If you’re craving something fresh, vibrant, and incredibly satisfying, you have to try this Chicken Spring Rolls with Basil, Avocado, and Rice Noodle Dipping Sauce Recipe. These rolls burst with layers of flavor and texture—from the fragrant basil and creamy avocado to the tender shredded chicken and delicate rice noodles. The homemade dipping sauce brings it all together with that perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and umami notes, making every bite an absolute delight. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a fun appetizer to impress guests, this recipe hits the mark every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken Spring Rolls with Basil, Avocado, and Rice Noodle Dipping Sauce Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering a harmonious blend of flavors, colors, and textures that make these rolls so irresistible.
- Spring roll skins: The thin wrappers that hold everything together, softening just right to envelope the fillings.
- Cooked, shredded chicken: Adds hearty protein and a satisfying texture without overwhelming the fresh veggies.
- Basil leaves: Provide an aromatic, slightly peppery kick that elevates the whole roll.
- Shredded carrots: Bring a subtle sweetness and crunch that brighten every bite.
- Sliced cucumber: Adds a refreshing crispness and cool contrast to the richness of the avocado.
- Avocado: Creamy and buttery, it offers richness that balances the fresh ingredients perfectly.
- Rice noodles: Soft and light, they add a lovely chewiness and soak up the flavors of the dipping sauce.
- Rice wine vinegar: A tangy splash that sharpens the dipping sauce’s profile.
- Soy sauce: Infuses a savory depth and umami punch to the sauce.
- Sesame seed oil: Delivers a nutty aroma that makes the dipping sauce truly special.
- Sugar: Balances the acidity and saltiness in the dipping sauce with a touch of sweetness.
- Sweet chili sauce: Gives the sauce a gentle heat and a fruity sweetness for extra zing.
How to Make Chicken Spring Rolls with Basil, Avocado, and Rice Noodle Dipping Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Whip Up the Dipping Sauce
Start by combining the rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, sesame seed oil, sugar, and sweet chili sauce in a small bowl. This sauce is the heart of the dish, offering a perfectly balanced mix of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors that will tie all the ingredients together beautifully.
Step 2: Season the Rice Noodles
Toss the cooked rice noodles with about two tablespoons of the dipping sauce you just made. This infuses the noodles with flavor before they even meet the other ingredients, making sure every bite packs a punch.
Step 3: Soften the Spring Roll Skins
Fill a shallow plate with warm water and gently dip one spring roll skin at a time until it softens. This step is crucial because it makes the skins pliable, so they wrap around the fillings without tearing.
Step 4: Layer the Fresh Fillings
Lay the softened skin flat and place a large basil leaf in the center. Then add a layer of the seasoned rice noodles, followed by shredded carrots, cucumber slices, shredded chicken, and a slice of creamy avocado. This colorful arrangement makes each roll a taste sensation.
Step 5: Roll it Up
Fold in the sides of the spring roll skin neatly and roll tightly from the bottom up, ensuring everything stays snuggly wrapped. A tight roll means you’ll get a perfect bite every time.
Step 6: Repeat and Serve
Make the remaining rolls with the rest of your ingredients. Serve them right away with the reserved dipping sauce on the side for dunking. Freshness is key here, so enjoy them immediately!
How to Serve Chicken Spring Rolls with Basil, Avocado, and Rice Noodle Dipping Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or chopped fresh basil on top of your spring rolls for a pretty and flavorful touch. Thinly sliced red chili or a few sprigs of cilantro can also add brightness and a hint of spice to the presentation.
Side Dishes
Pair these spring rolls with a light Asian-style salad or a bowl of hot and sour soup for a satisfying meal. A small dish of pickled vegetables also complements the flavors beautifully and adds an extra layer of texture.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the rolls on a bamboo platter with banana leaves underneath for an authentic feel. You can also skewer each roll with a bamboo toothpick or edible flower to make them perfect finger foods at a party or gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, wrap each spring roll individually in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day to keep the flavors fresh and the texture just right.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for these fresh spring rolls because the delicate rice paper tends to become tough or soggy after thawing. These rolls are best enjoyed fresh for optimal taste and texture.
Reheating
Since these spring rolls are served fresh and cold, reheating is not necessary. If you want warm chicken inside, you can gently heat the shredded chicken before assembling, but the rolls themselves shine best served cool and crisp.
FAQs
Can I use other herbs instead of basil?
Absolutely! While basil adds a distinctive flavor, you can try mint or cilantro for a fresh twist. Each herb will bring its own unique aroma and taste that complements the rolls well.
What can I substitute for avocado?
If you’re not a fan of avocado or want a dairy-free creamy option, thin slices of ripe mango or julienned jicama can add a sweet crunch or creamy texture without overpowering the other ingredients.
How do I cook rice noodles for the dipping sauce?
Cook rice noodles according to the package instructions, usually by soaking them in hot water until tender. Drain thoroughly and toss with some dipping sauce to enhance their flavor before adding to the rolls.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers, tofu, or mushrooms to keep the rolls hearty and delicious without meat.
How far in advance can I prepare these spring rolls?
These spring rolls are best assembled just before serving to maintain freshness and texture. However, you can prepare all the filling ingredients and dipping sauce a day ahead to save time when rolling.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Spring Rolls with Basil, Avocado, and Rice Noodle Dipping Sauce Recipe is a vibrant, fresh way to enjoy a light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy, colorful, and guaranteed to impress your taste buds and anyone lucky enough to share them with you. Give it a try, and I promise these rolls will become one of your go-to favorites!
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Chicken Spring Rolls with Basil, Avocado, and Rice Noodle Dipping Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 spring rolls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These fresh and vibrant Chicken Spring Rolls are a perfect light appetizer or snack, combining shredded chicken, crunchy vegetables, and tender rice noodles wrapped in delicate spring roll skins. Served with a tangy and slightly sweet dipping sauce, they offer a refreshing balance of flavors and textures in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Spring Rolls
- 8 spring roll skins
- ½ cup cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 large basil leaf per roll (8 leaves)
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup sliced cucumber
- ½ avocado, sliced
- 4 ounces rice noodles, cooked
Dipping Sauce
- ¼ cup rice wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame seed oil
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp sweet chili sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the dipping sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, sesame seed oil, sugar, and sweet chili sauce until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is well combined.
- Toss the noodles: Add the cooked rice noodles to the sauce, mixing thoroughly to coat evenly; set aside to absorb the flavors.
- Soften the spring roll skins: Fill a shallow plate with warm water and briefly dip each spring roll skin until it becomes pliable but not too soft, then lay it flat on a clean surface.
- Assemble the rolls: On each softened skin, place one basil leaf in the center, then layer the seasoned rice noodles, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, shredded chicken, and a slice of avocado on top.
- Roll the spring rolls: Fold the sides inward, then roll tightly from the bottom up to enclose the filling securely.
- Repeat: Continue assembling and rolling the remaining spring rolls using the same method.
- Serve: Plate the spring rolls and serve immediately with the reserved dipping sauce for dipping.
Notes
- For best results, serve spring rolls fresh to maintain the crispness of the vegetables and the texture of the wrappers.
- Rice noodles can be replaced with thin vermicelli noodles if preferred.
- To make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken with tofu or extra vegetables.
- Keep leftover dipping sauce refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- If spring roll skins are unavailable, use rice paper wrappers as an alternative.
