Southwest Chicken Wraps are a delicious and popular meal, known for their bold flavors and versatility. These wraps combine seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and tangy sauces, making them a convenient option for a quick lunch or dinner. The blend of spices and textures provides a satisfying and flavorful eating experience. Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prepping, these wraps cater to various dietary preferences and can be customized with different ingredients to suit individual tastes. Enjoy the convenience and robust flavor of this delightful dish!

Why Make This Chipotle Chicken Wrap

The Chipotle Chicken Wrap is a must-try for several compelling reasons. Firstly, its flavor is unparalleled, combining smoky chipotle, tender chicken, and fresh veggies for a vibrant taste. The recipe is straightforward and quick, making it ideal for busy individuals or families. Additionally, it’s perfect for meal prep; you can prepare multiple wraps in advance and store them for easy, grab-and-go meals throughout the week. Versatility is another benefit, as you can easily customize the ingredients to suit dietary preferences or use up leftovers, ensuring you enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal every time.

Ingredients Needed

Detailed List of Ingredients:

1. Chicken Breast
   • Provides lean protein and a tender base for the wrap.
2. Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce
   • Adds a smoky, spicy flavor essential to the wrap’s distinct taste.
3. Lime Juice
   • Enhances the flavor with a tangy freshness.
4. Olive Oil
   • Used for marinating the chicken, adding richness and aiding in cooking.
5. Garlic Powder
   • Adds depth and savory notes to the seasoning.
6. Onion Powder
   • Complements the garlic powder for a fuller flavor profile.
7. Cumin
   • Brings a warm, earthy flavor that’s characteristic of Southwest cuisine.
8. Paprika
   • Adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the color of the chicken.
9. Salt and Pepper
   • Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of all ingredients.
10. Large Tortillas
    • Serves as the wrap base, holding all ingredients together.
11. Romaine Lettuce
    • Adds a fresh, crisp texture to the wrap.
12. Tomatoes
    • Provides juiciness and a sweet, acidic balance.
13. Red Onion
    • Adds a sharp, crunchy element to the wrap.
14. Avocado
    • Adds creaminess and healthy fats, enriching the wrap’s texture and flavor.
15. Cheese (Optional)
    • Adds a rich, creamy component; cheddar or cotija are good choices.
16. Cilantro (Optional)
    • Adds a fresh, herbal note that complements the other flavors.

Explanation of Each Ingredient’s Role:

• Chicken Breast: Main protein component, providing substance and nutrition.
• Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: Central to the wrap’s smoky, spicy flavor.
• Lime Juice: Balances the flavors with acidity and freshness.
• Olive Oil: Used for marinating and cooking, adding richness.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Fundamental seasonings that add depth.
• Cumin & Paprika: Enhance the wrap’s Southwest flavor profile.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings.
• Large Tortillas: The wrap base that holds everything together.
• Romaine Lettuce, Tomatoes, Red Onion: Provide fresh, crunchy textures.
• Avocado: Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
• Cheese & Cilantro: Optional ingredients for added richness and freshness.

Recipe Variations

Different Ways to Customize the Wrap:

1. Alternative Proteins:
   • Beef or Pork: Use grilled or shredded beef/pork for a different flavor profile.
   • Shrimp: Marinate and grill shrimp for a seafood twist.
   • Tofu or Tempeh: Use these for a vegetarian option, seasoned similarly to the chicken.
2. Vegan Options:
   • Chickpeas or Black Beans: Replace the chicken with seasoned chickpeas or black beans.
   • Vegan Cheese: Substitute dairy cheese with a plant-based alternative.
3. Tortilla Substitutes:
   • Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
   • Whole Wheat or Spinach Tortillas: Add variety and nutritional benefits.
4. Additional Toppings:
   • Corn or Black Beans: Add for extra texture and flavor.
   • Salsa or Pico de Gallo: Increase freshness and add a zesty kick.
   • Jalapeños: For extra spice.
5. Flavor Enhancements:
   • Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: Use as a creamy dressing.
   • Hot Sauce: For added heat.

Steps to Make

Step-by-Step Guide on Preparing the Wrap:

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • In a bowl, combine lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated with the marinade.
   • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, until fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
   • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice into thin strips.
3. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • While the chicken is cooking, chop the romaine lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and avocado.
   • If using cheese and cilantro, shred the cheese and chop the cilantro.
4. Assemble the Wraps:
   • Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
   • Place a few strips of chicken in the center.
   • Add a handful of lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and avocado slices.
   • Sprinkle with cheese and cilantro if using.
5. Wrap and Serve:
   • Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling.
   • Roll the tortilla tightly from the bottom to secure the wrap.
   • Serve immediately or wrap in foil for later consumption.

Tips for Ensuring the Best Results:

• Marinating Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
• Cooking Technique: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
• Tortilla Preparation: Warm the tortillas slightly before assembling to make them more pliable and easier to roll.
• Assembly Order: Place ingredients evenly to ensure each bite is balanced with chicken and vegetables.

Southwest Wrap Tips

Assembling the Wraps:

1. Ingredient Placement:
   • Distribute ingredients evenly to ensure a balanced bite.
   • Layer ingredients strategically, starting with lettuce to prevent the tortilla from getting soggy.
2. Wrapping Technique:
   • Fold the sides in first, then roll from the bottom up, keeping the wrap tight.

Storing the Wraps:

1. Refrigeration:
   • Wrap each assembled wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
   • Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing:
   • Assemble the wraps without fresh vegetables or sauces.
   • Wrap in plastic and foil, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating and Serving:

1. Reheating:
   • Microwave: Unwrap and heat for 1-2 minutes.
   • Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for 10-15 minutes.
2. Serving:
   • Add fresh vegetables and sauces after reheating.
   • Serve with a side of salsa, guacamole, or a light salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Pairings

Side Dishes:

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad:
   • A tangy and creamy salad made with grilled corn, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, and chili powder. This dish adds a refreshing and flavorful complement to the wraps.
2. Black Bean and Mango Salsa:
   • A vibrant and sweet salsa combining black beans, mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. It provides a fresh and slightly sweet contrast to the spicy chicken wraps.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice:
   • Fluffy rice infused with lime juice and fresh cilantro. This side dish adds a zesty and aromatic element that pairs well with the wraps’ flavors.
4. Guacamole and Chips:
   • Creamy guacamole served with crispy tortilla chips. The smooth texture of the guacamole and the crunch of the chips create a delightful pairing.

Beverage Pairings:

1. Classic Margarita:
   • A refreshing mix of tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur, served over ice. The citrusy notes of the margarita complement the smoky and spicy flavors of the wrap.
2. Agua Fresca:
   • A light, non-alcoholic beverage made from blended fruit, water, and a touch of sugar. Popular options like watermelon or cucumber-lime agua fresca offer a refreshing contrast to the wraps.
3. Mexican Beer:
   • A cold Mexican lager, such as Corona or Modelo, provides a crisp and refreshing accompaniment to the rich and spicy wrap.

Other Wraps to Enjoy

Introduction to Other Wrap Recipes:

Exploring different wrap recipes can add variety and excitement to your meal plan. Here are a few other delicious wrap options that you might enjoy:

1. Mediterranean Hummus Wrap:
   • This wrap features hummus, fresh veggies, olives, and feta cheese for a tangy and satisfying meal.
2. Thai Chicken Wrap:
   • A flavorful wrap with grilled chicken, peanut sauce, fresh herbs, and crunchy veggies.
3. Buffalo Chicken Wrap:
   • Spicy buffalo chicken, ranch dressing, lettuce, and cheddar cheese create a bold and creamy wrap.
4. Vegetarian Black Bean Wrap:
   • A hearty wrap with black beans, corn, avocado, and a zesty lime dressing.
5. Turkey Club Wrap:
   • Sliced turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and avocado wrapped in a tortilla for a classic club sandwich in wrap form.

Recipe FAQs

Common Questions and Answers

1. Can I adjust the spice level?
   • Yes, you can easily adjust the spice level by using fewer chipotle peppers or removing the seeds from the peppers. Alternatively, add a mild salsa or yogurt-based sauce to tone down the heat.
2. How should I store the wraps?
   • Store assembled wraps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If preparing in advance, store components separately to maintain freshness and texture.
3. Can I freeze the wraps?
   • Yes, you can freeze the wraps. Assemble without fresh vegetables or sauces, wrap in plastic and then in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Add fresh veggies and sauces after reheating.
4. What are good substitutions for chicken?
   • Substitute chicken with tofu, tempeh, shrimp, or beans for different dietary preferences. Marinate and cook these substitutes similarly to the chicken.
5. How do I prevent the wraps from getting soggy?
   • Ensure that vegetables are well-dried before adding them to the wrap. Place ingredients that release moisture, like tomatoes, in the middle to avoid contact with the tortilla.
6. What type of cheese works best?
   • Cheddar, cotija, or Monterey Jack cheese works well in these wraps, adding a creamy and tangy flavor that complements the spices.
7. Can I make this wrap gluten-free?
   • Yes, use gluten-free tortillas or large lettuce leaves as a wrap alternative.
8. How can I make the wraps more filling?
   • Add ingredients like black beans, corn, quinoa, or brown rice to make the wraps heartier and more filling.
9. Is it possible to make the wrap vegan?
   • Absolutely! Use tofu, tempeh, or beans instead of chicken, and substitute dairy cheese with vegan cheese.

Conclusion

The Southwest Chicken Wrap is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that boasts bold flavors and a satisfying mix of textures. By combining seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and tangy sauces, this wrap offers a versatile and convenient option for any meal. Whether you customize it with different proteins or adapt it to dietary preferences, this wrap remains a crowd-pleaser. We encourage you to try this recipe, experiment with the variations, and share your feedback. Enjoy the taste and convenience of this flavorful wrap!

Southwest Chicken Wrap

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• Author: Christine

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A flavorful and convenient meal, the Southwest Chicken Wrap combines seasoned chicken, fresh veggies, and tangy sauces wrapped in a soft tortilla. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this wrap is easy to prepare and highly customizable.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For The Chicken

• .75 lb chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, *see notes
• ¼ cup lime juice , about one lime
• ½ tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp salt , *more as needed
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 Tbsp chipotle pepper in adobo , *see notes

Southwest Wrap

• 4 large tortillas
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 1 small red bell pepper
• 1 jalapeño
• ½ red onion, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp olive oil , to sauté the veggies
• ¾ cup thawed or fresh corn kernels
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• ¼ cup cotija cheese

Southwest Crema

• ⅓ cup sour cream , *see notes
• 1½ Tbsp honey
• ½–1 Tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo
• 1 Tbsp lime juice
• 3 Tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1–2 Tbsp water, *to thin the crema a bit
• ¼ tsp salt

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Instructions

• Pat the chicken dry and dice into small bite sized pieces. Add the chicken to a large bowl. Add in marinade ingredients, oil, seasonings, lime juice and chipotle pepper. Mix the chicken really well so it’s evenly coated. Let the chicken sit for 15 minutes or up to 24 hours.
• While the chicken is marinating, start to make rice (cook according to the package) and prepare all the wrap ingredients, including the sauce/crema. To make the sauce, add all of the sauce ingredients to a high speed blender or food processor. I use this one for smaller amounts of foods like dressings.
• Slice the veggies and mince the garlic. In a large skillet, add the marinated chicken and sauté on medium heat for about 12-15 minutes or until chicken bites are cooked through. Set cooked chicken aside.
• Wipe the pan clean with a paper towel and add in chopped peppers and onions and ½ tsp of oil to sauté the veggies. Sauté for about 8 minutes add the garlic, and turn the heat down to low. Add the cooked chicken to the skillet and just let it warm a smidge, *do not over cook it*, just bring it back to temp.
• Once the chicken and veggies are warmed through, heat up your tortillas or wraps and start to stuff them. Start with rice, chicken, veggies, beans, corn, cheese and drizzle a generous amount of sauce over all the ingredients.
• Wrap the chipotle chicken and southwest ingredients up tightly like you would a burrito. Add more sauce as needed and enjoy!

Notes

• Marination: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes.
• Spice Level: Adjust the number of chipotle peppers to control the heat.
• Storage: Store assembled wraps in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze without fresh veggies and sauces for up to 2 months.
• Customization: Feel free to substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or beans to suit dietary preferences.