Savory Southwest Chicken Wraps Quick and Easy Recipe

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Get ready to spice up your meal prep with my quick and easy Southwest Chicken Wraps! These delightful wraps are packed with flavor and can be whipped up in no time. Whether you need a healthy lunch or a satisfying dinner, this recipe has it all. I’ll walk you through each step, share tips to make it even better, and show you some fun variations. Let’s get started!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a vibrant and delicious flavor profile that truly captures the essence of Southwest cuisine.
  2. Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cooking time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a quick lunch.
  3. Customizable: You can easily modify the filling ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs, making it a versatile option for everyone.
  4. Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, these wraps are not only satisfying but also a nutritious meal choice.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 tablespoon of olive oil

– 1 teaspoon of chili powder

– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder

– 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 cup of corn (canned or frozen, thawed)

– 1 cup of black beans (drained and rinsed)

– 1/2 cup of diced red bell pepper

– 1/2 cup of diced avocado

– 1/2 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack)

– 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro (chopped)

– 4 large tortillas (whole wheat or flour)

Additional Ingredients

– 1/2 cup of salsa

– Sour cream (for serving, optional)

Recommended Toppings

You can add more flavor with these toppings:

– Sliced jalapeños for heat

– Fresh lime juice for zest

– Extra cilantro for freshness

– Chopped green onions for crunch

Each ingredient plays a key role in making your Southwest chicken wraps tasty. The spices give the chicken a bold flavor. The corn and beans add texture and nutrients. Toppings make each bite exciting and fresh. Enjoy mixing and matching according to your taste!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Start with two boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over them. In a small bowl, mix one teaspoon of chili powder, one teaspoon of ground cumin, one teaspoon of garlic powder, and half a teaspoon of onion powder. Add salt and pepper to taste. Rub this spice mix on both sides of the chicken. This step adds great flavor.

Cooking the Chicken

Next, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Look for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and clear juices. After cooking, remove the chicken and let it rest. This helps keep the chicken juicy.

Combining the Filling

In a large bowl, combine one cup of corn (canned or thawed), one cup of black beans (drained and rinsed), half a cup of diced red bell pepper, and half a cup of diced avocado. Add half a cup of shredded cheese and a quarter cup of fresh cilantro. Gently toss everything together. Make sure it’s well mixed.

Assembling the Wraps

Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Place some sliced chicken in the center. Add a generous scoop of the corn and bean mix on top. Drizzle some salsa over the filling. This adds a nice kick.

Serving Suggestions

To wrap it up, fold the sides of the tortilla in first, then roll the bottom edge upwards. This keeps the filling inside. Do this with the other tortillas. For serving, slice each wrap in half diagonally. Arrange them on a platter. You can serve them with sour cream on the side for extra creaminess. Enjoy your tasty Southwest chicken wraps!

Tips & Tricks

Best Cooking Methods

Grilling gives chicken a great taste. You can also cook it in a skillet. For juicy chicken, use medium-high heat. Cook until the chicken reaches 165°F. Let it rest after cooking. This makes it tender and flavorful.

Seasoning Variations

Feel free to change the spices! Try adding smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. You can use taco seasoning for a quick option. If you like heat, add cayenne pepper. Mix in lime juice for a zesty kick. Customize it to match your taste!

Wrapping Techniques

To wrap your tortilla, lay it flat first. Add chicken and the filling in the center. Fold the sides in tightly. Roll the bottom up to seal it well. Practice makes perfect. A good wrap holds all the tasty bits inside!

Pro Tips

  1. Marinate for More Flavor: For an extra flavor boost, marinate the chicken in the spice blend with olive oil for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat.
  2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables and herbs. Fresh produce enhances the flavors and textures of your wraps.
  3. Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to get creative! Add other ingredients like jalapeños, spinach, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
  4. Keep It Warm: If making multiple wraps, keep the finished ones warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) while you finish assembling the rest. This ensures they’re all hot when served.

Variations

Vegetarian Southwest Wraps

If you want a veggie twist, swap chicken for grilled veggies. Use zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Season them with the same spices. Mix corn, black beans, and cheese for a filling that bursts with flavor.

Spicy Southwest Chicken Wraps

For a kick, add diced jalapeños to the chicken. You can also use spicy pepper jack cheese. A dash of hot sauce in your salsa will amp up the heat. These changes turn a tasty wrap into a fiery delight.

Southwest Salad Bowl

If you feel like a salad, dump all ingredients into a bowl instead of a wrap. Start with lettuce, then add corn, black beans, and diced chicken. Drizzle with salsa and top with cheese. It’s a fresh, crunchy meal in no time.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To store leftover Southwest chicken wraps, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. You can store wraps in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, check for any signs of spoilage.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to freeze your wraps, wrap each one in plastic wrap first. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to label the bags with the date.

Reheating Tips

To reheat your wraps, you can use the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the wrap and place it on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the wrap crispy. If using a microwave, place the wrap on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking to make sure it’s warm throughout.

FAQs

What is the best way to cook chicken for wraps?

The best way to cook chicken for wraps is to grill or pan-sear it. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with olive oil and spices. Cook them for 6-7 minutes on each side. Ensure the chicken reaches 165°F to be safe to eat. This method keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful.

Can I use other types of tortillas?

Yes, you can use different types of tortillas. Whole wheat and flour tortillas work well. You can also try corn or spinach tortillas for a twist. Just ensure they are large enough to hold the filling.

What can I substitute for black beans?

If you don’t have black beans, you can use pinto beans or kidney beans. You can also use chickpeas for a different flavor. These options add protein and texture to your wraps, keeping them delicious.

How long do these wraps last in the fridge?

These wraps last for up to three days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just remember to wrap them well to avoid freezer burn.

We covered a lot about making tasty Southwest wraps. You learned the key ingredients, from the main ones to fun toppings. We explored step-by-step methods for preparing and cooking chicken, and how to put everything together. I also shared tips for cooking and wrapping, plus tasty variations for different diets. Lastly, I provided storage info to keep your wraps fresh.

Try these ideas in your kitchen. Enjoy making these simple and tasty meal

- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 tablespoon of olive oil - 1 teaspoon of chili powder - 1 teaspoon of ground cumin - 1 teaspoon of garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup of corn (canned or frozen, thawed) - 1 cup of black beans (drained and rinsed) - 1/2 cup of diced red bell pepper - 1/2 cup of diced avocado - 1/2 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack) - 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro (chopped) - 4 large tortillas (whole wheat or flour) - 1/2 cup of salsa - Sour cream (for serving, optional) You can add more flavor with these toppings: - Sliced jalapeños for heat - Fresh lime juice for zest - Extra cilantro for freshness - Chopped green onions for crunch Each ingredient plays a key role in making your Southwest chicken wraps tasty. The spices give the chicken a bold flavor. The corn and beans add texture and nutrients. Toppings make each bite exciting and fresh. Enjoy mixing and matching according to your taste! {{ingredient_image_2}} Start with two boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over them. In a small bowl, mix one teaspoon of chili powder, one teaspoon of ground cumin, one teaspoon of garlic powder, and half a teaspoon of onion powder. Add salt and pepper to taste. Rub this spice mix on both sides of the chicken. This step adds great flavor. Next, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Look for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and clear juices. After cooking, remove the chicken and let it rest. This helps keep the chicken juicy. In a large bowl, combine one cup of corn (canned or thawed), one cup of black beans (drained and rinsed), half a cup of diced red bell pepper, and half a cup of diced avocado. Add half a cup of shredded cheese and a quarter cup of fresh cilantro. Gently toss everything together. Make sure it's well mixed. Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Place some sliced chicken in the center. Add a generous scoop of the corn and bean mix on top. Drizzle some salsa over the filling. This adds a nice kick. To wrap it up, fold the sides of the tortilla in first, then roll the bottom edge upwards. This keeps the filling inside. Do this with the other tortillas. For serving, slice each wrap in half diagonally. Arrange them on a platter. You can serve them with sour cream on the side for extra creaminess. Enjoy your tasty Southwest chicken wraps! Grilling gives chicken a great taste. You can also cook it in a skillet. For juicy chicken, use medium-high heat. Cook until the chicken reaches 165°F. Let it rest after cooking. This makes it tender and flavorful. Feel free to change the spices! Try adding smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. You can use taco seasoning for a quick option. If you like heat, add cayenne pepper. Mix in lime juice for a zesty kick. Customize it to match your taste! To wrap your tortilla, lay it flat first. Add chicken and the filling in the center. Fold the sides in tightly. Roll the bottom up to seal it well. Practice makes perfect. A good wrap holds all the tasty bits inside! Pro Tips Marinate for More Flavor: For an extra flavor boost, marinate the chicken in the spice blend with olive oil for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat. Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables and herbs. Fresh produce enhances the flavors and textures of your wraps. Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to get creative! Add other ingredients like jalapeños, spinach, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Keep It Warm: If making multiple wraps, keep the finished ones warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) while you finish assembling the rest. This ensures they’re all hot when served. {{image_4}} If you want a veggie twist, swap chicken for grilled veggies. Use zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Season them with the same spices. Mix corn, black beans, and cheese for a filling that bursts with flavor. For a kick, add diced jalapeños to the chicken. You can also use spicy pepper jack cheese. A dash of hot sauce in your salsa will amp up the heat. These changes turn a tasty wrap into a fiery delight. If you feel like a salad, dump all ingredients into a bowl instead of a wrap. Start with lettuce, then add corn, black beans, and diced chicken. Drizzle with salsa and top with cheese. It’s a fresh, crunchy meal in no time. To store leftover Southwest chicken wraps, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. You can store wraps in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, check for any signs of spoilage. If you want to freeze your wraps, wrap each one in plastic wrap first. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to label the bags with the date. To reheat your wraps, you can use the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the wrap and place it on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the wrap crispy. If using a microwave, place the wrap on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking to make sure it’s warm throughout. The best way to cook chicken for wraps is to grill or pan-sear it. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with olive oil and spices. Cook them for 6-7 minutes on each side. Ensure the chicken reaches 165°F to be safe to eat. This method keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful. Yes, you can use different types of tortillas. Whole wheat and flour tortillas work well. You can also try corn or spinach tortillas for a twist. Just ensure they are large enough to hold the filling. If you don't have black beans, you can use pinto beans or kidney beans. You can also use chickpeas for a different flavor. These options add protein and texture to your wraps, keeping them delicious. These wraps last for up to three days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just remember to wrap them well to avoid freezer burn. We covered a lot about making tasty Southwest wraps. You learned the key ingredients, from the main ones to fun toppings. We explored step-by-step methods for preparing and cooking chicken, and how to put everything together. I also shared tips for cooking and wrapping, plus tasty variations for different diets. Lastly, I provided storage info to keep your wraps fresh. Try these ideas in your kitchen. Enjoy making these simple and tasty meals!

Southwest Chicken Wraps Delight

A flavorful wrap filled with seasoned chicken, beans, corn, and fresh veggies.
Course Main Course
Cuisine Southwestern
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 breasts boneless, skinless chicken
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
  • 1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 0.5 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 0.5 cup diced avocado
  • 0.5 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack)
  • 0.25 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
  • 4 large tortillas (whole wheat or flour)
  • 0.5 cup salsa
  • optional sour cream (for serving)

Instructions
 

  • Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken breasts. In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice blend evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts to ensure full flavor coverage.
  • Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes to retain moisture.
  • Using a sharp knife, slice the rested chicken into thin strips, which will make it easier to fit into the wraps.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn, black beans, diced red bell pepper, diced avocado, shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro. Gently toss until everything is well mixed and evenly distributed.
  • Take one tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. Place a portion of the sliced chicken in the center, then add a generous scoop of the corn and bean filling on top. Drizzle with salsa for extra flavor.
  • To secure the filling inside, fold in the sides of the tortilla first, then roll the bottom edge upwards to form a secure wrap. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
  • For an elegant presentation, slice each wrap in half diagonally and arrange them on a serving platter. Serve with a dollop of sour cream on the side for those who desire a creamy addition to their wraps.

Notes

Serve with sour cream for added creaminess.
Keyword chicken, healthy, southwest, wraps

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