If you’re craving a fun, crunchy snack with bold flavors, these Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls deliver exactly that. They take the classic egg roll and infuse it with smoky Southwest flair — juicy shredded chicken, black beans, corn, jalapeños, bell peppers, spinach, and melty cheese — all wrapped in a crisp golden shell.
Whether you’re making them for a cozy family dinner, a game-day appetizer, or just looking to spice up taco night, these egg rolls are always a hit. They’re easy to customize, simple to make, and absolutely packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love These Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls
- Bold, balanced flavors: Smoky, spicy, cheesy, and fresh all in one bite.
- Crispy texture: The crunchy wrapper contrasts perfectly with the creamy, tender filling.
- Versatile: Great for lunch, dinner, snacks, or party platters.
- Freezer-friendly: Make them ahead and fry or bake later for convenience.
Ingredients (Yields 8–10 egg rolls)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen and thawed)
- ¼ cup jalapeño, finely chopped
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 package egg roll wrappers
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (enough for deep or shallow frying)
For Baking:
- Olive oil or cooking spray
Optional Dips:
- Salsa
- Guacamole
- Sour cream
- Ranch or spicy aioli
Instructions (Step‑by‑Step)
- Prepare the chicken
Use cooked chicken—either homemade, grilled, or rotisserie. Shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. - Mix the filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, jalapeño, bell pepper, spinach, pepper, chili powder, salt, and cumin. Stir well to evenly mix. Then fold in the shredded cheese. - Prepare your workspace
Lay out the egg roll wrappers on a clean surface. Keep a small bowl of water nearby to help seal the wrappers. - Fill and roll the egg rolls
Place about 2–3 tablespoons of the filling in the center of a wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll upward tightly. Seal the top corner with a dab of water. - Choose your cooking method To Fry:
Heat oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry egg rolls in batches for about 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. To Bake:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place egg rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush or spray them with olive oil. Bake for 12–15 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden and crisp. - Serve and enjoy
Let cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Serve with your favorite dips like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overfill: Use about 2–3 tablespoons of filling to prevent bursting during cooking.
- Seal tightly: Use water or egg wash to secure the edges.
- Drain ingredients: Make sure corn and beans are well drained to avoid soggy wrappers.
- Freeze for later: You can freeze the rolled (but uncooked) egg rolls for up to 3 months.
Variations & Customizations
- Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add extra beans, roasted sweet potato, or tofu.
- Extra heat: Add chipotle peppers or hot sauce to the filling.
- Different cheese: Try pepper jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend.
- Alternative proteins: Ground turkey, beef, or even shrimp work great.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store cooked egg rolls in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze uncooked egg rolls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake or fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
- Reheat: Use an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness. Microwave if you’re in a hurry, but they won’t be as crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them in advance and refrigerate or freeze until ready to cook.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Absolutely. Baking is a great healthier alternative. Be sure to brush or spray with oil to get a crispy finish.
How spicy are these?
They have a mild kick from the jalapeños, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili and jalapeño.
Can I use other meats?
Yes — ground beef, turkey, or even shredded pork or shrimp are great options.
Final Thoughts
These Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls are a fun and flavorful fusion of classic American and Southwestern cuisine. Whether you’re serving them as a game-day snack or an exciting dinner option, they’re guaranteed to impress. The crispy shell and cheesy, spicy filling make them completely irresistible.