If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal, look no further than the Southwest Chicken Wrap. This recipe combines tender grilled chicken with a mix of fresh vegetables, tangy dressing, and zesty spices, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. It’s a perfect meal for lunch or dinner and can be made in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
The beauty of this Southwest Chicken Wrap is in its balance of textures and flavors. The crisp vegetables contrast beautifully with the juicy chicken, while the Southwest-inspired spices—think cumin, chili powder, and garlic—bring the whole wrap to life. The creamy dressing adds richness, while the wrap holds everything together perfectly. This is a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious, with a deliciously bold flavor that will have you coming back for more.
This Southwest Chicken Wrap is not only tasty but also highly customizable. You can swap ingredients based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand, making it versatile and easy to adapt to your tastes. It’s great for meal prepping, picnics, or enjoying a quick dinner at home.
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
The Southwest Chicken Wrap is the perfect combination of flavor and convenience. The grilled chicken provides lean protein, while the veggies and spices add layers of taste. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier or just want a flavorful meal, this wrap is a great choice. It’s packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients that won’t leave you feeling sluggish after eating.
Another reason to love this wrap is its versatility. You can easily make it vegetarian by swapping the chicken for black beans or roasted vegetables. Additionally, you can customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding a dash of hot sauce. Whether you enjoy it mild or spicy, this wrap can be tailored to suit your preferences.
It’s also a great make-ahead option for busy days. You can prep all the ingredients and store them separately, then assemble the wraps when you’re ready to eat. This makes it perfect for meal prepping or packing for lunch on the go.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for dressing)
- 2 tablespoons salsa or hot sauce (optional, for dressing)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Equipment Used
- Grill Pan or Skillet
A grill pan or skillet is needed to cook the chicken to perfection, ensuring it’s juicy and tender with a nice sear. - Knife and Cutting Board
A sharp knife and cutting board are essential for chopping the chicken, veggies, and any additional ingredients like avocado or cilantro. - Mixing Bowl
A mixing bowl is useful for preparing the dressing or combining any ingredients that need to be tossed together, such as the vegetables or salsa. - Tongs or Spatula
Tongs or a spatula will help you flip and handle the chicken while it cooks, as well as assemble the wrap neatly. - Serving Plate or Tray
A plate or tray is perfect for arranging the assembled wraps before serving.
Directions & Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
- Prepare the Veggies: While the chicken cooks, dice the tomatoes, slice the red onion, and prepare the corn (if using frozen, thaw it first). You can also prepare the dressing by mixing the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) with salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Assemble the Wraps: Lay the tortillas flat on a clean surface. In the center of each tortilla, layer a handful of shredded lettuce, followed by sliced chicken, diced tomatoes, corn, red onion, and shredded cheese.
- Add the Dressing: Drizzle the sour cream or Greek yogurt dressing on top of the ingredients. If you like extra heat, feel free to add a little more salsa or hot sauce.
- Wrap and Serve: Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly. Slice in half and serve with lime wedges on the side for an added burst of freshness.
Nutritional Information
Serving Size: 1 wrap
Calories: 380
Protein: 28g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 700mg
This Southwest Chicken Wrap is a balanced meal with a good amount of protein and fiber. It’s a healthy option that won’t leave you feeling weighed down, and it’s easily customizable to suit your dietary needs.
Variations
- Vegetarian Southwest Wrap: Swap the grilled chicken for black beans, roasted sweet potatoes, or sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Southwest Chicken Wrap: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of spicy hot sauce to amp up the heat.
- Add Avocado: For extra creaminess, add sliced avocado inside the wrap.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these wraps ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep all the ingredients ahead of time and store them in separate containers. When you’re ready to eat, simply assemble the wraps.
Can I use a different type of tortilla?
Absolutely! You can use whole wheat tortillas, spinach wraps, or gluten-free tortillas if you prefer.
What can I serve with Southwest Chicken Wraps?
These wraps pair perfectly with a side of chips and guacamole, a simple salad, or even some rice and beans for a more filling meal.
Pro Tips by Emma
- Grilled Chicken Tip: If you want extra flavor in your chicken, marinate it for an hour before grilling with lime juice, garlic, and a bit of olive oil.
- Dressing Tip: For a creamier dressing, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream—it’s a healthier option with the same great taste.
- Wrap Tip: If you want the wraps to be extra crispy, briefly toast them on the skillet after wrapping them up.
Serving Suggestions
- With Guacamole: Serve your Southwest Chicken Wrap with fresh guacamole for added creaminess and flavor.
- On the Side: A simple side salad or some roasted veggies would complement this wrap nicely for a well-rounded meal.
- With Chips: Serve with tortilla chips and salsa for a satisfying snack or side.
The Southwest Chicken Wrap is an easy, delicious, and versatile meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack, this wrap is packed with flavor and sure to become a favorite. Enjoy!
Easy Southwest Chicken Wrap Recipe : Flavorful and Healthy Meal
Equipment
- Grill Pan or Skillet
- A grill pan or skillet is needed to cook the chicken to perfection, ensuring it’s juicy and tender with a nice sear.
- Knife and Cutting Board
- A sharp knife and cutting board are essential for chopping the chicken, veggies, and any additional ingredients like avocado or cilantro.
- Mixing Bowl:
- A mixing bowl is useful for preparing the dressing or combining any ingredients that need to be tossed together, such as the vegetables or salsa.
- Tongs or Spatula:
- Tongs or a spatula will help you flip and handle the chicken while it cooks, as well as assemble the wrap neatly.
- Serving Plate or Tray
- A plate or tray is perfect for arranging the assembled wraps before serving.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup corn kernels fresh or frozen
- 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt for dressing
- 2 tablespoons salsa or hot sauce optional, for dressing
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
- Prepare the Veggies: While the chicken cooks, dice the tomatoes, slice the red onion, and prepare the corn (if using frozen, thaw it first). You can also prepare the dressing by mixing the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) with salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Assemble the Wraps: Lay the tortillas flat on a clean surface. In the center of each tortilla, layer a handful of shredded lettuce, followed by sliced chicken, diced tomatoes, corn, red onion, and shredded cheese.
- Add the Dressing: Drizzle the sour cream or Greek yogurt dressing on top of the ingredients. If you like extra heat, feel free to add a little more salsa or hot sauce.
- Wrap and Serve: Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly. Slice in half and serve with lime wedges on the side for an added burst of freshness.
Notes