Tangy Southwest Chicken Wrap Recipe

Zesty Southwest Chicken Wrap Recipe for Lunch Magic

Wrapping up flavor and convenience, this southwest chicken wrap bursts with zesty southwestern spices that dance across your taste buds.

Bold and vibrant ingredients come together in a simple yet delectable meal.

The combination of tender grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy sauce creates a satisfying lunch or dinner option.

Packed with protein and bold seasonings, this wrap delivers a punch of authentic southwestern flair.

Each bite promises a delightful blend of textures and robust flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

Craving a quick and delicious meal that doesn’t compromise on taste?

This southwest chicken wrap is your perfect solution.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 550 kcal

Servings: 3

What Goes Into Southwest Chicken Wrap

For Protein and Seasoning:
  • Chicken Breasts: Lean protein powerhouse that brings tender, juicy texture to the wrap with a zesty Southwest kick.
  • Taco Seasoning: Vibrant spice blend that infuses the chicken with bold, mouthwatering Southwestern flavors.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential flavor enhancers that elevate the overall taste profile of the chicken.
For Fresh and Creamy Components:
  • Sour Cream: Smooth, tangy spread that adds creamy richness and balances the spicy elements.
  • Avocado: Buttery, nutrient-packed fruit that provides a luxurious, silky texture and healthy fats.
  • Cilantro: Bright, herbaceous garnish that brings a fresh, citrusy note to the wrap.
  • Tomatoes: Juicy, vibrant vegetable that adds a burst of freshness and natural sweetness.
For Texture and Bulk:
  • Tortillas: Soft, flexible wrap that serves as the perfect vessel for holding all the delicious ingredients.
  • Black Beans: Protein-rich, hearty legume that adds substance and a creamy texture.
  • Corn: Sweet, crisp kernels that provide a delightful pop of flavor and texture.
  • Cheese: Melty, savory topping that binds ingredients and adds a rich, comforting element.
  • Salsa: Zesty, chunky sauce that introduces a tangy and spicy dimension to the wrap.

Gear Needed For Southwest Chicken Wrap

  • Large Skillet: Perfect for cooking chicken evenly with beautiful golden-brown edges.
  • Cutting Board: Needed for slicing chicken and chopping fresh ingredients like cilantro and tomatoes.
  • Sharp Knife: Essential for creating thin, uniform chicken strips and precise ingredient preparation.
  • Tongs: Helpful for flipping and handling chicken during cooking.
  • Measuring Tablespoon: Use for accurately spreading sour cream and salsa.
  • Plate or Platter: Serves as a surface for assembling wraps and presenting the final dish.

How To Roll A Southwest Chicken Wrap With Ease

  • Chicken Preparation

Sizzle chicken breasts with a zesty blend of southwestern spices in a hot skillet. Cook until golden and perfectly tender, ensuring the meat is fully cooked through. Let the chicken rest briefly before slicing into delectable strips.

  • Flavor Layer Assembly

Spread a soft tortilla with creamy and tangy condiments. Create a colorful canvas of ingredients, layering tender chicken slices with vibrant fresh produce and hearty beans. Each wrap becomes a masterpiece of southwestern cuisine.

  • Wrap Technique

Carefully fold the tortilla edges inward, then roll from bottom to top with a gentle but firm touch. Secure the wrap so all the delicious fillings stay nestled inside, creating a compact and portable meal.

  • Serving Presentation

Cut the wrap diagonally to reveal the beautiful layers of ingredients. Accompany with additional salsa or creamy avocado dip for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy this handheld feast that brings the spirit of the southwest to your plate.

Ideas To Switch Up Your Southwest Chicken Wrap

  • Flavor Boost Tip: Marinate the chicken in lime juice and southwest spices for 30 minutes before cooking to enhance the depth of flavor and tenderize the meat.
  • Meal Prep Magic: These wraps can be prepared ahead of time and wrapped tightly in foil, staying fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 days – perfect for quick lunches or busy weeknights.
  • Dietary Flexibility: For a low-carb version, swap tortillas with large lettuce leaves or use gluten-free tortillas. Vegetarians can replace chicken with grilled tofu or black bean crumbles seasoned with the same southwest spices.
  • Spice Level Control: Adjust the heat by choosing mild or hot taco seasoning. Add diced jalapeños for extra kick or remove them completely for a milder wrap that kids will enjoy.
  • Protein Power Swap: Experiment with different proteins like ground turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even grilled shrimp to keep the southwest flavor profile while offering variety in your meals.

Simple Ways To Serve Southwest Chicken Wrap

  • Fiesta Flavor Boosters: Add a zesty lime wedge to squeeze over the wrap for a bright, tangy kick that elevates the southwestern flavors.
  • Fresh Dip Delight: Prepare a quick homemade ranch or chipotle sauce by mixing sour cream with hot sauce, chopped cilantro, and a dash of lime juice for extra dipping enjoyment.
  • Colorful Side Companion: Pair the wrap with a crisp corn and black bean salad or Mexican street corn (elote) to complement the wrap's vibrant southwestern profile and add more texture to the meal.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Platter: Create a build-your-own wrap station for gatherings, laying out all ingredients separately so guests can customize their own southwest chicken wraps with their favorite toppings.

How To Keep Southwest Chicken Wrap Fresh And Tasty

  • Wrap up leftover chicken and ingredients separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Quick Meal Prep Strategy: Batch cook seasoned chicken and chop vegetables in advance, storing them in sealed containers for quick wrap assembly during busy weeks.
  • Freezer-Friendly Approach: Prepare fully assembled wraps, wrap individually in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet or oven for best texture.
  • Ingredient Separation Technique: Keep crisp ingredients like avocado and tomatoes separate from other fillings to prevent soggy wraps, allowing customizable assembly just before eating.
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Tangy Southwest Chicken Wrap Recipe

Tangy Southwest Chicken Wrap Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 3 1x

Description

Southwest chicken wraps deliver bold Tex-Mex flavors in a quick and satisfying meal. Crisp tortillas filled with zesty seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauce create a perfect handheld lunch you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup (150g) shredded cheddar or monterey jack cheese
  • 1 cup (165g) canned black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup (165g) canned corn, drained
  • 4 large flour tortillas (burrito-size)
  • 1 large tomato, diced
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • ¼ cup (15g) chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 tbsps olive oil
  • 1 tbsp taco seasoning
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) sour cream or greek yogurt
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) salsa (mild, medium, or hot)

Instructions

  1. Season Chicken: Massage chicken with taco seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Sear in a hot skillet over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked. Rest briefly, then slice into strips.
  2. Prepare Wrap Base: Spread sour cream and salsa on tortillas, creating a flavor foundation. Generously sprinkle shredded cheese across the center.
  3. Layer Ingredients: Position sliced chicken over cheese. Add black beans, corn kernels, and diced tomatoes to build depth and nutrition. Top with creamy avocado slices and fresh chopped cilantro for herbal complexity.
  4. Wrap and Secure: Fold tortilla sides inward, then roll from bottom upward, creating a tight, compact wrap that encapsulates all ingredients.
  5. Serve: Slice wraps diagonally. Present immediately with optional salsa or guacamole on the side for additional zesty flavor enhancement.

Notes

  • Optimize Chicken Seasoning: Use homemade taco seasoning for more intense, personalized flavor and control over salt content.
  • Prevent Wrap Sogginess: Pat ingredients dry before assembling to maintain crisp texture and prevent tortilla from becoming soggy.
  • Temperature Control: Rest cooked chicken for 3-5 minutes to retain moisture and ensure even, juicy meat distribution.
  • Dietary Adaptations: Swap tortillas for lettuce wraps for low-carb option, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for protein boost, and select gluten-free tortillas for sensitive diets.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Southwestern American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fiber: 10g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
Jessica Martin

Jessica Martin

Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Recipe Development, Food Styling and Photography​, Seasonal and Local Ingredients​, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine​, Culinary Education​

Education

Portland Community College

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety. Gained hands-on experience in preparing diverse cuisines and understanding flavor profiles

Oregon Culinary Institute

  • Program: Baking and Pastry Certificate
  • Focus: Specialized education in baking fundamentals, pastry arts, and dessert presentation. Emphasized creativity and precision in crafting baked goods.​

Jessica Martin is a talented food writer and recipe creator who specializes in seasonal cooking and approachable home baking. 

Educated at Portland Community College with additional pastry training from Oregon Culinary Institute, Jessica’s culinary journey spans nearly a decade of creating and sharing flavorful recipes. 

Her deep appreciation for local ingredients shapes each of her recipes, making them both accessible and inspiring. At Beard and Bonnet, Jessica uses her cheerful, down-to-earth writing to help readers effortlessly bring new tastes and creative dishes into their daily routines.

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