The Best Chicken Lumpia (Filipino Spring Roll)

Chicken Lumpia is a Filipino classic that’s crispy, golden, and packed with savory flavor. Filled with seasoned ground chicken, carrots, onions, and oyster sauce, these spring rolls are fried to perfection and served with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce. Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or side dish, lumpia is always a crowd favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Filipino flavor with simple, accessible ingredients.
• Crispy on the outside, juicy and flavorful on the inside.
• Freezer-friendly — prepare in batches and fry when needed.
• Great for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
• Pairs perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Lumpia filling:

• 2 pounds ground chicken thighs
• 1 large carrot, grated (1 cup)
• 1 onion, grated (1 cup)
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoon black pepper
• lumpia wrappers (or spring roll wrappers)
• 2 whisked egg whites (for sealing)

Filipino Smash Sauce:

• ½ cup banana ketchup
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoon relish

Directions

1. Make the filling
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, grated carrot, onion, eggs, oyster sauce, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
   • Mix well with a wooden spoon or clean hands until evenly combined.
2. Prepare the wrappers
   • Separate lumpia wrappers to make rolling easier.
   • Transfer filling into a large ziplock or piping bag. Cut a small hole in the corner.
3. Wrap the lumpia
   • Pipe a line of filling along the bottom edge of a wrapper.
   • Roll tightly, folding in the sides as you go.
   • Brush the edge with egg white wash to seal.
   • Repeat until all filling is used.
4. Freeze before frying
   • Place rolled lumpia on a baking tray and freeze for at least 1 hour to firm up.
5. Fry
   • Heat oil in a deep pan.
   • Fry lumpia in batches, seal side down first, until golden brown and crispy.
   • Drain on paper towels.
6. Make the sauce
   • For Filipino Smash Sauce, mix banana ketchup, mayonnaise, and relish until smooth.
   • Alternatively, serve with sweet Thai chili sauce.

Servings and timing

• Servings: About 30–35 lumpia rolls
• Prep time: 30 minutes
• Chill time: 1 hour
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Swap ground chicken for pork, beef, or shrimp.
• Add shredded cabbage, bean sprouts, or green beans for extra veggies.
• Use hoisin sauce instead of oyster sauce for a slightly sweeter filling.
• Make mini lumpia for bite-sized party snacks.
• Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

• Freeze uncooked lumpia in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Fry straight from frozen.
• Store cooked lumpia in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer until crispy again.

FAQs

Can I make lumpia ahead of time?

Yes, roll and freeze them ahead. Fry straight from frozen when ready to serve.

Can I use ground chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs are juicier and more flavorful.

Do I need banana ketchup for the sauce?

It adds authentic Filipino flavor, but you can substitute regular ketchup.

Can I bake lumpia instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.

What’s the difference between lumpia and spring rolls?

Lumpia is the Filipino version of spring rolls, often thinner and crispier.

Can I make lumpia without egg in the filling?

Yes, the egg helps bind the mixture, but you can omit it or replace with breadcrumbs.

How do I prevent lumpia from getting soggy?

Serve immediately after frying, or reheat in an air fryer or oven to crisp up.

Can I double this recipe for a party?

Yes, lumpia is perfect for batch cooking and freezing.

How do I stop wrappers from tearing?

Keep them covered with a damp towel while working to prevent drying out.

What do I serve with lumpia?

Rice, pancit (Filipino noodles), or dipping sauces like sweet chili, vinegar with garlic, or the Smash Sauce.

Conclusion

Chicken Lumpia is a Filipino classic that’s crispy, flavorful, and versatile. With a juicy chicken filling wrapped in golden, crunchy lumpia wrappers and served with a tangy dipping sauce, this dish is perfect for gatherings, snacks, or family meals. Once you try making lumpia at home, it’s sure to become a staple on your table.

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