Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Air Fryer Southwest Egg Rolls are a crispy, flavor-packed appetizer or snack filled with a zesty mix of chicken, black beans, corn, and spices. Made healthier by air frying instead of deep-frying, they’re golden and crunchy on the outside with a savory, cheesy interior. Perfect for game day, parties, or an easy weeknight treat, these egg rolls are sure to be a hit.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
shredded cooked chickenblack beanscornred bell peppergreen onionsfrozen spinach (thawed and drained)shredded cheddar cheesecream cheesechili powdercuminonion powdersaltgarlic powderegg roll wrapperscooking spray or oil for air frying
directions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, and thawed spinach.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese, mixing until well combined.
Season the filling with chili powder, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt.
Place an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface in a diamond shape. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling onto the center.
Fold the bottom point up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly, sealing the edge with a dab of water.
Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Lightly spray the egg rolls with cooking spray or brush with oil.
Place the egg rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one.
Air fry for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Let cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12 egg rolls.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 8-10 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes
Variations
Swap the chicken for cooked ground beef or turkey for a different protein option.
Add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicier twist.
Serve with avocado ranch, salsa, or chipotle mayo for dipping.
Make them vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more beans or extra veggies.
storage/reheating
Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes until crispy again.You can also freeze uncooked rolls for up to 2 months—just air fry straight from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes.
FAQs
Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them a day in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.
What kind of wrappers should I use?
Use traditional egg roll wrappers, not spring roll or rice paper wrappers, for best results.
Do I need to flip them while air frying?
Yes, flipping halfway ensures they cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.
Can I bake them instead of air frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning once, until golden.
Are these spicy?
They have mild spice, but you can adjust heat by adding more chili powder or hot sauce.
Can I skip the cheese?
Yes, but the cheese helps bind the filling and adds creaminess.
How do I prevent the egg rolls from bursting?
Avoid overfilling and seal the edges tightly with water.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely, it’s a great time-saving option.
Are they gluten-free?
Not with traditional wrappers, but you can find gluten-free wrappers at specialty stores.
What dips go best?
Creamy cilantro sauce, sour cream, or salsa verde are excellent choices.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Southwest Egg Rolls are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and boldly seasoned goodness. With a quick cooking time and loads of flexibility in ingredients, they’re a go-to recipe for entertaining or satisfying cravings any night of the week. Serve them up hot and watch them disappear fast!
PrintAir Fryer Southwest Egg Rolls
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 egg rolls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Southwest
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Southwest Egg Rolls are packed with seasoned chicken, black beans, corn, and cheese – a healthier twist on a classic appetizer, made effortlessly in the air fryer.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, black beans, corn, cheese, bell pepper, green onions, cilantro, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface in a diamond shape. Add 2-3 tablespoons of filling in the center.
- Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly. Seal the edge with a dab of water.
- Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Spray the egg rolls lightly with olive oil and place in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with cooked ground beef or turkey.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more beans or tofu.
- Serve with salsa, ranch, or avocado dipping sauce.
- Freeze before cooking for easy prep ahead snacks.