Introduction

Cheesy Chicken Wraps are a simple, delicious, and versatile meal that combines tender chicken with melty cheese and fresh vegetables, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or a crowd-pleasing party snack, these wraps are sure to hit the spot. The blend of savory chicken, gooey cheese, and the perfect mix of spices makes these wraps both flavorful and comforting. They’re easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite fillings, making them a go-to recipe for busy families or meal prepping. Serve them with a side of salsa, guacamole, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

The History of Cheesy Chicken Wraps

While wraps have been a part of various culinary traditions for centuries, the modern “cheesy chicken wrap” as we know it today became popular in the United States during the 20th century with the rise of fast-casual restaurants. Inspired by the burrito, a traditional Mexican dish that uses tortillas as a base, the cheesy chicken wrap incorporates grilled or seasoned chicken along with melted cheese and other fillings. This fusion of flavors made it an easy-to-make, satisfying meal. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, as Tex-Mex cuisine gained popularity, cheesy wraps became an iconic dish, often served with toppings like salsa and sour cream. Their simplicity, ease of preparation, and customization potential made them a hit in homes and restaurants alike.

Ingredients Breakdown

Chicken Breasts (2 boneless, skinless): The star of the wrap, chicken breasts are lean and easy to cook. You can grill, sauté, or even bake the chicken for a versatile flavor base.
Tortillas (4, 8-inch flour or whole wheat): The soft shell that holds all the ingredients together. Flour tortillas are most commonly used, but you can use whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas for a healthier alternative.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 ½ cups): Adds a rich, gooey melt that binds the wrap together and complements the chicken. You can also mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
Lettuce (1 cup, shredded): Provides freshness and a crunchy texture that balances the richness of the cheese and chicken.
Tomato (1 medium, diced): Adds a fresh, juicy bite that contrasts nicely with the creamy cheese and savory chicken.
Onion (¼ cup, finely chopped): Adds a bit of sharpness and depth of flavor. You can use red, yellow, or green onions based on your preference.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Elevates the flavor profile with its savory, aromatic kick.
Sour Cream (½ cup): A cool, creamy addition to enhance the flavor and balance out the spiciness.
Cilantro (optional, for garnish): Adds a burst of fresh flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Used for sautéing the chicken or drizzling over the wraps for added richness.
Spices (1 tsp cumin, ½ tsp chili powder, ¼ tsp paprika): A flavorful spice blend that adds depth and a mild heat to the chicken. Adjust the spices according to your personal taste preferences.
Salt & Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of the dish.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Shred the lettuce, dice the tomato, and finely chop the onion.
Mince the garlic and set it aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Wraps

Warm the tortillas slightly in a dry skillet or microwave to make them more pliable.
Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface and spread a spoonful of sour cream in the center.
Layer the shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, and sliced chicken on top of the sour cream.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, allowing it to melt slightly as it warms up from the hot chicken.

Step 4: Roll the Wraps

Carefully fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to seal in all the fillings.
Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and ingredients.

Step 5: Serve

Slice the wraps in half at a slight angle and serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as salsa, guacamole, or additional sour cream. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor and a pop of color.

Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Chicken Wraps

Use Fresh Tortillas: Fresh, soft tortillas are ideal for wraps. If you can, use homemade or freshly bought tortillas for the best flavor and texture.
Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers, corn, or black beans for additional flavor and texture.
Grill the Chicken: For extra flavor, grill the chicken instead of sautéing it. Grilled chicken will have a smoky char that adds depth to the wraps.
Cheese Variety: Don’t limit yourself to just cheddar. You can mix cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for a more complex flavor.
Make It Spicy: If you like heat, add a sliced jalapeño or some hot sauce to the wraps for an extra kick.
Toast the Wraps: After assembling the wraps, you can toast them in the pan for a minute or two on each side to create a crispy, golden exterior.

Variations and Customizations

BBQ Chicken Wraps: Swap the seasonings for a barbecue sauce glaze and add grilled onions and pickles for a Southern twist.
Buffalo Chicken Wraps: Toss the cooked chicken in buffalo sauce before assembling the wraps, and add blue cheese crumbles for a tangy contrast.
Vegetarian Wraps: For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, and use a plant-based cheese.
Breakfast Wraps: Add scrambled eggs to the chicken and cheese mixture for a hearty breakfast or brunch wrap.
Mexican-Inspired Wraps: Swap sour cream for guacamole, and add black beans, corn, and a squeeze of lime for a delicious Mexican-style wrap.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

Cheesy Chicken Wraps are a balanced meal, but they can be made healthier with a few adjustments:

Calories: Each wrap typically contains around 400-500 calories, depending on the ingredients and portion size.
Fat: The cheese and sour cream contribute a significant amount of fat. You can reduce the fat by using reduced-fat cheese, sour cream, or yogurt.
Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, making this a filling meal.
Carbs: The tortillas contribute most of the carbohydrates. You can opt for whole wheat or low-carb tortillas to reduce the carb content.
Fiber: Adding extra vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or spinach can increase the fiber content of the wraps.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-free version of the wrap.

FAQ

Q1: Can I make these wraps ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables in advance and store them in separate containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the wraps just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.

Q2: Can I freeze these wraps?
You can freeze the wraps by wrapping them individually in foil or plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer bag. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave them for 2-3 minutes.

Q3: Can I use a different protein?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with grilled beef, turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian or pescatarian option.

Q4: Can I make the wraps spicier?
To make the wraps spicier, add more chili powder, paprika, or fresh jalapeños. You can also serve with a spicy salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick.

Cheesy Chicken Wraps

Cheesy Chicken Wraps are a quick, customizable meal featuring tender chicken, gooey cheese, and fresh vegetables all wrapped in a soft tortilla. They are versatile, easy to make, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or snacking.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Ingredients

4 cooked chicken breasts about 600g – see notes
325 g sweetcorn 1 can, drained
½ red onion finely chopped
100 g cream cheese
2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
125 g grated mozzarella or cheddar, see notes
4 large wraps
1 tablespoon sunflower oil optional, for frying
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

If you’re using whole chicken breasts or chunks of meat, shred the chicken using two forks or a mixer (as seen in the video for a quick hack).
Place the shredded chicken in a large bowl.

Mix the Filling:

Add the sweetcorn, finely chopped red onion, cream cheese, barbecue sauce, and grated cheese to the bowl with the chicken.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until fully combined.

Assemble the Wraps:

Divide the chicken mixture evenly between the wraps.
Spoon the mixture into the center of each wrap.
Fold the sides of the wrap inward and tightly roll it up.

Optional – Serve or Fry:

For immediate serving: You can serve the wraps as is, or refrigerate them for later use (perfect for picnics or lunches).
For frying: Heat the sunflower oil (if using) in a sauté pan over medium-low heat.
Add the wraps and fry for about 4-5 minutes until golden on one side.
Flip the wraps over and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until golden all over.
Make sure the heat is low to allow the cheese to melt before the outside gets too crispy.

Notes

Chicken: You can use pre-cooked chicken, leftover roast chicken, or simply roast fresh chicken breasts until tender and shredded.
Cheese: Mozzarella is ideal for pan-frying as it melts well and creates a gooey texture. If you’re not frying, cheddar can add more flavor to the wrap, though any cheese will work fine.

Keyword Cheesy Chicken Wraps

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