Pin It I used to avoid frying anything at home because of the mess and the lingering smell. Then a friend showed me how an air fryer could do the same crispy magic with almost no oil. These chicken lumpia bites were my first experiment, and I still remember how satisfying it felt to pull out that first batch, golden and crackling, without a single splatter on the stovetop.
I made a double batch of these for a potluck once, thinking I had plenty. They vanished in under ten minutes. People kept asking if I had more tucked away somewhere, and I learned my lesson: always make extra, because no one stops at just one or two.
Ingredients
- Ground chicken: Lean and mild, it soaks up the soy and sesame beautifully without getting greasy.
- Carrot: Grate it fine so it blends in and adds a touch of sweetness and color.
- Green onions: They bring a fresh, sharp note that cuts through the richness.
- Garlic: Mince it small so every bite gets a little punch of flavor.
- Soy sauce: This is your salt and umami in one, so use a good quality brand.
- Sesame oil: Just a teaspoon makes the whole filling smell incredible.
- Black pepper and salt: Season boldly, the wrapper will mellow it out.
- Sugar: A small amount balances the soy and brings everything together.
- Lumpia wrappers: Look for thin spring roll wrappers in the freezer section, they crisp up better than thick ones.
- Egg: Beaten and brushed on the edges, it acts like edible glue.
- Oil spray: A light mist is all you need for that golden finish.
Instructions
- Mix the filling:
- Combine the ground chicken, carrot, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, salt, and sugar in a bowl. Use your hands or a fork to mix until everything is evenly distributed and slightly sticky.
- Prep the wrappers:
- Cut each lumpia wrapper in half so you have two long rectangles. Keep them covered with a damp towel so they do not dry out while you work.
- Fill and roll:
- Place a tablespoon of filling near the short edge of a wrapper half and shape it into a small log. Fold the sides in, then roll up tightly from the filled end, brushing the final edge with beaten egg to seal it closed.
- Repeat:
- Continue filling and rolling until all the filling and wrappers are used. You should end up with about 24 bites.
- Preheat the air fryer:
- Set it to 190 degrees Celsius and let it run empty for 3 minutes.
- Arrange and spray:
- Lay the lumpia bites in a single layer in the basket, leaving a little space between each one. Lightly spray the tops with oil.
- Air fry:
- Cook for 8 minutes, then use tongs to flip each bite. Spray again and air fry for another 7 minutes until they are golden and crisp all over.
- Make the dipping sauce:
- While the bites cook, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and chili sauce in a small bowl.
- Serve:
- Transfer the hot lumpia bites to a plate and serve immediately with the dipping sauce on the side.
Pin It The first time I served these at a family gathering, my cousin said they tasted like the lumpia her grandmother used to make, except lighter. That comment meant more to me than any recipe blog praise ever could, because it told me the flavor was right even if the method was different.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover lumpia bites can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 180 degrees Celsius for about 5 minutes, and they will crisp up again almost like they are freshly made. Microwaving makes them soggy, so avoid it if you can.
Variations and Substitutions
Ground turkey or pork work just as well if you prefer a different protein. For a vegetarian version, crumble firm tofu and squeeze out the extra water before mixing it with the vegetables and seasonings. You can also add finely chopped water chestnuts or bell pepper for extra crunch and color.
Serving Suggestions
These bites are perfect for parties, game day snacks, or a quick appetizer before dinner. Serve them with sweet chili sauce, banana ketchup, or even a spicy mayo if you want to mix things up.
- Pair with a fresh cucumber salad to balance the richness.
- Serve alongside other Filipino favorites like pancit or adobo for a full spread.
- Keep a batch warm in a low oven if you are serving them over time at a gathering.
Pin It Once you get the rhythm of rolling these, you will find yourself making them on repeat. They are quick, endlessly adaptable, and always disappear faster than you expect.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chicken is best for the filling?
Ground chicken is ideal for the filling due to its texture and flavor, but ground turkey or pork can be used as alternatives.
- → Can I make these lumpia bites vegan or vegetarian?
Yes, firm tofu can replace the chicken to create a vegetarian version, offering a similar texture and protein content.
- → How do I keep the lumpia wrappers from tearing during assembly?
Handle the wrappers gently and keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying. Use a small amount of beaten egg to seal edges securely.
- → What temperature should the air fryer be set to for cooking?
Preheat the air fryer to 190°C (375°F) and cook the lumpia bites for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispness.
- → Is there an alternative to the dipping sauce provided?
Sweet chili sauce or banana ketchup are popular Filipino-inspired options that pair well with these chicken lumpia bites.
- → Can I prepare the lumpia bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lumpia bites and refrigerate them before air frying for up to a few hours to save time.