📑 Table of Contents ▶

The Basics of Southwestern Eggrolls
Fundamentals
Preparation/Setup
Directions
Mastering the Technique of Cooking Eggrolls
Technique
Tips and Tricks
Perfecting Your Eggrolls
Perfecting Results
Troubleshooting and Variations
Serving and Presentation
Serving and Presentation
Pairings and Storage
Copycat Chili’s Southwestern Eggrolls
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Copycat Chili’s Southwestern Eggrolls

Name: Copycat Chili's Southwestern Eggrolls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 1 small ripe avocado, halved lengthwise; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup whole-buttermilk; 1 tablespoon ranch dressing mix; 1 1/2 cups finely chopped rotisserie chicken; 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup thawed frozen corn; 1/2 cup drained and rinsed canned black beans; 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh baby spinach; 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper; 1/4 cup thinly sliced scallions; 1 tablespoon finely chopped pickled jalapeño chile; 1 1/2 tablespoons taco seasoning; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 8 (8-inch) flour tortillas; Vegetable oil for frying

The aroma of freshly fried eggrolls wafts through the kitchen as memories of dining at Chili’s come rushing back. Copycat Chili’s Southwestern Eggrolls bring a beloved restaurant experience right into your home. These delicious, crispy pockets filled with savory rotisserie chicken and zesty flavors make for a perfect appetizer or snack.

Growing up, my family often gathered around tables at our favorite restaurants. We savored the moments together, sharing laughter and stories while enjoying delightful dishes. Among these, the Southwestern Eggrolls stood out as a family favorite. The delightful fusion of flavors never failed to impress. Making a homemade version allows for that nostalgic warmth while preserving the deliciousness.

Creating these Copycat Chili’s Southwestern Eggrolls fulfills both a craving for comfort and a desire for culinary adventure. The crispy exterior wraps around a bursting filling of chicken, cheese, and colorful veggies. Pairing them with a zesty avocado ranch dip elevates the experience even further. Let’s dive into how to craft these eggrolls from scratch and bring a taste of Chili’s to your kitchen.

The Basics of Southwestern Eggrolls

Fundamentals

Copycat Chili’s Southwestern Eggrolls showcase a brilliant combination of ingredients that make each bite satisfying. The balance of flavors from the rotisserie chicken, spices, and fresh vegetables creates an irresistible filling. This dish celebrates the unity of textures with its crunchy outside and tender inside.

Using rotisserie chicken saves preparation time while ensuring that every eggroll bursts with rich flavors. The addition of black beans and corn provides not only taste but also nutrition and texture. The cheese melts beautifully, bringing it all together, while the crunchy scallions and vibrant bell pepper highlight freshness in every eggroll.

Furthermore, the inclusion of pickled jalapeños brings an exciting kick to the filling. The well-rounded flavor profile truly captures the essence of Southwestern cuisine.

Preparation/Setup

Before assembling these tasty eggrolls, gather and prepare all the ingredients. Start by mashing half of a ripe avocado and mixing it with creamy mayonnaise, buttermilk, and ranch seasoning. This delightful dip will accompany the eggrolls, adding richness to every bite.

Next, finely chop the rotisserie chicken, baby spinach, red bell pepper, and scallions. Measure your corn and black beans, ensuring they are rinsed and ready to incorporate. Having your mise en place organized makes the whole cooking process seamless and enjoyable.

When it’s time to assemble the eggrolls, place about 1/2 cup of the prepared filling into the center of an 8-inch tortilla. Fold the sides over the filling, roll tightly, and secure with a toothpick before frying.

Ingredients

1 small ripe avocado, halved lengthwise
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup whole-buttermilk
1 tablespoon ranch dressing mix
1 1/2 cups finely chopped rotisserie chicken
4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
1/2 cup thawed frozen corn
1/2 cup drained and rinsed canned black beans
1/2 cup finely chopped fresh baby spinach
1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
1/4 cup thinly sliced scallions
1 tablespoon finely chopped pickled jalapeño chile
1 1/2 tablespoons taco seasoning
1 teaspoon kosher salt
8 (8-inch) flour tortillas
Vegetable oil for frying

Directions

Start by mashing one half of the avocado until smooth in a small bowl.
Add mayonnaise, buttermilk, and ranch dressing mix, whisking until combined. Cover the avocado ranch dip and refrigerate.
In a separate medium bowl, mix together the chopped chicken, Monterey Jack cheese, thawed corn, black beans, spinach, red bell pepper, scallions, pickled jalapeño, taco seasoning, and kosher salt until well blended.

Take one tortilla, place 1/2 cup of the filling in the center, fold in the sides, and roll tightly. Secure with a toothpick.
In a skillet, pour vegetable oil to a depth of 1/2 inch. Heat oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Fry eggrolls in batches, seam side down, for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through.

Transfer cooked eggrolls to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Remove toothpicks and slice each eggroll at an angle. Serve with the avocado ranch dip.

Mastering the Technique of Cooking Eggrolls

Technique

The technique for frying the eggrolls is crucial for achieving the perfect crispy texture. Ensuring that the oil is hot enough before adding the eggrolls prevents them from becoming greasy. Always fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature.

When rolling the tortillas, ensure a tight seal. This prevents the filling from spilling out while frying and keeps the eggroll intact. Use toothpicks to secure the seams, but remember to remove them before serving.

Tips and Tricks

To enhance the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs or additional spices to the filling according to your preference. Fresh cilantro or even a hint of lime zest can elevate the taste beautifully.

If you want to achieve an even crunchier texture, you can coat the rolled eggrolls in a light dusting of flour or cornstarch before frying. This adds extra crispiness.

When frying, constantly monitor the temperature of the oil. Having a cooking thermometer can provide accuracy and prevent overcooking or undercooking.

Perfecting Your Eggrolls

Perfecting Results

Cooking the eggrolls to golden perfection involves patience and attention to detail. Always maintain a consistent temperature in the oil and refrain from overcrowding the pan. Each eggroll deserves its space to reach a beautiful crisp.

For variations, try substituting some ingredients based on personal preference. For example, shredded carrots or zucchini can add additional nutrients and flavor.

Troubleshooting and Variations

Eggrolls can vary in texture based on frying time and temperature. If they turn out soggy, check the oil’s heat. If it’s too hot, they may brown too quickly without cooking the filling properly. Conversely, if the oil is not hot enough, the eggrolls absorb excess oil and become greasy.

Experimenting with different fillings can yield exciting results. You could incorporate spicy chicken, ground turkey, or even vegetarian options for a unique twist.

Serving and Presentation

Presentation plays an essential role when serving Copycat Chili’s Southwestern Eggrolls. Arrange the sliced eggrolls on a platter with the avocado ranch dip as the centerpiece. This not only provides visual appeal but also encourages sharing among friends and family.

Adding fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, as a garnish can elevate the overall presentation. Creating an inviting and colorful spread enhances the dining experience.

Pairings and Storage

These eggrolls pair wonderfully with fresh sides like a tangy corn salad or guacamole. They also complement beverages like iced tea or refreshing mocktails, making them perfect for gatherings.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the exterior chewy.

Copycat Chili’s Southwestern Eggrolls embody comfort, flavor, and joy in every bite. Making them at home allows you to enjoy the delightful experience without the need for dining out. With the right ingredients and techniques, you too can master this app that brings people together around the table.