Southwestern Egg Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Southwestern egg rolls are full of vibrant flavors, and their crispy exterior gives way to a creamy, flavorful filling. They’re a great option for anyone who loves a little heat and spice in their meals, but the dish is easy to adjust based on your spice tolerance. The combination of tender chicken, beans, corn, and cheese makes these egg rolls both filling and satisfying. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces, making them perfect for parties, game days, or a fun family meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded

• 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed

• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)

• 1/2 cup green onions, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped

• 2 teaspoons ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 10-12 small flour tortillas (6-inch size)

• 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

For the dipping sauce:

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 2 tablespoons salsa

• 1 teaspoon lime juice

• 1 teaspoon chopped cilantro (optional)

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

Directions

1. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, corn, black beans, cheese, green onions, red bell pepper, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

2. Assemble the egg rolls: Lay a flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the tortilla. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly to form an egg roll. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.

3. Heat the oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll want enough oil to submerge the egg rolls halfway.

4. Fry the egg rolls: Working in batches, carefully place the egg rolls into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be sure to turn them occasionally for even frying.

5. Drain the egg rolls: Once the egg rolls are golden brown, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

6. Make the dipping sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, salsa, lime juice, and chopped cilantro (if using). Stir until well combined.

7. Serve: Arrange the Southwestern egg rolls on a platter and serve hot with the dipping sauce on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 10-12 egg rolls

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 10-12 minutes

• Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also add a bit more cheese for a creamy texture.

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick. You can also serve with a spicier salsa or a chipotle dipping sauce.

• Grilled Chicken: Instead of using cooked shredded chicken, you can grill chicken breasts with a bit of seasoning, then shred and use in the egg roll filling for a smoky flavor.

• Baked Egg Rolls: To make a lighter version, brush the egg rolls with a bit of olive oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they’re crispy on both sides.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover egg rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the egg rolls on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in an air fryer at 375°F for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can prepare the egg rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to cover them tightly so they don’t dry out. You can fry them just before serving.

2. Can I bake the egg rolls instead of frying them?

Yes, to make a healthier version, bake the egg rolls at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Brushing them with a little olive oil before baking will help them crisp up.

3. Can I freeze the egg rolls for later?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked egg rolls. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, fry or bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

4. Can I make these egg rolls with ground beef instead of chicken?

Yes, ground beef or even ground turkey works great in this recipe. Just cook the meat and add it to the filling mixture as you would the chicken.

5. Can I make these egg rolls spicier?

Yes, you can add diced jalapeños or chili peppers to the filling for an extra spicy kick. You can also serve with a spicy dipping sauce or drizzle some hot sauce on top for heat.

6. What is the best way to serve Southwestern egg rolls?

These egg rolls are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even as a main dish when served with sides like rice, guacamole, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them at parties or gatherings for guests to enjoy with drinks.

7. Can I use a different type of tortilla for this recipe?

Yes, you can use whole wheat tortillas, corn tortillas, or even gluten-free tortillas to suit your dietary needs. Just keep in mind that corn tortillas may be a bit more fragile when fried.

8. Can I use store-bought dipping sauce?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought salsa, sour cream, or ranch dressing can be a convenient alternative to the homemade dipping sauce.

9. Can I make these egg rolls without frying them?

Yes, you can also pan-fry the egg rolls with less oil or even air fry them for a lighter version. Both methods will still give you a crispy exterior.

10. How do I know when the egg rolls are done frying?

The egg rolls should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. If you’re unsure, you can cut one open to check if the filling is heated through and the cheese is melted.

Conclusion

Southwestern egg rolls are a flavorful, crispy, and versatile appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or part of a main course, these egg rolls are sure to satisfy your craving for something bold and delicious. With their savory filling and crispy exterior, they pair beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces, making them a must-try dish for anyone who loves bold, zesty flavors.

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