Baked Chicken Club Egg Rolls with Zesty Avocado Ranch Dipping Sauce: A Healthy & Flavorful Twist
When you hear “egg rolls,” your mind might immediately conjure images of classic Chinese takeout, often fried and filled with cabbage and pork. While I appreciate the concept, traditional egg rolls have never truly captured my palate. My preference leans toward heartier, meatier options, much like the delicious Vietnamese egg rolls a friend of mine prepares – packed with savory ground pork, bean threads, and other delectable ingredients. Those I could happily enjoy every single day! This particular recipe, however, is a delightful departure from the conventional, and it’s precisely why I became an instant enthusiast.
I stumbled upon this incredible idea on Pinterest, and the moment I saw “Chicken Club Egg Rolls,” I knew I had to bring them to my kitchen. What makes these egg rolls so undeniably appealing? They ingeniously combine the beloved flavors of a classic club sandwich – tender grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy avocado – all wrapped up in a crispy shell. To elevate the experience even further, they come with a luscious avocado ranch dipping sauce. Seriously, what’s not to love about such a vibrant and flavorful combination?
Following a helpful tip from the original recipe’s notes, I decided to incorporate shredded cheddar cheese into the filling, and it proved to be an absolute game-changer. Beyond adding a fantastic layer of rich flavor, the cheese acts as a perfect binder, ensuring all those wonderful ingredients – the savory chicken, the smoky bacon, and the smooth avocado – meld together seamlessly within the wrapper. This simple addition elevates the texture and overall taste, creating a truly satisfying bite every time. The health-conscious aspect of these egg rolls makes them even more appealing.
The Joy of Baked Egg Rolls: Healthy & Delicious
One of the standout features of these chicken club egg rolls is their preparation method: they are baked, not fried. This makes them a significantly healthier option without sacrificing any of the satisfying crunch or deliciousness you’d expect from an egg roll. I was thrilled with how perfectly they turned out – golden brown, crispy, and incredibly flavorful. They’re wonderfully versatile, serving equally well as a wholesome weeknight dinner or as an impressive appetizer or snack for any gathering. And for those occasions when you want to truly indulge, a quick deep-fry would undoubtedly take them to an even more decadent level, though baking offers a fantastic, lighter alternative.
The Star of the Show: Avocado Ranch Dipping Sauce
Let’s talk about the avocado dipping sauce – it’s an absolute revelation and incredibly easy to prepare. Even though I’m not typically a huge fan of traditional ranch dressing, the unique blend of seasonings and the fresh avocado in this dip create a harmonious pairing with the egg rolls. The creamy texture and zesty flavor perfectly complement the savory filling, adding a bright and refreshing counterpoint. It’s the kind of sauce that you’ll want to put on everything, and it truly completes the ‘club’ experience.
A Family Favorite for Any Occasion
This recipe quickly earned its place as a family favorite, a true testament to its universal appeal. Even my notoriously picky seven-year-old happily devoured these, which, for any parent, is a monumental victory in itself! The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with the straightforward preparation, makes these chicken club egg rolls an ideal choice for busy weeknights or for entertaining guests without stress. They offer a delightful blend of textures and flavors – the crisp exterior giving way to a warm, savory, and creamy interior. Consider serving them with a simple side salad for a complete meal, or arrange them on a platter for an impressive party spread. The possibilities are truly endless.
Tips for Perfect Egg Rolls Every Time
Achieving perfectly rolled egg rolls is simpler than it seems. Start with your wrapper laid out in a diamond shape. Place the filling just below the center. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the two side corners. Finally, roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top. A dab of water or an egg wash on the final corner will ensure a secure seal, preventing any delicious filling from escaping during baking. Don’t overload the wrappers; about 1/3 cup of filling per egg roll is usually ideal to ensure they cook evenly and remain manageable. If you opt for deep frying, make sure your oil is at the correct temperature (around 350-375°F or 175-190°C) to achieve that signature golden, bubbly crust without overcooking the inside or making them greasy. For air frying, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp. These simple steps will guarantee a successful batch of crispy, flavorful chicken club egg rolls.
Ingredient Spotlight & Creative Substitutions
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. While grilled chicken, crispy bacon, fresh avocado, and sharp cheddar are the stars, feel free to experiment with substitutions to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for a quick prep, saving you valuable time in the kitchen. Turkey bacon can be used for a lighter option without sacrificing too much of that smoky flavor. If cheddar isn’t your favorite, Monterey Jack or a Colby Jack blend would also melt beautifully and offer a mild, creamy flavor. For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper in the filling or a dash of hot sauce in the dipping sauce could add a welcome kick. Finely chopped bell peppers or corn could also be added to the filling for extra vegetable goodness and texture, though they would depart slightly from the traditional ‘club’ profile. Ensuring your ingredients are finely chopped or diced allows for easier rolling and a more cohesive filling, preventing wrappers from tearing.
Serving Suggestions for Every Occasion
These versatile egg rolls are perfect for a wide range of occasions. Hosting a game day party? They make an exceptional finger food that’s far more exciting than your average snack, guaranteed to impress your guests. Planning a casual dinner with friends? Serve them alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced and satisfying meal. They also reheat well, making them fantastic for meal prep or a quick lunch the next day. The combination of savory chicken and bacon with the refreshing avocado and the creamy dip hits all the right notes, making them universally appealing. Their baked nature means less guilt, allowing everyone to enjoy this delightful creation without hesitation.
Final Thoughts: A Culinary Triumph
In conclusion, these Chicken Club Egg Rolls are a brilliant culinary innovation that perfectly marries the comforting flavors of a classic club sandwich with the exciting, crispy format of an egg roll. They are incredibly easy to make, offer a healthier baked alternative to traditional fried versions, and are guaranteed to be a hit with both adults and children. The homemade avocado ranch dipping sauce elevates the entire dish, providing a fresh and creamy counterpoint that you’ll find irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and delivers consistently delicious results. Prepare to impress your taste buds and your guests with this fantastic, flavorful recipe!
Chicken Club Eggrolls
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Ingredients
Eggrolls
- 6 eggroll wrappers
- 2 cups grilled chicken, finely chopped
- 1 avocado, diced
- 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Avocado Dipping Sauce
- 1 Avocado
- 1 Tablespoon Ranch dressing mix
- 1 Tablespoon mayo
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Brush baking sheet with olive oil, or use a sil pat liner.
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In a large bowl combine chicken, diced avocado, bacon, and cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined. Lay 1 eggroll wrapper on the counter. Fill with about 1/3 cup of filling, leaving about 1/2 in border around the edges. Wet the edges of the wrapper. Fold the sides over. Then starting with edge closest to you, fold over, making sure the filling stays inside. Use a little additional water to seal if needed. (You are folding like a burrito) Repeat with the rest of the filling.
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Place the eggrolls seam side down on prepared baking sheet. Brush with olive oil. Bake for 15-17 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. You can use the broiler for the last minute if you want them more golden. Slice in half on an angel to serve.
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While the eggrolls are baking you can make the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, using a fork, mash the avocado. Mix with the ranch seasoning and the mayo until smooth. Add the lime juiced and stir (helps prevent it from browning).
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Serve sliced eggrolls with dipping sauce.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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