Can I prepare Southwestern Egg Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! The filling for your Southwestern Egg Rolls can be made 2-3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. You can also assemble the egg rolls and freeze them uncooked. Just layer them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. This is a great tip for quick meal prep ideas!

Is Southwestern Egg Rolls suitable for a high-protein diet?

They certainly are! With shredded chicken and black beans, this recipe offers a good source of protein. For an extra boost, you can easily add more chicken to the filling or serve the egg rolls with a side of Greek yogurt mixed with a little lime and spice.

What are the best sides to serve with Southwestern Egg Rolls?

I find these pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad, a bright cilantro lime rice, or a side of extra chunky salsa. For a heartier meal, a simple black bean soup or a refreshing fruit salad makes a perfect accompaniment to our Southwestern Egg Rolls Chili's Recipe with Avocado Ranch.

Can I bake or air fry these instead of frying?

Yes, absolutely! Baking and air frying are fantastic alternatives for a lighter, less messy option that still yields beautifully crispy results. For baking, use 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. For air frying, 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. This is a great way to make them part of your healthy eating goals!

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Making this recipe vegetarian is super easy! Simply omit the shredded chicken and add extra black beans, corn, and bell peppers to the filling. You could also incorporate plant-based ground crumbles for a similar texture, making them delicious vegan friendly egg rolls.

Can I make the Avocado Ranch ahead?

Yes, the Avocado Ranch can be made up to 2-3 days in advance. To prevent browning, store it in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface of the dip before sealing. The lime juice also helps immensely with color preservation, ensuring your Southwestern Egg Rolls always have a vibrant dip.

How spicy are Chili's Southwestern Egg Rolls?

The original Chili's version is typically mildly spicy, offering just a gentle kick. With my homemade Southwestern Egg Rolls Chili's Recipe with Avocado Ranch, you have full control over the heat! You can easily adjust the amount of jalapeño in the filling or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.

What kind of egg roll wrappers should I use?

For the best results with these Southwestern Egg Rolls, I recommend using standard square egg roll wrappers. You'll typically find them in the refrigerated section of your grocery store, usually near the produce or tofu. They provide the perfect crispiness and hold the filling beautifully.

Chili's Southwestern Egg Rolls & Avocado Ranch: Make It Easy!

Name: Southwestern Egg Rolls Chili's Recipe With Avocado Ranch
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups (about 225g) shredded cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my favorite shortcut for easy dinner ideas!; 1 (15-ounce / 425g) can black beans: Rinsed and drained well for a hearty, fiber-rich addition.; 1 (15-ounce / 425g) can corn: Drained, adds a touch of sweetness.; 1 red bell pepper: Diced, for color and a mild crunch.; 1 green bell pepper: Diced, adding fresh flavor.; ½ medium onion: Diced finely for aromatic depth.; 1 jalapeño (optional): Minced, for a little kick. Remove seeds for less heat.; 1 cup (about 110g) shredded cheddar jack cheese: For gooey, cheesy goodness.; 2 teaspoons cumin: Essential Southwestern spice.; 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds warmth and complexity.; ½ teaspoon paprika: For color and a subtle smokiness.; 12-18 egg roll wrappers: Standard square wrappers.; Oil for frying/baking: Vegetable or canola oil for frying, or a light spray for baking/air frying.; 1 large ripe avocado: Key for that creamy texture.; ½ cup (120ml) store-bought ranch dressing: Pick your family’s favorite brand for convenience, or whip up a homemade version.; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice: Brightens the flavors and helps prevent browning.; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (optional): Chopped, for a burst of herbaceous freshness.

Description

Enjoy crispy Southwestern Egg Rolls with a creamy Avocado Ranch dip. This easy copycat recipe is perfect for weeknights or gatherings, offering restaurant-quality flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Core ingredients for the Egg Rolls:

1 ½ cups (about 225g) shredded cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my favorite shortcut for easy dinner ideas!
1 (15-ounce / 425g) can black beans: Rinsed and drained well for a hearty, fiber-rich addition.
1 (15-ounce / 425g) can corn: Drained, adds a touch of sweetness.
1 red bell pepper: Diced, for color and a mild crunch.
1 green bell pepper: Diced, adding fresh flavor.
½ medium onion: Diced finely for aromatic depth.
1 jalapeño (optional): Minced, for a little kick. Remove seeds for less heat.
1 cup (about 110g) shredded cheddar jack cheese: For gooey, cheesy goodness.
2 teaspoons cumin: Essential Southwestern spice.
1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds warmth and complexity.
½ teaspoon paprika: For color and a subtle smokiness.
12–18 egg roll wrappers: Standard square wrappers.
Oil for frying/baking: Vegetable or canola oil for frying, or a light spray for baking/air frying.

Core ingredients for the Avocado Ranch:

1 large ripe avocado: Key for that creamy texture.
½ cup (120ml) store-bought ranch dressing: Pick your family’s favorite brand for convenience, or whip up a homemade version.
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice: Brightens the flavors and helps prevent browning.
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (optional): Chopped, for a burst of herbaceous freshness.

Instructions

Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Sauté the diced onion, bell peppers, and optional jalapeño for 5-7 minutes until soft and fragrant. Stir in the rinsed black beans, drained corn, shredded chicken, cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Cook for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through and the spices are fragrant. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Assemble the Egg Rolls: Lay out an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface so it looks like a diamond. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the cooled filling onto the bottom third of the wrapper. Fold up the bottom corner tightly over the filling, then fold in the left and right sides. Roll the wrapper tightly upwards, sealing the final corner with a little water.
Cook the Egg Rolls:
- For crispy results (shallow fry): Heat about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place egg rolls into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- For a lighter option (air fry): Lightly spray the assembled egg rolls with cooking oil. Place them in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until they are golden and wonderfully crispy.
- For a lighter option (bake): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the assembled egg rolls with cooking oil. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
Make the Zesty Avocado Ranch: Combine the large ripe avocado, store-bought ranch dressing, fresh lime juice, and optional fresh cilantro in a blender or food processor. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Tips & Substitutions: For busy cooks, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a game-changer, and buying pre-chopped veggies can cut down on prep time significantly. If you’re looking for low-carb meals, serve the filling as a “deconstructed” bowl with a generous dollop of avocado ranch. For a dairy-free option, simply omit the cheese from the filling and use a dairy-free ranch alternative.

Note on Nutrition: The nutritional data provided is an estimate based on common ingredients and cooking methods.

Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes