Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Southwest Egg Rolls are a flavorful fusion of Tex-Mex ingredients wrapped in a crispy shell, all without the need for deep frying. Packed with black beans, corn, chicken, and spicy seasoning, these egg rolls make for a satisfying appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. The air fryer delivers a golden crunch with minimal oil, making them a healthier twist on a restaurant favorite.

ingredients

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

cooked and shredded chickenblack beans (drained and rinsed)frozencorn (thawed)red bell pepper (diced)green onions (sliced)shredded cheddar cheesecream cheese (softened)chili powderground cuminonion powdergarlic powdersalt and pepperegg roll wrapperscooking spray or oil spray

directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, green onions, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese.

Add chili powder, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly coated and well combined.

Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface in a diamond shape. Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling near the bottom corner.

Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly. Use a dab of water to seal the final edge.

Repeat with the 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 and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd.

Air fry for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through, until the egg rolls are golden and crispy.

Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 10–12 egg rolls.Preparation time: 15 minutesAir frying time: 10–12 minutesTotal time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

Substitute the chicken with cooked ground beef or turkey for a different protein.

Add chopped spinach or jalapeños for extra flavor and heat.

Use pepper jack cheese for a spicier twist.

Serve with avocado ranch, chipotle mayo, or salsa for dipping.

Make them vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding extra beans or veggies.

storage/reheating

Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes until crispy again.Freeze uncooked rolls for up to 2 months and air fry straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

FAQs

Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them in advance and refrigerate or freeze until ready to air fry.

Do I have to use cream cheese?

Cream cheese adds creaminess and helps bind the filling, but you can omit or replace with Greek yogurt or mashed avocado.

What type of chicken works best?

Rotisserie chicken or any cooked and shredded chicken breast or thigh meat works well.

Can I bake these instead?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.

Are egg roll wrappers the same as spring roll wrappers?

No, egg roll wrappers are thicker and more suitable for air frying or baking.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese and omit cream cheese or use a plant-based substitute.

Do I need to thaw frozen egg roll wrappers?

Yes, let them thaw in the refrigerator before using to prevent tearing.

Why are my egg rolls splitting in the air fryer?

Overfilling or skipping the sealing step can cause them to split—be sure to seal tightly with water.

How do I prevent soggy egg rolls?

Make sure the filling isn’t too wet and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.

Can I use store-bought shredded chicken?

Absolutely, store-bought rotisserie chicken saves time and works perfectly.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Southwest Egg Rolls are the perfect blend of crunchy, creamy, spicy, and savory—all made with minimal oil and maximum flavor. Whether you’re hosting a game night or looking for a quick weeknight snack, these egg rolls are a must-try. Quick to prep and fun to dip, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite.