Description
A Southwest Chicken Wrap is a flavorful and satisfying handheld meal that brings together the bold tastes of the Southwest. Tender, grilled chicken is paired with zesty ingredients like black beans, corn, fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, and avocado, all wrapped in a soft flour tortilla. For an extra kick, it’s typically topped with a creamy dressing like ranch or a spicy chipotle mayo, and sometimes even a sprinkle of cheese or cilantro. This wrap is not only packed with vibrant flavors and textures but is also a versatile meal perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. It’s a deliciously fresh, healthy, and filling option that’s sure to please anyone craving a tasty, on-the-go meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the wrap, lean chicken breasts provide a solid source of protein. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For grilling the chicken and adding a bit of healthy fat.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds smokiness and heat.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: A warm spice that complements the chili powder.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: For an extra layer of flavor and a mild smokiness.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: A savory touch to round out the spice mix.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the chicken.
For the Wrap:
- 4 whole-wheat tortillas: Whole-wheat tortillas add fiber and nutrients to the wrap, but you can use regular flour tortillas if preferred. Gluten-free tortillas are also an option.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce: A fresh, crunchy base that adds volume and nutrients.
- 1 medium tomato, diced: Adds juiciness and a touch of sweetness.
- 1 avocado, sliced: For creaminess and healthy fats.
- ½ cup shredded cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend work well for this wrap.
- 1 cup corn kernels: Fresh or frozen corn adds sweetness and texture. You can also use roasted corn for a smokier flavor.
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced: Adds crunch and a mild sharpness to balance the richness of the chicken and avocado.
For the Southwest Dressing:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor to the dressing.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: For richness and to help balance the tang of the yogurt.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Fresh lime juice adds a citrusy kick.
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce: Adds heat and spice. You can adjust this depending on how spicy you like your wraps.
- 1 teaspoon honey: A touch of sweetness to balance out the spiciness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For extra depth of flavor in the dressing.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
Instructions
First Step: PREPARE THE CHICKEN
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly onto both sides of each chicken breast.
- Grill the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist. After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
Second Step: MAKE THE SOUTHWEST DRESSING
- Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, hot sauce, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If you want more heat, add more hot sauce. For extra tang, you can add more lime juice or a pinch of salt.
- Chill the Dressing: Refrigerate the dressing for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This will enhance the overall taste of the wrap.
Third Step: ASSEMBLE THE WRAPS
- Warm the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas on a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or microwave them for 10-15 seconds to make them more pliable.
- Layer the Ingredients: Lay each warm tortilla on a flat surface and start by adding a small handful of shredded lettuce in the center. Top with a few slices of grilled chicken, followed by diced tomato, corn, red onion, avocado, and shredded cheese.
- Add the Dressing: Drizzle a generous amount of Southwest dressing over the ingredients. Be careful not to overdo it, as the dressing is quite flavorful and can make the wrap soggy if too much is added.
- Wrap It Up: Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it tightly from the bottom to enclose the filling. Repeat this process for each wrap.
Final Step: SERVE AND ENJOY
- Slice and Serve: Slice each wrap in half on a diagonal for a visually appealing presentation. Serve immediately with extra dressing on the side for dipping, if desired.
- Optional Garnishes: Top with fresh cilantro, extra lime wedges, or a sprinkle of chili powder for added flair. These small touches elevate the flavor and make your wraps look even more appetizing.
- Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 38g