Hey there, foodies! I’m excited to share my love for fresh spring rolls. As someone who’s always looking for ways to increase my protein intake while keeping things delicious, these Fresh Chicken Spring Rolls have become my go-to meal. They’re not just tasty; they’re a perfect balance of protein, veggies, and flavor that keeps me satisfied and energized.

The Origin of Fresh Spring Rolls

Fresh spring rolls, also known as summer rolls or Vietnamese spring rolls, have a rich history rooted in Southeast Asian cuisine. Unlike their fried counterparts, these rolls are served fresh, making them a lighter, healthier option. Traditionally filled with shrimp, pork, or chicken, along with an array of fresh vegetables, these rolls have evolved to accommodate various tastes and dietary preferences.

Basic Ingredients: Simple Yet Satisfying

What I love about these Fresh Chicken Spring Rolls is how simple the ingredients are. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Rice paper wrappers
• Cooked chicken breast (I use my Green Onion Crock Pot Chicken, you can also use Rotisserie Chicken, whatever floats your boat!)
• Fresh vegetables (lettuce, cucumber, carrots, bean sprouts)
• Rice noodles (optional, but adds a nice texture)
• Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, or basil)

The beauty of these rolls lies in their versatility. You can mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or what you’re craving.

Substitutes: Making It Your Own

One of the reasons I adore this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some substitutes you can try:

• Protein: Swap chicken for tofu, shrimp, or thinly sliced pork
• Veggies: Try avocado, bell peppers, or mango for a sweet twist
• Wrappers: If you can’t find rice paper, large lettuce leaves work great for a low-carb option
• Noodles: Swap rice noodles for zucchini noodles or skip them altogether for a lighter version

Remember, the key is to have fun and experiment with flavors you love!

Best Enjoyed With: Dipping Sauces Galore

Now, let’s talk about what really takes these Fresh Chicken Spring Rolls to the next level – the dipping sauce! My personal favorite is a homemade peanut sauce that’s creamy, slightly sweet, and packed with flavor. Here’s a quick recipe:

• Mix smooth peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and a splash of water
• Add minced garlic and ginger for extra zing
• Thin with water to your desired consistency

Other great options include sweet chili sauce, hoisin sauce, or a simple mixture of fish sauce, lime juice, and a touch of sugar.

Wrapping It Up

These Fresh Chicken Spring Rolls have become a staple in my kitchen, and I hope they’ll become one in yours too! They’re perfect for meal prep, a light dinner, or even as a crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next gathering. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to sneak in those extra veggies and protein without feeling like you’re compromising on flavor.

Remember, the key to perfect spring rolls is practice. Don’t worry if your first few attempts aren’t Instagram-worthy – they’ll still taste amazing! And as you get more comfortable with the rolling technique, you’ll be a pro in no time.

So, are you ready to roll? Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag The Foodie Flex – I love seeing your versions of my recipes!

Fresh Chicken Spring Rolls: A Quick and Easy Protein-Packed Meal

For the sauce:

• 2/3 cup peanut butter powder + 1/4 cup water (or 4 tbsp creamy peanut butter)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2-3 tsp stevia (to taste)
• 1 tsp ginger powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2-4 tbsp water (to adjust thickness)
• 1 tsp sesame seeds

Instructions:

For the wrap:

1. Prepare all your vegetables by washing and cutting them into thin strips.
2. Fill a large, shallow dish with warm water. Dip a rice paper wrapper in the water for a few seconds until it starts to soften.
3. Lay the wrapper on a clean, damp kitchen towel.
4. Place a small handful of chicken, cucumber, carrot, and bean sprouts (and lettuce and herbs if using) in the center of the wrapper.
5. Fold the bottom of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly from the bottom up.
6. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

For the sauce:

1. If using creamy peanut butter and it’s too thick, microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften it.
2. In a bowl, combine all ingredients except water. Mix well.
3. Gradually add water, stirring continuously, until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or saltiness if needed. Enjoy your homemade peanut sauce!

And there you have it! These Fresh Chicken Spring Rolls are perfect for a quick lunch, light dinner, or even as a protein-packed snack. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce – I love a good peanut sauce or sweet chili sauce.

Remember, the key is to have fun with it!

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Crockpot Green Onion Chicken Breast

I love recipes that let you “set it and forget it,” ready to enjoy later. This green onion chicken breast is one of them! Here’s how to make it.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Salty Green Onion Sauce (also called “Negi Shio Dare”), which I purchased from our local Village of Donki Grocery store

• 8 chicken breasts

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a crockpot and mix well.
2. Set crockpot on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 2–4 hours.
3. Shred and enjoy with your favorite salad, wraps, or by itself!