Experience an explosion of flavor and convenience with these incredible Southwest Chicken Wraps! Perfectly crafted for busy schedules, these vibrant wraps are ready in just 15 minutes, making them an ideal solution for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a satisfying snack on the go. Dive into a delightful combination of seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, crunchy tortilla strips, and a zesty homemade sauce, all nestled in a soft tortilla.
Quick & Flavorful: Your Go-To 15-Minute Southwest Chicken Wraps
Life moves fast, and finding time for wholesome, delicious meals can be a challenge. That’s where these Southwest Chicken Wraps come in! I’ve been completely captivated by the versatility and ease of sandwich wraps lately, and this Southwest iteration has truly become a household favorite. What I love most is how effortlessly they come together – a mere 15 minutes from prep to plate – yet they deliver such incredible flavor and satisfying fullness. Beyond their speed and taste, these wraps are wonderfully adaptable. Whether you’re aiming for a low-carb option, need a gluten-free alternative, or want to experiment with different fillings, this recipe provides the perfect canvas. It’s an easy way to infuse your meals with a unique, personal touch that will have everyone asking for more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Southwest Chicken Wraps
Tortilla strips, often used as salad toppers, are typically located in the aisle with salad dressings and croutons. You might also find them in the produce section near other salad accouterments. If your local store doesn’t carry them, don’t fret! You can easily substitute regular corn tortilla chips (crushed), or for a flavor boost, try crushing up some Nacho Cheese Doritos for that extra zesty kick. This adds a fantastic texture and depth to your wraps!
For ultimate convenience and speed, I often use pre-cooked frozen grilled chicken strips, like the Tyson brand, which I simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator. You can also follow the package instructions to warm them from frozen if you’re short on time. Alternatively, many grocery stores offer pre-cooked grilled chicken in their refrigerated deli section, which is another excellent grab-and-go option. The key is to have fully cooked, seasoned chicken that can be easily sliced or shredded for the wraps. This flexibility ensures you can whip up these wraps even on your busiest days.
Absolutely! These wraps are an ideal way to use up leftover grilled, baked, or pan-fried chicken you might have from a previous meal. Rotisserie chicken is another fantastic choice; it’s already cooked, seasoned, and wonderfully tender, saving you even more time. Just shred or chop it to your desired size, and you’re good to go. This makes the recipe not only quick but also budget-friendly and helps reduce food waste.
In my opinion, the creamy, zesty homemade sauce is an absolute must-have for these Southwest Chicken Wraps! It perfectly ties all the flavors together and elevates the entire dish, making it “flipping good,” as I like to say. I highly recommend not skipping it, and even consider making extra to serve on the side as a dipping sauce. However, if you’re looking for alternatives, sour cream, guacamole, Catalina dressing, or your favorite salsa can be used in place of the mixed sauce. You could even combine some of these for a customized flavor profile.
These Southwest Chicken Wraps are substantial enough to be a meal on their own, especially with their generous fillings. However, if you’re looking to round out your meal, they pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with classic options like potato chips or French fries for a satisfying crunch. For a healthier touch, a simple green salad, raw vegetable sticks (like carrots, celery, or bell peppers) with a dip, or a cup of your favorite soup would complement the wraps beautifully. Fresh fruit or a light fruit salad also makes for a refreshing accompaniment.
While these wraps are truly at their best when enjoyed immediately after assembly, due to the fresh ingredients, some components can be prepped ahead. I generally don’t recommend assembling the wraps too far in advance, as the tortilla strips can become soggy, and the lettuce might wilt, compromising the delicious texture. If you plan to pack them for lunch, assemble them right before you leave, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and keep them chilled with an ice pack in an insulated lunchbox. For partial meal prep, you can chop your lettuce and tomatoes, shred your cheese, and mix the sauce a day or two in advance, storing each component separately in airtight containers. This way, assembly takes only minutes when you’re ready to eat.
Similar to making them ahead, these wraps are designed for immediate enjoyment. Leftovers are generally not recommended if they are fully assembled, as the fresh lettuce and crunchy tortilla strips will quickly lose their desirable texture and become soggy after an extended period. If you do have leftovers and absolutely must store them, disassemble the wrap and store the chicken, sauce, and dry ingredients (cheese, tortilla strips) separately in airtight containers. Keep the lettuce and tomatoes in their own container. Reassemble just before eating for the best possible experience, although the freshness won’t be quite the same as a freshly made wrap.
Essential Ingredients for Your Southwest Chicken Wraps
Crafting the perfect Southwest Chicken Wrap starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating that signature flavor and satisfying texture. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and some tips for making the best choices:
Ingredients Needed:
- Sour Cream: This forms the creamy base of our incredible sauce. For a lighter, tangier alternative, you can absolutely substitute an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt, which also boosts the protein content.
- Salsa: Use your absolute favorite brand and preferred spice level for the salsa. I personally enjoy the vibrant flavor of Herdez brand salsa, but any good quality salsa will work beautifully to add that essential zesty, tomato-based goodness to your sauce.
- Taco Seasoning: This is the secret weapon for a fantastic burst of authentic Southwest flavor. You can opt for a convenient store-bought taco seasoning mix, or for a fresher, customizable taste, whip up a batch of homemade taco seasoning. It truly ties the sauce together and enhances the overall profile of the wraps.
- Chopped Lettuce: For best results, choose a sturdy lettuce variety like romaine, green leaf, or even iceberg. These types hold up well to the other ingredients and provide a satisfying crunch without wilting too quickly. Avoid delicate varieties if you anticipate eating the wraps later.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Classic shredded cheddar cheese offers a familiar, savory flavor and excellent meltability. However, don’t hesitate to get creative with your cheese choice! For those who love a bit of heat, shredded pepper jack cheese is an outstanding alternative, adding a delightful spicy kick. Colby Jack or Monterey Jack are also fantastic options for a milder, creamier texture.
- Tortilla Strips: These crunchy gems add a wonderful textural contrast to the soft fillings. Look for them in the salad topping aisle. If you’re not a fan of crunch, or simply prefer a softer wrap, feel free to omit them entirely. As mentioned, crushed tortilla chips or even Doritos can be used as a fun substitute.
- Burrito-Sized Tortillas: The foundation of our wrap! Burrito-sized tortillas are ideal as they are large enough to comfortably hold all the delicious fillings. You have plenty of options here: traditional flour tortillas, whole wheat for added fiber, gluten-free tortillas for dietary needs, low-carb options, or even spinach or tomato-flavored tortillas to add a touch of color and subtle flavor. Have fun choosing your favorite!
- Grilled Chicken: For ultimate convenience, pre-cooked, store-bought grilled chicken strips are fantastic. Simply thaw them if frozen, and they’re ready to go. This recipe is also perfect for utilizing any leftover grilled chicken you might have on hand, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for an extra juicy and flavorful protein.
- Diced Tomatoes (Optional, but recommended): While not explicitly listed in the original ingredients list, diced tomatoes (as seen in the ingredient photo) add a burst of freshness, color, and a slight tang to the wraps. Use fresh, ripe tomatoes, finely diced, or even drained canned diced tomatoes in a pinch.
How to Assemble Your Delicious Southwest Chicken Wraps
Get ready to create some magic in your kitchen! These wraps are incredibly simple to put together, ensuring a quick and satisfying meal. Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect Southwest Chicken Wraps every time:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Zesty Southwest Sauce: In a small mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, your favorite salsa, and the taco seasoning. Whisk these ingredients together until they are fully blended and smooth. This creates a creamy, flavorful sauce that will be the heart of your wraps. Set the bowl aside for later.
- Create the Flavorful Filling Mixture: Take a large mixing bowl and add the chopped sturdy lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese), fresh diced tomatoes (if using), and the crunchy tortilla strips. Now, spoon about 2 tablespoons of the homemade Southwest sauce you just prepared into this bowl. Gently toss all the ingredients together until they are lightly coated with the sauce. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain the crispness of the lettuce and tortilla strips.
- Prepare Your Tortilla and First Layer: Lay one burrito-sized tortilla flat on a clean surface or cutting board. Scoop approximately one-quarter of the prepared lettuce mixture and carefully place it in the bottom center portion of the tortilla. This will form the base of your wrap.
- Add the Chicken Protein: On top of the lettuce mixture, arrange about one-quarter of your grilled chicken slices or shredded chicken. Distribute it evenly over the filling to ensure every bite has delicious chicken.
- Master the Art of Rolling: To create a neat and secure wrap, start by folding the two outer sides of the tortilla inward, overlapping them slightly over the filling. Next, tightly roll the tortilla from the bottom upwards, keeping all the fillings tucked in. Continue rolling until you have a compact, “little package.” The tighter you roll, the less likely your fillings are to escape!
- Slice and Serve: Once rolled, place the wrap seam-side down on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the wrap in half, usually on a diagonal, to reveal the beautiful layers of filling. Repeat the assembly process for the remaining tortillas and fillings until all four wraps are complete. Serve your freshly made Southwest Chicken Wraps immediately, and don’t forget to offer any extra homemade dressing on the side for dipping – it’s truly a game-changer!
These Southwest Chicken Wraps are not just a meal; they’re an experience – quick, customizable, and bursting with incredible flavors that will satisfy your cravings every time. Enjoy the process of making them and the delight of eating them!
Tips and Variations for Your Southwest Chicken Wraps
One of the best aspects of these Southwest Chicken Wraps is their incredible versatility. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and techniques to perfectly match your taste and dietary preferences:
- Spice It Up: If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to your sour cream mixture. Finely diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the filling can also bring an exciting kick.
- Vegetarian Twist: Easily make these wraps vegetarian by replacing the chicken with seasoned black beans, grilled halloumi cheese, roasted sweet potatoes, or even plant-based chicken substitutes.
- Boost the Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value and texture by adding other finely diced vegetables like corn (fresh or canned), black olives, bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), or red onion.
- Low-Carb Options: For a low-carb version, swap traditional tortillas for large lettuce leaves (like butter lettuce or iceberg), low-carb tortillas, or serve the filling in a bowl as a salad.
- Gluten-Free Friendly: Simply ensure you use certified gluten-free tortillas and double-check your taco seasoning for any hidden gluten to make this recipe completely gluten-free.
- Cheese Varieties: Beyond cheddar and pepper jack, try using a Mexican blend cheese, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked gouda for a unique flavor.
- Flavorful Additions: Consider adding a spoonful of corn and black bean salsa to your wraps for an extra layer of texture and flavor, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a bright, herbaceous note.
- Warm or Cold: These wraps are delicious served cold, especially on a hot day. However, if you prefer a warm wrap, briefly warm your tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave before assembling.
Craving More Easy & Delicious Recipes?
If you loved these Southwest Chicken Wraps, you’re in for a treat! Our collection is full of quick, family-friendly meals that are bursting with flavor. Explore some of our other popular recipes below and find your next favorite:
- Big Mac Wraps
- Buffalo Chicken Wraps
- Greek Chicken Gyros
- Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
- Kmart Subs
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Southwest Chicken Wraps
You’ll love these Southwest Chicken Wraps that are stuffed with flavor and ready in only 15 minutes! Perfect for lunch on the go!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
For the sauce:
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup salsa
- 1 Tablespoon taco seasoning
For the wraps:
- 2 cups chopped lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup salad topped tortilla strips
- 4 burrito-sized tortillas
- 1 pound grilled chicken, sliced
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, salsa, and taco seasoning. Set aside.
- Add the lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, and tortilla strips in a large bowl. Add about 2 tablespoons of the sauce and gently stir to coat.
- Lay out a tortilla and add ¼ of the lettuce mixture into the bottom center of the wrap. Then place ¼ of the chicken on top.
- Fold the two outer sides over the filling, then tightly roll from bottom to top to make a little package.
- Cut the wrap in half, then make the remaining tortillas. Serve with the extra dressing on the side for dipping, if desired.
Notes
- Please refer to the FAQ’s and ingredient list above for other substitutions or for the answers to the most common questions.
- Use a more sturdy lettuce like green leaf or romaine for best results.
- If you don’t have or can’t find the tortilla strips, you can crush up regular tortillas or even your favorite Doritos for a flavorful crunch.
- Other cheeses that would be delicious include Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for a spicy twist.
- Use Catalina dressing or just sour cream if you prefer not to make the homemade dressing. Guacamole or salsa also work well as alternatives.
- I used frozen, store-bought grilled chicken, thawed overnight in the fridge and used cold for convenience.
- This recipe is perfect for using up any leftover cooked chicken you may have on hand, or for easily incorporating rotisserie chicken.
- For the best quality and texture, these wraps should ideally be consumed right away. The tortilla strips may become soggy, and the lettuce may wilt if they sit too long.
- If preparing these to carry for lunch, wrap them well with plastic wrap and keep them in a bag with a cool pack. It’s best to assemble them on the day you plan to eat them, if possible.
Course: Appetizer, Lunch, Snack
Cuisine: American
Nutrition
Calories: 645 kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 39g | Sodium: 902mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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