Southwest Chicken Wrap

Southwest chicken wraps are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making them perfect for lunch or dinner. These wraps are not only protein-packed but also loaded with fresh veggies and zesty spices. In just about 30 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that appeals to both adults and kids. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a casual gathering, these wraps are sure to impress!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken Marinade
• For the Wraps
• For the Sauce/Creamy Drizzle
• How to Make Southwest Chicken Wrap
• Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 2: Prepare Rice and Sauce
• Step 3: Cook Chicken
• Step 4: Sauté Veggies
• Step 5: Assemble Wraps
• Step 6: Wrap It Up
• How to Serve Southwest Chicken Wrap
• With a Side Salad
• Dipped in Salsa
• Paired with Guacamole
• Accompanied by Chips
• Served with a Smoothie
• Wrapped in Lettuce
• How to Perfect Southwest Chicken Wrap
• Best Side Dishes for Southwest Chicken Wrap
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Southwest Chicken Wrap
• Reheating Southwest Chicken Wrap
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is in a Southwest Chicken Wrap?
• Can I customize my Southwest Chicken Wrap?
• How do I store leftover Southwest Chicken Wraps?
• What sauces pair well with Southwest Chicken Wraps?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Customizable Ingredients: Tailor the wrap fillings to your taste—add more veggies or switch up the proteins.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of spices and chipotle gives a smoky kick that elevates every bite.
• Healthy Option: Loaded with lean protein and fresh produce, these wraps make a nutritious meal choice.
• Great for Meal Prep: Perfect for preparing in advance; just store in the fridge until ready to eat.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Southwest chicken wraps, you’ll need some essential tools that streamline the process and ensure everything is cooked perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large bowl
• High-speed blender or food processor
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large bowl: Perfect for marinating the chicken evenly with all the flavors.
• High-speed blender or food processor: Ideal for creating a smooth sauce quickly without any lumps.
• Skillet: Essential for sautéing chicken and veggies evenly, ensuring everything is cooked just right.

Ingredients

Southwest chicken wraps are protein packed, flavorful and loaded with veggies. Ready in about 30 minutes and perfect for lunch or dinner.

For the Chicken Marinade

• 0.75 lb chicken breasts, boneless and skinless (see notes)
• ¼ cup lime juice (about one lime)
• ½ tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp salt (more as needed)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 Tbsp chipotle pepper in adobo (see notes)

For the Wraps

• 4 large tortillas
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 1 small red bell pepper
• 1 jalapeño
• ½ red onion, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp olive oil (to sauté the veggies)
• ¾ cup thawed or fresh corn kernels
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• ¼ cup cotija cheese

For the Sauce/Creamy Drizzle

• ⅓ cup sour cream (see notes)
• 1½ Tbsp honey
• ½-1 Tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo
• 1 Tbsp lime juice
• 3 Tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1-2 Tbsp water, (to thin the crema a bit)
• ¼ tsp salt

How to Make Southwest Chicken Wrap

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry and dice into small bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken to a large bowl. Add in marinade ingredients including oil, seasonings, lime juice, and chipotle pepper. Mix well so it’s evenly coated. Let it sit for 15 minutes or up to 24 hours.

Step 2: Prepare Rice and Sauce

While the chicken marinates, cook rice according to package instructions. Prepare all wrap ingredients, including sauce/crema. To make the sauce, blend all sauce ingredients in a high-speed blender or food processor until smooth.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Slice veggies and mince garlic. In a skillet over medium heat, add marinated chicken. Sauté for about 12-15 minutes until cooked through. Set aside once done.

Step 4: Sauté Veggies

Wipe pan clean with a paper towel. Add chopped peppers and onions with ½ tsp of oil to sauté veggies for about 8 minutes. Add minced garlic; lower heat. Add cooked chicken back into skillet briefly to warm through—avoid overcooking.

Step 5: Assemble Wraps

Once warmed through, heat tortillas or wraps. Stuff each wrap starting with rice, then add chicken, veggies, beans, corn, cheese, and drizzle generously with sauce.

Step 6: Wrap It Up

Wrap tightly like a burrito. Feel free to add more sauce as desired before enjoying these delicious Southwest chicken wraps!

How to Serve Southwest Chicken Wrap

Southwest chicken wraps are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Whether you’re hosting a casual lunch or a family dinner, these wraps are sure to please everyone.

With a Side Salad

• A crisp green salad adds freshness. Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado for a colorful side.

Dipped in Salsa

• Serve your wraps with a side of salsa. A zesty tomato salsa can elevate the flavors and add an extra kick.

Paired with Guacamole

• Creamy guacamole complements the spiciness of the chicken. Scoop some onto your wrap or enjoy it on the side.

Accompanied by Chips

• Crispy tortilla chips make for a crunchy contrast. Pair them with your favorite dip for a satisfying snack.

Served with a Smoothie

• A refreshing smoothie can balance the rich flavors of the wrap. Consider mango or berry smoothies for a fruity twist.

Wrapped in Lettuce

• For a low-carb option, use lettuce leaves instead of tortillas. This keeps it light while maintaining all the delicious fillings.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Southwest Chicken Wrap

To ensure your southwest chicken wraps turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate the Chicken Well: Allowing the chicken to sit in the marinade enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs brighten up the dish and improve overall taste.
• Don’t Overcook: Be mindful not to overcook the chicken or veggies; they should be tender but still juicy.
• Warm Tortillas: Heating tortillas makes them more pliable and easier to wrap without tearing.
• Customize Fillings: Feel free to adjust ingredients based on personal preferences or dietary needs for variety.
• Experiment with Sauces: Try different sauces or dressings to find your favorite combination that complements the southwest flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Southwest Chicken Wrap

Completing your meal with delicious side dishes can make your southwest chicken wrap experience even better. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice adds vibrant flavors.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and cilantro provides added protein and nutrients.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with lime juice and cilantro makes for a perfect companion to absorb any leftover sauce.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy offer a delightful sweetness that pairs well with savory wraps.
5. Zucchini Fries: Baked zucchini fries seasoned with spices provide a healthy alternative to traditional fries.
6. Guacamole & Chips: Classic pairing of creamy guacamole with crunchy tortilla chips enhances your southwestern feast.
7. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers a refreshing contrast to the spice of the wrap, making for a balanced meal.
8. Pickled Jalapeños: For those who love heat, pickled jalapeños add an exciting zing that complements the overall dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Southwest chicken wraps, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure you don’t cook the chicken too long. It should be cooked through but not dry. Monitor it closely while sautéing.
• Skipping the Marinade: Allowing the chicken to marinate enhances flavor significantly. Don’t skip this step; even a short marinade can make a big difference.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies add crunch and flavor. Use fresh produce rather than frozen or canned when possible for the best results.
• Not Warming Tortillas: Heating tortillas makes them more pliable and enjoyable to eat. Always warm them before assembling your wrap.
• Underseasoning: Don’t be shy with spices! Taste and adjust seasonings as needed to ensure every bite is flavorful.

PIN THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Southwest chicken wraps in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Southwest Chicken Wrap

• Wrap each prepared wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Southwest Chicken Wrap

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat wraps for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place the wrap on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and warm the wrap for about 3-5 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is in a Southwest Chicken Wrap?

A Southwest chicken wrap typically includes grilled chicken, rice, black beans, corn, fresh veggies, cheese, and a zesty sauce all wrapped in a tortilla.

Can I customize my Southwest Chicken Wrap?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like avocado, different cheeses, or switch up the veggies based on your preferences.

How do I store leftover Southwest Chicken Wraps?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

What sauces pair well with Southwest Chicken Wraps?

You can use ranch dressing, salsa, or any creamy chipotle sauce to enhance the flavors of your wraps.

Final Thoughts

These Southwest chicken wraps are not only delicious but also versatile and customizable. Perfect for lunch or dinner, they can satisfy cravings while allowing you to mix and match ingredients according to your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful meal!