Pin
This Buffalo chicken quesadilla egg rolls recipe is the perfect choice if you are craving something cheesy, spicy, and ultra crispy for a quick weeknight dinner or crowd pleasing game day snack. Ready in under 35 minutes from start to finish, these rolls deliver creamy buffalo chicken and gooey cheese all wrapped in a golden tortilla shell. Whether you are planning a party, need a fast lunch, or want a fun twist on classic egg rolls, this recipe fully satisfies your flavor and convenience needs.
I first tested these Buffalo chicken quesadilla egg rolls when I was looking for a speedy game night snack that everyone would love. The combo of creamy, spicy filling and the crackly, golden crust quickly won over my friends, disappearing before the movie even started. Now they are a regular request for lunchboxes, parties, and evenings when we want something bold but easy, and I always keep the ingredients on hand just in case.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast, shredded: Use rotisserie chicken for maximum convenience or poach your own for deeper flavor. Make sure to shred the chicken finely for the best creamy texture; canned chicken works in a pinch.
- Cream cheese, softened: Adds rich, cheesy creaminess and helps bind the filling. Let the cream cheese reach room temperature for easier mixing, or use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Provides bold, classic quesadilla flavor and ensures a gooey melt. Always use freshly shredded cheddar if possible for the smoothest melt and flavor.
- Shredded pepper jack cheese: An optional but spicy addition to add extra heat and stretch to the filling. You can substitute Monterey Jack for a milder taste or try mozzarella for more stretchiness.
- Large flour tortillas: Choose burrito sized tortillas for easy rolling and fewer breaks. Use gluten free tortillas if you need a wheat free version, and warm them slightly to make rolling easier.
- Butter or olive oil for cooking: Creates a crisp, golden crust and adds richness to the egg rolls. Butter browns more and offers extra flavor, while olive oil keeps things lighter and works well for pan frying without burning.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Quesadilla Egg Rolls
- Prepare the Chicken and Cheese Filling:
- In a large bowl, add finely shredded cooked chicken breast, buffalo wing sauce, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and pepper jack cheese. Mix thoroughly until the filling is creamy and every piece is coated in buffalo sauce, using a fork or spatula to fold it all together. If desired, mix in thinly sliced green onions for freshness; the finished filling should be thick enough to hold its shape but spreadable for rolling.
- Warm and Prep the Tortillas:
- Arrange flour tortillas on a clean counter. If tortillas feel stiff, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15 seconds to make them pliable and prevent cracking. For appetizer portions, cut tortillas in half with a sharp knife or pizza cutter before filling.
- Fill and Shape Each Egg Roll:
- Place about a third cup of the buffalo chicken cheese filling on the lower third of each tortilla, keeping an inch clear on the sides. Fold the bottom over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly into a log, ensuring the seam faces down to seal as it cooks. Repeat until all filling is used.
- Pan Fry to Crispy Perfection:
- Heat butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the egg rolls seam side down and cook for two to three minutes per side until the exterior is golden and crisp. Press gently with a spatula for even browning and avoid crowding the pan for best results.
- Rest, Slice, and Serve:
- Transfer cooked egg rolls to a cutting board and let rest one to two minutes before slicing diagonally. This prevents cheese from running out. Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dip for tangy contrast.
One of my favorite tricks is to add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or diced jalapenos to the filling for even bolder flavor. My kids love helping to roll up the tortillas and pick their own dipping sauces, making this a fun family dinner activity. These egg rolls have become our go to solution for picky eaters and last minute party appetizers, and they always disappear fast!
Smart Swaps and Variations
If you want to adjust the recipe, try swapping shredded cooked turkey, canned chicken, or pulled pork for the chicken breast for a new flavor twist. For dairy free buffalo chicken quesadilla egg rolls, use plant based cream cheese and vegan shreds instead of regular cheese. Gluten free eaters can use sturdy gluten free tortillas, and low carb versions work well with carb balance tortillas. Adding mozzarella, blue cheese crumbles, or even diced veggies like celery or bell pepper makes each batch unique and tailored to your tastes.
How to Store and Reheat Buffalo Chicken Quesadilla Egg Rolls
To store leftover egg rolls, cool them fully and place in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze on a lined baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a resealable bag and keep for up to three months. To reheat, bake chilled rolls in a 375°F oven for eight to ten minutes, or air fry at 350°F until heated through and crispy. Microwaving works in a pinch; just wrap with a dry paper towel to keep the crust from getting soggy.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Quesadilla Egg Rolls
Serve Buffalo chicken quesadilla egg rolls with zesty ranch or blue cheese dip, crispy potato wedges, and refreshing carrot or celery sticks for a classic flavor pairing. They are equally great on a game day platter with buffalo cauliflower, jalapeno poppers, or as a hearty lunch alongside a big green salad. Pair with cold drinks like beer, iced tea, or sparkling water for a complete party spread or cut into bite sized pieces for sharing at gatherings.
Nutritional Benefits
Buffalo chicken quesadilla egg rolls offer a satisfying blend of protein from chicken and cheese, plus complex carbohydrates for steady energy. Each serving provides around 25 grams of protein, supports muscle and bone health, and can be adapted to fit gluten free or dairy free needs. Choose oven or air frying methods for a lighter, lower fat option that still provides all the flavor and crunch.
Recipe Success Tips
For best results, do not overcrowd the pan and always place each egg roll seam side down to seal. Warm tortillas briefly before filling to avoid cracking, and let cooked rolls rest for one to two minutes before slicing so the cheese stays in place. If you notice soggy rolls, let them cool on a wire rack instead of a plate to maintain maximum crispiness, and do not be shy with the cheese or buffalo sauce for bold flavor.
Buffalo chicken quesadilla egg rolls are quick, crowd pleasing, and unbelievably satisfying, offering spicy flavor and melty cheese in every bite. Try them for your next party or busy weeknight and discover a new favorite way to enjoy classic buffalo chicken.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → What type of chicken is best for these rolls?
Cooked, shredded chicken breast works best for a tender, juicy filling that absorbs buffalo sauce flavor.
- → Can these be made spicier?
Yes, add extra buffalo wing sauce or use pepper jack cheese to increase the heat in the filling.
- → How do I keep the rolls crisp?
Cook seam-side down in a well-heated skillet with butter or oil, pressing gently for even browning.
- → What dipping sauce pairs well?
Cool ranch or blue cheese dressing complements the spicy, cheesy flavors perfectly.
- → Can these be made ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate before cooking, then crisp up in a skillet just before serving for best texture.