Enjoy this delicious recipe for Tender Chicken Wrapped in Tortillas with a creamy cheese sauce. It’s a quick and comforting dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. The chicken is seasoned to perfection, wrapped in a soft tortilla, and generously smothered in rich cheese sauce—what’s not to love?
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tortillas:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken strips and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the heat and set aside.
2. Assemble the Tortillas:
Lay the tortillas flat and evenly distribute the cooked chicken strips among them. Sprinkle a mixture of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the chicken.
3. Wrap the Tortillas:
Fold the sides of the tortillas over the filling, then roll them tightly to form wraps. Place them seam-side down on a plate to prevent them from opening.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, until the mixture turns golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, and continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve:
Drizzle the warm cheese sauce over the wrapped tortillas and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips for Tender Chicken Wrapped in Tortillas:
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience: If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and simply shred it before assembling the tortillas.
- Add extra veggies: For added nutrition, consider adding sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the wraps before rolling them.
- Control the spice level: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning if you want a spicier dish.
FAQs About Tender Chicken Wrapped in Tortillas:
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and wraps in advance, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply heat them in the oven and prepare the cheese sauce fresh.
What other cheeses can I use?
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Can I freeze the wraps?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled wraps (without the cheese sauce) by wrapping them tightly in aluminum foil. When ready to eat, bake them directly from the freezer and prepare the cheese sauce fresh.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can substitute whole wheat or low-carb tortillas and use reduced-fat cheese. Adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can also boost the nutrition.