Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls Recipe

Crispy Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls Recipe: Spicy Fusion Magic

Crispy, golden-brown egg rolls stuffed with creamy jalapeno popper filling deliver an explosive twist on classic appetizers.

These spicy and cheesy jalapeno popper egg rolls pack serious flavor into every crunchy bite.

Cream cheese blends seamlessly with sharp cheddar and diced peppers, creating a mouthwatering mixture that sizzles with excitement.

The wrapper turns perfectly crisp when fried, revealing a molten center that melts in your mouth.

Sharp jalapeños add a vibrant kick to balance the rich, creamy interior.

Each roll promises a delightful crunch and a burst of zesty goodness that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Prepare to wow your guests with this irresistible fusion of comfort food and bold flavors.

Egg Rolls With Jalapeno Popper Magic Inside

  • Packed with bold jalapeno and bacon flavors, these egg rolls deliver a zesty kick that transforms ordinary chicken into an exciting culinary adventure.
  • Perfect for game day, parties, or unexpected guests, this recipe comes together fast and offers a crowd-pleasing appetizer that'll disappear in minutes.
  • Adaptable recipe allows you to adjust spice levels, swap cheeses, or add different proteins, making it a flexible dish for various taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Simple skillet and frying techniques mean even novice cooks can create restaurant-quality appetizers without complex cooking skills or specialized equipment.

Everything You Need for Cheesy Egg Rolls

Main Protein:
  • Chicken: A lean protein that forms the core of the filling and provides a hearty base for the egg rolls.
  • Bacon: Adds a smoky, rich flavor and extra crispiness to the filling.
Cheese and Dairy:
  • Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth, creamy texture that helps bind the filling together.
  • Monterey Jack Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese: Provide melty, stretchy goodness and additional richness to the egg rolls.
Vegetables and Aromatics:
  • Jalapenos, Onion: Bring a spicy kick and savory depth to the filling, adding complexity to the flavor profile.
Binding and Coating Ingredients:
  • Breadcrumbs: Help absorb moisture and create a more cohesive filling.
  • Cornstarch: Acts as a sealing agent for the egg roll wrappers.
  • Salt, Pepper: Enhance and balance the overall taste of the filling.
Egg Roll Wrapper and Frying:
  • Egg Roll Wrappers: Provide the crispy exterior that holds the delicious filling.
  • Vegetable Oil: Enables deep-frying to achieve a golden, crunchy texture.
Serving Suggestion:
  • Ranch Dressing: Offers a cool, tangy complement to the spicy and crispy egg rolls.

Best Tools for Egg Roll Assembly and Frying

  • Large Skillet: Essential for cooking chicken and vegetables evenly and developing rich flavors.
  • Large Bowl: Perfect for mixing chicken, vegetables, and creating the creamy filling.
  • Paper Towels: Great for draining excess oil from the crispy egg rolls.
  • Deep Pot: Necessary for deep frying egg rolls at the right temperature.
  • Tongs: Helpful for safely turning and removing egg rolls from hot oil.
  • Measuring Spoons: Ensures accurate seasoning and filling proportions.
  • Cutting Board: Useful for prepping ingredients like jalapenos and onions.
  • Cheese Grater: Optional for shredding fresh cheese if needed.

Cooking Instructions for Perfect Popper Egg Rolls

Step 1: Saute Chicken

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Toss chicken into the pan and cook until it turns golden brown and fully cooked, ensuring no pink remains.

The chicken should develop a nice caramelized exterior.

Transfer the cooked chicken to a spacious mixing bowl.

Step 2: Soften Veggie Companions

Return the skillet to the heat and add fresh butter.

Introduce diced onions and sliced jalapenos to the pan.

Sauté until the vegetables become tender and slightly translucent.

Pour the softened vegetables into the bowl with the chicken and let the mixture cool down slightly.

Step 3: Create Flavor Fusion

Combine the cooled chicken and vegetable mixture with:
  • Cream cheese
  • Monterey jack cheese
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Crispy bacon bits
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir the ingredients thoroughly until everything is evenly distributed and well incorporated.

Step 4: Wrap with Precision

Place an egg roll wrapper with its point facing you.

Scoop a generous portion of the filling into the center, forming a compact log.

Fold the bottom point over the filling, tuck in the side edges, and roll tightly.

Use a cornstarch mixture to seal the final edge, ensuring a secure closure.

Repeat the process for remaining egg rolls.

Step 5: Crisp to Golden Perfection

Fill a large pot with oil, creating a depth of at least 3 inches.

Heat the oil to 350°F.

Carefully lower egg rolls into the hot oil, working in small batches.

Fry while gently turning, allowing each side to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crispness.

This should take approximately 5 minutes.

Remove and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Serve immediately with cool ranch dressing for dipping.

Egg Roll Tips for Extra Crunch and Gooey Centers

  • Choose fresh, firm jalapeños and remove seeds for milder heat, or keep some seeds for extra spiciness depending on your heat tolerance.
  • Pat chicken and vegetables dry before mixing to avoid excess moisture that can make egg rolls soft and less crispy.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother blending and ensure cheeses are evenly distributed throughout the filling for consistent flavor in every bite.
  • Use cornstarch water mixture as glue and press egg roll wrapper edges firmly to prevent filling from leaking during frying.
  • Use a thermometer to maintain consistent 350F oil temperature, which ensures golden-brown exterior and fully cooked interior without burning.

Unique Fillings to Elevate Popper Egg Rolls

  • Vegetarian Egg Rolls: Replace chicken with crumbled tofu or diced mushrooms for a meat-free version. Use plant-based cream cheese and bacon alternatives to keep the creamy, smoky flavor profile.
  • Low-Carb Wrap Option: Swap egg roll wrappers with large lettuce leaves or low-carb tortillas. Use cauliflower rice instead of breadcrumbs to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining texture.
  • Gluten-Free Edition: Utilize gluten-free wrappers or rice paper. Substitute regular breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko crumbs. Ensure all cheese and seasonings are certified gluten-free.

Plating and Serving Suggestions for Egg Rolls

  • Party Appetizer Platter: Create a stunning display by arranging crispy egg rolls on a large wooden board with small dipping bowls of ranch, sriracha, and honey mustard sauces. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced green onions for extra color and flavor.
  • Tailgate Game Companion: Serve these spicy chicken egg rolls as a crowd-pleasing finger food during sports events. Pack them in a portable container and keep warm in an insulated bag for easy transportation to game day gatherings.
  • Spicy Brunch Delight: Pair these egg rolls with a light mixed green salad and a mimosa for a unique weekend brunch option. The crispy texture and bold flavors make them an unexpected and exciting breakfast or lunch choice.

Storage Tips for Chicken Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls

  • Store egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain crispiness.
  • Wrap individual egg rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date to track freshness.
  • Preheat oven to 375°F. Arrange egg rolls on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even heating and restore crunchiness.

FAQs

  • How spicy are these egg rolls?

The heat level depends on the jalapenos. Remove seeds for milder flavor, or keep them for extra kick. Adjust jalapeno amount to suit your spice preference.

  • Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?

You can prepare and assemble egg rolls up to a day before, storing them covered in the refrigerator. Fry just before serving to maintain crispiness.

  • What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work great. Shredded rotisserie chicken is also an excellent time-saving option with good flavor.

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Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls Recipe

Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls Recipe


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4.7 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Crispy jalapeño popper egg rolls blend creamy cheese with spicy peppers in a golden wrapper. Crunchy appetizers bring Mexican-inspired flavors to your table, promising a delightful snack you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound boneless chicken breast, diced
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 16 egg roll wrappers
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

Cheese and Filling Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
  • 6 jalapenos, seeded and diced
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled

Seasoning and Frying Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing for serving

Instructions

  1. Sear the chicken in melted butter over medium-high heat until it transforms from pink to golden brown, approximately 8-10 minutes. Transfer the cooked chicken to a spacious mixing bowl.
  2. In the same skillet, sauté onions and jalapeños in remaining butter until they become tender and translucent, roughly 5 minutes. Add these softened vegetables to the chicken bowl and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
  3. Incorporate cream cheese, Monterey jack, mozzarella, crispy bacon, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper into the chicken-vegetable mixture. Thoroughly blend all ingredients until evenly distributed.
  4. Position an egg roll wrapper with its point facing toward you. Spoon the prepared filling into the center, forming a compact log. Expertly fold the bottom point over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly. Seal the final edge using a cornstarch adhesive. Repeat this process for remaining egg rolls.
  5. Pour oil into a deep pot, ensuring it reaches at least 3 inches deep. Heat to 350°F. Carefully submerge egg rolls in small batches, rotating periodically to achieve an even, crispy golden exterior, approximately 5 minutes. Remove and drain on absorbent paper towels. Serve immediately alongside cool ranch dressing.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken for extra flavor, as it retains more moisture and develops richer taste during cooking.
  • Remove jalapeno seeds for milder heat or keep them for an extra spicy kick depending on personal preference.
  • Ensure egg roll wrappers are at room temperature to prevent cracking and make rolling easier.
  • Pat chicken and vegetables completely dry before mixing to prevent soggy filling and maintain crispy texture.
  • Prepare cornstarch slurry by mixing equal parts water and cornstarch for a perfect seal on egg roll edges.
  • Maintain consistent oil temperature around 350F for evenly golden and crispy egg rolls without absorbing excess oil.
  • Consider baking as a healthier alternative by brushing egg rolls with olive oil and cooking at 425F for 15-20 minutes.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
Marcus Reed

Marcus Reed

Founder & Food Content Creator

Expertise

Single-recipe development, Seasonal and local ingredient utilization, Food photography and styling, Culinary writing and content creation​

Education

Culinary Arts Certificate, Blue Ridge Community and Technical College, WV
Focus: Fundamentals of culinary techniques, emphasizing hands-on experience in small-scale kitchen settings.


Marcus’s story begins in Asheville, where good food and family kitchens shaped his earliest memories. After hands-on culinary training and a lot of trial (and a little error), he realized that real cooking isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection.
At Pan and Oven, Marcus crafts recipes that are easy to follow, packed with flavor, and built for real kitchens.

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