Chicken Roll
Street Food • Sri Lanka
About Chicken Roll
Crepe-wrapped chicken filling, crumbed and deep-fried.
How to Make Chicken Roll (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Chicken Roll is a beloved Sri Lankan street food that captures the essence of local culinary creativity. Originating from bustling markets and urban street stalls across the island, this snack features a spicy, savory chicken filling wrapped in a soft pancake and lightly fried for a golden finish. The Chicken Roll is known for its irresistible combination of flavors—mildly spicy, aromatic, and satisfying—which makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Sri Lankan Chicken Roll is not only a comfort food but also a popular choice for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack during festive gatherings. Its balanced nutrition and portion-controlled serving make it ideal for health-conscious individuals. The recipe uses authentic Sri Lankan spices and ingredients, ensuring you experience the true taste of the island. With its moderate calorie count and high protein content, Chicken Roll is a smart street food option that fits well into a calorie-tracking lifestyle. Enjoying this dish connects you to Sri Lanka’s vibrant food culture, celebrated for its bold flavors and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients(for 1 large roll per serving (approx. 120g), street food portion in Sri Lanka)
- 150g Boneless chicken breast (finely chopped)
- 1 medium Onion (finely diced)
- 1 Green chili (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp Sri Lankan curry powder (roasted)
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder (for color and flavor)
- 1/2 medium Carrot (grated)
- 1 small Potato (boiled and mashed)
- 2 tbsp Fresh coconut milk (for richness)
- 3/4 cup Whole wheat flour (for pancake)
- 1 Egg (beaten, for pancake)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1.5 tbsp Oil (for shallow frying)
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the chicken filling by heating 1/2 tbsp oil in a pan. Add chopped onion, green chili, and sauté until translucent. Stir in curry powder and turmeric.
5 minutes
Use fresh Sri Lankan curry powder for authentic flavor.
- 2
Add chicken breast, grated carrot, and mashed potato to the pan. Mix well. Cook until chicken is tender and vegetables are well blended. Pour in coconut milk, season with salt and pepper, and cook until mixture is dry.
7 minutes
Avoid overcooking to keep chicken moist.
- 3
For the pancake, whisk whole wheat flour, egg, and a pinch of salt with enough water to make a smooth batter. Heat a non-stick pan and cook thin pancakes (about 6 inches diameter).
5 minutes
Keep pancakes thin for easy rolling.
- 4
Place a spoonful of chicken filling in the center of each pancake. Fold edges over to form a tight roll.
2 minutes
Ensure the filling is not too hot for easier handling.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Chicken Roll recipe is health-conscious, using lean chicken, whole wheat flour, and minimal oil. The combination of protein, fiber, and vegetables makes it satiating and nutritious. Using shallow frying instead of deep frying keeps calories in check. It’s a smart option for those tracking calories, seeking balanced macros, and aiming for nutritious street food without compromising on taste.
Sri Lankan Chicken Roll is a balanced dish, offering lean protein from chicken, complex carbs from whole wheat flour and potato, and healthy fats from coconut milk and minimal oil. Each serving delivers approximately 235 calories, 9.2g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 13.4g fat. The inclusion of vegetables like carrot and potato adds vitamin A, C, and potassium, while coconut milk provides beneficial minerals. Whole wheat flour boosts dietary fiber, supporting digestive health.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh spices for maximum aroma and authentic taste.
- 💡Tip 2: Keep pancake rolls tightly wrapped to prevent filling leakage.
- 💡Tip 3: Drain fried rolls well to keep them light and crisp.
Storage & Serving
Store cooled Chicken Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan or oven to restore crispiness before serving. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 235.0 kcal |
| Protein | 9.2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20.0 g |
| Total Fat | 13.4 g |
| Fiber | 1.1 g |
