Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls with Cilantro Avocado Dipping Sauce Recipe

Introduction

These Southwest Egg Rolls are a flavorful twist on a classic favorite, packed with seasoned chicken, black beans, corn, and cheese. Crispy on the outside and bursting with a savory filling, they make a perfect appetizer or main dish that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ¼ cup diced white onion
• ¼ cup diced red bell peppers
• 2 cups rotisserie chicken (diced or shredded)
• ½ cup black beans
• ½ cup canned corn
• ¼ cup frozen spinach (thawed, drained, and chopped)
• 4 oz can green chiles
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese
• 1 ½ teaspoons taco seasoning
• 6-8 (6 inch) flour tortillas
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped)
• ½ cup mashed avocado
• ½ cup ranch dressing

Instructions

1. Make the dipping sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mashed avocado with the ranch dressing. Mix well and chill until ready to serve.
2. Prepare the filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion and red bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions are softened and translucent.
4. Add main ingredients: Stir in the diced chicken, black beans, spinach, corn, green chiles, and taco seasoning. Cook for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
5. Add cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese over the mixture. Stir until the cheese melts completely.
6. Finish filling: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro.
7. Assemble the egg rolls: Divide the filling evenly among the flour tortillas. Roll each tortilla tightly and fold in the ends to create the egg roll shape.
8. Heat oil: In a large pot or deep fryer, heat several inches of vegetable oil to medium-high heat for frying.
9. Fry the egg rolls: Carefully place the rolled tortillas into the hot oil in batches. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
10. Drain and serve: Remove the egg rolls from the oil and drain on paper towels. Slice in half and serve warm with the chilled dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful filling.
• Swap Mexican cheese for pepper jack to add extra spice.
• For a healthier version, bake the egg rolls at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of frying.
• Add diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Storage

Store leftover cooked egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the exterior crispy. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and fry the egg rolls just before serving for the best texture.

What can I use instead of flour tortillas?

You can use egg roll wrappers or large flour tortillas if you want a thinner, crispier shell. Keep in mind that traditional egg roll wrappers will fry differently and may require shorter cooking time.