There's nothing quite like biting into a Southwest Chicken Wrap—bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a satisfying crunch all wrapped up in a warm tortilla. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, an easy dinner, or a meal-prep-friendly option, this recipe checks all the boxes.
I first discovered the magic of Southwest flavors when traveling through Texas, where every meal seemed to have the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and tangy elements. This wrap brings those flavors together in a simple, homemade version that's perfect for busy days and picky eaters alike.
Why You'll Love This Southwest Chicken Wrap
Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to wrap. This Southwest Chicken Wrap isn't just delicious—it's a meal-prep dream, a quick-fix dinner, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser all in one.
First off, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you'll have a restaurant-quality wrap ready in under 30 minutes.
It's also super versatile. Whether you prefer grilled chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even a plant-based protein, this recipe adapts to whatever you have on hand.
Not to mention, it’s packed with flavor. From the smoky paprika to the zesty lime, every bite bursts with bold Southwest taste, complemented by crisp veggies and a creamy sauce.
And finally, it's great for meal prep. Make a batch of the filling ahead of time, and you’ll have grab-and-go wraps ready for busy lunches or easy dinners.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of this Southwest Chicken Wrap lies in its bold, fresh ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating a wrap that's packed with flavor and texture.
Chicken is the star of this recipe. I love using grilled chicken breast for a smoky, slightly charred flavor, but you can also use shredded rotisserie chicken if you're in a hurry.
Southwest seasoning is what gives this wrap its signature taste. A blend of smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder creates a perfect balance of smokiness and spice. If you have a store-bought Southwest seasoning mix, that works too!
Crisp veggies add freshness and crunch. I use a mix of romaine lettuce, diced tomatoes, and bell peppers, but feel free to swap in your favorites. Red onion and corn also make excellent additions.
A creamy, zesty sauce ties everything together. A mix of Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, and a hint of hot sauce creates a delicious dressing that complements the smoky chicken perfectly.
Tortillas are essential for wrapping up all these delicious ingredients. Use large flour tortillas for the best results—they’re sturdy enough to hold everything together without breaking.
How To Make This Southwest Chicken Wrap
Making this flavorful wrap is easier than you think! Let’s go step by step.
Start by seasoning your chicken generously with Southwest seasoning. If you're grilling, cook the chicken over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until it's beautifully charred and cooked through. Let it rest before slicing into thin strips.
While the chicken cooks, prepare the veggies and sauce. Chop the romaine lettuce, dice the tomatoes, and slice the bell peppers into thin strips. For the sauce, mix Greek yogurt, lime juice, and a splash of hot sauce in a small bowl until smooth.
Next, warm your tortillas. This step is optional, but it makes wrapping easier and adds a slight chewiness. You can heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side or microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 15 seconds.
Now, assemble your wrap! Lay out a tortilla and spread a spoonful of sauce in the center. Add a layer of lettuce, followed by the sliced chicken, tomatoes, bell peppers, and any extra toppings you like.
To wrap it up, fold in the sides, then roll tightly from the bottom up. Slice in half and enjoy!
Storage Options
If you're planning to make these wraps ahead of time, here are some great storage tips to keep them fresh.
For meal prep, store the chicken, veggies, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, just assemble a fresh wrap in minutes!
If you've already made a wrap and need to store it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Avoid freezing assembled wraps, as the fresh veggies can become soggy. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat before assembling your wrap.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this wrap is how adaptable it is. Here are a few fun ways to switch it up:
Want a vegetarian option? Swap the chicken for black beans, grilled tofu, or roasted sweet potatoes for a hearty, plant-based alternative.
Looking for extra protein? Add a handful of black beans or cooked quinoa to the filling.
Craving a spicier kick? Use chipotle mayo instead of the yogurt sauce, or add diced jalapeños for an extra heat boost.
Prefer a lower-carb version? Skip the tortilla and turn this into a delicious Southwest Chicken Salad by serving the ingredients over chopped romaine.
No fresh veggies on hand? Try using coleslaw mix for a crunchy twist that requires zero chopping.
Experiment with different flavors and make this wrap your own. No matter how you customize it, one thing’s for sure—you’ll keep coming back for more!
PrintSouthwest Chicken Wrap Recipe
This Southwest Chicken Wrap is packed with grilled chicken, black beans, corn, avocado, and a creamy chipotle sauce, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. It's a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an easy and satisfying meal for lunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 wraps 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southwest
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup corn kernels
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup diced red onion
- ½ avocado, sliced
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- 4 large flour tortillas
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Season chicken with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let rest, then slice.
- In a bowl, mix black beans, corn, tomatoes, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro.
- Spread sour cream or Greek yogurt onto each tortilla.
- Add sliced chicken, the bean-corn mixture, avocado, and shredded cheese.
- Wrap tightly, folding in the sides, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
- Add jalapeños for extra heat.
- Substitute whole wheat tortillas for a healthier alternative.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wrap
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
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