Description
These Zucchini Enchilada Roll Ups are a delicious and healthy twist on classic enchiladas, featuring thinly sliced zucchini rolled around a flavorful filling of shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. Baked with enchilada sauce and melted cheddar cheese, this dish is perfect for a nutritious family dinner that’s low in carbs and packed with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or sliced/diced
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
Roll Ups and Assembly
- 2 pounds zucchini (about 2–4 medium-large), sliced thinly lengthwise
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Additional cilantro for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, combine cooked shredded or diced chicken, black beans, corn, and 1 cup of enchilada sauce. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated and thoroughly combined to create the enchilada filling.
- Prepare Baking Pan: Spread 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce over the bottom of a large baking pan or dish. This will prevent sticking and add extra flavor to the zucchini roll ups as they bake.
- Make Zucchini Rolls: Lay 2 to 3 thin slices of zucchini slightly overlapping on a clean surface to form a 3-4 inch wide strip. Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of the chicken filling at one end of the zucchini strip, then carefully roll the zucchini slices around the filling to form a roll. Place each roll seam-side down in the prepared baking pan. Repeat this process with the remaining zucchini slices and filling until you make approximately 24 rolls.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Drizzle the remaining 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce evenly over the arranged zucchini rolls in the baking pan. Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top to cover the rolls completely.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking pan in the oven and bake the roll ups for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the roll ups from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired before serving. Enjoy your nutritious and flavorful zucchini enchilada roll ups!
Notes
- Slice the zucchini as thinly as possible lengthwise to make rolling easier.
- You can use fresh or frozen corn; just thaw if using frozen.
- Feel free to substitute cheddar cheese with a Mexican cheese blend for extra flavor.
- The recipe can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add extra baking time if baking from cold.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken or replace it with a plant-based protein.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
