Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls bring together the bold, vibrant flavors of the Southwest into a crispy, handheld delight. Each bite offers a perfect balance of tender chicken, hearty black beans, sweet corn, and spicy jalapeño, all wrapped in a golden egg roll wrapper that adds irresistible crunch.
This dish is perfect for family dinners, game days, or as a flavorful side at your next gathering. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, these egg rolls pack a punch of southwest-inspired goodness that satisfies every craving.
- Loaded with protein-rich chicken and nutritious vegetables for a wholesome meal.
- Easy to customize with your favorite veggies and spices to suit your taste.
- Can be baked or fried, giving you flexibility depending on your preference.
- Perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or side to impress guests or satisfy your family.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken (2 cups): Shredded or chopped, providing tender protein packed with flavor for the filling.
- Corn (1 cup): Drained and rinsed, adds subtle sweetness and a pleasant pop in every bite.
- Black beans (1 cup): Drained and rinsed, offering extra fiber and a hearty texture to balance the filling.
- Spinach (1 cup): Chopped fresh spinach to add earthiness and vibrant color to the mixture.
- Red bell pepper (1 cup): Diced for a sweet, crisp contrast and a burst of red color.
- Jalapeño (1/4 cup): De-seeded and diced, bringing just the right amount of southwest heat.
- Cumin (1/2 tablespoon): Ground cumin provides a warm, smoky undertone that is signature to southwestern dishes.
- Chili powder (1/2 tablespoon): Adds a rich, mildly spicy depth to the filling’s flavor profile.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances all the flavors and enhances the natural tastes of the ingredients.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Freshly ground to add subtle heat and complexity.
- Monterey Jack cheese (2 cups): Shredded cheese melts deliciously inside the egg roll, adding creamy richness.
- Egg roll wrappers (1 package, about 20 wrappers): The crisp exterior that holds all the flavorful fillings together beautifully.
Instructions
- Mix Southwest Filling
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In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, corn, black beans, chopped spinach, diced red bell pepper, and jalapeño. These fresh ingredients create a vibrant base packed with flavor and texture.
Then, sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to infuse smoky, spicy notes typical of southwestern cuisine, ensuring each bite bursts with taste.
- Add Cheese and Combine
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Stir in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly into the filling. The cheese will melt during cooking, binding the mixture and adding creamy texture and subtle sharpness that complements the spices.
- Prepare Egg Roll Wrappers
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Lay a single egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface with a point facing towards you. This orientation helps in folding and rolling tightly, preventing the filling from leaking during cooking.
- Fill and Roll Egg Rolls
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Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, then fold in the two side corners snugly to encase the filling securely.
Continue rolling upward, sealing the edges by moistening them with water to ensure the egg roll stays intact during frying or baking.
- Set Egg Rolls for Cooking
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Place each rolled egg roll on a baking sheet. Once all are assembled, freeze them briefly to firm up, which helps maintain the shape and prevents filling leakage during cooking.
- Fry Egg Rolls (Optional)
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Heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F. Fry the egg rolls in batches, spacing them to avoid sticking, for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown.
Drain on paper towels for a crispy finish and to remove excess oil.
- Bake Egg Rolls (Alternative)
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Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Brush egg rolls lightly with oil and place seam side down on the sheet.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until egg rolls turn crisp and golden, for a healthier cooking option.
- Serve and Enjoy
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Serve warm, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauces such as salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. Enjoy the fusion of textures and flavors that brighten up any meal.
- Ensure the jalapeño is de-seeded for mild heat; keep seeds if you prefer spicier egg rolls.
- Freezing the egg rolls before cooking helps maintain their shape and crispiness.
- Baking is a healthier alternative but frying delivers a crunchier texture and more intense flavor.
Storage Tips
Store cooked egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to retain crispiness. Uncooked egg rolls can be frozen prior to cooking for up to 1 month.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these egg rolls with fresh guacamole, salsa, or a cooling cilantro-lime sour cream dip. They pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or Mexican rice for a full southwest-inspired meal.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra seasoning without extra effort.
- For extra flavor, sauté the diced peppers and jalapeños briefly before mixing with the other filling ingredients.
- Ensure wrappers are fresh and pliable to avoid cracking during rolling.
FAQs
- Can I make these egg rolls vegetarian?
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Yes, substitute the chicken with extra beans, roasted vegetables, or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Can these egg rolls be baked instead of fried?
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Absolutely! Baking is a great alternative for a lighter version and still produces a crispy exterior when brushed with oil.
- How do I keep egg roll wrappers from drying out?
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Keep wrappers covered with a damp towel while working to prevent them from drying and cracking.
- Can I prepare the egg rolls ahead of time?
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Yes, you can assemble and freeze the egg rolls before cooking. Cook directly from frozen, adjusting the cooking time if needed.
- What sauces go well with southwest chicken egg rolls?
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Salsa, guacamole, chipotle mayo, or a creamy cilantro-lime sauce pair excellently with these egg rolls.
Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 large skillet for frying
- 1 baking sheet for baking
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or chopped
- 1 cup corn drained and rinsed
- 1 cup black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup diced jalapeno de-seeded
- 1/2 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded Monterey jack cheese
- 1 package 20 wrappers egg roll wrappers
- Oil for frying or brushing optional
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, corn, black beans, spinach, red bell pepper, and jalapeno.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper until blended.
- Fold shredded Monterey jack cheese into the mixture.
- Place one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with a point facing you.
- Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of filling onto the center of the wrapper.
- Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the side corners tightly, roll up completely, and seal edges with water.
- Place prepared egg rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until ready to cook.
- For frying, heat 1 inch of oil in a large skillet to 350°F. Fry egg rolls in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown; drain on paper towels.
- For baking, preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Brush egg rolls with oil, place seam side down on the sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Serve warm with your choice of toppings.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor.
- Calories do not include oil used for frying.
- Freeze egg rolls before cooking for best texture.
- Serve with salsa or dip of choice.
