2teaspoonscanola, avocado, or grapeseed oilfor cooking the chicken and veggies
1chicken breastchicken breastcut into ½-inch cubes
½cupcornfrozen or fresh
2tablespoonsred bell pepperminced
3tablespoonsgreen onionminced
1teaspoonchili powder
1teaspoongarlic powder
½teaspoonsalt
½teaspoonground cumin
½teaspoonpaprika
½cupblack beansdrained and rinsed
2cupsfresh spinachloosely packed, chopped into roughly 1-inch pieces
2tablespoonscilantrominced
½cupcheddar, Colby Jack, or pepper jack cheesegrated
86-inch flour tortillasflour tortillaswhole wheat works well too
canola oilfor frying or baking
Instructions
Heat 2 teaspoons of your chosen oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken breast and cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and golden. Toss in the corn, red bell pepper, and green onion, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the veggies soften slightly.
Sprinkle in the chili powder, garlic powder, salt, cumin, and paprika. Stir well to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly with the spices. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken and veggie mixture with the black beans, chopped spinach, cilantro, and grated cheese. Mix gently until everything is well distributed. The residual heat will slightly wilt the spinach, keeping it tender but vibrant.
Lay a tortilla flat on your work surface. Spoon about ¼ cup of the filling in a line across the center, leaving about 1.5 inches border on all sides. Fold the sides inward, then roll tightly from the bottom up to enclose the filling completely, creating a neat egg roll shape. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
To fry: Pour canola oil into a frying pan to a depth of about ½ inch and heat over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully place 2-3 egg rolls at a time in the oil, frying for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
To bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly brush each egg roll with canola oil and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp and golden.
Serve your Southwest Egg RollS hot with a side of your favorite dipping sauce. For a truly irresistible pairing, try them with the tangy and creamy Raising Canes Sauce or a bright and vibrant Red Pepper Coulis. These sauces complement the smoky and spicy flavors perfectly.
Equipment
Large Skillet
Mixing Bowl
Cheese grater
Pastry brush
Large frying pan
Deep Fryer
Baking Sheet
Wire Rack
Paper Towels
Notes
These egg rolls can be fried or baked depending on your preference for crispiness and healthiness.
Store cooked egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for best texture.
Freeze uncooked egg rolls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for longer storage; cook from frozen, adding extra time.