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This quick grilled chicken wrap has become my go-to lunch when I want something hearty but still fresh and lively. Savory spiced chicken, creamy chipotle mayo, crisp vegetables, and melty cheese—all tucked into a fluffy tortilla. It is seriously satisfying and comes together in under half an hour.
When I first made these wraps for a last minute get together my friends could not stop talking about the smoky chipotle mayo and juicy grilled chicken. Now it is a regular request whenever folks come over for lunch.
Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: brings creamy richness and holds the chipotle flavor together buy a good full fat version for the best result
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: infuse smoky heat use a fresh can for bold smoky notes
- Lime juice: brightens up the entire wrap squeeze your own for peak freshness
- Chicken breasts or tenders: provide juicy lean protein use fresh chicken and slice evenly for quick cooking
- Olive oil: keeps chicken juicy and helps seasoning cling use extra virgin if you can
- Garlic powder and onion powder: offer savory depth choose fresh spices for the most flavor impact
- Smoked paprika: adds a deep smoky twist to the grilled chicken Spanish varieties are extra aromatic
- Oregano: gives an herby lift dried oregano works well just check it is fragrant
- Fresh garlic: adds punchy depth to the marinade always use freshly minced for best flavor
- Large flour tortillas: make the perfect wrap base choose soft and fluffy tortillas for easy rolling
- Shredded lettuce: provides crunch go for crisp romaine or iceberg
- Tomatoes: add juicy brightness use ripe but firm varieties so the wrap does not get soggy
- Red onion: delivers bite and sweet sharpness pick a firm and shiny onion for the best crunch
- Shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheese: give gooey melt and flavor a mix provides both creamy and spicy elements
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Chipotle Mayo:
- Combine mayonnaise chipotle in adobo lime juice salt and pepper in a small bowl Stir well to blend then cover and chill until ready This gives the flavors time to bloom
- Marinate the Chicken:
- If chicken breasts are thick slice them into half inch cutlets Place in a medium bowl Add olive oil garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika oregano minced garlic and lime juice Toss well so everything coats evenly For the deepest flavor marinate in the refrigerator for a couple hours or even overnight
- Grill the Chicken:
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium high heat Drizzle a touch of olive oil if using a skillet Lay in the marinated chicken Cook for three to four minutes per side or until golden outside and cooked to an internal temperature of one hundred sixty five degrees Let rest for ten minutes before cutting into bite sized strips so the juices stay inside
- Assemble the Wraps:
- Lay each tortilla on a flat surface Layer on shredded lettuce diced tomatoes red onion shredded cheese and grilled chicken Drizzle generously with chipotle mayo Fold in the sides and roll up firmly into a neat wrap
- Enjoy and Serve:
- Slice the wrap in half if you like and enjoy fresh and warm so the cheese gets a little melty from the hot chicken
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Something about that smoky chipotle mayo always brings back the memory of my last family picnic when the youngest cousin had chipotle sauce all over his face and asked for seconds It just tastes like fun and summer in every bite
Storage Tips
Wrap leftovers tightly in foil or place in an airtight bag and store in the fridge for up to two days If making ahead for lunches keep the veggies and sauce separate until ready to eat to keep everything crisp
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap chicken for leftover turkey or even seasoned grilled shrimp if you want a lighter option For a plantbased version use seasoned grilled tofu Dairy free cheese and vegan mayo can be switched in easily with no fuss
Serving Suggestions
Pair the wrap with a crisp coleslaw potato chips or a simple green salad For a bigger meal add fruit salad or grilled corn on the side Kids especially love dipping extra wrap bites in more chipotle mayo
Wrap History
Although wraps are now a staple American lunch they took off in popularity in the nineteen nineties as a fun way to give classic sandwich ingredients a portable new home The chipotle mayo twist adds bold southwestern flavor and keeps the modern wrap from ever feeling boring
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I keep the chicken juicy while grilling?
Ensure you don't overcook the chicken by using a meat thermometer. Cook until it reaches 165°F and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- → Can I prepare the wrap ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the components separately. Assemble the wrap just before serving for the freshest taste.
- → What are some variations for this wrap?
Switch up the protein with grilled shrimp, beef, or tofu. Add vegetables like avocado or bell peppers to enhance the flavors.
- → How should I store leftover wraps?
Store leftover wraps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid soggy tortillas.
- → What can I use if I don’t have tortillas?
Substitute tortillas with lettuce wraps, pita bread, or flatbread for a different take on the dish.