The Best Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls
If you’re looking for a deliciously crispy appetizer or snack that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than The Best Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls. These savory bites are filled with seasoned chicken, black beans, corn, and a medley of vibrant vegetables, all wrapped in a crispy egg roll shell. Perfect for game days, parties, or just a cozy night in, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. With a zesty cilantro ranch dressing for dipping, these egg rolls are sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Best Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls are not only incredibly tasty, but they also bring a delightful crunch and a burst of southwest flavors to your table. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:
- Flavor-Packed Filling: Each bite is a harmonious blend of tender chicken, hearty black beans, and sweet corn.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the level of spice or swap in your favorite veggies.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for quick snacks throughout the week.
- Fried to Perfection: The crispy exterior is the perfect contrast to the warm, flavorful filling.
What to Buy
To make The Best Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked and cubed chicken
- 1 cup drained and rinsed black beans
- 1 cup drained and rinsed corn
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1 cup sliced green onions
- 2 seeded and finely chopped jalapeños
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Oil for frying
- Egg roll wrappers (about 20)
- Cilantro ranch dressing for serving
Equipment at a Glance
Before you get started, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:
- Large Mixing Bowl: For combining your filling ingredients.
- Frying Pan or Deep Fryer: For achieving that crispy texture.
- Spatula: To help flip your egg rolls while frying.
- Serving Platter: To showcase your delicious creations.
The Best Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls, Made Easy
Follow these simple steps to create The Best Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cubed chicken, drained and rinsed black beans, corn, chopped red bell pepper, sliced green onions, chopped jalapeños, and chopped spinach. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Season the Mixture
Add in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are coated with the spices, creating a well-seasoned filling.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Gently fold in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese. The cheese will melt beautifully during frying, adding creaminess to your egg rolls.
Step 4: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, with one corner pointing toward you. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling mixture in the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll it up tightly. Use a little water to seal the top corner.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a large frying pan or deep fryer, heat oil over medium-high heat. You’ll want about an inch of oil for frying. Test the oil’s readiness by dropping in a small piece of egg roll wrapper; it should sizzle immediately.
Step 6: Fry the Egg Rolls
Carefully place the egg rolls in the hot oil, a few at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your hot Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls with a side of zesty cilantro ranch dressing for dipping. Enjoy the crunchy texture and bold flavors!
Smart Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with the ingredients! Here are some smart substitutions you can make:
- Swap the Monterey Jack cheese for cheddar cheese or pepper jack for added heat.
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
- For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with extra beans or tofu.
- Add in other veggies like zucchini or corn for a different flavor profile.
Author’s Commentary
The Best Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls are a fantastic way to use up leftovers while also treating your taste buds to something special. I love serving these at gatherings because they are always a hit! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the rolls right before frying, making them an excellent choice for entertaining. Plus, the cilantro ranch dressing is a game-changer—it adds a refreshing touch that complements the spiciness of the egg rolls perfectly!
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
To store any leftovers, place the cooled egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, do so before frying. Lay the assembled egg rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply fry them straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time for that perfect crispiness!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these egg rolls instead of frying them?
Yes! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the egg rolls with oil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.
What dipping sauces go well with Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls?
In addition to cilantro ranch dressing, these egg rolls pair beautifully with salsa, guacamole, or a spicy chipotle sauce for an extra kick!
Can I use different types of beans?
Absolutely! While black beans are traditional, you can use pinto beans or kidney beans based on your preference.
How can I make these egg rolls gluten-free?
To make The Best Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls gluten-free, simply use gluten-free egg roll wrappers available at most grocery stores.
In Closing
Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a flavorful snack, The Best Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls are sure to satisfy. With their crunchy exterior and savory filling, they are a delightful treat that everyone will love. Don’t forget to whip up that cilantro ranch dressing; it takes these egg rolls to a whole new level! Enjoy making and sharing these delicious bites with family and friends, and watch them disappear in no time!
The Best Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cubed chicken, drained and rinsed black beans, corn, chopped red bell pepper, sliced green onions, chopped jalapeños, and chopped spinach. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are coated with the spices, creating a well-seasoned filling.
- Gently fold in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese. The cheese will melt beautifully during frying, adding creaminess to your egg rolls.
- Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, with one corner pointing toward you. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling mixture in the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll it up tightly. Use a little water to seal the top corner.
- In a large frying pan or deep fryer, heat oil over medium-high heat. You’ll want about an inch of oil for frying. Test the oil’s readiness by dropping in a small piece of egg roll wrapper; it should sizzle immediately.
- Carefully place the egg rolls in the hot oil, a few at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve your hot Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls with a side of zesty cilantro ranch dressing for dipping. Enjoy the crunchy texture and bold flavors!
Notes
- These egg rolls can be made ahead of time; just freeze them before frying.
- Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for varied flavors.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with extra beans or tofu.
