These Crunchy Southwestern Chicken Wraps are packed with flavor! Tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing come together in a crispy tortilla to make a delicious meal that everyone will love.
They’re perfect for lunch or dinner, and you can make them in no time! I like to add extra crunch by tossing in some tortilla chips inside the wrap—because who doesn’t love a bit of crunch? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour Tortillas: I like using large flour tortillas for their soft texture. You can try whole wheat or spinach tortillas for added flavor and nutrition. Gluten-free options are also available if that’s a need.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience. Grilled chicken or leftover baked chicken works too. If you’re vegetarian, consider using a hearty bean mix or grilled veggies instead.
Southwestern-Style Dressing: Ranch dressing offers a nice creaminess, while chipotle dressing adds a smoky kick. You could make your own dressing by mixing yogurt with spices for a healthier twist!
Red Cabbage: Thinly sliced red cabbage gives a nice crunch. You can swap with green cabbage or even use shredded carrots for a different crunch factor.
Cheese: I enjoy a sharp cheddar for flavor. A Mexican cheese blend works great too! For non-dairy options, try plant-based cheese shreds that melt well.
How Do I Make Sure My Wraps Are Crispy?
Getting that perfect crunch on your wraps requires a few simple steps. Grilling them in a skillet can create that golden exterior. Keep these tips in mind:
- Make sure to heat the skillet to medium before adding the wraps. This ensures even cooking.
- Use enough oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking, which helps the wraps become crispy.
- Don’t overload the filling. A packed wrap might not grill well, so keep it manageable.
- Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side. Check frequently to prevent burning; you want a lovely golden color!
How to Make Crunchy Southwestern Chicken Wraps
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Wraps:
- 2 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or sliced
- 1/2 cup southwestern-style dressing (ranch or chipotle dressing)
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup corn (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray for grilling
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook. You’ll have these delicious wraps ready in just under half an hour—perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken with the southwestern-style dressing. Toss in the corn, black beans, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well until the chicken is evenly coated with the dressing and the ingredients are combined.
2. Laying Out the Tortillas:
Take your tortillas and lay them flat on a clean countertop or cutting board. Start by evenly distributing the shredded lettuce and thinly sliced red cabbage onto each tortilla. This will make a fresh base for your yummy fillings!
3. Adding the Good Stuff:
Now, it’s time to add the flavorful mixture! Spoon the chicken mix right on top of the lettuce and cabbage. Don’t forget to add the creamy avocado slices and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. This layer will add a fantastic taste and texture to your wraps!
4. Wrapping it Up:
Carefully wrap each tortilla tightly. Make sure to fold in the sides as you go to enclose all the tasty filling inside. This will help keep everything secure while cooking!
5. Grilling the Wraps:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and either coat it with olive oil or use cooking spray. Once heated, place the wraps seam-side down in the skillet. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Serving:
Once they’re done, remove the wraps from the skillet and let them cool for a minute. Then, slice each wrap in half and serve warm. If you like, garnish with fresh cilantro and offer some extra dressing for dipping. Enjoy your crunchy Southwestern chicken wraps!
Can I Use Different Types of Tortillas?
Absolutely! You can use whole wheat, spinach, or gluten-free tortillas as a substitute for flour tortillas. Just make sure they’re large enough to hold all the delicious fillings!
What Dressing Can I Substitute for Southwestern-Style Dressing?
If you don’t have southwestern-style dressing, ranch or a homemade chipotle mayo works wonderfully! To make a quick chipotle mayo, mix mayonnaise with a little chipotle sauce or powder for a spicy kick.
Can I Prepare This Wrap Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the wraps without grilling, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, just grill them in the skillet until heated through and crispy!
How Should I Store Leftover Wraps?
Store any leftover wraps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat until they’re warmed through and crispy again. You can also microwave them, but they may get a bit soft.
