If you’re a fan of Chili’s iconic Southwestern Egg Rolls appetizer, get ready to experience a healthier, homemade version that’s just as delicious and incredibly easy to make! This air fryer recipe eliminates the need for deep frying oil, delivering crispy, flavorful egg rolls with minimal effort.
Crispy, Flavorful, and Healthier: Air Fryer Southwestern Egg Rolls
Imagine biting into an egg roll with a perfectly golden, crunchy exterior, giving way to a warm, savory filling packed with seasoned chicken, vibrant corn, hearty black beans, fresh spinach, and melted Mexican blend cheese. This isn’t just a dream; it’s exactly what you’ll get with our Air Fryer Southwestern Egg Rolls recipe. In less than 30 minutes, you can create a satisfying appetizer, a quick snack, or even a light meal that rivals your favorite restaurant classic. Say goodbye to excessive oil and hello to a guilt-free indulgence that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.
Our copycat recipe captures the beloved flavors of Chili’s Southwestern Egg Rolls, making them accessible to any home cook. The air fryer works its magic, circulating hot air to achieve that irresistible crispy crunch without the grease, ensuring each bite is a burst of fresh, Southwestern goodness. It’s the perfect dish for entertaining, a family dinner, or simply treating yourself to a restaurant-quality experience right from your kitchen.
Why Choose the Air Fryer for Egg Rolls?
The air fryer has revolutionized home cooking, offering a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying without sacrificing taste or texture. For Southwestern Egg Rolls, this means a significantly reduced oil content, resulting in a lighter dish that’s easier on the waistline. The circulating hot air ensures even cooking and a consistent crispiness that can be challenging to achieve in a conventional oven. You’ll get that satisfying crunch on every side of the egg roll, just like a deep-fried version, but with a fraction of the fat.
Beyond the health benefits, the air fryer offers unparalleled convenience. It preheats quickly, cooks food efficiently, and cleanup is often simpler than dealing with a pot of hot oil. This makes it an ideal appliance for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal or appetizer without a lot of fuss. Plus, its compact size means it won’t heat up your entire kitchen, a definite bonus during warmer months.
The Irresistible Allure of Southwestern Flavors
The heart of these egg rolls lies in their vibrant Southwestern filling, a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The combination of tender chicken, sweet corn, savory black beans, fresh green onions, and slightly bitter spinach creates a robust and exciting profile. The addition of a Mexican cheese blend ensures a creamy, gooey center when heated, perfectly complementing the other ingredients.
What truly elevates these egg rolls is the carefully balanced blend of spices. Chili powder brings a warm, earthy heat, while garlic powder and onion powder provide a foundational aromatic depth. Cumin adds a distinctive, smoky Southwestern essence, and a touch of paprika contributes a mild sweetness and beautiful color. This spice medley infuses the entire filling with that characteristic zest and warmth that makes Southwestern cuisine so universally loved. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, building layers of flavor that make these egg rolls incredibly addictive.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Southwestern Egg Rolls
Our recipe features a classic Southwestern blend: cooked boneless, skinless chicken breast, sweet corn, finely diced red bell pepper, fresh green onion, wholesome black beans, nutritious fresh spinach, and creamy shredded Mexican blend cheese. These core ingredients are then perfectly seasoned with a blend of chili powder, garlic powder, salt, ground cumin, paprika, and onion powder, all wrapped in crisp egg roll wrappers.
The secret to achieving that irresistible crispy texture is to generously spray your egg rolls with nonstick olive oil spray before air frying. This creates a thin layer of oil that helps the wrappers crisp up beautifully. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Give each egg roll enough space (at least ½ to 1 inch) for the hot air to circulate freely around them, ensuring an even, golden-brown crisp. Cooking in batches is key for optimal results.
While cooked boneless, skinless chicken breast is used in our recipe, you have plenty of flexibility! Cooked chicken thighs can offer a slightly richer flavor, or for ultimate convenience, shredded rotisserie chicken works wonderfully and saves significant preparation time. If you prefer to cook your chicken breasts in the air fryer, you can easily do so following
this simple air fryer chicken breast recipe. For a vegetarian option, you could substitute the chicken with extra black beans, sautéed mushrooms, or seasoned plant-based crumbles.
This recipe was developed and tested using a 5-quart basket-style air fryer, which is one of the most common and popular sizes available. If you have a different size or style of air fryer, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly or cook in more batches. Always use your best judgment and familiarity with your specific appliance to achieve the best results.
Absolutely! While the air fryer is fantastic for this recipe, you can still enjoy homemade Southwestern Egg Rolls. You can deep fry them in oil, similar to our
Cheeseburger Egg Rolls recipe, which provides detailed frying instructions. Alternatively, you can bake them in a conventional oven for a less oily but still delicious option. Instructions for oven baking are also often included in similar recipes or can be found with a quick search.
To keep your leftovers fresh, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Stored this way, they will stay good in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. When reheating, the air fryer is your best friend for bringing back that crispy texture!
Yes, these Southwestern Egg Rolls freeze beautifully! Once cooled, wrap individual egg rolls first in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. For best results, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating them in the air fryer to restore their wonderful crispiness.
Ingredients for Your Air Fryer Southwestern Egg Rolls
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful egg rolls. Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful recipe:
- Cooked boneless, skinless chicken breasts (shredded or finely diced)
- Sweet corn (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- Red bell pepper (finely diced for even distribution)
- Green onions (thinly sliced, white and green parts)
- Black beans (drained and thoroughly rinsed)
- Fresh spinach (coarsely chopped)
- Shredded Mexican blend cheese
- Chili powder
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Ground cumin
- Paprika
- Onion powder
- Egg roll wrappers (standard size)
- Nonstick olive oil cooking spray (essential for crispiness)
How to Craft Your Own Air Fryer Southwestern Egg Rolls: Step-by-Step
Making these savory egg rolls is a straightforward process. Follow these detailed steps to achieve perfect, crispy results every time.
- Prepare Your Air Fryer: Begin by spraying the basket of your 5-quart (or similar size) air fryer generously with nonstick olive oil cooking spray. Set it aside for later. This initial spray helps prevent sticking and contributes to the overall crispness.
- Combine the Main Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine your prepared chicken (ensure it’s cut into small, uniform chunks), corn, finely diced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, drained and rinsed black beans, coarsely chopped fresh spinach, and the shredded Mexican blend cheese. Give everything a good stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Set this mixture aside.
- Create the Spice Blend: In a separate, small bowl, whisk together all your dry spices: chili powder, garlic powder, salt, ground cumin, paprika, and onion powder. This ensures an even distribution of flavor.
- Season the Filling: Sprinkle the prepared spice mixture over the chicken and vegetable blend in the large bowl. Stir thoroughly until every component of the filling is well coated with the aromatic spices. This step is crucial for achieving that authentic Southwestern flavor. Set aside.
- Prepare for Rolling: Pour a small amount of water into a shallow bowl. This water will be used to moisten the edges of the egg roll wrappers, acting as a natural glue to seal them securely.
- Start Rolling the Egg Rolls: Lay one egg roll wrapper flat on a clean cutting board or work surface, positioning it like a diamond with one point facing you. Using a ⅓ measuring cup, scoop a generous portion of the Southwestern filling and place it horizontally across the middle of the wrapper, closer to the point facing you.
- Fold and Tuck: Take the bottom corner of the wrapper (the one closest to you) and fold it up and slightly under the filling, creating a snug base. Then, fold in each of the side points towards the center, overlapping them over the filling.
- Seal the Egg Roll: Lightly brush water (using a pastry brush or your fingertips) onto the remaining top corner and edges of the wrapper. Carefully roll the egg roll upwards from the bottom, keeping it tight and compact, to fully enclose the filling and seal the wrapper. Repeat this process for all remaining egg rolls.
- Prepare for Air Frying: Once all egg rolls are rolled, lightly spray the top and sides of each one with nonstick olive oil spray. This crucial step ensures maximum crispiness.
- Air Fry in Batches: Carefully place the sprayed egg rolls into your air fryer basket with the sealed side facing down. Remember, do not overcrowd the basket. Leave at least ½ inch to 1 inch of space around each egg roll to allow for proper air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and crisping.
- Final Spray and Cook: After placing the egg rolls in the basket, give the upward-facing sides another light spray with olive oil nonstick spray. Now all surfaces should be lightly coated. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes. Then, carefully flip each egg roll over and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. (No need to preheat your air fryer for this recipe).
-
Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked to a perfect crisp, carefully remove the egg rolls from the air fryer. Serve them immediately with your favorite store-bought dipping sauce, or elevate the experience with a homemade sauce like our zesty avocado ranch dipping sauce (found in
this recipe) or a bright cilantro lime sauce (from
this recipe).
Perfect Pairings: Serving Your Southwestern Egg Rolls
These Air Fryer Southwestern Egg Rolls are fantastic on their own, but they truly shine when paired with the right dipping sauce. A creamy, cooling sauce provides a wonderful contrast to the warm, spicy filling. Consider a classic ranch dressing, a zesty sour cream dip, or a vibrant salsa. For an extra special touch, whip up a homemade avocado ranch sauce or a fresh cilantro lime sauce – recipes for both are linked above, offering an added layer of flavor that perfectly complements the Southwestern profile. Whether it’s a casual snack or a party appetizer, these egg rolls are guaranteed to be a hit.
Craving More Easy & Delicious Recipes?
If you enjoyed making and devouring these Air Fryer Southwestern Egg Rolls, you’re in for a treat! Explore more of our delectable recipes, including additional air fryer favorites and other copycat restaurant dishes that bring the flavor home.
- Homemade Chili’s Salsa
- Chili’s Original Chicken Crispers (Copycat)
- Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
- Air Fryer Beef Fajitas
- Reuben Egg Rolls
- Wonton Taco Cups
- Cheeseburger Egg Rolls with Dipping Sauce
- Sweet Peach Cobbler Egg Rolls
- Warm Apple Pie Egg Rolls
- Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
- Air Fryer Potato Skins
- Cream Cheese Wontons
- Air Fryer Halloumi Cheese
Air Fryer Southwestern Egg Roll
Print
Pin
Rate
15 minutes
10 minutes
25 minutes
12
servings
Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- Nonstick olive oil cooking spray
-
1
pound
cooked boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small chunks -
⅓
cup
corn
(frozen or fresh) -
⅓
cup
finely red bell pepper -
¼
cup
sliced green onion -
1
cup
black beans, drained and rinsed -
1
cup
fresh spinach, coarsely chopped -
2
cups
shredded Mexican blend cheese -
1
teaspoon
chili powder -
1
teaspoon
garlic powder -
½
teaspoon
salt -
½
teaspoon
ground cumin
-
¼
teaspoon
paprika -
¼
teaspoon
onion powder -
1
package
egg roll wrappers
Instructions
- Spray a 5-quart air fryer basket with nonstick olive oil cooking spray. Set aside.
- Place 1 pound cooked boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small chunks, 1/3 cup corn, 1/3 cup finely red bell pepper, 1/4 cup sliced green onion, 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed, 1 cup fresh spinach, coarsely chopped and 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese into a large bowl. Stir together well. Set aside.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon ground cumin, ¼ teaspoon paprika and ¼ teaspoon onion powder.
- Sprinkle this spice mixture over the chicken mixture and stir well to combine. Set aside
- Pour some water in a small bowl (this is going to help seal the egg roll wrappers as you roll them.)
- Place an egg roll wrapper from 1 package egg roll wrappers on a cutting board or other clean surface. Lay it out like a diamond shape with one of the pointed ends pointing towards you. Use a ⅓ measuring cup to place some filling across the middle of the egg roll wrapper.
- Tuck the bottom corner (the one pointing towards you) over and slightly under the filling. Fold each of the side points over the middle.
- Brush water (using a pastry brush or your fingers) over the remaining top part of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper up tight to seal the egg roll.
- Spray the top and sides of each egg roll with nonstick olive oil spray.
- Place the egg rolls into the air fryer with the sealed side facing down. Do not overcrowd the basket. You need to leave at least ½ inch to an inch of space around each egg roll. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Then spray the upward facing side of the egg rolls with olive oil non-stick spray (now all surfaces should be sprayed).
- Bake at 375F for 5 minutes, flip them over and bake for another 5 minutes. (air fryer does not need to be preheated)
- Serve with your favorite sauce.
Notes
- Olive oil non-stick spray is best for air fryers as it helps prevent residue buildup on the basket, unlike some other nonstick sprays.
- For an even quicker preparation, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken, shredded and added to the filling.
- You can cook the chicken breasts directly in your air fryer using
this recipe for perfectly cooked chicken. - This recipe was developed and tested with a 5-quart basket air fryer, a popular and common model. If you use a different air fryer model, please adjust cooking times and temperatures based on your appliance’s performance and your best judgment.
- Generously spraying the egg rolls with non-stick olive oil spray is vital for achieving that desirable golden and crispy exterior. Don’t skip this step!
- Leftover egg rolls can be stored in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2-3 months.
- Enhance your serving experience with a homemade dipping sauce. Try our refreshing
cilantro lime sauce or a creamy
avocado ranch sauce.
Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
American
Nutrition
Calories:
232
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
27
g
|
Protein:
18
g
|
Fat:
5
g
|
Sodium:
506
mg
|
Fiber:
2
g
|
Sugar:
1
g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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