Name: Savory Southwest Eggrolls with Creamy Avocado Ranch Dip
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Chicken Breast (cooked and shredded); 1 tbsp Olive Oil (for sautéing); 1 can Black Beans (rinsed and drained); 1 cup Corn (fresh, frozen, or canned); 1 cult Red Bell Pepper (diced); 2 each Green Onions (diced); 1 each Jalapeno Pepper (minced); 1/4 cup Cilantro (chopped); 1 cup Spinach (well-drained, thawed); 1 tsp Ground Cumin; 1 tsp Chili Powder; 1 tsp Salt; 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper (optional); 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese (shredded); 16 each Egg Roll Wrappers; Oil for frying (heat to 375°F); 1 cup Ranch Dressing (store-bought or homemade); 1 each Avocado (ripe and well-mashed); 1/2 cup Buttermilk (or regular milk); 1 tbsp Lime Juice (fresh); 1 tsp Salt; 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder; 1/2 tsp Onion Powder

As I stood in my kitchen, the sizzle of oil in the pan mixed with the tantalizing aroma of seasoned chicken and spices, I felt a wave of excitement wash over me. Today, I’m sharing my take on Chili’s Southwest Eggrolls, an appetizer that transforms any gathering into a fiesta. Stuffed to the brim with tender chicken, black beans, and vibrant veggies, these crispy delights are not only mouthwatering but also super easy to whip up, making them perfect for last-minute parties or cozy nights in. And let’s not forget the creamy avocado ranch dipping sauce that takes them to a whole new level of deliciousness! Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s dive in and create a memorable dish that captures the essence of Tex-Mex goodness!

Why are these eggrolls a must-try?

Flavor Explosion: The combination of seasoned chicken, black beans, and melted cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile that will delight your taste buds.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s game day or a festive gathering, these eggrolls are sure to be the star of the show. Pair them with some homemade guacamole or serve alongside Southwestern Lasagna Casserole for a full Tex-Mex feast!
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize the filling to suit your preferences—with vegetarian and spicy variations to please everyone at the table.
Crispy Texture: Fried to golden perfection, the exterior crunch perfectly complements the gooey filling, making for a satisfying bite every time!

Southwest Eggrolls Ingredients

For the Filling

Chicken Breast – Use cooked and shredded chicken for added richness and protein.
Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing vegetables and ensuring a golden color when frying.
Black Beans – Rinse and drain canned beans for an earthy flavor and fiber boost.
Corn – Fresh, frozen (thawed), or canned corn adds sweetness and delightful texture.
Red Bell Pepper – Dice it for a pop of color and natural sweetness.
Green Onions – Diced for freshness and a mild onion flavor in the filling.
Jalapeno Pepper – Adjust quantity based on your desired level of spiciness.
Cilantro – Chopped to bring a fresh, herbal note to the mix.
Spinach – Thawed frozen spinach adds nutrition; make sure it’s well-drained.
Ground Cumin – Essential for that warm, earthy southwest flavor.
Chili Powder – Vital for a Texas-style spice kick; adjust to your taste.
Salt – A key ingredient to enhance all the flavors; sprinkle to suit preference.
Cayenne Pepper – Optional for those who enjoy an extra touch of heat.
Monterey Jack Cheese – Shredded for that melty goodness in every bite.
Egg Roll Wrappers – Use these to encase your flavorful filling; don’t overfill.
Oil (for frying) – Heat to 375°F for a perfectly crispy exterior.

For Avocado Ranch Dipping Sauce

Ranch Dressing – Serves as the creamy base; store-bought or homemade work great.
Avocado – Ensure it’s ripe and well-mashed for silky smooth dip consistency.
Buttermilk – Adds a nice balance to the sauce; substitute with regular milk if preferred.
Lime Juice – Brings a zesty freshness and acidity to the dip.
Salt, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder – These seasonings deepen the flavor profile of your dip.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Southwest Eggrolls

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced red bell pepper and sauté for about 3 minutes until tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking, allowing the vibrant color to deepen, signaling that it’s time for the next step.

Step 2: Add Remaining Veggies and Spices
Stir in the chopped green onions, minced jalapeno, corn, black beans, well-drained spinach, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and optional cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the mixture to become fragrant and the vegetables to soften. Remove from heat, letting the flavors blend together beautifully.

Step 3: Mix Filling Ingredients
Transfer the cooked vegetable mixture to a mixing bowl. Fold in the shredded chicken, chopped cilantro, and Monterey Jack cheese until well combined. The filling should be creamy and cohesive, promising a delightful texture in every bite of your Southwest eggrolls.

Step 4: Prepare Eggroll Wrappers
Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean, dry surface with one corner pointed at you. Place about 1/4 cup of the filling in the center of the wrapper. This positioning ensures that the eggroll is well-balanced and packed with delicious flavors.

Step 5: Roll the Eggrolls
Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper up over the filling, then tuck in the sides. Carefully roll the wrapper tightly towards the top corner, sealing the edge with a small amount of water to ensure the eggroll holds its shape during frying. Repeat this process for all wrappers and filling.

Step 6: Heat the Oil for Frying
In a deep frying pan, heat enough oil to cover the eggrolls, ensuring it reaches 375°F. Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy, as achieving the right temperature is crucial for a crispy exterior. The oil should shimmer and bubble slightly when ready for frying.

Step 7: Fry the Eggrolls
Gently place the rolled eggrolls into the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove the eggrolls and let them drain on paper towels.

Step 8: Make the Avocado Ranch Dipping Sauce
In a blender, combine the ranch dressing, ripe avocado, buttermilk, lime juice, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Blend until smooth and creamy, creating a luscious dip that complements the crispy Southwest eggrolls beautifully. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Southwest eggrolls hot, accompanied by the creamy avocado ranch dipping sauce on the side. The contrast between the crispy exterior and the flavorful filling, paired with the smooth dip, promises a delightful treat for your guests at any gathering or game day celebration.

Storage Tips for Southwest Eggrolls

Fridge: Store leftover Southwest eggrolls in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick snacking or meals.
Freezer: If you want to prepare in advance, freeze un-fried eggrolls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To fry frozen eggrolls, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking to ensure even heating and a crispy exterior.
Reheating: Reheat cooked eggrolls in an oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through to retain their crunch.

Expert Tips for Southwest Eggrolls

Perfect Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil reaches 375°F before frying; this prevents soggy eggrolls and keeps them crispy.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature. Crowding can lead to uneven cooking and greasy eggrolls.
Tight Wrapping: Wrap the eggrolls tightly to prevent them from coming apart during frying. Use water to seal edges securely.
Healthier Baking Option: For a lighter approach, brush eggrolls with olive oil and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until crispy.
Customize the Filling: Feel free to adjust the filling ingredients to suit your taste, ensuring everyone enjoys these flavorful Southwest eggrolls!

Make Ahead Options

These Southwest Eggrolls are perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by sautéing the veggies and mixing in the chicken and cheese. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to roll. On the day of serving, assemble the eggrolls and fry them fresh to ensure a crispy texture. For an even longer option, you can roll the eggrolls, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, fry them straight from frozen—just add a couple more minutes to the frying time for perfectly golden results!

What to Serve with Crispy Chili’s Southwest Eggrolls?

These delightful eggrolls are perfect for a festive gathering or a cozy night in, offering a burst of flavor and texture in every bite.

Tortilla Chips and Salsa: The crunchy chips and zesty salsa create a perfect contrast, inviting guests to mix and match flavors.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing and sweet corn salad can balance the heat of the eggrolls while adding vibrant colors to your spread.
Guacamole: Rich and creamy, this popular dip enhances the eggrolls’ southwestern flair while providing a fresh element to the table.
Spicy Black Bean Soup: A warm, hearty soup that complements the spicy notes of the eggrolls, offering a comforting way to start your meal.
Margaritas: Celebrate the occasion with a citrusy margarita; its acidity paired with the richness of the eggrolls makes for a delightful pairing.

For a dessert, consider Churros with Chocolate Sauce: These sweet, cinnamon-dusted treats offer a marvelous end to your Tex-Mex feast, leaving everyone satisfied and smiling!

Southwest Eggrolls: Flavor Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor these eggrolls to your taste and dietary preferences!

Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and double the beans and veggies for a delicious plant-based option. You’ll love the hearty filling without missing the meat.
Spicy Kick: Swap Monterey Jack cheese for pepper jack to turn up the heat. The perfect choice for those who crave a fiery flavor experience!
Air-Fryer Option: Try cooking these eggrolls in an air fryer for a healthier, crispy result. Just spray them lightly with oil and air-fry at 375°F until golden.
Additional Fillings: Consider mixing in some diced avocado or roasted corn for added texture and flavor. This twist gives each bite a whole new layer of deliciousness.
Different Dipping Sauces: Experiment with different sauces, like sriracha mayo or a zesty chipotle ranch, to find your favorite pairing. The right dip can elevate these eggrolls to new heights!
Southwestern Twist: Add some diced green chiles or replace black beans with pinto beans for a new flavor dimension. These small changes can make a big impact!
Baked Version: Instead of frying, brush eggrolls with olive oil and bake at 375°F for a healthier yet satisfying alternative. They come out crispy and delightful!
Flavorful Seasoning: For a unique flavor twist, season your filling with taco seasoning or lime zest for an extra burst of zest. These hints will transport your taste buds straight to the Southwest!

Each variation ensures that you can enjoy these eggrolls in multiple ways, keeping your cooking exciting. And if you’re looking for more Tex-Mex inspiration, consider trying my Southwestern Lasagna Casserole as a great side dish!

Southwest Eggrolls Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for the filling?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, especially the avocado for the dipping sauce, look for one that is slightly soft when gently squeezed. The skin should be dark and somewhat bumpy. For jalapenos, choose firm ones without many dark spots. Fresh vegetables like red bell peppers should be vibrant and free of blemishes.

How should I store leftover Southwest eggrolls?
Very simple! Leftover eggrolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before placing them in the container to maintain their crispy texture.

Can I freeze the eggrolls before frying?
Yes, indeed! To freeze Southwest eggrolls, lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before frying for the best results!

Why did my eggrolls come out soggy?
Oh no! Soggy eggrolls can happen if the oil isn’t hot enough when frying or if they were overcrowded in the pan. Make sure your oil is heated to 375°F before adding the eggrolls, and fry in small batches. Additionally, tightly wrapping each eggroll ensures they hold their shape and minimizes the chance of sogginess.

Are these eggrolls suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! You can make Southwest eggrolls gluten-friendly by choosing gluten-free egg roll wrappers. There are many options available in grocery stores now, just double-check the packaging. The filling ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you have a delicious dish that everyone can enjoy!

Can I bake the eggrolls instead of frying?
Very much so! For a healthier version, brush the eggrolls with olive oil and bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Just remember to turn them halfway through baking for even crispiness!