These egg rolls are crispy, cheesy, and full of bold Southwestern flavor. They’re made with simple ingredients, easy to prepare in advance, and can be baked, fried, or air-fried depending on your preference. Whether you’re a fan of Chili’s version or just looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe delivers that same restaurant-style experience from the comfort of your kitchen.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cooked chicken breast (finely chopped or shredded)
Black beans (rinsed and drained)
Frozen corn (thawed)
Fresh spinach (chopped)
Red bell pepper (finely diced)
Green onions (sliced)
Jalapeño (optional, finely diced for heat)
Shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese
Ground cumin
Chili powder
Garlic powder
Salt and black pepper
Egg roll wrappers
Vegetable oil (for frying or brushing if baking)
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the chicken, black beans, corn, spinach, red bell pepper, green onions, cheese, and seasonings. Mix until evenly blended.
Place an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner facing you (like a diamond).
Spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of filling into the center of the wrapper.
Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly. Seal the top corner with a dab of water.
Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
To fry: Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the egg rolls in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
To bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place egg rolls on a baking sheet, brush with oil, and bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
To air fry: Spray or brush egg rolls with oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Serve hot with avocado ranch or creamy cilantro dipping sauce.
Servings and timing
Serves: 6 (makes about 12 egg rolls) Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 15–20 minutes Total time: approximately 40 minutes
Variations
Vegetarian version: Omit the chicken and add extra beans or tofu crumbles.
Spicy twist: Add chipotle peppers or extra jalapeños to the filling.
Cheese options: Swap in cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend.
Sweet corn: Use fire-roasted or grilled corn for added flavor.
Mini egg rolls: Use smaller wrappers and reduce the filling to create bite-sized versions.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place in the air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–8 minutes until hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving if you want to retain crispiness.
To freeze, place uncooked egg rolls on a tray to freeze individually, then store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds great flavor with minimal prep.
Are egg roll wrappers and spring roll wrappers the same?
No, egg roll wrappers are thicker and more suited for frying or baking. Spring roll wrappers are thinner and often used for fresh rolls.
Can I prep these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate the uncooked egg rolls up to a day in advance. Cook just before serving.
What dipping sauce goes best?
Creamy avocado ranch, cilantro lime sauce, chipotle mayo, or even salsa and sour cream pair wonderfully.
Can I bake them instead of frying?
Absolutely. Baked egg rolls are still crispy when brushed with oil and baked at high heat.
What if I don’t have spinach?
You can substitute kale or omit it entirely. It adds nutrition and texture but isn’t essential.
Are these freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze them uncooked for best texture. Cook straight from frozen when ready to enjoy.
Can I use ground beef or turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, just cook and season the meat before adding it to the filling mixture.
How do I prevent them from opening while cooking?
Make sure to roll them tightly and seal the edges with water. Also avoid overfilling.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Use gluten-free egg roll wrappers and ensure all filling ingredients (especially sauces and seasonings) are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Southwestern Egg Rolls are a bold, flavorful, and fun appetizer that’s easy to make and even easier to love. Whether you’re recreating the famous Chili’s version or putting your own spin on them, these egg rolls are guaranteed to impress. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and watch them disappear fast!
Southwestern Egg Rolls are a Chili’s-inspired appetizer filled with chicken, black beans, corn, spinach, peppers, and cheese, all wrapped in a crispy egg roll wrapper. Perfect for parties, game days, or a flavorful snack.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken breast, finely chopped or shredded
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup frozen corn, thawed
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
2 green onions, sliced
1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional)
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
12 egg roll wrappers
Vegetable oil for frying or brushing if baking/air frying
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine chicken, black beans, corn, spinach, red bell pepper, green onions, jalapeño (if using), cheese, and all seasonings. Mix well.
Place an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner facing you (diamond-shaped).
Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of filling into the center of the wrapper.
Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly. Seal the top edge with a dab of water.
Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
To fry: Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry egg rolls in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
To bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place egg rolls on a baking sheet, brush with oil, and bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
To air fry: Spray or brush egg rolls with oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Serve hot with avocado ranch, cilantro lime sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep and extra flavor.Roll tightly and seal well to prevent opening during cooking.Bake or air fry for a healthier alternative to frying.Make ahead and refrigerate uncooked rolls up to 1 day in advance.Freeze uncooked egg rolls for up to 2 months and cook from frozen.
