Southwest Chicken Wrap Recipe

There's something undeniably satisfying about biting into a Southwest Chicken Wrap. The combination of tender, seasoned chicken, crisp veggies, and creamy sauce wrapped in a warm tortilla makes for the perfect quick and delicious meal. Whether you're looking for an easy lunch, a light dinner, or a meal-prep-friendly option, this wrap checks all the boxes.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe when I needed a way to use up some leftover grilled chicken. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, I created a wrap bursting with bold Southwestern flavors. Now, it’s a household favorite, making an appearance in our meal rotation at least once a week.

Why You'll Love This Southwest Chicken Wrap

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to wrap! This Southwest Chicken Wrap isn’t just tasty—it’s also incredibly convenient and versatile.

First off, it’s quick and easy. In just 20 minutes, you can have a flavorful meal ready to enjoy, making it perfect for busy weeknights or on-the-go lunches.

It’s also packed with bold flavors. From the smoky seasoning on the chicken to the creamy dressing and crunchy vegetables, every bite is an explosion of taste and texture.

This wrap is meal-prep friendly. Make a batch in advance and store them for quick grab-and-go meals throughout the week. They hold up well in the fridge and are just as delicious when eaten cold.

And lastly, it’s customizable. Whether you prefer a spicier kick, a vegetarian version, or extra protein, you can tweak this recipe to match your tastes.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Southwest Chicken Wrap comes from its simple yet flavor-packed ingredients. Each one plays a key role in making this dish both delicious and satisfying.

Chicken is the star of the show. I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, seasoned and either grilled or pan-seared to lock in those smoky flavors. If you're short on time, leftover rotisserie chicken works beautifully too.

Tortillas hold everything together. Large, soft flour tortillas work best, providing enough room to wrap all the ingredients securely without tearing. For a healthier twist, opt for whole wheat or low-carb tortillas.

Southwest seasoning brings the signature flavor. A blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika gives the chicken that bold, smoky kick. You can adjust the seasoning to your preferred spice level.

Fresh veggies add crunch and balance. Crisp romaine lettuce, juicy diced tomatoes, and sliced bell peppers create a refreshing contrast to the seasoned chicken. Feel free to add avocado for extra creaminess.

The dressing ties everything together. A simple mix of ranch dressing and a splash of lime juice creates a creamy, tangy sauce that complements the smoky chicken. For a spicier version, swap in chipotle mayo or a drizzle of hot sauce.

No special equipment is needed—just a skillet, a mixing bowl, and a sharp knife to chop up your ingredients.

How To Make This Southwest Chicken Wrap

Making this delicious wrap is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps to create a meal that’s bursting with flavor.

Start by seasoning your chicken generously with the Southwest spice blend. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit of olive oil, and cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

While the chicken is cooking, prepare your veggies. Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces, dice the tomatoes, and slice the bell peppers into thin strips. If using avocado, slice it just before assembling the wraps to keep it fresh.

In a small bowl, whisk together your dressing. Combine ranch dressing with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a zesty, creamy sauce. If you like a little heat, mix in a dash of hot sauce or some chipotle powder.

Now, it's time to assemble the wraps. Lay out your tortillas and spread a thin layer of the dressing across each one. Add a generous layer of lettuce, followed by the sliced chicken, diced tomatoes, and bell peppers. If you're adding avocado, now is the time.

Gently wrap everything up, folding in the sides first and then rolling from the bottom up to create a tight wrap. If needed, you can secure it with a toothpick or wrap it in parchment paper for easy handling.

Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later. These wraps stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Storage Options

These Southwest Chicken Wraps are great for meal prep, making them a fantastic option for busy weeks.

If storing in the fridge, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the wraps. However, it’s best to leave out the fresh veggies if you plan on freezing them, as they can become soggy once thawed. Wrap the assembled (but undressed) wraps in foil and store them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and add fresh veggies before serving.

To reheat, simply unwrap and warm in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side or microwave for 30-45 seconds until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this wrap is how easy it is to customize! Here are a few ideas to switch things up.

For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for black beans or grilled tofu. The smoky seasoning works just as well with plant-based proteins.

Want it spicier? Add jalapeños, a drizzle of hot sauce, or use chipotle mayo instead of ranch for an extra kick.

For a low-carb option, ditch the tortilla and turn this into a Southwest Chicken Salad. Simply serve all the ingredients over a bed of greens and drizzle with the dressing.

You can also change up the cheese. While this recipe doesn’t call for cheese, adding shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or crumbled cotija can enhance the flavor even more.

No matter how you customize it, this wrap is sure to be a hit! Try it out and make it your own.

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