Got leftover chicken? Let me share my favorite way to turn it into something amazing! These crispy chicken rolls take just minutes to make and my kids go crazy for them. Perfect for quick lunches or when friends pop over unexpectedly.
Everyone's Favorite
My family loves these because they're not greasy like deep-fried rolls. The outside gets all crispy while the filling stays juicy. I pack them in my kids' lunch boxes and they're always the first thing to disappear. They're perfect for watching the game too!
What You'll Need
- Chicken: Use leftover roasted or grilled.
- Onion: Chop it super tiny.
- Bell Peppers: For some nice crunch.
- Garlic Powder: Just a pinch does it.
- Mayo: Makes everything creamy.
- Mustard: Adds a nice kick.
- Oil: Just enough for the pan.
- Bread: Any kind works.
- Egg: Helps get that golden crust.
Let's Make Some Rolls
- Get Your Bread Ready
- Take each slice and smash it flat with your rolling pin. The thinner, the better - trust me on this!
- Mix Up The Good Stuff
- Throw your chicken, veggies, and seasonings in a bowl. Mix in the mayo and mustard until it's just right. Give it a taste - needs more salt? Add a pinch.
- Rolling Time
- Plop some filling on each flattened bread slice. Roll them up tight like little burritos. If they're being stubborn, stick a toothpick in.
- Make Them Crispy
- Dunk each roll in beaten egg, then into the hot pan they go! Keep rolling them around until they're golden all over - about 2 minutes does it.
- Almost Ready
- Let them cool just a bit so you don't burn your tongue - I've made that mistake!
My Kitchen Tricks
Grab a rotisserie chicken when you're short on time. Really squish those bread slices flat - makes rolling way easier. Chop everything tiny so your rolls don't burst. Want them extra crispy? Give them an extra minute in the pan.
Switch It Up
Sometimes I throw in some cheese - my kids love the melty surprise inside. No chicken? Use tuna or just veggies. Got gluten-free bread? Works great too! Sometimes I add crushed nuts for extra crunch - just watch out for allergies!
Keep 'Em Fresh
These taste best straight from the pan, but leftovers work too. Pop them in the fridge for a few days or freeze them for later. When you're ready to eat, stick them in the air fryer or oven until they're crispy again. Just like fresh!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why do I need to flatten the bread first?
Flattening the bread makes it easier to roll without breaking and helps create a thinner, crispier outside when fried.
- → Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken filling up to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge. Just roll and fry the bread when ready to eat.
- → What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt or sour cream work well as substitutes. They'll give a different taste but still keep the filling creamy.
- → How do I keep the rolls from unfolding while cooking?
Make sure to seal the edges well and use toothpicks if needed. Remove toothpicks before serving.
- → Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, brush them with oil and bake at 375°F until golden brown, about 15-20 minutes. They won't be quite as crispy but still tasty.