Copycat Chili’s Southwest Egg Rolls: 7 Tips for Perfection

Name: Copycat Chili's Southwest Egg Rolls: 7 Tips for Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded; 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup corn, drained; 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup green onion, chopped; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack); 8 large flour tortillas; Oil for frying

July 17, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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If you’ve ever tasted Chili’s Southwest Egg Rolls, you know how deliciously addictive they can be! I mean, who can resist that crispy exterior and the flavor-packed filling? They’ve always been a favorite of mine—perfect for sharing (or not!) at parties or just for a cozy night in. But here’s the secret: you can whip up a copycat version right in your kitchen that tastes just as good, if not better! Trust me, this recipe is a game changer. It brings all those bold flavors home while making it easy to customize to your liking. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get rolling—literally! You won’t regret it!

Ingredients for Copycat Chili’s Southwest Egg Rolls

To make these scrumptious egg rolls, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

1 cup cooked chicken, shredded – Grab some rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut!
1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed – They add a nice texture and are packed with protein.
1/2 cup corn, drained – Sweet corn brings a lovely sweetness to the mix.
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced – For a pop of color and crunch!
1/4 cup green onion, chopped – It gives a fresh, mild onion flavor.
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped – Adds a burst of freshness (feel free to skip if you’re not a fan).
1 teaspoon cumin – Essential for that warm, earthy flavor.
1 teaspoon chili powder – Spice it up just right!
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack) – I love using pepper jack for a little kick!
8 large flour tortillas – Make sure they’re large enough to hold all that goodness.
Oil for frying – You’ll need enough to submerge the egg rolls for that crispy finish.

These ingredients are super versatile, so feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand or what you love. Let’s get ready to roll!

How to Prepare Copycat Chili’s Southwest Egg Rolls

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the fun part—making these delicious egg rolls! Follow along with me, and I promise it’ll be a breeze. Let’s get rolling!

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

First off, grab a big mixing bowl because we’re about to make some magic happen! Toss in the shredded chicken—I usually go for rotisserie chicken because it’s super convenient and packed with flavor. Next, add in the black beans (don’t forget to rinse them to get rid of that canny taste!), followed by the drained corn. The sweetness of the corn balances out the spices perfectly!

Now, let’s add the diced red bell pepper for that crunch and vibrant color, along with the chopped green onion and cilantro. Trust me, the cilantro adds a fresh burst that really elevates the filling! Sprinkle in the cumin and chili powder to spice things up, and finally, toss in the shredded cheese. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. It should look like a colorful fiesta in a bowl!

Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls

Alright, let’s wrap these babies up! Take a large flour tortilla and place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling right in the center. Make sure not to overfill—trust me, you don’t want them bursting open while frying! Fold the sides of the tortilla in, then roll it up tightly from the bottom. It’s just like tucking in a cozy blanket! To keep the egg rolls closed during frying, you can dab a little water on the edge before sealing. This helps them stick together nicely.

Step 3: Fry the Egg Rolls

Time to get crispy! Heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want it hot enough that a little drop of filling sizzles when it hits the oil. Carefully place a few egg rolls in the hot oil, making sure not to crowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and irresistible. Oh, the smell is going to drive you wild!

Once they’re golden and crispy, use tongs to remove them and let them drain on a plate lined with paper towels. This helps soak up any excess oil, so they’re perfectly crispy and not greasy.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Now for the best part—serving! I love pairing my egg rolls with some homemade guacamole or a tangy salsa for dipping. You could even whip up a creamy ranch dressing for a fun twist! Gather your friends or family around, and watch them disappear in seconds. Honestly, every bite is like a party in your mouth, and I can’t wait for you to experience it! Don’t forget to share your thoughts on this recipe—I’d love to hear how yours turned out!

Nutritional Information for Copycat Chili’s Southwest Egg Rolls

Knowing the nutritional info can help you enjoy these delightful egg rolls even more! Here’s a general breakdown per serving (that’s one egg roll), but remember, these numbers can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose and how you decide to prepare them:

Calories: 250
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 40mg

This delicious appetizer packs a nice protein punch with the chicken and beans, while the fiber from the beans and corn helps keep you satisfied. Whether you’re enjoying these for a game day snack or a cozy dinner, you can feel good about indulging a little. Just keep in mind that if you swap out any ingredients or change the cooking method, the nutritional values may shift. Happy munching!

Tips for Success with Copycat Chili’s Southwest Egg Rolls

If you want to take your copycat Chili’s Southwest Egg Rolls to the next level, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips for you! These little nuggets of wisdom will help ensure your egg rolls are as delicious as possible.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies make a world of difference! Try to use freshly chopped bell peppers and onions for that extra crunch and flavor.
Don’t skimp on seasoning: Feel free to adjust the cumin and chili powder to your taste. If you like it spicy, a little cayenne pepper or hot sauce in the filling can really amp up the heat!
Experiment with cheeses: While cheddar and pepper jack are classics, you could also try Monterey Jack or even a spicy queso blend for a unique twist.
For a healthier version: If you’re looking to lighten things up, consider baking your egg rolls instead of frying them. Just brush them lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through!
Make ahead: You can prep the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just assemble and fry when you’re ready to enjoy. It’s a great time-saver!
Keep the oil temperature steady: If the oil is too hot, the egg rolls will burn before they’re cooked through. If it’s too cool, they’ll soak up too much oil. The perfect temperature is key for that crispy exterior!
Seal with a dab of water: As I mentioned earlier, a little water on the edge of the tortilla helps seal it tight, preventing any filling from sneaking out while frying.
Try different fillings: Don’t hesitate to customize! Swap out the chicken for shredded beef or even go vegetarian with some sautéed mushrooms and spinach.

With these tips in your back pocket, I know you’ll be whipping up the most amazing egg rolls in no time. Enjoy the process and have fun experimenting—cooking should always be a joyful adventure!

Variations of Copycat Chili’s Southwest Egg Rolls

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to customize these copycat Chili’s Southwest Egg Rolls! Here are some tasty variations that will keep your taste buds dancing:

Vegetarian Delight: Swap the chicken for a medley of sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach. You can even add some diced avocado for creaminess!
Spicy Southwest: If you love heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the filling. You could also try using spicy pepper jack cheese to really kick things up a notch!
BBQ Chicken: Give your egg rolls a smoky twist by mixing shredded BBQ chicken instead of plain. The combo of flavors is downright delicious!
Breakfast Egg Rolls: Why not make a breakfast version? Use scrambled eggs, diced bell peppers, and crumbled breakfast sausage or bacon for a hearty morning treat!
Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke: For a creamy twist, mix in some chopped artichoke hearts and a blend of cream cheese with your shredded cheese. This will give you that classic spinach dip flavor wrapped in a crispy shell!
Baked Instead of Fried: If you’re looking for a healthier option, brush your assembled egg rolls with a little oil and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through. They’ll still be crispy and delicious!
Asian Fusion: Instead of the southwest flavors, try using shredded rotisserie chicken, sesame oil, and a mix of shredded carrots and cabbage for an Asian-inspired filling. Serve with soy sauce or sweet chili sauce for dipping!

With these variations, you can mix and match to your heart’s content! The best part is that you can get creative based on what you have in your fridge and what flavors you love. So go ahead, make these your own, and enjoy every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve gathered some of the most common questions folks have about making these copycat Chili’s Southwest Egg Rolls. I want to make sure you’ve got all the info you need to create these delicious bites without a hitch!

Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and even assemble the egg rolls a few hours in advance. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to fry. It makes for a quick and easy appetizer when you have guests over!

How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), simply place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be good for about 2-3 days. Just reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to crisp them back up!

Can I freeze these egg rolls?
You bet! To freeze, lay the assembled egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I use as a substitute for chicken?
If you’re looking for a different protein or going vegetarian, shredded beef, pulled pork, or even just a mix of beans and veggies works beautifully! Get creative with what you have on hand—this recipe is super flexible!

What types of dipping sauces work best?
I love serving my egg rolls with a zesty salsa or creamy ranch dressing. Guacamole is also a fantastic choice! You could even make a simple avocado crema by blending avocado with sour cream and a squeeze of lime juice for something extra special.

Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, if you want a healthier option, baking is definitely the way to go! Just brush the assembled egg rolls lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
A great trick is to drop a small piece of the filling into the oil. If it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go! If it sinks without sizzling, let the oil heat up a bit more.

Feel free to reach out if you have any other burning questions! I’m here to help you make the best copycat Chili’s Southwest Egg Rolls ever!

Final Thoughts

I really hope you give these copycat Chili’s Southwest Egg Rolls a try! They’re not only delicious but also a fun way to bring a little restaurant magic into your home kitchen. I can’t tell you how satisfying it is to bite into that crispy shell and discover all those flavorful fillings. Trust me, your friends and family will be raving about them!

Don’t forget, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun. I’d love to hear how yours turn out, so please share your thoughts and any creative twists you add! Feel free to leave comments or feedback below—let’s keep this delicious conversation going! Happy cooking, and enjoy every crispy bite!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.