Dive into the fresh, vibrant world of **Chicken Rice Paper Rolls**, also affectionately known as Chicken Summer Rolls. These light and healthy rolls are a culinary delight, perfect for a refreshing lunch, a wholesome dinner, or an impressive appetizer for your next gathering. Each roll is packed with succulent shredded chicken, an array of finely chopped, crisp vegetables, and delicate vermicelli rice noodles, all wrapped in a translucent rice paper embrace. The magic is completed with a rich, savory, and slightly sweet peanut hoisin dipping sauce, the recipe for which is waiting to elevate your meal to new heights. Prepare to fall in love with these effortlessly delicious and endlessly customizable Vietnamese-inspired wraps!

Easy & Healthy Chicken Rice Paper Rolls: Your New Favorite Summer Meal

Hello, fellow food enthusiasts! My name is Cassie, and if there’s one dish I could eat every single day, it would undoubtedly be these incredible **Chicken Rice Paper Rolls**. There’s just something so utterly satisfying about them – they’re fresh, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. These Vietnamese-inspired summer rolls have become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m thrilled to share my go-to recipe with you.

Whether you’re seeking a nutritious lunch to power through your day, a light and healthy dinner that won’t weigh you down, or an impressive yet simple appetizer to wow your guests, these rolls fit the bill perfectly. They strike that coveted balance between deliciousness and health, making them a fantastic choice for any occasion.

One of my favorite shortcuts for this recipe is using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s not only incredibly convenient but also adds a wonderful depth of flavor. However, if you prefer to cook your chicken from scratch, shredded chicken breast works just as beautifully. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility: feel free to experiment with different vegetables and fresh herbs to suit your taste. My personal preference leans towards a colorful mix of julienned carrot, crisp capsicum (bell pepper), crunchy cucumber, and fresh coriander (cilantro). But imagine the refreshing twist that fresh mint or basil could add!

No matter how you fill them, promise me you won’t skip the dipping sauce. My signature peanut hoisin dipping sauce is an absolute game-changer. It’s so good, you’ll be tempted to eat it by the spoonful! This creamy, savory, and subtly sweet sauce perfectly complements the fresh flavors of the rolls, creating an unforgettable culinary experience.

WHY YOU’LL FALL IN LOVE WITH THIS CHICKEN RICE PAPER ROLL RECIPE

These chicken summer rolls aren’t just delicious; they offer a myriad of reasons to become a regular feature in your meal rotation:

• Effortlessly Quick & Easy: With minimal cooking involved (especially if you opt for rotisserie chicken), these rolls come together in a flash. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a fast yet satisfying meal without much fuss.
• The Ultimate Light & Healthy Meal: Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and delicate rice noodles, these rolls are remarkably low in calories and fat, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking for a wholesome and nutritious option.
• Infinitely Customizable: This recipe is a fantastic canvas for your culinary creativity. Mix and match your favorite proteins, vegetables, and herbs to create a roll that’s uniquely yours. Dietary restrictions? No problem! It’s easy to adapt.
• Impressively Versatile: Serve them as a refreshing main course, a guilt-free snack, or an elegant appetizer that will surely impress your family and friends. Their vibrant colors and fresh flavors make them a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

ARE CHICKEN RICE PAPER ROLLS A HEALTHY CHOICE?

Absolutely! Chicken rice paper rolls are an incredibly healthy and balanced meal option when prepared with fresh, wholesome ingredients. This particular recipe focuses on lean protein from chicken, a rich assortment of colorful vegetables providing essential vitamins and fiber, and light vermicelli rice noodles. Each roll is surprisingly low in calories, making them an excellent choice for maintaining a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. They’re also naturally gluten-free (just ensure your dipping sauce is GF too), appealing to a wider range of dietary needs. Opting for fresh, unprocessed ingredients ensures you’re fueling your body with goodness.

ESSENTIAL INGREDIENTS FOR YOUR CHICKEN SUMMER ROLLS

Crafting these delicious chicken summer rolls requires just a handful of fresh ingredients, many of which you might already have on hand. It’s always a good idea to keep a pack of rice paper wrappers and vermicelli noodles in your pantry; this way, you can whip up a batch of these rolls whenever the craving strikes! Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create these vibrant and flavorful rolls (full measurements are provided in the comprehensive recipe card below):

• Cooked Chicken: The star of our show! You have options here. Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver, offering tender, pre-seasoned meat that’s ready to shred. Alternatively, you can cook and shred your own chicken breast. Poaching, baking, or even pan-frying chicken breast and then shredding it works beautifully. The goal is tender, easily chewable chicken.
• Rice Paper Wrappers: These delicate, translucent discs are the magic casing for our rolls. Look for them in the Asian food aisle of your local supermarket. They become pliable and slightly sticky when dipped in warm water.
• Vermicelli Rice Noodles: These thin, delicate noodles add a lovely texture and substance to the rolls. They cook incredibly quickly, usually just needing a soak in hot water. Be sure to follow package instructions for the best results.
• Fresh Carrot: Julienne or finely grate your carrot for a touch of sweetness, vibrant color, and a satisfying crunch.
• Fresh Cucumber: English cucumber is ideal for its milder flavor and fewer seeds. Julienne it for a refreshing, cool element in your rolls.
• Red Capsicum / Bell Pepper: Adds a pop of color, a sweet, mild flavor, and another layer of crispness. Feel free to use yellow or orange bell peppers for variety.
• Fresh Coriander / Cilantro: This aromatic herb brings a burst of fresh, citrusy flavor that is quintessential to many Vietnamese dishes. If you’re not a fan, fresh mint or Thai basil are excellent alternatives.

Optional Additions for Extra Flavor and Texture: Consider adding finely chopped spring onions, a leaf of butter lettuce, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for even more dimension.

HOW TO MAKE CHICKEN RICE PAPER ROLLS – STEP BY STEP GUIDE

Assembling these chicken rice paper rolls is a simple and enjoyable process. Setting up an efficient “assembly line” will make the experience even smoother!

Before you begin, ensure all your fillings are prepped: chicken shredded, vegetables julienned or finely chopped, and vermicelli noodles cooked according to package instructions, then drained and cooled. Having everything ready to go is key to stress-free rolling.

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Wrapper

On a clean, flat surface (like a large chopping board or countertop), lay out a slightly damp tea towel or dish cloth. This damp surface will help prevent the rice paper wrapper from sticking and tearing. Next, fill a shallow bowl (wider than your rice paper wrappers) with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the warm water for about 15-20 seconds. The exact time depends on the brand and thickness of the wrapper, but it should be just softened and pliable, not overly soggy or mushy. You want it flexible enough to roll but still firm enough to handle. Gently lay the softened wrapper flat on top of your damp tea towel.

Step 2: Fill and Fold Your Roll

Carefully arrange your desired fillings in a neat pile along the bottom-middle third of the wrapper. It’s crucial not to overload the roll, as this makes it difficult to wrap tightly and can cause the wrapper to tear. Start with a layer of vermicelli noodles, then add your shredded chicken, followed by the julienned carrot, cucumber, capsicum, and a scattering of fresh coriander. Once your fillings are neatly in place, begin the wrapping process: fold the bottom edge of the wrapper up and tightly over the fillings. Then, fold in both the left and right sides of the wrapper towards the center, creating an envelope-like shape. Ensure the folds are snug against the filling to create a firm, compact roll.

Step 3: Roll Up Tightly

Now, carefully roll the entire package upwards from the bottom. Roll it as tightly as you can without tearing the delicate rice paper. The goal is a firm, cylindrical roll that holds its shape. Once rolled, set the finished roll aside on a clean plate, making sure to leave a small space between rolls to prevent them from sticking together. You can lightly dampen the plate or use a fresh lettuce leaf between rolls if you’re concerned about stickiness.

Step 4: Repeat and Serve

Continue this process with the remaining rice paper wrappers and filling ingredients until you’ve used everything up. Remember to serve these delightful rolls immediately with a generous side of the essential peanut hoisin dipping sauce. It’s the perfect accompaniment to bring all the flavors together!

STORAGE ADVICE FOR LEFTOVER RICE PAPER ROLLS

While chicken rice paper rolls are undeniably at their absolute best when served fresh, any leftovers can certainly be stored for later enjoyment. To keep them as fresh as possible, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will typically last for about a day without any significant issues. You might notice the rice paper wrapper becoming slightly drier or a little firmer, but I’ve personally never found this to be a problem. The fillings remain delicious and refreshing. To prevent sticking, you can place a piece of parchment paper or a fresh lettuce leaf between the rolls if stacking them in the container. Avoid freezing them, as the delicate wrappers and fresh vegetables won’t hold up well to thawing.

EXPERT TIPS FOR PERFECT CHICKEN RICE PAPER ROLLS

Achieving perfectly rolled and incredibly flavorful rice paper rolls is easy with a few insider tips:

• The Unbeatable Peanut Hoisin Dipping Sauce: I cannot stress this enough – always serve these chicken rice paper rolls with my incredible peanut hoisin dipping sauce. Its sweet, savory, and nutty profile is the ideal complement to the fresh ingredients in the rolls, elevating every bite. Make it ahead of time so it’s ready when your rolls are!
• Handle Wrappers with Care: Rice paper wrappers are notoriously delicate. It’s completely normal for a wrapper to develop small rips or tears during the soaking or rolling process, especially if you’re new to it. Don’t fret! Once you roll it up tightly, these minor imperfections usually disappear and won’t affect the final product. Practice makes perfect, and even imperfect rolls taste amazing!
• Mastering the Soak: The key to a good wrapper is the perfect soak. Don’t oversoak! Aim for a wrapper that is pliable but still has a slight firmness to it. It will continue to soften as you add fillings. A damp tea towel on your rolling surface also helps prevent sticking and gives you a bit more grip.
• Choose Your Chicken Wisely: As mentioned, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic, convenient option for its tenderness and pre-seasoned flavor. However, if you prefer to cook your own, any method works wonderfully: poached chicken breast, Instant Pot shredded chicken, or even pan-fried strips that are then shredded. The most important thing is that the chicken is tender and easily shredded for even distribution in the rolls.
• Don’t Overfill: This is a common mistake! It’s tempting to pack as much goodness as possible into each roll, but overfilling will lead to torn wrappers and messy rolls. Aim for a moderate amount that allows for tight, secure rolling. You can always make more rolls!
• Experiment with Fillings: While this recipe provides a delicious base, feel free to customize your rolls. Add a few sprigs of fresh mint or Thai basil for an aromatic kick. Sliced avocado can add a creamy texture, while a handful of bean sprouts provides extra crunch.
• Eat Fresh: While leftovers are fine for a day, rice paper rolls are truly best enjoyed immediately after preparation. The wrappers are at their most pliable and the vegetables at their crispiest.

CUSTOMIZATION & VARIATIONS: MAKE IT YOUR OWN!

The beauty of rice paper rolls lies in their adaptability. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your fillings:

• Protein Swaps: Not a fan of chicken, or looking for something different?
  • Shrimp: Cooked and cooled shrimp (halved lengthwise) is a classic and delicious addition.
  • Tofu: Pan-fried or baked marinated tofu strips offer a fantastic vegetarian protein option.
  • Pork: Thinly sliced cooked pork, often found in Vietnamese cuisine, can be a great alternative.
• Vegetable Medley: Enhance your rolls with even more fresh produce. Consider adding:
  • Lettuce leaves (butter or romaine) for an extra layer of freshness.
  • Red cabbage, thinly shredded, for a vibrant color and crunch.
  • Bean sprouts for a delicate crispness.
  • Avocado slices for a creamy texture and healthy fats.
  • Fresh mint, basil, or even perilla leaves for different aromatic profiles.
• Spice It Up: If you love a kick, add a thinly sliced fresh chili or a dash of sriracha to your chicken mixture or directly into your dipping sauce.
• Nut-Free Option: If you have a peanut allergy, substitute the peanut hoisin sauce with a traditional Vietnamese nuoc cham (fish sauce dipping sauce) or a soy-ginger dressing.

MORE EASY & DELICIOUS DINNER RECIPES TO EXPLORE

If you loved the simplicity and freshness of these Chicken Rice Paper Rolls, you’re in for a treat! Here are a few more easy dinner recipes from my kitchen that I think you’ll enjoy:

• Quick & Flavorful Vegetable Stir Fry with Noodles
• Fresh & Light Vegetarian Rice Paper Rolls (Perfect for a meatless option!)
• Classic Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio)
• Juicy Grilled Chicken Burger
• Delicious Pea & Sweet Corn Fritters
• OR browse through all my other fantastic Dinner Recipes for more inspiration!

I genuinely hope you try these delightful **Chicken Rice Paper Rolls** and make them a regular part of your cooking repertoire! They’re a testament to how healthy eating can be incredibly flavorful and fun. If you’ve made this recipe, I would absolutely love to hear how you enjoyed them! Please take a moment to pop a comment and a star rating below – your feedback means the world to me!

Don’t forget to **FOLLOW ME** on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM and PINTEREST to stay up to date with even more delicious and easy recipes. Happy cooking!

📋 RECIPE: Chicken Rice Paper Rolls {Chicken Summer Rolls}

Chicken Rice Paper Rolls {Chicken Summer Rolls}

Yield:
6 rolls

Prep Time:
15 minutes

Total Time:
15 minutes

These Chicken Rice Paper Rolls are a fantastic option for a light, healthy lunch or dinner, and they double as a superb appetizer! Each roll is generously filled with your choice of rotisserie chicken or tender shredded chicken breast, an assortment of finely chopped fresh vegetables, and delicate vermicelli rice noodles. Elevate your experience by serving these vibrant chicken summer rolls with a rich and creamy peanut hoisin dipping sauce (recipe link provided below).

Ingredients

• 6 Rice Paper Wrappers
• 50g Vermicelli Rice Noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• 1 cup Rotisserie Chicken, shredded (see notes for alternative chicken options)
• 1 Carrot, julienned
• ½ English Cucumber, julienned
• ½ Red Capsicum / Bell Pepper, julienned
• ¼ cup Fresh Cilantro, chopped

To Serve

• Peanut Hoisin Dipping Sauce (find the recipe link in the notes section)

Instructions

1. Place a damp tea towel or dish cloth onto a clean surface to prevent sticking. Fill a shallow bowl with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper in the warm water for approximately 15-20 seconds, or until it becomes soft and pliable. Lay the softened wrapper flat on top of the damp tea towel.
2. Arrange your fillings—starting with a small amount of vermicelli noodles, followed by chicken, vegetables, and cilantro—in the middle bottom third of the wrapper. Be careful not to overload. Fold the bottom edge of the wrapper up and tightly over the fillings. Then, fold in both the left and right sides of the wrapper like an envelope. Roll up the entire package tightly from the bottom upwards and set aside. *NOTE: This step is clearly demonstrated in the step-by-step photos earlier in this post.*
3. Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and all your filling ingredients until all components are used.
4. Serve the freshly made chicken rice paper rolls immediately with a generous side of the peanut hoisin dipping sauce.

Notes

• Always serve these delightful rice paper rolls with my signature peanut hoisin dipping sauce for the best flavor experience.
• Rice paper wrappers are delicate. If you encounter small rips or tears during the wrapping process, don’t worry—it’s common and often unnoticeable once the roll is complete.
• Rotisserie chicken is excellent for convenience and flavor. Alternatively, you can cook and shred your own chicken breast using any method you prefer (poached, baked, Instant Pot, or pan-fried) and then shred it for the recipe.
• These rolls are best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. The wrappers may dry out slightly, but the rolls will still be delicious.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 6
Serving Size: 1 roll

Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 174
Total Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 36mg
Sodium: 137mg
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 13g