Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls recipe is a unique recipe idea that is rich in flavor, with a combination of juicy chicken, black beans, sweet corn and melted Monterey Jack cheese in a crispy golden crust. Whether baked or fried, they make a delicious appetizer or satisfying main dish. Perfect for parties, game nights, or family dinners, these egg rolls are a guaranteed hit!
Why You’ll Love These Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls
- Packed with Flavor: A medley of southwest spices, chicken, and fresh veggies.
- Versatile Cooking Options: Bake or fry for the perfect crispiness.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: Inspired by the popular Chili’s Southwestern Eggrolls.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Freeze for easy reheating on busy days.
Ingredients
For the 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 red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup jalapeño, diced and de-seeded
- ½ tbsp cumin
- ½ tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
For Assembly
- 1 package egg roll wrappers (about 20 wrappers)
Optional Dipping Sauce
- Avocado Ranch: Blend 1 cup ranch dressing, ½ avocado, and ½ cup cilantro until smooth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, corn, black beans, spinach, bell pepper, and jalapeño.
- Add cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly.
- Stir in shredded cheese until evenly coated.
Assemble the Egg Rolls
- Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface in a diamond shape.
- Add 2–3 tablespoons of the filling to the center.
- Fold the bottom corner over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly to the top corner.
- Seal the edges with water to ensure they stay closed.
- Repeat for all wrappers and filling.
Cook the Egg Rolls
- Frying Method:
- Heat 1 inch of oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry rolls in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Baking Method:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Brush egg rolls with oil, place seam-side down, and bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Pro Tips for Perfect Egg Rolls
- Keep Wrappers Moist: Cover unused wrappers with a damp towel to prevent drying.
- Add Some Heat: Include green chilies or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Alternative Wrappers: Small tortillas work well for a fun twist.
- Freezer-Friendly: Wrap each roll in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
How to Serve Your Egg Rolls
- As an Appetizer: Pair with avocado ranch, guacamole, or salsa.
- As a Main Dish: Serve with rice, salad, or sautéed vegetables.
- Dipping Sauces: Try sour cream, salsa, or a creamy cilantro dip.
Storing and Reheating
Refrigeration: Store cooled egg rolls in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
Freezing: Wrap individually and store in a freezer bag. Bake or fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
These Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls are a must-try for anyone looking to add bold, flavorful recipe ideas to their repertoire. Perfectly crispy on the outside and loaded with a savory filling, they’re an irresistible dish for any occasion!