Southwestern Egg Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Southwestern Egg Rolls are the perfect combination of crunch and flavor. The crispy exterior holds a flavorful filling of seasoned chicken, black beans, corn, and spices that transport your taste buds straight to the Southwest. The dipping sauces, like ranch or salsa, complement the egg rolls and add an extra layer of zest. Plus, these egg rolls are easy to prepare and can be baked or fried, making them a versatile dish that’s great for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)

• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

• 1/2 cup diced onion

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)

• 8-10 small flour tortillas (about 8-inch)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying or brushing)

• Dipping sauces (ranch dressing, salsa, guacamole)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, onion, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

2. Place the flour tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the filling mixture in the center of each tortilla.

3. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the filling.

4. Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it up tightly to form an egg roll shape. Seal the edge with a little water if needed.

5. If frying: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the egg rolls, seam side down, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

6. If baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the egg rolls with olive oil to help them crisp up. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

7. Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, salsa, or guacamole.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings (2-3 egg rolls per person)

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 10-20 minutes (depending on frying or baking)

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Add heat: For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or use a spicy salsa for dipping.

• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for a meat-free option.

• Different fillings: Substitute the chicken with ground beef, turkey, or even shrimp for a different twist on the classic egg roll.

• Cheese options: Try using pepper jack or a spicy cheese blend to give the egg rolls an extra kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes to restore their crunch.

FAQs

1. Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the egg rolls ahead of time, assemble them, and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before cooking. Just bake or fry them when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze Southwestern Egg Rolls?

Yes! To freeze, place the uncooked egg rolls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To cook, bake or fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

3. Can I make these egg rolls without frying?

Yes! You can bake these egg rolls for a lighter version. Just brush them with olive oil and bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until crispy and golden brown.

4. How do I prevent the egg rolls from falling apart when frying?

Be sure to roll the egg rolls tightly and seal the edges with a little water to ensure they stay closed during cooking.

5. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Corn tortillas are smaller and more delicate, but they can work if you’re looking for a gluten-free option. Just be gentle when rolling them up to avoid breaking.

6. How can I make the egg rolls even crispier?

If you’re frying, make sure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F or 175°C) before adding the egg rolls. This will ensure they cook quickly and stay crispy. If you’re baking, you can use an air fryer or spray the egg rolls with more oil for extra crunch.

7. Can I add avocado to the filling?

Yes! Adding mashed avocado to the filling will give the egg rolls a creamy texture and extra flavor. Just be sure not to overfill the tortillas to prevent them from getting soggy.

8. What dipping sauces go well with Southwestern Egg Rolls?

These egg rolls pair beautifully with ranch dressing, salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. You can also use a spicy chipotle mayo or a tangy BBQ sauce for dipping.

9. Can I make these egg rolls without cheese?

Yes! You can omit the cheese for a lighter version or to make them dairy-free. The egg rolls will still be flavorful and satisfying without it.

10. How do I keep the egg rolls crispy if I make them in advance?

To keep egg rolls crispy after making them, avoid storing them in an airtight container while they’re still hot. Let them cool on a rack before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

Conclusion

Southwestern Egg Rolls are a delicious and fun appetizer or snack that combines savory chicken, black beans, corn, and spices in a crispy, golden wrapper. Whether you bake or fry them, these egg rolls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser with their bold flavors and satisfying crunch. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, Southwestern Egg Rolls are a great addition to your recipe collection and a guaranteed hit at any gathering.