Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Southwest Egg Rolls are a crispy, flavorful appetizer or snack that packs a punch with bold Southwest flavors. Filled with a savory mixture of seasoned chicken, black beans, corn, and cheese, these egg rolls are the perfect balance of crunch and creamy goodness. With the help of the air fryer, these egg rolls come out crispy with little to no oil, making them a healthier alternative to traditional fried egg rolls. They’re perfect for serving at parties, as a side dish, or as a fun weeknight meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cooked chicken (shredded)
black beans (drained and rinsed)
corn kernels (frozen or fresh)
shredded cheddar cheese
cream cheese (softened)
green onions (chopped)
garlic powder
cumin
chili powder
tortillas (flour or whole wheat)
olive oil spray (or cooking spray)
salt and pepper

directions

Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until the filling is well combined.
Assemble the Egg Rolls: Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the filling into the center of the tortilla. Fold the sides of the tortilla in and then roll it up tightly, ensuring the filling stays secure inside. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Air Fry the Egg Rolls: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Arrange the egg rolls in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching. Lightly spray the tops of the egg rolls with more olive oil spray.
Cook the Egg Rolls: Air fry the egg rolls at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Serve: Remove the egg rolls from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people (makes about 8 egg rolls).
Preparation time: 10-15 minutes
Cooking time: 8-10 minutes
Total time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

Add Spice: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for extra heat.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use additional beans, corn, or vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
Cheese Variations: Try using pepper jack cheese for a spicier, meltier filling or a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar.
Sweet Variation: Add a bit of pineapple or roasted red peppers for a sweet twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Southwest Egg Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore their crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver for this recipe. Just make sure to remove any skin and bones before using.

Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the egg rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before cooking. Simply air fry them when ready to serve.

Can I freeze Southwest Egg Rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled egg rolls before cooking. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, air fry them from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, you can use corn tortillas, but they may be a bit more fragile. You might need to be extra careful when rolling and air frying them.

What dipping sauces go well with these egg rolls?
These egg rolls pair great with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a spicy ranch dipping sauce.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Southwest Egg Rolls are the perfect combination of crispy texture and bold Southwest flavors. With a creamy and flavorful filling wrapped in a crispy shell, these egg rolls are a hit for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or dinner, they’re sure to satisfy your craving for something delicious and fun to eat!