Southwest Chicken Roll Ups Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with vibrant flavors, easy to customize, and perfect for any meal of the day, these Southwest Chicken Roll Ups are an absolute must-try. Imagine tender shredded chicken mingling with zesty taco seasoning, creamy Greek yogurt, melty cheddar, colorful black beans, and sweet corn all wrapped up in a soft tortilla—each bite a fiesta of taste and texture. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, entertaining friends, or just craving something fresh and satisfying, these Southwest Chicken Roll Ups deliver on all fronts with flair and a little kick.

Ingredients You’ll Need
These Southwest Chicken Roll Ups come to life with simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find and each bring something essential to the party: texture, flavor, or that delightful pop of color. Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe shine:
- Shredded Chicken Breast: The star protein of the dish—juicy, tender, and the perfect canvas for bold seasonings.
- Plain Nonfat Greek Yogurt: A creamy, tangy binder that’s healthier than traditional mayo and adds a great protein boost.
- Reduced-Fat Cheddar Cheese: Adds gooey richness and a mild cheesiness that complements the spices wonderfully.
- Black Beans: A fiber-packed addition that brings earthiness and a nice color contrast to the filling.
- Corn: Sweet kernels that add crunch and vibrant yellow bursts of flavor.
- Taco Seasoning: A balanced blend of spices that tie every ingredient together with that signature Southwest flair.
- Low-Carb Tortillas: The soft, sturdy holders that make rolling this feast easy while keeping it light and flexible.
- Fresh Cilantro (optional): A fresh herbal note to brighten up every bite.
- Fresh Lime Juice (optional): Adds a zesty punch that lifts all the other ingredients.
How to Make Southwest Chicken Roll Ups
Step 1: Mix It Like You Mean It
Start by combining shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, cheddar cheese, black beans, corn, and taco seasoning in a large bowl. Toss in some chopped fresh cilantro and a splash of fresh lime juice if you have it handy—this brightens the flavors beautifully. Mix just enough so every ingredient gets coated without turning into a mushy mess. You want that perfect texture that’s cohesive yet still has a bit of bite.
Step 2: Tortilla Time
Lay your tortillas flat on a clean surface and spoon about one-third cup of the filling slightly below the center of each one. The goal here is to have enough filling to enjoy every bite but not so much that it spills out when rolling. Think of it as creating a snug little package of Southwest deliciousness.
Step 3: Roll Like a Pro
Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll from the bottom up, tucking in the filling as you go to keep everything tight and secure. Set the roll ups seam-side down to help them stay closed. This technique keeps your roll ups neat, making for an easier eating experience and a prettier presentation.
Step 4: Optional Crispy Upgrade
If you want to elevate your Southwest Chicken Roll Ups from delicious to unforgettable, heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly spray it with olive or avocado oil. Cook the roll ups for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they are beautifully golden and crisp. This step adds a lovely crunch and a toasty aroma that takes these roll ups to the next level.
How to Serve Southwest Chicken Roll Ups

Garnishes
To make your Southwest Chicken Roll Ups sing with freshness, serve them with chopped avocado or fresh guacamole, a drizzle of salsa verde, and a dollop of zesty yogurt-lime sauce. A sprinkle of extra cilantro or sliced jalapeños can add visual appeal and a nice kick.
Side Dishes
Complement these roll ups perfectly with crisp jicama slaw or air-fried sweet potato fries for crunchy texture contrast. A simple mixed green salad with a light lime vinaigrette also pairs wonderfully, keeping the meal bright and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the roll ups diagonally to reveal that colorful filling inside and arrange them like a platter for sharing. Hosting a casual gathering? Set up a DIY roll up bar with various toppings like chopped tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, shredded lettuce, and hot sauce, letting everyone customize their own Southwest Chicken Roll Ups. This interactive setup is always a hit and encourages everyone to enjoy their meal just the way they like it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can easily store leftover Southwest Chicken Roll Ups in the refrigerator for up to four days. Wrap each roll up tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent drying out. This makes them a perfect option for quick lunches or dinner on busy days.
Freezing
These roll ups freeze beautifully and are a fantastic option for meal prep. Wrap each one individually in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat, just pull one out and reheat—it’s like having a homemade meal ready in minutes.
Reheating
For best results when reheating your Southwest Chicken Roll Ups, air frying at 375°F for 6 to 8 minutes crisps up the exterior nicely without drying out the filling. Alternatively, a quick skillet reheat or oven bake works great too. Avoid microwaving for too long or the tortilla may become soggy.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Southwest Chicken Roll Ups keep well in the fridge for several days when properly wrapped, making them ideal for meal planning or busy weeknights.
What if my tortillas crack when rolling?
Low-carb tortillas can be a bit brittle. Warm them briefly in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel to soften before rolling, and avoid overfilling so they stay intact.
How can I boost the flavor if it tastes bland?
Don’t hesitate to add more taco seasoning, a squeeze of lime, or a pinch of chipotle powder to bring depth and a touch of heat. Even a few drops of fish sauce can add surprising umami richness.
Can I make these vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Swap out the chicken for roasted sweet potatoes, jackfruit, or mashed chickpeas, and replace dairy with vegan alternatives to enjoy a plant-based version of Southwest Chicken Roll Ups.
Are these roll ups suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. They hold up well when made in advance and are easy to pack for lunches on the go, making them a convenient and nutritious meal option.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that’s easy to whip up, packed with flavor, and endlessly adaptable, you owe it to yourself to make these Southwest Chicken Roll Ups. They’re the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again because they check all the boxes for taste, nutrition, and convenience. Grab your ingredients, get rolling, and enjoy a fresh, satisfying meal that feels like a celebration every time.
PrintSouthwest Chicken Roll Ups Recipe
These Macro-Friendly Southwest Chicken Roll Ups are a quick, flavorful, and high-protein meal perfect for meal prep or a casual get-together. Packed with shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and a creamy Greek yogurt base, they offer a delicious southwestern twist that’s easily customizable to suit various dietary preferences and tastes. Whether you enjoy them fresh or toasted crispy, these roll ups deliver satisfying taste and nutrition in every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 roll ups 1x
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snack
- Method: No-Bake with Optional Skillet Toasting
- Cuisine: Southwestern, American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups shredded chicken breast (rotisserie, canned, or leftover grilled/roasted chicken)
- ½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
- ½ cup reduced-fat cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup corn, thawed and dried if frozen
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning (or homemade blend: 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp paprika, pinch of salt and pepper, optional cayenne)
- Handful fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of half a lime (optional)
Wraps
- 6 low-carb tortillas (almond flour, whole wheat, spinach, gluten-free, or lettuce/collard greens for ultra low-carb)
Optional for Cooking
- Olive oil or avocado oil spray
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh guacamole
- Salsa verde
- Zesty yogurt-lime drizzle
- Jicama slaw or air-fryer sweet potato fries
Instructions
- Mix It Like You Mean It: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese, black beans, corn, taco seasoning, and chopped cilantro. Squeeze in the juice of half a lime if using. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated but avoid over-mixing to prevent mushiness.
- Tortilla Time: Lay out your tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon about ⅓ cup of the prepared filling slightly below the center of each tortilla, leaving room for rolling. Avoid overstuffing to make rolling easier and prevent filling fallout.
- Roll Like a Pro: Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll from the bottom up tightly, tucking the filling as you go to keep everything snug. Place the roll-ups seam-side down to help them stay together. Wrap individually if storing for meal prep.
- Optional Crispy Upgrade: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly spray with olive or avocado oil. Cook each roll-up for 2–3 minutes per side until the exterior is lightly browned and crispy. This adds delicious texture but is optional.
- Serve: Slice each roll-up diagonally for an elegant presentation. Arrange on a platter alongside dips like fresh guacamole, salsa verde, and a yogurt-lime drizzle. Pair with sides such as jicama slaw or air fryer sweet potato fries for a complete fiesta meal.
Notes
- Warm tortillas for 10 seconds in the microwave with a damp paper towel to prevent cracking while rolling.
- These roll ups freeze well; wrap individually in foil or plastic and store in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in an air fryer at 375°F for 6–8 minutes.
- Drain and rinse canned beans well and pat dry to avoid soggy filling.
- Customize with different seasonings or fillings based on dietary preferences or what’s available.
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lime juice or a dash of chipotle powder to the filling mix.
- Use avocado, coconut yogurt, or vegan sour cream for a dairy-free alternative to Greek yogurt.
- Try other cheeses like pepper jack or smoked gouda, or vegan cheese blends for different flavor profiles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll up (1/6 of recipe)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
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