As I savored the last bite of those crispy, golden eggrolls at my favorite Tex-Mex spot, a lightbulb moment hit me: why not recreate them at home? This is how my Chili’s Southwest Eggrolls Recipe was born, packed with seasoned chicken, black beans, and vibrant veggies, perfectly deep-fried for that crunchy exterior we all love. Not only are they a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for parties or game days, but they also offer a comforting hug of flavors that can soothe any craving. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to whip up, turning your kitchen into a fiesta in no time! Ready to take your snacking game to the next level? Let’s dive into how to make these delightful appetizers together.

Why Are Chili’s Southwest Eggrolls So Loved?

Crispy Texture: You’ll adore the contrast of the golden-brown exterior against the vibrant filling that gives each bite an irresistible crunch.

Flavor Explosion: The savory combination of chicken, black beans, and spices creates a rich flavor that truly takes center stage.

Versatile Appetizer: Whether for a game day snack or a party appetizer, these eggrolls are perfect for any occasion, ensuring you impress your guests!

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, they’re a home-cook-friendly treat, even for those new to the kitchen.

Dipping Delight: Paired with creamy avocado ranch sauce, they provide a perfectly balanced dip to enhance the overall experience—just like in your favorite restaurant!

For a cozy meal idea afterwards, consider trying out a delicious Khoresh Bademjan Heartwarming or a comforting Cheese Meatloaf Casserole.

Chili’s Southwest Eggrolls Ingredients

Get ready to create a home-cooked classic with this Chili’s Southwest Eggrolls recipe!

For the Filling

Cooked Shredded Chicken (8 oz) – Adds protein and texture; substitute with leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – Used for sautéing the vegetables; can be replaced with canola oil for a neutral flavor.
Black Beans (1/2 cup) – Provides fiber and a dense texture; canned and rinsed for ease.
Corn (1/2 cup) – Adds sweetness and crunch; you can use frozen or fresh corn as alternatives.
Red Bell Pepper (1/4 cup, diced) – Gives bright color and sweetness; yellow or orange bell pepper can work too.
Green Onions (1/4 cup, diced) – Offers freshness and mild onion flavor; regular onions can be swapped for a stronger taste.
Jalapeno Pepper (1, diced) – Adds heat; adjust quantity based on preferred spice level.
Fresh Cilantro (2 tablespoons, chopped) – Enhances flavor with herbal notes; can be omitted if not favored.
Frozen Spinach (1/3 cup, thawed and chopped) – Incorporates greens; fresh spinach is a great substitute.
Ground Cumin (3/4 teaspoon) and Chili Powder (3/4 teaspoon) – Provide a warm spice profile; adjust based on taste preference.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Enhances flavors; feel free to adjust to taste.
Cayenne Pepper (1/4 teaspoon) – Offers extra heat; reduce or omit if sensitive to spice.
Monterey Jack Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Delivers creaminess and flavor; can be replaced with Pepper Jack for a spicy kick.
Egg Roll Wrappers (10-12) – Encapsulates the filling; make sure to seal tightly to prevent leakage during cooking.
Oil for Frying – Essential for achieving crispiness; vegetable or peanut oil works well.

For the Avocado Ranch Dipping Sauce

Ranch Dressing (1/2 cup) – Base for creaminess; use homemade or store-bought.
Ripe Avocado (1, medium) – Provides creaminess and flavor; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter dip.
Buttermilk (2 tablespoons) – Thins the dip; can be replaced with regular milk or sour cream.
Fresh Cilantro (2 tablespoons, chopped) – Elevates freshness; omit if desired.
Lime Juice (1 1/2 teaspoons) – Brightens the dip; substitute with lemon juice for a tangy twist.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon), Garlic Powder (1/4 teaspoon), Onion Powder (1/4 teaspoon) – Enhances flavors—don’t skip these!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chili’s Southwest Eggrolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Filling
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper and sauté for 2-3 minutes until tender. Stir in 1/4 cup diced green onions, 1 diced jalapeno, 1/2 cup corn, 1/2 cup black beans, and 1/3 cup chopped thawed spinach. Season the mixture with 3/4 teaspoon ground cumin, 3/4 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until all veggies soften and flavors meld.

Step 2: Combine
Transfer the sautéed vegetable mixture into a large mixing bowl. To this, add 8 ounces of cooked shredded chicken, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, and 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Gently fold everything together until evenly mixed, ensuring the chicken and cheese are well incorporated with the flavorful veggie medley. This filling is the heart of your Chili’s Southwest Eggrolls.

Step 3: Roll Eggrolls
Set up a clean, dry surface and place an egg roll wrapper diagonally in front of you. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the filling onto the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll it tightly toward the top point. Use a dab of water to seal the edge securely, ensuring the wrapper is tightly closed to prevent any filling from leaking during frying. Repeat this process for each egg roll until all filling is used.

Step 4: Fry
In a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil to 375°F (190°C), ensuring you have enough oil for deep-frying without overcrowding. Carefully add egg rolls in batches, frying them for 3-4 minutes or until they turn a golden brown. Make sure to turn them halfway for even cooking. Once ready, remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil, achieving that perfect crispy texture.

Step 5: Make Dipping Sauce
While the egg rolls are cooling, prepare the creamy avocado ranch dipping sauce. In a blender, combine 1/2 cup ranch dressing, 1 medium ripe avocado, 2 tablespoons buttermilk, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, and 1 1/2 teaspoons lime juice. Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon onion powder. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning to taste—it should be fresh and tangy, perfectly complementing your delicious Chili’s Southwest Eggrolls.

Step 6: Serve
Serving is the final step! Arrange your crispy egg rolls on a platter, presenting them hot and golden. Pair them with the smooth avocado ranch dipping sauce alongside. This vibrant platter is not only visually appealing but also promises a delightful flavor experience—ideal for sharing with friends or family during your next get-together!

How to Store and Freeze Chili’s Southwest Eggrolls

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until crispy for the best results.
Freezer: Wrap uncooked eggrolls tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frying.
Reheating: If reheating cooked eggrolls, place them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy, preventing sogginess.
Dipping Sauce: The avocado ranch sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep it in a sealed container to maintain its fresh flavor.

Chili’s Southwest Eggrolls Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this Chili’s Southwest Eggrolls recipe and make it your own!

Vegetarian Swap: Substitute the chicken with diced vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms for a veggie-packed delight.
Spicy Kick: Use Pepper Jack cheese for added spiciness or throw in some diced serrano peppers to crank up the heat!
Cheese Variation: Experiment with different cheese types like sharp cheddar or feta to offer a unique flavor profile in every batch.
Herbs and Spices: Add fresh herbs like oregano or smoked paprika to twist the flavor profile, giving it an aromatic boost.
Low-Carb Option: Opt for low-carb wrappers or even lettuce wraps to enjoy a lighter, carb-conscious version of these flavor-packed eggrolls.
Dipping Sauce Alternatives: Try different dips such as spicy sriracha ranch or a classic chipotle mayo for a zesty pair with your eggrolls.
Baked Version: For a healthier take, brush the eggrolls with olive oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) until crispy, about 15-20 minutes.
Freezing Fun: Make a double batch and freeze half! These make a great last-minute appetizer for unexpected guests or cozy nights in.

For more delicious comfort food ideas like Khoresh Bademjan Heartwarming or an indulgent Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, check out those recipes too!

Make Ahead Options

These Chili’s Southwest Eggrolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by sautéing the veggies and mixing them with the chicken and cheese. Store this mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its delicious flavors. Additionally, you can roll the eggrolls and freeze them for up to three months. Just ensure they are tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, fry the frozen eggrolls straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the frying time for perfect crispiness. Enjoy the convenience of store-worthy appetizers without the last-minute hassle!

What to Serve with Crispy Chili’s Southwest Eggrolls?

Enjoying these crispy delights is just the starting point for a fabulous meal, so let’s explore perfect pairings to create a memorable feast.

Refreshing Coleslaw: Crunchy and tangy, a side of coleslaw adds a fresh contrast that balances the rich flavors of the eggrolls beautifully.
Spicy Black Bean Soup: A warm and comforting bowl of black bean soup acts as a delightful complement, enhancing the southwestern theme while offering depth of flavor.
Zesty Corn Salad: The sweetness of corn mixed with lime juice and cilantro brings a vibrant pop of color and taste to your table, harmonizing with the eggrolls perfectly.
Guacamole & Chips: Creamy guacamole pairs wonderfully as another dip option, providing a rich creaminess alongside the spicy eggrolls that will make every bite unforgettable.
Salsa & Tortilla Chips: A classic appetizer, fresh salsa brightens your spread with its acidity, perfect for cooling down the heat from the eggrolls.
Margaritas: For those sophisticated gatherings, a cool, refreshing margarita adds a festive twist while enhancing the southwestern flair of the meal.
Coconut Lime Rice: Creamy and fragrant, this side dish channels tropical vibes and offers a soothing contrast to the spicy crunch of the eggrolls.
Churros for Dessert: Cap off your meal with these sweet, fried pastries dipped in chocolate, offering a delightful end to your flavor-filled feast.

Helpful Tricks for Chili’s Southwest Eggrolls

Filling Seal: Ensure you seal the egg roll wrappers tightly to prevent any filling from escaping during frying. Use a dab of water to help seal the edges securely.
Oil Temperature: Preheat the frying oil to 375°F (190°C) to achieve that crispy texture without greasiness. Use a thermometer for accuracy, as cooking at the wrong temperature can lead to soggy eggrolls.
Batch Cooking: Fry egg rolls in small batches. Overcrowding the frying oil can cause a drop in temperature, resulting in uneven cooking.
Make-Ahead Option: For convenience, prepare the filling and roll the eggrolls in advance. Store them in the freezer wrapped tightly for up to three months—just thaw and fry when ready to enjoy!
Customize Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you prefer more heat, increase the amount of jalapeño or cayenne pepper in your Chili’s Southwest Eggrolls recipe.
Dipping Sauce Variations: Experiment with different herbs or spices in the avocado ranch sauce for a unique twist. Adding lime zest or a hint of smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile.

Chili’s Southwest Eggrolls Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for the filling?
Absolutely! I recommend using cooked shredded chicken for this recipe, as it’s tender and easy to mix in with the other ingredients. You can conveniently substitute it with leftover rotisserie chicken, which adds a great flavor and saves time!

How should I store leftover eggrolls?
To store your leftover Chili’s Southwest Eggrolls, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for best results. This will help maintain their crispy texture!

Can I freeze the eggrolls before frying?
Absolutely! To freeze the eggrolls, carefully wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil after rolling but before frying. Place them in a freezer bag and they can stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook them, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and fry them according to the original instructions.

What should I do if my eggrolls are soggy after frying?
If your chili’s Southwest Eggrolls turn out soggy, don’t worry! This is often due to the frying oil not being hot enough. Make sure your oil reaches 375°F (190°C) before adding the eggrolls. Fry in small batches to maintain the temperature, and ensure they are draining on paper towels immediately after frying—this helps keep them crisp!

Are there any dietary considerations for these eggrolls?
Very! This recipe can easily accommodate various dietary preferences. For a vegetarian option, simply replace the chicken with more beans and veggies. Be cautious about ingredients based on allergies; for instance, you can swap the cheese for a dairy-free alternative and use gluten-free egg roll wrappers to suit gluten sensitivities. Always check labels for allergens!