Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Southwest Chicken Wraps are a complete meal in one bite! The chicken is perfectly seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and paprika, giving it that warm, smoky flavor. The crisp veggies and black beans provide a satisfying crunch, while the shredded cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and salsa add creaminess and tang. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that’s customizable and full of flavor, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights or weekend get-togethers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 large flour tortillas
1 cup lettuce, shredded
1 cup tomatoes, diced
1 cup corn, drained (canned or frozen)
½ cup black beans, rinsed and drained
½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or jack)
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
¼ cup salsa
Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it cool slightly before slicing.
Prepare the Wraps:
While the chicken is cooling, lay the flour tortillas flat on a clean surface, ready to be filled.
Add the Fillings:
Start by adding a layer of shredded lettuce on each tortilla. Follow with diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, and a generous portion of sliced chicken.
Cheese and Sauce:
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the fillings, then add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a spoonful of salsa.
Wrap It Up:
Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it from the bottom to the top, ensuring all the fillings are securely wrapped inside.
Slice and Serve:
Cut each wrap in half diagonally for a visually appealing presentation. Serve immediately, or wrap in parchment paper for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 wraps
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add Avocado: For extra creaminess, add sliced avocado to your wrap.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to bring some heat.
Grilled Vegetables: Toss some grilled bell peppers or onions into the wrap for extra flavor and texture.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and replace it with grilled veggies or tofu for a satisfying vegetarian option.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: If you have leftovers, store the wraps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If using a skillet, press the wrap slightly to crisp it up.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of protein for the wraps?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with grilled steak, shrimp, or even a vegetarian protein like tofu or tempeh.

Can I make these wraps ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the wraps ahead of time, but it’s best to store the sauce and sour cream separately until ready to serve to prevent the wraps from getting soggy.

What kind of tortillas should I use?

You can use any large flour tortillas, but whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas can also work for a healthier or gluten-free version.

Can I make these wraps spicier?

Absolutely! Add some chopped jalapeños, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce to give the wraps an extra kick.

How can I make the chicken more flavorful?

Marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to an hour with the seasonings before cooking, or add lime juice for a zesty flavor boost.

Can I use homemade salsa?

Yes, homemade salsa can add extra flavor and freshness to the wraps. Use your favorite recipe or try a chunky tomato-based salsa.

How do I keep the wraps from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, don’t add the salsa or sour cream until just before serving, and keep the veggies like lettuce and tomatoes as dry as possible.

Can I freeze these wraps?

These wraps are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can freeze them before adding the sour cream and salsa. Wrap tightly in foil or parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

How can I make this recipe lower in calories?

Use a lower-fat cheese and swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt to reduce calories. You can also use fewer tortillas or smaller wraps.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, feta, or pepper jack for a spicier variation.

Conclusion

Southwest Chicken Wraps are a delicious and customizable meal that combines bold flavors with fresh ingredients. They’re quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and packed with flavor that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy them for lunch, dinner, or as a fun meal for a group, these wraps are sure to be a hit!