Chili’s Southwest Egg Rolls: The Ultimate Crispy, Cheesy Tex-Mex Appetizer

Chili’s Southwest Egg Rolls are a fan-favorite appetizer known for their crispy, golden shell and flavorful, melty filling. A perfect fusion of Tex-Mex and Asian-inspired cuisine, these egg rolls are packed with shredded chicken, black beans, corn, bell peppers, jalapeños, and gooey Monterey Jack cheese, creating an irresistible snack with just the right amount of spice.

While this dish is a staple at Chili’s Grill & Bar, making it at home is surprisingly easy and rewarding. Whether you’re preparing them for game night, a family gathering, or simply craving a restaurant-quality appetizer, this recipe delivers a mouthwatering crunch with every bite. Paired with a creamy avocado ranch dipping sauce, these homemade Southwest Egg Rolls are guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love These Southwest Egg Rolls

A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite

The beauty of these egg rolls lies in their perfectly balanced filling. The combination of savory chicken, sweet corn, hearty black beans, and slightly spicy jalapeños ensures that each bite is packed with complex flavors. The addition of fresh cilantro and a blend of Tex-Mex seasonings elevates the dish with aromatic warmth and a hint of smokiness.

The Perfect Party Snack

These egg rolls are made for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a party or bringing a dish to a potluck, they make a fantastic crowd-pleaser. Their crispy texture and bold flavors make them stand out on any appetizer platter. Plus, they’re handheld, making them easy to serve and enjoy without utensils.

Better Than Takeout

While Chili’s version is undeniably delicious, making these at home allows you to control the ingredients, spice levels, and portion sizes. Homemade egg rolls tend to be fresher, crispier, and less greasy than restaurant versions, making them a healthier and tastier alternative.

Ingredients

For the Egg Rolls:

• Chicken Breast – 8 oz, cooked and shredded
• Olive Oil – 2 tbsp
• Black Beans – ½ cup, canned, rinsed, and drained
• Corn – ½ cup, thawed frozen, canned, or fresh
• Red Bell Pepper – ¼ cup, diced
• Green Onions – ¼ cup, diced
• Jalapeño Pepper – 1, diced (adjust for spice level)
• Fresh Cilantro – 2 tbsp, chopped
• Frozen Spinach – ⅓ cup, thawed and chopped
• Ground Cumin – ¾ tsp
• Chili Powder – ¾ tsp
• Salt – ½ tsp (adjust to taste)
• Cayenne Pepper – ¼ tsp
• Monterey Jack Cheese – 1 cup, shredded
• Egg Roll Wrappers – 10-12
• Oil for Frying – Vegetable or canola oil

For the Avocado Ranch Dipping Sauce:

• Ranch Dressing – ½ cup
• Avocado – 1 medium, ripe and mashed
• Buttermilk – 2 tbsp
• Fresh Cilantro – 2 tbsp, chopped
• Lime Juice – 1½ tsp
• Salt – ¼ tsp
• Garlic Powder – ¼ tsp
• Onion Powder – ¼ tsp

Directions

Egg Rolls:

1. Sauté Vegetables – In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add red bell peppers and sauté until tender.
2. Cook the Filling – Add green onions, jalapeño, corn, black beans, spinach, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Combine Ingredients – Transfer the cooked veggies to a bowl. Mix in shredded chicken, chopped cilantro, and shredded cheese.
4. Assemble Egg Rolls – Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with a corner pointing toward you. Place about ¼ cup of the filling in the center. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly. Seal the top edge with a dab of water. Repeat for remaining wrappers.
5. Fry Until Golden – Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C). Fry egg rolls in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Dipping Sauce:

1. Blend ranch dressing, mashed avocado, buttermilk, cilantro, lime juice, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder in a blender until smooth.
2. Serve egg rolls hot with the creamy avocado ranch dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Nutrition (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories – 250-300 kcal
• Protein – 12g
• Carbohydrates – 20g
• Fat – 14g
• Fiber – 3g
• Sodium – 400mg

Pro Tips for Perfect Southwest Egg Rolls

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese. If possible, use a rotisserie chicken for an added depth of flavor and convenience.

2. Don’t Overstuff the Wrappers

While it might be tempting to load up each egg roll with extra filling, overstuffing can cause the wrappers to tear or prevent them from sealing properly. Stick to about ¼ cup of filling per wrapper to ensure they hold together during frying.

3. Seal the Wrappers Securely

To prevent your egg rolls from opening while frying, use a bit of water on the edges to seal them properly. Press firmly and roll tightly for a secure closure.

4. Fry at the Right Temperature

For maximum crispiness, ensure your oil is heated to 375°F (190°C) before frying. If the oil is too cool, the egg rolls may absorb excess oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, they may brown too quickly on the outside while remaining cold inside.

5. Make Them Ahead of Time

If you’re preparing these for a party, you can assemble the egg rolls a day in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to fry. They can also be frozen for up to three months and fried straight from the freezer—just add a couple of extra minutes to the frying time.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Southwest Egg Rolls

Dipping Sauces

While the avocado ranch sauce is the classic pairing, these egg rolls also taste amazing with other dips:

• Chipotle Mayo – Adds a smoky and spicy kick.
• Salsa or Pico de Gallo – A fresh and tangy option.
• Guacamole – Enhances the creamy texture of the filling.
• Sour Cream with Lime Zest – A simple, refreshing alternative.

Side Dishes

If you’re turning these into a full meal, consider serving them with:

• A side of Spanish rice
• A fresh Mexican-style salad
• Crispy homemade tortilla chips

Beverage Pairings

Complement the bold flavors of these egg rolls with:

• Margaritas – Classic lime or spicy mango for a fun twist.
• Horchata – A sweet, cinnamon-infused Mexican rice drink.
• Ice-Cold Beer – A light Mexican lager like Corona or Modelo.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Bake These Egg Rolls Instead of Frying Them?

Yes! If you prefer a lighter option, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Brush them lightly with olive oil before baking to help achieve a golden, crispy texture.

Can I Air-Fry These Egg Rolls?

Absolutely! Air-frying is a great way to reduce oil while maintaining a crispy texture. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Lightly spray them with oil before cooking for the best results.

How Do I Store Leftover Egg Rolls?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

Can I Make These Egg Rolls Vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or more bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian alternative. You can also add some crumbled queso fresco or a plant-based cheese substitute.

What’s the Best Cheese for These Egg Rolls?

Monterey Jack is the classic choice due to its creamy, melty texture and mild flavor. However, you can also use Pepper Jack for extra spice or Cheddar for a bolder, sharper taste.

Can I Freeze Uncooked Egg Rolls?

Yes! Arrange the assembled egg rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 3 months. Fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.

Why Are My Egg Rolls Soggy?

Soggy egg rolls can result from:

1. Oil that isn’t hot enough before frying.
2. Overcrowding the pan, which lowers the oil temperature.
3. Storing them in a covered container while still warm, trapping moisture.

To keep them crispy, always fry at the correct temperature, cook in batches, and let them rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels.

Conclusion: Why These Homemade Southwest Egg Rolls Are a Must-Try

Chili’s Southwest Egg Rolls are more than just an appetizer—they’re a flavor-packed, crispy delight that combines the best of Tex-Mex and comfort food. Making them at home allows you to customize the ingredients, control the spice level, and enjoy them fresh and hot.

Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry them, these egg rolls deliver a satisfying crunch with every bite. Serve them with a creamy avocado ranch sauce and a side of salsa, and you’ve got a restaurant-worthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

So the next time you’re craving a crunchy, cheesy snack, skip the takeout and whip up a batch of these homemade Southwest Egg Rolls. Your taste buds will thank you!

Print