If you are looking for a refreshing and vibrant appetizer or light meal, this Chicken Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce Recipe is an absolute keeper. It combines crisp veggies, tender chicken, and aromatic herbs wrapped in delicate rice paper, perfectly balanced by a zingy sweet chili dipping sauce. The harmony of textures and flavors in these spring rolls will have you coming back for seconds while impressing your guests with every bite. Whether you’re craving something healthy or simply want to wow at your next gathering, these spring rolls deliver on every level.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of taste, texture, and freshness. From the soft and slippery rice noodles to the crunchy cucumber and bright basil leaves, every component adds its unique touch to these spring rolls.
- Spring roll skins: These delicate rice paper wrappers soften quickly and create the perfect vessel for all fillings.
- Rice noodles (vermicelli-style): Cooked noodles add a light, silky texture that soaks up flavors beautifully.
- Fresh basil leaves: Their fragrant, slightly sweet aroma elevates the entire roll.
- Shredded carrots: Crunchy and colorful, carrots bring a natural sweetness and bite.
- English cucumber (julienne cut): Crisp cucumber brightens up each roll with cool freshness.
- Cooked chicken (shredded): Tender chicken provides protein and a savory depth.
- Avocado (thinly sliced): Creamy avocado adds richness and smooth mouthfeel.
- Apple cider vinegar: Gives the dipping sauce a pleasant tang and balances sweetness.
- Soy sauce: Adds umami and saltiness to the dipping sauce for complex flavor.
- Sesame oil (a pinch): Brings a hint of nuttiness that lingers in the sauce.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dipping sauce to beautifully contrast the tangy and spicy notes.
- Sweet chili sauce: The star of the dipping sauce that brings a perfect blend of heat and sweetness.
How to Make Chicken Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dipping Sauce
Start by combining apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, granulated sugar, and sweet chili sauce in a small bowl. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely. This sauce is the magic touch that brings all the fresh flavors of the spring rolls together, giving a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice Noodles
Cook the vermicelli rice noodles according to the package directions, usually involving a quick soak in hot water. After draining, toss the noodles with about two tablespoons of the dipping sauce. This step infuses the noodles with flavor and keeps them from sticking. Set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 3: Soften the Spring Roll Skins
Fill a shallow dish or pie plate with hot water. Dip each spring roll skin into the water for about 5 to 10 seconds until it softens but remains pliable. Lay the softened skin flat on your work surface, ready for the fillings. Timing here is key to avoid tearing or stickiness.
Step 4: Assemble the Spring Rolls
Lay one fresh basil leaf in the center of each softened rice paper. Next, add a small portion of the coated rice noodles, shredded carrots, julienned cucumber, shredded chicken, and top everything with a few thin avocado slices. Using about an eighth of each ingredient per roll keeps the balance just right without overstuffing. The contrast of textures from creamy avocado to crunchy vegetables is irresistible.
Step 5: Roll the Spring Rolls
Fold the bottom edge of the rice paper over the fillings, then fold in the sides toward the center. Roll tightly but gently upward to encase all the ingredients neatly. The rice skin should stick to itself, sealing the roll without additional help. Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients until all the spring rolls are assembled.
Step 6: Serve
Serve immediately alongside the remaining sweet chili dipping sauce. These spring rolls are best enjoyed fresh when the skins are tender but slightly chewy, and the flavors are vibrant. The dipping sauce adds the perfect burst to each bite.
How to Serve Chicken Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate your presentation and flavor profile. Try sprinkling finely chopped peanuts on top or adding a few extra basil leaves on the side for aroma. A few thin slices of fresh red chili can also add a pop of color and heat for those who crave a bit more spice.
Side Dishes
These chicken spring rolls pair wonderfully with light and refreshing sides such as a crisp Asian slaw, steamed edamame, or even a simple bowl of miso soup. Keep your sides fresh and mild to allow the spring rolls and dipping sauce to truly shine.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these spring rolls cut in half on a long platter, alternating halves attractively with small bowls of the sweet chili dipping sauce. You can also wrap them individually in parchment paper tied with a thin strip of green onion for a chic picnic-style presentation. The translucent rice skins beautifully showcase the vibrant fillings inside.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the spring rolls tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best eaten within a day to maintain the freshness and texture of the rice paper. Keep the dipping sauce separate to preserve its flavor.
Freezing
Spring rolls with fresh ingredients don’t freeze well because the rice paper tends to become sticky and the vegetables lose their crunch. For best quality, it’s recommended to prepare these rolls fresh or only store cooked chicken separately if you want to prep in advance.
Reheating
Since these rolls are served fresh, reheating is not advised as it can cause the rice paper to become gummy. If your rolls have warmed ingredients like chicken, simply eat them cold or at room temperature for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the shredded chicken with tofu, tempeh, or extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. The dipping sauce works just as well with vegetarian fillings and keeps the flavors deliciously balanced.
What can I substitute for sweet chili sauce?
If you don’t have sweet chili sauce on hand, you can mix a bit of honey or maple syrup with chili flakes or a mild chili paste to replicate that sweet and spicy flavor. Adjust the sweetness and heat to your liking.
How do I prevent the spring roll skins from sticking together?
Make sure to dip each rice paper individually in warm water just until soft and lay them flat on a clean, damp towel or plastic wrap. Avoid stacking them directly on top of each other before filling and rolling.
Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?
Definitely! You can shred the chicken, chop vegetables, and cook the noodles a few hours before assembling. Keep everything refrigerated separately to maintain freshness, then assemble just before serving.
What is the best way to serve the dipping sauce?
Serve the dipping sauce in small individual bowls or one communal bowl on the side. This allows everyone to enjoy as much or as little sauce as they like, perfect for dipping each bite of these flavorful spring rolls.
Final Thoughts
If you have been searching for a versatile, fresh, and truly satisfying recipe to brighten your meal routine, this Chicken Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce Recipe is your new best friend. It’s fun to make, delightful to eat, and a wonderful way to celebrate simple, wholesome ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Don’t wait—roll up your sleeves and dive into this delicious adventure today!
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Chicken Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 spring rolls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These fresh and flavorful Chicken Spring Rolls are a light and healthy appetizer or snack. They feature tender cooked chicken, fresh basil, crunchy vegetables, and soft rice noodles wrapped in delicate spring roll skins, served with a tangy and sweet dipping sauce made from apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sweet chili sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, they are perfect for a quick, refreshing bite any time.
Ingredients
Spring Rolls
- 8 spring roll skins
- 4 ounces rice noodles (vermicelli-style)
- 8 large fresh basil leaves
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup English cucumber, julienne cut
- ½ cup cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ avocado, thinly sliced
Dipping Sauce
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
Instructions
- Make the Dipping Sauce: Combine the apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and sweet chili sauce in a small bowl. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Prepare the Rice Noodles: Cook the vermicelli rice noodles according to package instructions until tender. Drain well and transfer to a mixing bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of the prepared dipping sauce to the noodles and toss gently to coat evenly. Set aside to cool.
- Soften the Spring Roll Skins: Fill a pie plate or shallow dish with hot water. Dip one spring roll skin into the water for about 5 to 10 seconds, just until it begins to soften but is still pliable. Lay the softened skin flat on a clean surface for assembly.
- Assemble the Spring Rolls: Place one large fresh basil leaf in the center of the softened spring roll skin. Layer a portion of the coated rice noodles, shredded carrots, julienned cucumber, shredded cooked chicken, and top with a few thin slices of avocado. Use about one-eighth of each ingredient per roll to evenly distribute the filling.
- Roll the Spring Rolls: Fold the bottom edge of the spring roll skin over the fillings, then fold in the sides towards the center. Roll the spring roll tightly up towards the top edge to fully enclose the filling and seal the edge. Repeat this process with the remaining skins and ingredients.
- Serve: Arrange the finished spring rolls on a serving plate and serve immediately alongside the remaining dipping sauce for dipping and enjoying fresh.
Notes
- Soaking the spring roll skins briefly in hot water helps make them pliable without tearing.
- Use cooked chicken that is shredded finely for easy rolling and even filling distribution.
- You can substitute sweet chili sauce with hoisin sauce for a different flavor profile.
- These spring rolls are best eaten fresh since the rice paper can dry out and become brittle after a while.
- Make sure the veggies are thinly julienned for better texture and easier rolling.
