Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls

• Cooked chicken: Provides satisfying protein and pulls the filling together I like rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor
• Corn: Adds sweet crunch Use frozen or fresh but drain well if using canned
• Black beans: Give the filling heartiness Choose cans with no added salt and rinse well
• Spinach: Introduces color and a touch of earthiness Fresh or frozen both work
• Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and a pop of color go for firm shiny peppers
• Jalapeno: For a little kick Remove seeds for milder flavor
• Cumin: Provides signature southwest aroma Use freshly ground if possible
• Chili powder: Brings smoky warm notes Pick a blend without extra salt
• Salt: Balances all the flavors
• Black pepper: Gives freshness and spice Use freshly cracked for best flavor
• Monterey jack cheese: Melts beautifully and makes the center extra creamy Great if you shred it yourself
• Egg roll wrappers: Give you that perfect crispy shell Look for wrappers that are soft and flexible in the package

Step by Step Instructions

Prep the Filling:

In a large mixing bowl add chopped or shredded chicken corn black beans chopped spinach diced red bell pepper and diced jalapeno Mix until evenly combined Go slowly to avoid mashing the beans

Season the Mixture:

Sprinkle in cumin chili powder salt and black pepper Stir very thoroughly so the spice is well distributed and all the ingredients are coated evenly

Add the Cheese:

Add shredded Monterey jack cheese Mixing again ensures cheese is dotted throughout the filling for melty goodness in each bite

Assemble the Egg Rolls:

Lay an egg roll wrapper flat with a corner facing you Spoon about two to three tablespoons of the filling onto the center Fold the bottom corner up and over the filling Tuck in the sides firmly and continue rolling Seal the edge with a bit of water so the roll stays closed when cooking

Repeat and Hold:

Assemble each egg roll and set aside on a parchment lined baking sheet Keep wrappers covered with a damp towel while working to prevent drying out

Prep for Cooking:

Freeze the rolled egg rolls for a few minutes if frying to help them hold their shape Begin heating your oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or preheat your oven to 425 degrees

Cook the Egg Rolls Frying Method:

Fry a few at a time in oil that reaches about one inch up the sides Turn carefully with tongs every couple of minutes until your egg rolls are a deep golden color Remove and drain on paper towels

Cook the Egg Rolls Oven Method:

Brush each egg roll lightly with oil and arrange on a parchment lined baking sheet Bake for fifteen to twenty minutes turning halfway through until golden and crisp

Serve:

Let cool slightly and serve with your favorite salsa guacamole or creamy dips

Pin

My favorite ingredient is the Monterey jack cheese because it melts to perfection and brings all the flavors together No matter who I serve these to someone always asks for the recipe and the story of the first time I made them for a crowd

Storage Tips

Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days Lay them in a single layer with parchment between layers to keep them from sticking To reheat place in a hot oven for ten minutes to regain their crispiness

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap in cooked turkey or ground beef if you are out of chicken Try a mix of pepper jack and cheddar for a little extra spice No spinach on hand Use kale or finely chopped broccoli

Serving Suggestions

Serve these egg rolls with cool ranch dip spicy salsa or a drizzle of lime crema For a meal round them out with a salad of leafy greens and lime vinaigrette They pair perfectly with cold drinks or even a big pitcher of lemonade

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A Bit of Context

Egg rolls are believed to have roots in Chinese American cuisine but this version transforms them with southwestern flair This mashup is all about bringing together world flavors in ways that feel fresh and surprising The southwest spin makes them a hit at parties across the country

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this dish?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works well and adds convenience, making prep faster without sacrificing flavor.

→ Is it better to bake or fry the egg rolls?

Both methods yield crispy results. Frying gives a deep golden crust, while baking is lighter and requires less oil.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these rolls?

Try salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a spicy ranch to complement the bold, southwest flavors inside the rolls.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble and freeze unbaked rolls, then bake or fry directly from frozen as needed for fresh, crispy snacks.

→ Are there vegetarian options for this filling?

Absolutely. Simply omit the chicken and add more beans or additional veggies such as mushrooms or zucchini.