If you are craving a fun and flavorful snack that packs a punch of southwestern flair, this Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe is your new best friend. Bursting with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, gooey Monterey Jack cheese, and zesty spices, each crispy bite delivers a perfect blend of textures and bold tastes. These egg rolls transform simple ingredients into a party of flavors wrapped in a golden, crunchy shell, making them ideal for dinner, a game day appetizer, or anytime you want to impress with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to the irresistible taste and texture of this Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe. Each element—from the hearty chicken to the fresh bell peppers—brings its own splash of color and burst of flavor to the mix.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped): Provides sturdy, savory protein that forms the filling’s base.
- 1 cup corn (drained and rinsed): Adds a tender pop of sweetness that balances spice perfectly.
- 1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed): Brings a creamy, earthy texture and extra fiber.
- 1 cup spinach (chopped): Injects fresh green goodness that brightens up the egg rolls.
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper: Offers vibrant color and a crisp, juicy bite.
- 1/4 cup diced jalapeno (de-seeded): Brings gentle heat that awakens the taste buds without overpowering.
- 1/2 tablespoon cumin: Infuses a warm, smoky aroma that ties all ingredients together.
- 1/2 tablespoon chili powder: Adds depth, a touch of spice, and classic southwest flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the other flavors beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a soft kick of earthiness.
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese: Melts into gooey pockets of creamy richness inside every roll.
- 1 package egg roll wrappers (20 wrappers): Crisp, thin wraps that hold all your flavorful filling together perfectly.
How to Make Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, corn, black beans, chopped spinach, diced red bell pepper, and jalapeno. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper, then stir everything carefully to unify the flavors and distribute the spices evenly. Finally, fold in the Monterey Jack cheese, which will melt and bind the filling during cooking.
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Place one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with a corner pointing toward you, almost like a diamond shape. Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the filling onto the center. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then tuck in the two side corners tightly, and continue rolling upwards until sealed. Dip a finger in water and run it along the top edge to help the wrapper stick, pressing firmly to seal completely. Place your ready rolls seam side down on a baking sheet as you go.
Step 3: Freeze Before Cooking
Pop your egg rolls into the freezer while you prepare your cooking method. Freezing first helps maintain their shape and ensures they crisp up beautifully whether you fry or bake them.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
For frying, heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry a few egg rolls at a time, spacing them so they don’t touch, and cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to paper towels to drain. For a healthier twist, bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit on a parchment-lined sheet after brushing with oil, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy in about 15 to 20 minutes.
How to Serve Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten these egg rolls with fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or a dollop of creamy avocado crema. These extras add zest and freshness that perfectly highlight the warm, hearty filling.
Side Dishes
Pair your southwest chicken egg rolls with a crisp green salad, tangy southwest ranch dip, or even some Spanish rice to round out the meal. These sides add complementary flavors and textures, making the experience even more indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party platter, slice the egg rolls diagonally to reveal the colorful filling, arranging them on a colorful serving tray with little bowls of dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or chipotle mayo. This playful presentation invites guests to dig in and share.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any cooked Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This short storage time helps preserve the crispiness and fresh flavors without sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze assembled, uncooked egg rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag after firm. They freeze well for up to 2 months, making them a convenient make-ahead snack or meal option.
Reheating
Reheat leftover cooked egg rolls in a 375-degree oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the wrappers gummy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe?
Absolutely! While Monterey Jack melts beautifully and has a mild flavor, you can substitute cheddar for a sharper taste or pepper jack for a little extra spice. Just make sure it melts well.
What if I don’t eat chicken? Can I make a vegetarian version?
Yes! Feel free to omit the chicken and add extra beans, corn, or even cooked sweet potatoes for hearty texture. The spices and veggies will still give you plenty of flavor and satisfaction.
Are these egg rolls spicy?
They have a gentle heat level, thanks to de-seeded jalapenos and chili powder. If you prefer them milder, reduce or omit the jalapeno. For more heat, keep the seeds or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Can I bake instead of frying for a healthier option?
Yes, baking is a great way to enjoy these egg rolls without the extra oil. They come out crispy and golden when brushed with oil and baked at a high temperature, making this recipe versatile and crowd-friendly.
How do I prevent the egg roll wrappers from tearing?
Handle the wrappers gently and keep unused ones covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out. When sealing, make sure to use just enough water to moisten the edges so the wrapper sticks without becoming too soggy and fragile.
Final Thoughts
You absolutely have to give this Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe a try if you love bold flavors wrapped in crispy goodness. They’re easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Once you taste that melty cheese meeting zesty chicken and crisp veggies, you’ll understand why this recipe quickly becomes a go-to favorite!
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Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 egg rolls
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls are a delicious fusion of flavorful shredded chicken, corn, black beans, spinach, red bell pepper, and jalapeno, all seasoned with Southwest spices and wrapped in crispy egg roll wrappers. Perfectly cooked either by frying for extra crispiness or baking for a lighter option, these egg rolls are ideal for dinner or as a savory side dish bursting with bold southwestern flavors.
Ingredients
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 (20 egg roll wrappers)
For Cooking
- Oil for frying (enough to fill a skillet about 1 inch deep)
- Oil for brushing (for baking method)
Instructions
- Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, corn, black beans, chopped spinach, diced red bell pepper, and diced jalapeno. Add the cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper, then stir thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices throughout the mixture. Finally, fold in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese until well incorporated.
- Prepare the egg roll wrappers: Lay one egg roll wrapper on a clean, flat surface with a corner pointed towards you to form a diamond shape.
- Fill the wrappers: Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the filling into the center of the wrapper.
- Roll the egg rolls: Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then tuck in the two side corners tightly toward the center. Continue rolling tightly until nearly sealed. Dip your finger in water and run it along the top edge of the wrapper to moisten it, then press firmly to seal the egg roll fully. Place the rolled egg roll onto a baking sheet seam side down. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
- Chill the egg rolls: Place the rolled egg rolls in the freezer while preparing oil for frying or preheating the oven to help them hold their shape.
- Fry the egg rolls: Heat oil in a large skillet to about 350°F, making sure the oil is about 1 inch deep. Add a few egg rolls at a time without overcrowding. Fry each side for 2 to 3 minutes or until the wrappers turn golden brown and crispy. Transfer fried egg rolls to paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with remaining egg rolls.
- Bake the egg rolls: Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Brush each egg roll lightly with oil and place them seam side down on the sheet. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the egg rolls are golden and crisp.
- Serve: Serve the Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls hot with your favorite dipping sauces or toppings for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- Shredded or chopped cooked chicken can be rotisserie, grilled, or poached chicken based on preference.
- De-seeding the jalapeno reduces heat significantly, but leave seeds in if you prefer more spice.
- Freezing egg rolls before frying or baking helps maintain their structure and crispiness.
- For a healthier option, baking is recommended over frying.
- Egg roll wrappers can be found in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores near the tofu or Asian ingredients.
- Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for additional Southwest flair.
