Bennigan’s Southwest Egg Rolls: A Flavorful Twist

I’m obsessed with Bennigan’s Southwest Egg Rolls, and now you can make them at home! 🔥 These crispy egg rolls are packed with spicy chicken, creamy cheese, and fresh veggies, all wrapped in a crunchy tortilla wrapper.

What makes this recipe special is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The spicy chicken and melted cheese are wrapped in a tender tortilla, then deep-fried to a golden crisp. It’s a game-changer for appetizers or snacks.

To recreate this Bennigan’s favorite, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills. I’ll walk you through every step, from prep to plating, so you can enjoy these addictive egg rolls in no time.

Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, and get ready for rave reviews! Let’s get started on this delicious recipe.

Ingredients for bennigan’s southwest egg rolls

Here’s everything you need to make delicious Bennigan’s Southwest Egg Rolls at home easily.

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You can find most ingredients at your local grocery store. For the best quality chicken, choose organic or free-range. Use any color bell pepper you like or have on hand. For the cheese, a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack works well. Look for fresh cilantro and green onions at the produce section.

If you can't find spring roll wrappers, you can substitute with egg roll wrappers or even flour tortillas as a last resort. For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the filling. You can also use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to chicken for convenience. For the best flavor, use freshly ground black pepper and cumin.

Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and heated through. You can also freeze them before frying for up to 2 months—just thaw and fry when needed. Keep vegetable oil in a cool, dark place to maintain quality for future use.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Bennigan’s Southwest Egg Rolls

Let me guide you through making these delicious egg rolls with a perfect blend of flavors.

👨‍🍳 Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetable Mixture

Start by cooking and shredding 1 lb of chicken breast. I like to use pre-cooked chicken to save time. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, 8 oz of softened cream cheese, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy. Add 1 can of drained diced green chilies, 1 diced red bell pepper, 0.5 cup of chopped green onions, and 0.25 cup of chopped cilantro. Season with 1 tsp of salt, 0.5 tsp of black pepper, and 1 tsp of cumin. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

The mixture should be creamy with a nice balance of spices. If it seems too thick, you can add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed for the best flavor.

🥘 Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls

Lay a tortilla wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you, forming a diamond shape. Place about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture in the center of the wrapper. Brush the edges with a little water to help seal the egg roll. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly to form a neat package. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.

Make sure the edges are sealed properly to prevent the filling from leaking during frying. If you’re having trouble getting the wrapper to stick, try using a little more water or pressing the edges firmly.

🔥 Step 3: Fry the Egg Rolls to Golden Perfection

Heat 2 cups of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F. When the oil is hot, carefully add a few egg rolls to the oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the egg rolls from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Frying at the right temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy exterior. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is heated through. If it’s too cold, the egg rolls will absorb too much oil. Watch for a golden brown color and a crispy texture.

🍽️ Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the egg rolls hot with your favorite dipping sauce. I recommend a spicy ranch or a tangy salsa to complement the flavors. You can also serve them with a side of guacamole or sour cream for added creaminess. The egg rolls are best enjoyed fresh and crispy, so serve immediately.

These Bennigan’s Southwest Egg Rolls are perfect as an appetizer or snack. The combination of chicken, cheese, and spices wrapped in a crispy tortilla is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the delicious flavors and textures in every bite!

Are you ready to spice up your snack game? 🔥 Bennigan’s Southwest Egg Rolls Recipe is a mouth-watering twist on traditional egg rolls, packed with savory flavors and a delightful crunch. The best part? You can easily make them at home!

Let’s Get Started! 👨‍🍳

To begin, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 package of egg roll wrappers (usually found in the produce or international section of your local grocery store)
• 1 cup of shredded chicken cooked in your favorite southwest-inspired seasonings
• 1/2 cup of shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work great)
• 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup of diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup of diced onion
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• Salsa and sour cream for dipping (optional)

Assemble the Egg Rolls! 🥘

To assemble the egg rolls, lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointing towards you. Place about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center of the wrapper. Brush the edges with a little water, then fold the bottom corner over the filling, followed by the sides and finally rolling it up into a tight cylinder. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.

Frying Time! 🔥

Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Fry the egg rolls in batches until they’re golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

💡 Pro tip: For a baked version, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the egg rolls for about 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Bennigan’s Southwest Egg Rolls

Here are my top tips to help you make delicious Bennigan’s Southwest Egg Rolls that are crispy on the outside and flavorful on the inside.

Filling Preparation: Make sure your chicken is fully cooked and shredded before mixing it with the other ingredients. I like to use pre-cooked chicken to save time. Ensure that the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth mixture. 💡

Assembly Tips: When assembling the egg rolls, lay the tortilla wrapper flat with one corner pointing towards you. Place about 1/4 cup of the filling in the center. Brush the edges with a little water to help seal the egg roll tightly.

Frying Technique: Heat the vegetable oil to 350°F for perfect frying. Fry the egg rolls in batches to avoid overcrowding, and cook until they are golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Serving Suggestions: Serve the egg rolls hot with your favorite dipping sauce. I recommend a spicy ranch or a tangy salsa to complement the flavors. You can also serve them with a side of guacamole or sour cream for added creaminess.

You’ll love these Bennigan’s Southwest Egg Rolls, packed with chicken, cheese, and spices, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. They’re perfect for a snack or appetizer, offering a flavorful twist on traditional egg rolls. The combination of chicken breast, cream cheese, and cheddar provides a rich taste experience.

These egg rolls are a great source of protein thanks to the chicken breast, providing about 36% of your daily needs per serving. They also contain significant amounts of fat from the cream cheese and cheddar, contributing to their rich flavor. The vegetables add some fiber, making them a somewhat balanced choice.

While delicious, these egg rolls are fried, so enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Pairing them with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables can help round out your meal. You’ll get a satisfying mix of protein, carbs, and fats in every bite.