Ramzan Special Afghani Chicken Rolls Recipe
Ramzan Special Afghani Chicken Rolls Recipe is a medium Afghan recipe that serves 8. 150 calories per serving. Recipe by COOK WITH SAMREEN SABAH on YouTube.
Prep: 30 min | Cook: 48 min | Total: 1 hr 33 min
Cost: $12.55 total, $1.57 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil (for initial sauté)
- 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted; divided (1 tbsp for start, 2 tbsp later))
- 6 cloves Garlic (finely chopped (about 2 tbsp))
- 5 pieces Green Chilies (finely chopped; adjust to heat preference)
- 600 grams Boneless Chicken (cut into bite‑size pieces)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger‑Garlic Paste
- 1.25 teaspoons Salt
- 1 teaspoon Roasted Cumin Powder
- 0.5 teaspoon White Pepper Powder
- 1.5 teaspoons Black Pepper Powder
- 1 medium Onion (peeled and diced)
- 1 medium Bell Pepper (diced; any colour)
- 250 grams Fresh Cream (approximately 1 cup, full‑fat for richness)
- 3 slices Processed Cheese Slices (or mozzarella slices; meltable)
- 1.5 teaspoons Chili Flakes
- 0.5 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (shredded; added after sauce)
- 5 tablespoons All‑Purpose Flour (for coating paste)
- 2 cups Breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 4 tablespoons Water (for flour paste; adjust to thin consistency)
- 2 cups Vegetable Oil for Frying (high smoke‑point oil)
Instructions
Sauté aromatics
Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp vegetable oil and 1 tbsp butter. Once butter melts, add 2 tbsp chopped garlic and sauté for 30‑45 seconds, then add the chopped green chilies and continue sautéing for another 1 minute without letting them brown.
Time: PT2M
Cook chicken
Add the 600 g chicken pieces to the pan, pour in 1 tbsp ginger‑garlic paste, and stir‑fry on medium‑high heat until the chicken changes colour, about 6‑7 minutes.
Time: PT7M
Season chicken
Sprinkle 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp roasted cumin powder, 0.5 tsp white pepper, and 1 tsp black pepper over the chicken. Mix well and cook for 2 minutes to toast the spices.
Time: PT2M
Simmer covered
Reduce flame to low, cover the pan, and let the chicken cook in its own juices for 8‑10 minutes. After the time, increase heat to high and stir‑fry for 2 minutes to evaporate any remaining moisture.
Time: PT12M
Add vegetables
Stir in the diced onion and bell pepper, sauté on medium‑high for 2‑3 minutes until just softened. Turn off the heat and transfer the chicken‑vegetable mixture to a plate.
Time: PT4M
Prepare creamy sauce – part 1
In the same pan, melt 2 tbsp butter, add 1 tbsp chopped garlic and fry for 30‑40 seconds until fragrant.
Time: PT1M
Prepare creamy sauce – part 2
Add 250 g fresh cream, bring to a gentle boil while stirring, then add the 3 cheese slices (or mozzarella) and melt completely over low heat.
Time: PT5M
Season sauce
Add 1 tsp chili flakes, 0.5 tsp black pepper, 0.5 tsp white pepper, 0.25 tsp salt, and 0.5 tsp dried oregano. Cook on low for 1 minute until the sauce thickens slightly.
Time: PT1M
Combine chicken with sauce
Return the cooked chicken mixture to the pan, turn the flame to high and toss quickly for 1 minute so the chicken is evenly coated. Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
Time: PT2M
Add extra mozzarella
Stir in 1 cup shredded mozzarella into the cooled chicken mixture for extra stretchiness.
Time: PT1M
Make flour paste
In a small bowl, combine 5 tbsp all‑purpose flour, 0.25 tsp salt, 0.5 tsp chili flakes, 0.5 tsp dried oregano, and enough water (about 4 tbsp) to form a smooth, thin slurry with no lumps.
Time: PT2M
Assemble rolls
Lay an 8‑inch spring roll sheet on a clean surface. Place 1 tbsp of the chicken filling along the lower third, fold the sides inward, then roll tightly. Seal the top edge with a thin line of the flour paste. Repeat for all sheets (about 24‑26 rolls).
Time: PT15M
Bread the rolls
Dip each rolled piece first into the flour paste, then roll it in breadcrumbs ensuring an even coating. Place coated rolls on a tray covered with parchment.
Time: PT5M
Heat oil for frying
In a deep pan or wok, heat 2 cups vegetable oil over medium‑high heat until shimmering (about 180°C/350°F).
Time: PT2M
Temperature: 350°F
Fry the rolls
Carefully slide 6‑8 rolls into the hot oil, frying on medium flame for 3‑4 minutes until golden and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a cooling rack to drain excess oil.
Time: PT12M
Serve
Serve the hot Afghani Chicken Rolls with tomato ketchup or mayonnaise. They can be enjoyed immediately or stored as described.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 150
- Protein
- 8 g
- Carbohydrates
- 12 g
- Fat
- 8 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: Contains dairy, Contains gluten, Not vegan, Not vegetarian
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Vegetable Oil: canola oil, sunflower oil
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: ghee, margarine
- Instead of Garlic: garlic paste
- Instead of Green Chilies: jalapeño, serrano pepper
- Instead of Boneless Chicken: turkey breast, firm tofu for vegetarian version
- Instead of Ginger‑Garlic Paste: fresh grated ginger + minced garlic
- Instead of Salt: sea salt, kosher salt
- Instead of Roasted Cumin Powder: ground cumin
- Instead of White Pepper Powder: black pepper
- Instead of Black Pepper Powder: white pepper
- Instead of Onion: shallot
- Instead of Bell Pepper: capsicum, red pepper
- Instead of Fresh Cream: heavy cream, half‑and‑half
- Instead of Processed Cheese Slices: mozzarella slices, cheddar cubes
- Instead of Chili Flakes: crushed red pepper
- Instead of Dried Oregano: Italian seasoning
- Instead of Mozzarella Cheese: cheddar, monterey jack
- Instead of All‑Purpose Flour: rice flour (gluten‑free)
- Instead of Breadcrumbs: panko, crushed crackers
- Instead of Vegetable Oil for Frying: canola oil, peanut oil
Equipment Needed
- Large Skillet or Frying Pan
- Mixing Bowls
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Spoons
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon
- Plate
- Spring Roll Sheets (8‑inch)
- Slotted Spoon or Spider
- Cooling Rack
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Cooking chicken until completely dry before adding vegetables.
- Preparing a smooth, lump‑free flour paste for sealing.
- Rolling the spring roll sheets tightly and sealing edges properly.
- Maintaining oil temperature around 350°F to achieve crisp exterior without excess oil absorption.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra aroma, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier coating.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the green chilies and chili flakes.
Troubleshooting
Rolls become soggy after frying.
Ensure the oil is hot enough (350°F) before adding rolls and fry on medium flame only. Drain on a rack immediately.
Cheese leaks out during frying.
Seal the roll edges firmly with flour paste and double‑coat with breadcrumbs. Refrigerate the assembled rolls for 10 minutes before frying.
Filling is too dry.
Add an extra tablespoon of cream or a splash of milk to the chicken mixture before shaping.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store cooled rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Place rolls on a parchment‑lined tray, freeze solid (2‑3 hrs), then transfer to a zip‑lock bag; keep for up to 1 month.
Room temperature: Not recommended; rolls lose crispness and may spoil.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Assemble and freeze the coated rolls before frying; fry directly from frozen for a slightly longer cooking time.
- The chicken‑cream filling can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and kept refrigerated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Afghani Chicken Rolls in Afghan cuisine?
Afghani Chicken Rolls are a modern street‑food adaptation of traditional Afghan samosas and kebabs, combining the beloved creamy chicken filling with a crunchy fried exterior. They have become popular during Ramadan for iftar because they are easy to eat with hands and provide a satisfying mix of protein and carbs.
What are the traditional regional variations of Afghani Chicken Rolls in Afghan cuisine?
In the eastern provinces of Afghanistan, the filling often includes dried apricots and pistachios for a sweet‑savory twist, while in Kabul the rolls may be seasoned with a heavier dose of coriander and cardamom. The basic technique of wrapping and deep‑frying remains the same across regions.
How is Afghani Chicken Rolls traditionally served in Afghanistan?
Traditionally, the rolls are served hot with a side of tangy tomato ketchup, a yogurt‑based mint sauce, or a simple garlic mayo. They are often presented on a platter with fresh salad greens and pickled vegetables during gatherings and Ramadan evenings.
What occasions or celebrations is Afghani Chicken Rolls traditionally associated with in Afghan culture?
These rolls are especially popular during Ramadan for iftar, as well as at weddings, family gatherings, and festive holidays like Eid. Their handheld nature makes them ideal for sharing among large groups.
What authentic traditional ingredients are essential for Afghani Chicken Rolls versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include boneless chicken, fresh cream, processed cheese (or mozzarella), and Afghan‑style spices such as roasted cumin and white pepper. Substitutes like heavy cream, cheddar cheese, or ground cumin can be used, but they will slightly alter the traditional flavor profile.
What other Afghan dishes pair well with Afghani Chicken Rolls?
Afghani Chicken Rolls pair beautifully with a fresh cucumber‑yogurt salad (mast-o‑khiar), a side of lentil soup (shorba), or a simple rice pilaf (kabuli pulao). The cool yogurt salad balances the richness of the rolls.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Afghani Chicken Rolls?
Common mistakes include over‑filling the rolls, not sealing the edges tightly, frying at too low a temperature which makes the rolls greasy, and letting moisture remain in the chicken mixture. Following the critical steps ensures a crisp exterior and creamy interior.
Why does this Afghani Chicken Rolls recipe use a flour paste to seal the rolls instead of water or egg wash?
The flour paste creates a strong, gluten‑based bond that holds the spring‑roll sheet together during deep frying, preventing the cheese‑filled interior from leaking. Water alone would not provide enough adhesion, and egg wash can add unwanted flavor and color.
Can I make Afghani Chicken Rolls ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes, you can assemble the rolls, coat them with flour paste and breadcrumbs, then freeze them on a tray before transferring to a zip‑lock bag. Fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to the frying time.
What texture and appearance should I look for when frying Afghani Chicken Rolls?
The rolls should turn a deep golden‑brown, with a crisp, flaky exterior. When you tap the surface, it should sound hollow, and the interior should be hot, creamy, and the cheese fully melted.
What does the YouTube channel COOK WITH SAMREEN SABAH specialize in?
The YouTube channel COOK WITH SAMREEN SABAH specializes in easy‑to‑follow South Asian home‑cooking tutorials, focusing on flavorful, family‑friendly recipes for everyday meals and special occasions like Ramadan.
How does the YouTube channel COOK WITH SAMREEN SABAH's approach to Afghan cooking differ from other Afghan cooking channels?
Samreen Sabah emphasizes quick, freezer‑friendly preparations and uses readily available grocery‑store ingredients, whereas many traditional Afghan channels focus on slower, labor‑intensive methods and specialty spices that may be harder to find outside of Afghan markets.
Last updated: September 3, 2026






