INGREDIENTS
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken.
- 1 pound boneless chicken breast, diced: Provides a lean protein base for the filling.
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion: Adds a mild, sweet flavor to the filling.
- 6 jalapeños, seeded and diced: The main heat source in this dish, bringing a spicy kick.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: The creamy base that holds the filling together.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds a mild, gooey cheese pull.
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese: Provides a bit more kick with a smooth texture.
- 4 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled: Adds a smoky, salty element to the filling.
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs: Helps give the filling some body and texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of additional spice to balance the heat.
- 16 egg roll wrappers: Crispy shell for encasing the filling.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water: Used to seal the egg roll wrappers.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Ensures the egg rolls fry up crispy and golden brown.
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing for serving: A cool and creamy dipping sauce that pairs perfectly with the spicy egg rolls.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, until it's browned and no longer pink inside. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a large bowl and set it aside.
- Step 2:
- Return the skillet to medium-high heat and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Toss in the diced onion and jalapeños and sauté for about 5 minutes, until they soften and become fragrant. Transfer the cooked vegetables to the bowl with the chicken and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Step 3:
- To the bowl with the chicken and vegetables, add the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, Monterey jack cheese, crumbled bacon, Panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well-combined and the filling becomes rich and cheesy.
- Step 4:
- Now it’s time to assemble the egg rolls. Lay one eggroll wrapper with a pointed corner facing you. Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the wrapper and gently shape it into a log. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold the sides in, and roll it up tightly to form a log. Use the cornstarch and water mixture to seal the edge. Repeat until all the filling is used.
- Step 5:
- In a large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) for frying. Carefully place the egg rolls into the hot oil in batches, frying them for about 5 minutes, turning often, until they’re golden brown and crispy. Remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Step 6:
- Serve these delicious Chicken Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls warm with ranch dressing for dipping. Enjoy their spicy, cheesy goodness with family and friends!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the egg rolls hot and crispy, fresh out of the fryer, for the best flavor and texture.
- Pair them with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce, like chipotle mayo or spicy salsa, to complement the jalapeño kick.
- Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness—microwaving may make them soggy.
Helpful Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for the diced chicken breast for a variation in texture.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the number of jalapeños or remove the seeds before dicing.
- Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the filling can enhance the overall flavor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef John suggests using fresh jalapeños for maximum flavor and to keep the filling from becoming too watery.
- Chef Marcus Samuelsson recommends mixing a little shredded cheddar for an extra cheesy, gooey texture inside the egg rolls.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- The perfect combination of spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese, and savory chicken creates a balanced flavor profile.
- They’re easy to prepare and great for serving as appetizers at parties, game nights, or even as a fun family dinner.
- The crispy exterior pairs wonderfully with the soft and flavorful filling, making each bite an explosion of taste.
VARIATIONS
- For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or black beans.
- Try using different cheeses like sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a bolder flavor.
- You can also bake the egg rolls instead of frying them by brushing them with a bit of oil and baking them in a 400°F oven for about 15-20 minutes.