Skip the takeout and recreate your favorite fast-food appetizer at home with these Air Fryer Copycat Panda Express Chicken Egg Rolls. Stuffed with juicy chicken, crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, and aromatic seasonings, these egg rolls are a healthier alternative to the deep-fried version—crispy on the outside, savory and moist on the inside. Air-fried to golden perfection, they’re perfect as appetizers, snacks, or part of a full Asian-inspired meal.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients:

• 2 cups chicken breast, finely chopped

• 1 cup cabbage, shredded

• ½ cup carrots, shredded

• ½ cup onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 12 egg roll wrappers

• Cooking spray

• ¼ cup water (for sealing wrappers)

Directions:

1. Prepare the filling:
   In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped chicken until no longer pink. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in cabbage, carrots, and onion; cook until slightly softened. Add soy sauce and sesame oil, then cook for another 2 minutes. Let cool slightly.

2. Assemble the egg rolls:
   Place an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface in a diamond shape. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling into the center. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly. Seal the edge with water.

3. Air fry:
   Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place egg rolls in a single layer (do not overcrowd). Lightly spray the tops.
   Air fry for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

4. Serve:
   Let egg rolls cool slightly. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce—sweet and sour, soy sauce, or sweet chili sauce.

Nutrients (per egg roll):

• Calories: 78 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 9g

• Protein: 7g

• Fat: 1g

  • Saturated Fat: 0.2g

• Cholesterol: 17mg

• Sodium: 276mg

• Potassium: 148mg

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 1g

• Vitamin A: 906 IU

• Vitamin C: 3mg

• Calcium: 14mg

• Iron: 1mg

The Inspiration Behind the Dish

Panda Express, a popular American-Chinese fast-food chain, has become synonymous with bold flavors and comforting classics like orange chicken, chow mein, and of course, chicken egg rolls. These golden rolls are a familiar favorite—crispy on the outside, hot and juicy inside, and full of well-balanced seasoning. The appeal is clear: portable, dippable, and packed with flavor. This copycat version aims to capture the essence of those iconic egg rolls while giving home cooks a healthier and more customizable alternative, thanks to the power of the air fryer.

Why the Air Fryer is a Game-Changer

Air frying has revolutionized the way we prepare traditionally fried foods. By circulating hot air around the food, air fryers replicate the crispy texture of deep frying without the need for quarts of oil. The result is a golden-brown finish with significantly less fat and fewer calories. In the case of egg rolls, the air fryer provides a satisfyingly crisp shell while preserving the juicy integrity of the filling. It’s also quicker, cleaner, and more energy-efficient, making it a win-win for busy weeknights and healthy eating goals.

Balancing Flavors in the Filling

The heart of a great egg roll lies in its filling, and this recipe delivers a beautifully balanced mix of flavors and textures. Juicy chicken breast serves as the protein base, offering a mild and tender bite that pairs well with the freshness of cabbage and carrots. These vegetables add crunch and natural sweetness, while finely diced onion provides aromatic depth. Garlic enhances the savory profile, and a splash of soy sauce brings umami and salt. A touch of sesame oil rounds out the filling with a subtle nuttiness that lingers on the palate.

A Nod to Texture: Soft Inside, Crispy Outside

The contrast between the crispy shell and the tender filling is one of the most satisfying elements of a well-made egg roll. Air frying allows the wrapper to puff and brown evenly, resulting in that signature shatter with every bite. Meanwhile, the interior stays moist and flavorful without becoming greasy or soggy. Each component of the filling contributes to the final texture—the meatiness of chicken, the snap of cabbage, the softness of cooked carrots—all working in harmony inside a golden, crunchy wrap.

The Art of Rolling Perfect Egg Rolls

Rolling egg rolls may seem intimidating at first, but once you’ve done a few, it becomes second nature. The key is to use the right amount of filling—not too much, not too little—and to wrap tightly without tearing the wrapper. Placing the wrapper in a diamond shape helps guide the rolling process: fold the bottom over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll upward with gentle pressure. Sealing the edge with water keeps everything intact during cooking, and the end result is a neatly rolled package with no leaks or splits.

The Joy of Dipping Sauces

No egg roll experience is complete without a dipping sauce, and this recipe pairs beautifully with a wide range of condiments. Sweet and sour sauce offers a zesty contrast to the savory filling, while soy sauce enhances the umami notes. Sweet chili sauce adds a touch of heat and sweetness, appealing to adventurous palates. For something richer, peanut sauce or hoisin can bring deeper complexity. The versatility of these egg rolls means they act as the perfect vehicle for whatever sauce suits your mood, making each bite unique.

Healthy Doesn’t Have to Mean Boring

These air-fried egg rolls are a testament to the idea that healthier versions of fast food can still be incredibly delicious. At just 78 calories per roll and packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, they fit comfortably into a balanced diet. They’re low in saturated fat, moderate in sodium, and offer vitamins A and C from the carrots and cabbage. When served with a light side dish like steamed rice, a cucumber salad, or miso soup, they become part of a well-rounded, nutritious meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for health.

Great for Parties, Meal Prep, or Weeknight Dinners

One of the best things about these chicken egg rolls is their versatility. They’re easy to prepare in batches, making them perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or game-day snacks. You can make them ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and reheat in the air fryer for a quick, fuss-free snack. They also freeze exceptionally well—just assemble, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag for long-term storage. When ready to eat, pop them into the air fryer straight from the freezer and extend the cook time slightly. This makes them a meal-prepper’s dream and a time-saver on busy evenings.

A Family-Friendly Favorite

Kids and adults alike love these egg rolls for their crispy texture and approachable flavor. The mild filling is easy on young palates, and the act of dipping adds a layer of fun to the eating experience. They’re great for getting kids involved in the kitchen too—rolling egg rolls is a simple task that’s both educational and interactive. Plus, knowing exactly what’s going into their food can help picky eaters feel more comfortable trying new flavors. It’s a hands-on, satisfying dish that the whole family can enjoy.

Endlessly Customizable to Suit Your Tastes

Another benefit of making egg rolls at home is the ability to tailor the ingredients to your preferences. Want a vegetarian version? Swap out the chicken for tofu or mushrooms. Prefer more spice? Add minced chili peppers or a splash of hot sauce to the filling. Love more crunch? Toss in bean sprouts or water chestnuts. You can even use ground turkey, pork, or beef if you want a meatier option. The filling is a blank canvas, and the only limit is your imagination. With each variation, the basic technique stays the same—crisp shell, flavorful center, and that signature air-fried finish.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Copycat Panda Express Chicken Egg Rolls offer the best of both worlds—indulgent flavor and texture with a healthier, home-cooked twist. With their golden, crispy exterior and juicy, savory interior, they capture everything people love about traditional egg rolls while avoiding the pitfalls of deep frying. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and family-approved, these egg rolls are a must-try for anyone craving fast-food flavor without the extra oil. Whether you serve them at a party, prep them for lunches, or make them for a fun weeknight dinner, they’re sure to become a regular on your home menu. Once you’ve had them air-fried and fresh, takeout will never taste the same again.