Name: Southwest Chicken Wrap
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon paprika; Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 4 large tortillas or wraps; 1 cup shredded lettuce; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen); 1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed); 1 ripe avocado (sliced or mashed); ½ cup diced tomatoes; ¼ cup diced red onion; Optional: shredded cheese (cilantro, lime wedges); Optional sauce: ranch (chipotle mayo, or salsa)

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Nothing beats a wrap that’s loaded with bold flavors and fresh ingredients, especially when it’s as quick and satisfying as this Southwest Chicken Wrap. Imagine tender, seasoned chicken combined with the crispness of fresh veggies and the creamy richness of ripe avocado all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. Perfect for a hearty lunch or a convenient dinner, this wrap brings vibrant southwestern flair to your table.

Whether you’re packing a meal to go or sitting down for a casual bite, this wrap offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will keep you coming back for more. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings and sauces.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weekdays or packed lunches.
Packed with nutritious ingredients like lean chicken, black beans, and fresh vegetables.
Versatile flavor profile that can be customized with sauces, cheese, and spices.

Ingredients

Cooked chicken (2 cups): Shredded or diced tender chicken, providing lean protein and a hearty base.
Olive oil (1 tbsp): Adds a subtle richness while helping spices adhere to the chicken.
Chili powder (1 tsp): Lends smoky heat to infuse the chicken with classic southwestern flavors.
Ground cumin (1 tsp): Offers a warm, earthy undertone that complements the chili powder.
Paprika (½ tsp): Adds mild sweetness and a vibrant color to the seasoned chicken.
Salt & freshly ground black pepper: Essential for balancing seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
Large tortillas or wraps (4): Soft, pliable wraps that hold all the ingredients together for easy eating.
Shredded lettuce (1 cup): Crisp, fresh greens adding a refreshing crunch to each bite.
Corn kernels (1 cup): Sweet and juicy corn, whether fresh, canned, or thawed frozen.
Black beans (1 cup): Protein-rich beans that add texture and southwest authenticity.
Ripe avocado (1): Creamy and buttery slices or mash that bring a luscious texture.
Diced tomatoes (½ cup): Juicy, slightly tangy bites that brighten the wrap.
Diced red onion (¼ cup): Adds sharpness and a mild bite for flavor contrast.
Optional shredded cheese: Melts perfectly for extra indulgence and flavor.
Optional fresh cilantro: Adds herbal brightness and color.
Optional sauces: Ranch, chipotle mayo, or salsa to customize taste and moisture.

Instructions

Season the Chicken: Combine cooked chicken with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated, which allows the chicken to absorb the rich southwestern spices and enhances overall flavor.
Warm the Filling: Heat the seasoned chicken in a skillet over medium heat if preferred warm. This step intensifies the spices and ensures the chicken is hot, providing a comforting warmth in the finished wrap.
Assemble the Wraps: Lay each tortilla flat on a clean surface. Evenly distribute shredded lettuce, corn, black beans, seasoned chicken, diced tomatoes, avocado, and red onion among the tortillas. This layering combines textures and flavors for a balanced bite every time.
Add Extras: Sprinkle optional shredded cheese and fresh cilantro over the fillings if desired. Drizzle with your favorite sauce such as ranch, chipotle mayo, or salsa. These additions enrich the wrap with creaminess, heat, or tang.
Roll & Serve: Fold the sides of the tortilla inward and roll tightly from one end to enclose all ingredients securely. Slice in half for easier eating. Serve your wrap warm if heated or chilled for a refreshing meal on the go.

You Must Know

Adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or hot sauce for a fiery kick.
Substitute chicken with turkey, tofu, or blackened shrimp to vary protein sources.
Prepare fillings ahead and assemble wraps just before serving to save time.
Pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, fresh salsa, or a light fruit salad.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover fillings separately from the tortillas in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Wraps assembled in advance may become soggy, so assemble just before eating for best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these wraps with a side of crunchy tortilla chips and your favorite salsa or a fresh fruit salad to complement the bold flavors. You can also enjoy them with a refreshing iced tea or a light cerveza for an authentic southwestern experience.

Professional Tips

Use warm tortillas to make rolling easier and prevent cracking.
For creamier texture, mash the avocado before spreading it evenly in the wrap.
Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the filling for a bright, tangy finish that lifts all flavors.

FAQs

Can I use raw chicken for this wrap?: It’s best to use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe; however, raw chicken can be cooked and seasoned before assembling the wrap.
What kind of tortillas work best?: Large flour tortillas are ideal for wrapping and ensure the fillings stay secure with each bite.
How can I make this wrap vegan?: Replace chicken with tofu or seasoned beans, omit cheese, and use vegan sauces for a fully plant-based version.
Can this wrap be frozen?: Due to fresh ingredients and avocado, freezing is not recommended as it affects texture and flavor.
What sauces pair well with this wrap?: Chipotle mayo, ranch dressing, or fresh salsa complement the southwest flavors beautifully.
How to keep the wrap from getting soggy?: Keep moist ingredients like avocado and tomatoes away from the tortilla edges and assemble just before eating.
Can I make this gluten-free?: Use gluten-free tortillas to make this wrap safe for gluten-intolerant individuals without compromising taste.