This tasty Crunchy Southwestern Chicken Wrap is a wonderful mix of juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and zesty Southwest spices, all wrapped up for easy eating! It’s packed with flavor and crunch.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great choice for its flavor and ease. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use shredded turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian take.
Corn: Both canned and frozen corn work well. If you’re looking for something unique, try using black beans or fresh corn when it’s in season for a crunchier texture.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds a sweet flavor and nice color. You can substitute it with yellow or orange bell peppers, or even diced jalapeños if you like some heat!
Mixed Greens or Spinach: Use any leafy greens you have on hand. Kale or arugula can also add a nice twist. They might change the flavor a bit, but it’ll be deliciously interesting.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar is a staple, but I love using pepper jack for a kick. If you want to be dairy-free, try using a plant-based cheese instead or leave it out altogether.
Flour Tortillas: While I prefer large flour tortillas for their flexibility, whole wheat or corn tortillas can also work great. They may bring different flavors to your wrap!
How Do I Make Sure My Wrap Stays Together?
Securing your wrap is crucial to avoid spilling any filling when you bite in. Here’s how to keep everything in place:
- Don’t overfill the tortilla! A heaping handful of filling is plenty.
- Start folding by bringing the sides over toward the center, then tightly roll from the bottom up.
- Make sure the seam is at the bottom when grilling, which helps hold everything together.
And if you use a bit of cheese inside, it serves as a glue when melted, helping to keep your wrap nice and secure!
How to Make Crunchy Southwestern Chicken Wraps
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Wrap:
- 1 cup mixed greens or spinach
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for grilling)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious wrap takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 5-10 minutes if you choose to grill them. Overall, you can have your Crunchy Southwestern Chicken Wraps ready in just about 20-25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, corn, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and salsa. Sprinkle in half of the shredded cheese and season with salt and pepper. Give it a good mix until everything is well combined. This filling is going to be packed with flavor!
2. Assemble the Wraps:
Lay out each tortilla on a flat, clean surface. In the center of each tortilla, add a generous portion of the chicken mixture. Top it off with a handful of mixed greens or spinach, a few slices of avocado, and a sprinkle of the remaining shredded cheese. This combination of ingredients is not only tasty but also colorful!
3. Roll Them Up:
Now it’s time to wrap! Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling first, then roll it up tightly from the bottom. Make sure the filling is fully secured inside. If you’ve done it right, the ends shouldn’t spill out.
4. Grill the Wraps (Optional):
If you want to make your wraps crispy and warm, preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease it with olive oil or cooking spray. Place the wraps seam side down on the grill, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until they are golden and crispy. Flip them carefully and do the same on the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your wraps are done, remove them from the heat and slice each wrap in half diagonally. Serve them with additional salsa and a dollop of sour cream on the side for dipping. Get ready to enjoy your Crunchy Southwestern Chicken Wraps!
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Tofu or Another Protein?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with firm tofu. Just press and cube the tofu, then sauté until golden. Alternatively, you could use shredded pork, beef, or beans for a different protein source. Just adjust cooking times as necessary!
Can I Make These Wraps Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep these wraps ahead of time! Assemble them without grilling and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, pop them on a grill or skillet to heat them up and get that crunchy exterior.
How Do I Store Leftover Wraps?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the wraps from getting soggy, you might want to separate the filling from the tortilla or store them in a way that minimizes moisture exposure.
What Can I Use Instead of Flour Tortillas?
For a healthier option, you can use whole wheat tortillas or corn tortillas. I’ve also seen people use lettuce leaves for a low-carb version! Just be mindful that not all alternatives will hold the filling as well, so choose based on your preference for sturdiness and flavor.
