Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these crispy Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls! They’re like little flavor bombs wrapped in a crunchy shell, and they’re absolutely perfect for gatherings. I remember the first time I made them for a game night; my friends couldn’t get enough! The combination of seasoned chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and hearty black beans is just so satisfying. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up! I love how you can customize them with your favorite spices or dipping sauces. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive party, these egg rolls are sure to steal the show. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup black beans, drained
- 1 cup corn, drained
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 10 egg roll wrappers
- Oil for frying
How to Prepare Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls
Alright, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delicious Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls! It’s a straightforward process, and you’ll be amazed at how easily everything comes together. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get rolling—literally!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, in a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, drained black beans, drained corn, diced bell peppers, sliced green onions, taco seasoning, and shredded cheese. Mix everything together until it’s well incorporated. This filling is the heart of your egg rolls, so make sure it’s flavorful!
- Next, take one of the egg roll wrappers and place it on a clean surface, like a cutting board. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling mixture into the center of the wrapper. Don’t overfill it—trust me, too much filling can make rolling a bit tricky!
- Now, fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling, tucking them in gently, and then roll it up tightly from the bottom. Seal the edges with a little water to make sure they stay together while frying. Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
- Heat about 1 inch of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. You want it hot but not smoking—around 350°F (175°C) is perfect. If you drop in a small piece of wrapper and it sizzles, you’re good to go!
- Carefully place your egg rolls into the hot oil, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Oh, the smell will be heavenly!
- Once they’re done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the egg rolls onto a plate lined with paper towels. This will help drain any excess oil. Let them rest for a minute or two—if you can resist the temptation to dive in right away!
And there you have it—your homemade Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls are ready to enjoy! Serve them hot with your favorite dips like salsa or guacamole, and watch them disappear!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep and cook time: You can have these delicious egg rolls ready in just about 25 minutes! Perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something tasty.
- Flavorful and satisfying: The combination of seasoned chicken and vibrant veggies creates a filling that’s bursting with flavor. Each bite is a delightful explosion of taste!
- Customizable for spice levels: Want it spicy? Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce! Prefer it milder? Just tone down the seasoning. You’re in control!
- Great for parties or snacks: These egg rolls are always a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just need a fun snack to munch on while binge-watching your favorite show.
Tips for Success
Alright, friends, let’s make sure your Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls turn out absolutely perfect every time! Here are some of my favorite tips to elevate your egg roll game:
- Get the oil temperature just right: It’s crucial to heat your oil to about 350°F (175°C). If it’s too hot, the egg rolls will burn on the outside while remaining uncooked on the inside. If it’s not hot enough, they’ll soak up too much oil and become greasy. A little test: drop in a small piece of wrapper; if it sizzles immediately, you’re ready!
- Don’t overfill: I know it’s tempting to pack that filling in, but trust me, overfilling can lead to messy egg rolls that won’t seal properly. Aim for about 2 tablespoons of filling—just enough to get that satisfying bite without bursting!
- Seal it right: To ensure your egg rolls don’t open up while frying, make sure to seal the edges well. Use a little water on your fingers to moisten the edges before rolling them up. This helps them stick together beautifully!
- Try baking for a healthier twist: If you want to cut down on some calories, you can bake these egg rolls instead of frying them. Just brush them lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy, but still delicious!
- Experiment with fillings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your fillings! You can swap in different proteins like ground turkey or even make them vegetarian with extra beans and sautéed vegetables. My personal favorite twist is adding some cream cheese for a creamy texture!
- Keep them warm: If you’re making a big batch for a party, keep the cooked egg rolls warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) until you’re ready to serve. This way, they’ll stay crispy and delicious!
Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to making egg rolls that will impress everyone! Enjoy the process and have fun with it!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these tasty Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls! Each egg roll is packed with flavor, and here’s a rough idea of what you’re getting in terms of nutrition:
- Serving Size: 1 egg roll
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Protein: About 10g
- Fat: Roughly 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Around 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on the specific ingredients I used, so they might vary a bit depending on what you choose. If you’re looking for a delicious snack that won’t break the calorie bank, these egg rolls are a fantastic option! Plus, with all those veggies and protein, you’re getting some good nutrients in there too. Enjoy every crispy bite guilt-free!
FAQ Section
I know you might have some questions about these delightful Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls, so let’s cover a few common ones to help you out!
Can I store leftover egg rolls?
Absolutely! Just allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat them in the oven to help regain that crispy texture—just don’t microwave them unless you want them to be a bit soggy!
What’s the difference between baking and frying these egg rolls?
Frying gives you that crispy, golden-brown exterior that’s hard to beat, but baking is a healthier option. If you choose to bake, brush them with a little oil and pop them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. They won’t be as crispy as fried, but they’re still incredibly tasty!
Can I use different fillings?
Definitely! Feel free to mix it up! You can use ground turkey, shredded beef, or even keep it vegetarian with more beans and veggies. Just remember to keep the texture in mind—if you’re using something like cream cheese, it’ll add a nice creaminess!
How do I make these egg rolls spicier?
If you’re looking for a kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling. You can also serve them with a spicy salsa or hot dip on the side for extra heat. Customize it to your taste!
Can I freeze egg rolls before frying them?
Yes, you can! Just assemble them, lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer, and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to fry, you can cook them straight from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes to the frying time.
If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out! I’m here to help you make the best egg rolls ever!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your crispy Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls all ready to go, let’s talk about the fun part—what to serve with them! These little bundles of joy are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with some delicious sides or dips takes them to a whole new level. Here are a few of my favorite options:
- Salsa: You really can’t go wrong with a fresh, zesty salsa! Whether it’s classic tomato salsa, mango salsa for a sweet twist, or a spicy corn salsa, the flavors complement the egg rolls perfectly.
- Guacamole: Creamy, dreamy guacamole is a must-have! The richness of the avocado pairs so well with the crunch of the egg rolls. You can even add a squeeze of lime or some diced tomatoes for extra freshness.
- Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing salad balances the richness of the egg rolls beautifully. Think a simple greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a Mexican-inspired corn and bean salad. It adds a nice crunch and brings a vibrant color to your plate!
- Ranch or Creamy Dip: If you’re a fan of creamy dips, a ranch dressing or a sour cream dip can add a delightful contrast to the crispy egg rolls. Just a little drizzle or dip can elevate your snacking experience!
- Pickled Veggies: For a tangy kick, serve some pickled jalapeños or other pickled veggies on the side. They add a nice crunch and a burst of flavor that really complements the filling in the egg rolls.
Mix and match these suggestions based on your mood or what you have on hand. The possibilities are endless, and trust me, your guests (or family) will love the spread! Enjoy every crispy, flavorful bite!
Print
Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls: 5 Flavorful Must-Try Tips
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 10 egg rolls 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Crispy egg rolls filled with seasoned chicken and vegetables.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup black beans, drained
- 1 cup corn, drained
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 10 egg roll wrappers
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix chicken, black beans, corn, bell peppers, green onions, taco seasoning, and cheese.
- Place a spoonful of the mixture in the center of each egg roll wrapper.
- Fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling and roll tightly.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the egg rolls until golden brown on all sides.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Notes
- Serve with salsa or guacamole.
- These can be baked instead of fried for a healthier option.
- Adjust spice level to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 egg roll
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls