Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe

Introduction

These Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls are a flavorful twist on a classic favorite, packed with seasoned chicken, beans, and fresh vegetables. Crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, they make a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
• 1 cup corn (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup spinach (chopped)
• 1 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup diced jalapeno (de-seeded)
• 1/2 tablespoon cumin
• 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups Monterey jack cheese
• 1 package egg roll wrappers (20 wrappers)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, corn, black beans, chopped spinach, diced red bell pepper, and diced jalapeno.
2. Step 2: Add the cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to the bowl and stir well to evenly season the mixture.
3. Step 3: Stir in the Monterey jack cheese until it is fully incorporated.
4. Step 4: Lay one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with a point facing toward you. Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of filling in the center.
5. Step 5: Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the two side corners tightly. Continue rolling up, sealing the edges with a little water.
6. Step 6: Place rolled egg rolls on a baking sheet and repeat with the remaining filling and wrappers. Freeze the egg rolls until ready to cook.
7. Step 7 (Frying): Heat oil in a large skillet to 350°F, about 1 inch deep. Fry egg rolls a few at a time for 2 to 3 minutes per side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
8. Step 8 (Baking): Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Brush egg rolls with oil and place seam side down. Bake 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
9. Step 9: Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or toppings.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice to the filling.
• Swap Monterey jack cheese for cheddar or a spicy pepper jack for a different twist.
• Use fresh spinach instead of frozen for better texture and flavor.
• Try baking instead of frying for a lighter option without sacrificing crispiness.
• Make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and adding extra beans or diced avocado.

Storage

Store cooked egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Uncooked, wrapped egg rolls can be frozen for up to 1 month and cooked directly from frozen following the frying or baking instructions.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just mix the ingredients and cover tightly until ready to roll the egg rolls.

What is the best dipping sauce for these egg rolls?

Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls pair well with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a creamy chipotle sauce. Choose your favorite to complement the flavors.

Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 63 reviews

• Author: Rafael
• Total Time: 35 minutes (baking) or 30 minutes (frying)
• Yield: 20 egg rolls 1x

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Description

Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls combine tender shredded chicken, corn, black beans, and vibrant veggies with classic southwestern spices and melted Monterey Jack cheese, all wrapped in crispy egg roll wrappers. These versatile egg rolls can be fried to a golden crisp or baked for a lighter version, making them a perfect appetizer or snack with bold, zesty flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Filling

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
• 1 cup corn (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup spinach (chopped)
• 1 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup diced jalapeno (de-seeded)
• 1/2 tablespoon cumin
• 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)

Wrapper

• 1 package egg roll wrappers (about 20 wrappers)

For Frying

• 1 inch oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil)

For Baking

• Oil for brushing (such as vegetable or olive oil)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, corn, black beans, chopped spinach, diced red bell pepper, and de-seeded jalapeno. Add cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper, then stir well to evenly distribute the spices throughout the mixture. Finally, fold in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese until fully incorporated.
2. Assemble the egg rolls: Lay one egg roll wrapper on a clean, flat surface with a point facing you to form a diamond shape. Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, then fold both side corners tightly towards the center to encase the filling. Roll it up snugly towards the top corner. Seal the edge by dipping your finger in water and pressing along the edge firmly to close the egg roll. Place finished egg rolls onto a baking sheet. Repeat this process with the remaining filling and wrappers.
3. Chill before cooking: Place the assembled egg rolls in the freezer to firm up while you prepare your cooking method. This helps maintain shape and makes frying or baking easier.
4. Frying method: Pour oil to a depth of about 1 inch in a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add a few egg rolls at a time, ensuring they don’t touch to avoid sticking. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the wrappers turn golden brown and crispy. Remove the cooked egg rolls and drain them on paper towels. Repeat with any remaining egg rolls.
5. Baking method: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Brush the egg rolls lightly with oil and place them seam-side down on the prepared sheet. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning, until the egg rolls are golden and crisp.
6. Serve: Enjoy your Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls warm, paired with your favorite dipping sauces such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for an extra southwestern kick.

Notes

• You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken for convenience.
• De-seeding the jalapeno reduces heat; leave some seeds if you prefer spicier egg rolls.
• To store, keep cooked egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze uncooked egg rolls for up to one month.
• Egg rolls can be reheated in a toaster oven or conventional oven to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
• Adjust seasoning to taste, adding extra chili powder or cayenne for more heat if desired.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes (baking) or 10 minutes (frying)
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Southwestern

Keywords: Southwest chicken egg rolls, chicken egg rolls, Southwestern appetizer, fried egg rolls, baked egg rolls, Mexican-inspired snacks, easy party appetizers