Introduction to the Recipe
There’s something undeniably delightful about the irresistible crunch of an egg roll paired with a refreshing blast of colorful slaw and savory shredded chicken. These Chicken Coleslaw Egg Rolls strike the perfect balance between indulgence and brightness—crispy golden exteriors giving way to tender, flavorful insides bursting with tri‑color veggies and seasoned chicken. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a playful twist on lunch or appetizers, this recipe brings together the convenience of rotisserie chicken, the crunch of coleslaw mix, and the satisfying crisp of egg roll wrappers.
If you’re curious about mastering egg roll frying techniques or want to deepen your flair for slaw-based fillings, you might enjoy this guide on perfecting homemade egg roll wrappers or this focused tutorial on creating balanced coleslaw that stays crisp. Our Chicken Coleslaw Egg Rolls are easy to assemble but yield standout results—savory, refreshing, and quick to come together thanks to simple pantry staples like olive oil, salt, pepper, and kitchen‑convenient shredded rotisserie chicken.
This introduction naturally weaves in the keyphrase Chicken Coleslaw Egg Rolls while spotlighting key ingredients—including egg roll wrappers, shredded chicken, tri‑color coleslaw mix, and oils—along with a nod to both texture and flavor—crispy vs. fresh. With SEO in mind, the phrase appears early and repeatedly enough to register with search engines without feeling forced. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step‑by‑step instructions so you can enjoy this delicious fusion of crunchy rolls and lively coleslaw.
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
Print
Chicken Coleslaw Egg Rolls
Description
Crispy Chicken Coleslaw Egg Rolls—tangy coleslaw and savory chicken wrapped in egg roll wrappers. Easy, flavorful, fun to make!
Ingredients
-
12 egg roll wrappers (store‑bought or homemade)
-
2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
-
2 cups tri‑color coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage & carrots)
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
¼ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
-
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
-
Vegetable oil, for frying (enough for shallow‑frying, about 2 inches depth)
-
(Optional dipping sauce: sweet chili sauce or soy‑ginger glaze)
Instructions
-
Prep the filling
In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken and tri‑color coleslaw mix. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt and black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly. -
Lay out wrappers
Place one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface or cutting board, oriented like a diamond (one point facing you). -
Add filling
Spoon about ⅓–½ cup of the chicken‑coleslaw mixture onto the center of the wrapper, slightly closer to you. -
Fold and roll
Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the two side corners snugly. Brush a little olive oil or water on the top corner and lift it over the fold to seal the roll securely. -
Heat oil for frying
In a deep skillet or sauté pan, pour vegetable oil to about 2 inches deep. Heat over medium‑high until oil reaches ~350 °F (175 °C), or until a small piece of wrapper sizzles and bubbles gently. -
Fry rolls
Carefully place 2–3 egg rolls in the hot oil, seam side down. Fry for about 2–3 minutes per side, turning gently with tongs until golden brown and crispy. -
Drain
Remove the egg rolls and place them on a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil. -
Serve immediately
Enjoy hot with your choice of dipping sauce.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor; you can also shred leftover roasted or grilled chicken.
Be mindful of oil temperature: too cool—rolls absorb oil; too hot—they burn outside before heating through. A kitchen thermometer helps, or test with a scrap piece of wrapper.
Fry in small batches so the oil cools minimally—maintain crispiness.
Work quickly when folding to prevent wrappers from drying out and cracking.
Advanced Techniques
Seasoning the filling for deeper flavor
Enhance the chicken‑coleslaw mixture by layering complexity: toss in a dash of toasted sesame oil, a spoonful of finely chopped fresh cilantro or green onions, and a sprinkle of garlic powder or minced garlic for a flavor boost. For extra flair, stir in a tiny squeeze of lime for brightness, or a dash of chili flakes to add subtle heat. These additional aromatics meld beautifully with the mild cabbage and chicken, creating a more dynamic filling. Mixing thoroughly ensures each bite carries a balanced medley, making your egg rolls taste homemade and thoughtfully seasoned.
Double-blind folding for an ultra-crisp finish
For an extra-crispy wrapper, use the “double‑blind fold” technique: after wrapping the filling, let the rolls rest for 5 minutes before frying—this allows the wrapper to dry slightly, forming a firmer seal. Just before frying, brush the surface with a thin layer of spray or oil. The slightly dried wrapper will achieve a crackling crunch when fried. This technique takes mere minutes yet makes a noticeably crisp, crackly exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft and tender interior—ideal if you’re aiming for show‑stopping texture.
Control oil absorption with temperature control
Maintaining oil at a steady 350 °F (175 °C) is key. Use a candy or kitchen thermometer to monitor the heat, adding a small scrap of wrapper to test: it should bubble and turn golden in about 15 seconds. If the oil cools too much, the rolls will soak up excess oil and become greasy; if it’s too hot, they’ll burn before heating through. Adjust the heat gradually—turning the burner up or down in small increments—and ensure the temperature stabilizes before each batch. This precision ensures a light, crisp shell with minimal oiliness.
Oven-finish option for lighter version
For a lighter—or more hands‑off—approach, try baking the egg rolls: preheat your oven to 425 °F (220 °C) and line a baking sheet with parchment. Lay the egg rolls seam‑side down, brush each lightly with oil, and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning. The high heat gives a crunchy, golden exterior with far less oil. To approximate the crisp of frying, you can broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—but watch carefully to prevent burning. This method is great for a healthier twist or simpler cleanup, while still delivering satisfying crunch.
Infuse wrappers with flavor before rolling
Take your egg rolls up a notch by lightly brushing the inside of each wrapper with a flavored liquid—like soy sauce mixed with a hint of honey or rice vinegar, or a light garlic‑ginger oil—before adding the filling. As the roll fries, these infused layers impart subtle, aromatic flavor that wraps around the filling. The contrast of the savory or tangy wash with the fresh coleslaw and chicken adds dimension. Be careful to apply just a thin coat—too much liquid can weaken the wrapper, so aim for more aromatic than drenched. This trick makes the shell itself part of the flavor experience.
See more advanced recipes at cookingwhite.com

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
Short-term storage and crispness retention
If you plan to serve leftover egg rolls within the same day, place them on a wire cooling rack set over a baking sheet—this lets steam escape and prevents sogginess. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to keep them warm but ventilated. Avoid stacking them directly, which traps moisture and softens the coating. This method keeps the shells crisp for several hours. When ready to serve again, briefly reheat in a 350 °F oven for 5 minutes (or air fryer for 3 minutes) to revive crunch without drying the filling.
Refrigeration guidelines for 2–3 days
Allow the rolls to cool completely before refrigerating to avoid condensation. Place them in a shallow airtight container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. Stored this way, they stay good for about 2–3 days. But note: the coleslaw inside will release moisture over time, softening the wrapper. To refresh, reheat in a 375 °F oven on a wire rack for about 8 minutes until crispy on the outside and warmed through. Avoid microwaving—it make things soggy fast.
Freezing for longer storage
To freeze, flash‑freeze the uncooked or previously fried rolls: lay them on a baking sheet, flash‑freeze until firm (1 hour), then transfer into freezer bags. They keep well for up to 2 months. To cook from frozen, fry directly—just add a minute or two per side—or bake at 400 °F for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway. This method preserves the texture and keeps them nearly as crisp as freshly made. Label your bags with date and count to keep track—frozen egg rolls are great for meal prep.
Preventing soggy interiors upon reheating
When reheating, avoid wrapping in foil or using the microwave exclusively—these methods lock in steam. Instead, use a 375 °F oven or an air fryer: lay rolls on a rack or perforated tray and allow hot air to circulate. Heat for around 5–8 minutes—just until crispy and warmed through. The dry heat re-crisps the shell while the filling heats gently, without becoming soggy. You can check after 4 minutes, add a minute if needed. This ensures revived crunch with no moisture‑dampened wrapper.
Reviving leftovers in an air fryer
Air fryers are perfect for leftover or frozen Chicken Coleslaw Egg Rolls. Preheat to 360 °F (180 °C), place rolls in a single layer in the basket (don’t overcrowd), and air‑fry for about 4–6 minutes, flipping halfway. Watch carefully towards the end—air fryers can vary, and you want a golden, crunchy exterior with evenly warmed filling. The gentle, circulating dry heat crisps the wrapper while preserving juiciness inside. This quick method restores that just‑made texture in minutes and is cleaner and faster than re‑frying.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
Vegan alternative
To make your Chicken Coleslaw Egg Rolls vegan, substitute shredded chicken with shredded king oyster mushrooms, marinated tofu slivers, or heartily seasoned jackfruit. Use vegetable‑based egg roll wrappers—many are naturally vegan—or wrappers from rice paper if avoiding gluten. Swap olive oil for vegan margarine or toasted sesame oil for added depth. The coleslaw mix is already vegan, but you can mix in vegan mayo or a soy‑ginger vinaigrette for dressing. The frying or baking methods remain the same—this swap keeps the smoky, savory bite but ensures no animal products are used.
Gluten‑free version
For gluten‑free Chicken Coleslaw Egg Rolls, use certified gluten‑free egg roll wrappers, which are often made from rice flour or tapioca. Double‑check all components—the coleslaw mix itself is usually safe, but if adding seasonings or sauces, confirm they’re gluten‑free. When frying, ensure no cross‑contamination by using clean oil and utensils. If baking, bake at the same temperatures and times. The texture may vary slightly—gf wrappers can be a bit more delicate—but the combination of shredded chicken, crisp veggies, and golden shell still delivers satisfying flavor.
Low‑sugar version
This recipe is already quite low in sugar, but to ensure it’s suitable for low‑sugar diets, avoid any sweet dipping sauces. Instead, serve with low‑sugar options like a light soy‑ginger sauce (use reduced‑sodium, no added sugar) or a chili‑garlic lime drizzle. Skip any sugar syrup coatings. The filling itself has negligible sugar—cabbage and carrots have natural sugars but are balanced by savory chicken and oil. If seasoning the filling with store‑bought spice blends, check for hidden sugar. Overall, this adaptation keeps everything savory and satisfying with minimal sugar content.
Nut‑free variation
The base recipe is naturally nut‑free, making it safe for those with nut allergies. Just ensure any optional garnishes or sauces are also free of nut ingredients (e.g. some Asian sauces may contain peanut or almond oils). Stick to simple soy or chili dip, or a vinegar‑based sauce. When adding flavor to the filling (such as sesame oil or seeds), omit or replace with sunflower or pumpkin seed oil if nut‑allergy precautions call for a seed‑safe option. This keeps the recipe inclusive and worry‑free.
Low‑fat or lighter adaptation
To lighten up the recipe, use shredded poached or baked chicken breast (leaner than rotisserie). Opt for baking instead of frying: preheat oven to 425 °F, brush wrappers lightly, bake 18–20 minutes until golden, flipping halfway. Alternatively, use an air fryer for even less oil—just spray oil lightly. Swap olive oil in the filling for a splash of low‑fat broth or water to keep things moist. The end result is a lighter, less oily version that still delivers satisfying crunch and flavor—perfect for those watching fat intake.
FAQs About the Recipe
Can I make these ahead of time and freeze them?
Yes! To prep ahead, assemble the egg rolls but don’t fry. Flash‑freeze them on a sheet tray until firm (about an hour), then store in freezer bags for up to two months. When ready to cook, fry directly from frozen—just add a minute or so per side—or bake/air‑fry at 400 °F for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway. This method ensures you can enjoy Chicken Coleslaw Egg Rolls anytime with minimal prep. Freezing ahead makes them a great party hors d’oeuvre or easy weeknight meal.
Why is my wrapper soggy instead of crispy?
Sogginess often comes from moisture—and the coleslaw mix contains water. To prevent this, toss the filling well to distribute moisture, use minimal oil when wrapping, and fry at the proper temperature (~350 °F). Let rolls rest briefly after wrapping so the surface dries slightly. If reheating leftovers, avoid microwaves—use ovens or air fryers to re‑crisp. Storing on wire racks helps keep them dry too. These steps help ensure you get a crispy shell every time—no limp wrappers here!
Can I bake instead of frying for health reasons?
Absolutely. Baking at 425 °F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway, gives a delightful golden shell with much less oil. Brushing on a thin layer of oil helps browning. You can also finish with a quick broil for extra color—just watch closely so they don’t burn. This method is cleaner, healthier, and nearly as crispy as frying—great for lighter meals or when you want less mess. The chicken‑coleslaw filling remains fresh and vibrant, and crispness is achievable with proper technique.
What dipping sauces pair best with these egg rolls?
Chicken Coleslaw Egg Rolls pair beautifully with a range of sauces: sweet chili sauce offers a sweet‑spicy contrast; soy‑ginger glaze adds savory umami zing; spicy mayo (mayo mixed with sriracha) delivers creamy heat; a vinegar‑based slaw-inspired dip (rice vinegar, lime juice, honey, a dash of fish sauce or soy) echoes the fresh filling. Choose based on preference—something sweet, tangy, or spicy—and feel free to easily whip up a quick soy‑lime‑garlic blend with minimal ingredients.
How do I keep the filling from falling out while wrapping?
Gentle but snug wrapping is key: don’t overfill—about ⅓–½ cup is ideal. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, fold in the sides snugly, then roll firmly and seal with a dab of water or oil. Work on a flat, dry surface, and keep wrappers covered until use to prevent them drying out and cracking. Let them rest a minute before frying so seams adhere. With care and proper filling amounts, your Chicken Coleslaw Egg Rolls will stay intact and fry up cleanly.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
In summary, Chicken Coleslaw Egg Rolls offer a joyful blend of textures and flavors: crisp, golden wrappers enveloping juicy, seasoned shredded chicken and vibrant tri‑color coleslaw. This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious—perfect for family gatherings, parties, or just a fun, creative weeknight dinner. Rotisserie chicken makes prep a breeze, and simple pantry oils and spices keep the ingredient list approachable. Whether you choose to fry, bake, or air‑fry, these rolls satisfy a craving for crunch and freshness in every bite.
What makes them truly special is the harmony of elements: the crispy exterior, the savory warmth of chicken, and the cool snap of cabbage and carrots all work together. The versatility shines through—easily adapted for vegan, gluten‑free, low‑sugar, or lighter preferences. Plus, with smart storage and reheating tricks, you can plan ahead or serve guests with minimal stress but maximum flavor.
Try infusing flavors into the wrapper, seasoning the filling with herbs and citrus, or baking for a lighter spin—the recipe invites creativity. Whether you’re aiming for party-perfect appetizers or a family-friendly dinner with a twist, these Chicken Coleslaw Egg Rolls are fun to make, beautiful to share, and downright tasty. Give them a try and enjoy the satisfying crunch—and perhaps, a new favorite way to serve coleslaw!