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Southwestern Egg Rolls with chicken, black beans, corn, and cheese served crispy with avocado sauce

Southwestern Egg Rolls – The Best Crispy Tex-Mex Appetizer You Must Try


  • Author: Joriel
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 10 egg rolls (serves 4–5 people as appetizer)
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Golden, crispy, and bursting with bold Tex-Mex flavor! These rolls are filled with juicy chicken, black beans, corn, red pepper, spinach, jalapeños, and melty cheese everything you love in one bite. Make them ahead, freeze, and fry when ready. Don’t forget the dip!


Ingredients

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 2 tbsp minced green onion
• 2 tbsp minced red bell pepper
• ⅓ cup frozen corn kernels
• ¼ cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 2 tbsp frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• 2 tbsp diced jalapeños
• ½ tbsp minced fresh parsley
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp chili powder
• ⅓ tsp salt
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• ¾ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 5 (6-inch) flour tortillas
• 1 quart vegetable oil, for frying


Instructions

1️⃣ Cook Chicken:
Rub 1 tbsp oil on chicken breast. Cook in skillet over medium heat for 5–6 minutes per side until done. Let cool, then dice.

2️⃣ Sauté Veggies:
Heat remaining oil in skillet. Sauté green onion and bell pepper for 5 minutes until tender.

3️⃣ Make Filling:
Add diced chicken, corn, black beans, spinach, jalapeños, parsley, and spices. Cook 5 more minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cheese.

4️⃣ Assemble Rolls:
Wrap tortillas in a damp towel and microwave for 1 minute. Spoon mixture evenly into tortillas. Fold ends and roll tightly. Secure with toothpicks.

5️⃣ Freeze:
Place rolls on a tray and freeze for 4 hours or overnight.

6️⃣ Fry Until Golden:
Heat oil to 375°F. Fry frozen rolls for 10 minutes, flipping halfway. Drain on paper towels and serve hot!

Notes

  • Make Ahead & Freeze: These egg rolls freeze exceptionally well. Assemble, then freeze on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen—no need to thaw.

  • Air Fryer Option: For a healthier version, lightly spray the rolls with oil and air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. They’ll still be crispy and golden.

  • Vegan & Vegetarian Swap: Omit chicken and cheese for a plant-based version. Try seasoned tofu or black bean mash with vegan cheese or avocado for creaminess.

  • Spice Control: Adjust jalapeños or cayenne to your heat preference. For mild rolls, use bell peppers only. For extra spice, add chipotle or a splash of hot sauce.

  • Serve with Dips: These are perfect with avocado ranch, chipotle mayo, salsa verde, or even classic queso. Great for dipping and sharing.

  • Tortilla Tips: Microwave tortillas for 30–60 seconds with a damp towel to soften before rolling—this helps prevent cracking when frying.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer / Snack
  • Method: Frying (also adaptable to air fryer or baking)
  • Cuisine: Southwestern / Tex-Mex

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 egg roll (approx. 120g)
  • Calories: 230 kcal
  • Sugar: 1.5 g
  • Sodium: 420 mg
  • Fat: 13.5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7.5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 17 g
  • Fiber: 2.1 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg

Keywords: Tex-Mex Appetizers, Crispy Egg Rolls, Cheesy Chicken Snacks, Black Bean Recipes, Game Day Finger Foods, Spicy Chicken Wraps, Freezer-Friendly Recipes, Party Food Ideas, Southwest Cuisine, Fried Food Favorites