown and crispy. You want them to look and smell delicious!
8. Drain and Serve:
Once golden, remove the lumpia from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to soak up any excess oil. This keeps them crispy!
9. Enjoy!
Serve your hot, crispy Chicken Lumpia with sweet chili sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Pair it with a side of fresh salad or veggies for a complete meal. Enjoy every crunchy bite!
Can I Use Different Proteins for the Filling?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, pork, or beef can all be great substitutes for ground chicken. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness as needed.
How Do I Store Leftover Lumpia?
Store any leftover lumpia in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain their crispiness.
Can I Make the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling a day in advance. Just keep it covered and refrigerated. When you’re ready to fry, simply assemble the lumpia and fry as directed!
What’s the Best Way to Fry Lumpia?
Ensure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F or 175°C) before adding the lumpia. Fry in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature, which helps achieve that perfect golden brown and crispy texture.
