Chicken Lumpia is a tasty Filipino treat that features crispy, golden wrappers filled with seasoned chicken and veggies. These bite-sized rolls are perfect for snacking or parties!
Making them is always a fun experience, especially when I get to share them with friends. They disappear fast, so I always make an extra batch (or two)! 😄
I love serving these with a sweet sauce for dipping. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone enjoys, and they’re surprisingly easy to make at home! Perfect for any occasion!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main protein for the filling. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey works well too. For a vegetarian twist, try using a mix of mushrooms and tofu instead.
Carrots: They add color and a bit of sweetness. You can substitute with shredded zucchini or squash if you want a different texture. Just make sure to remove excess moisture.
Cabbage: This adds crunch and nutrition. If you don’t have cabbage, chopped bell peppers or even shredded broccoli can be good alternatives.
Lumpia Wrappers: These are essential for keeping the filling inside while frying. If you can’t find them, spring roll wrappers are a suitable alternative, though they might be slightly thicker.
How Do You Roll Lumpia So They Don’t Fall Apart?
The rolling technique is key to making sure your lumpia stays intact while frying. Start with the wrapper placed in a diamond shape and place the filling close to the bottom corner. Here’s how to do it securely:
- Fold the bottom corner over the filling; this helps to keep the filling snug.
- Fold in the sides towards the center, ensuring they’re close to the filling.
- Roll up tightly towards the top corner, and seal with the beaten egg to keep it from opening during frying.
Practice makes perfect! Don’t worry if the first few don’t look perfect; they’ll still taste great.
How to Make Delicious Chicken Lumpia
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup finely shredded carrots
- 1 cup finely chopped cabbage
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp oyster sauce
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
For Assembly:
- 1 egg, beaten (for sealing wrappers)
- Lumpia wrappers (about 20 pieces)
- Cooking oil for deep frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Lumpia recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to fry. So, in total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a fun cooking session!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded carrots, chopped cabbage, onions, minced garlic, and green onions. Mix everything well so that all the flavors blend together nicely.
2. Season the Mixture:
Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and salt to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly combined. This is where the magic happens; the flavors come together!
3. Roll the Lumpia:
Take one lumpia wrapper and lay it flat on a clean surface with a corner pointing towards you, like a diamond shape. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling near the corner closest to you, shaping it into a log.
4. Fold and Roll:
Fold the corner over the filling and then fold the left and right corners toward the center. Roll tightly towards the opposite corner and seal the edge with a little beaten egg to hold it all together. Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Fry the Lumpia:
Heat cooking oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the lumpia in small batches until they turn golden brown and crispy—about 3-5 minutes per batch. Make sure to keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once golden brown, remove the lumpia from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot with sweet chili sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Lumpia!
Can I Use Different Proteins for the Filling?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground chicken with ground turkey, pork, or even a vegetarian mix with mushrooms and tofu for a delightful twist. Adjust the seasoning slightly to match the protein you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Lumpia Wrappers?
If you can’t find lumpia wrappers, spring roll wrappers are a great alternative. Just keep in mind they may be slightly thicker, so you might need to adjust the frying time for crispiness. Look for them in the frozen section of your local grocery store!
How Do I Store Leftover Lumpia?
Store any leftover lumpia in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be fried straight from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy them!
Can I Bake the Lumpia Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can! For a healthier version, place the prepared lumpia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush lightly with oil, and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until they’re golden and crispy.
