Southwest Chicken Wrap

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Southwest chicken wraps are filled with bold flavors and are incredibly versatile. The chipotle-marinated chicken offers just the right amount of spice, while the creamy sauce adds a rich, cooling touch. With a combination of juicy chicken, sautéed veggies, and a burst of sweetness from honey, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Plus, they’re quick and easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for busy days.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
• Garlic
• Onion
• Smoked paprika
• Chili powder
• Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• Honey
• Sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
• Black beans (canned, drained)
• Corn (fresh or frozen)
• Bell peppers (optional)
• Tortillas

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

Directions

1. Pat the chicken dry and dice into small bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken to a large bowl, then mix in marinade ingredients—oil, seasonings, lime juice, and chipotle peppers. Allow it to marinate for 15 minutes to 24 hours.
2. While the chicken marinates, cook rice according to the package instructions. Prepare the sauce by blending sour cream (or Greek yogurt) with chipotle peppers, honey, and other ingredients in a food processor or blender.
3. Slice and dice the veggies. In a large skillet, cook the marinated chicken over medium heat for 12-15 minutes, until fully cooked.
4. Set aside the cooked chicken and sauté the peppers and onions in the same skillet for about 5 minutes.
5. Combine the chicken and veggies. Warm tortillas and start filling them with rice, chicken, veggies, cheese, and a generous drizzle of sauce.
6. Roll the wraps tightly, slice, and serve with extra sauce if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Bell Peppers: Feel free to use any variety of bell peppers.
• Sour Cream Substitute: Use dairy-free sour cream, Greek yogurt, or mayo if you prefer.
• Chicken Thighs: You can swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier, more tender option.
• Sweeteners: Replace honey with maple syrup for a different flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover wraps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them wrapped tightly in foil or a ziplock bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave until warm, or heat them in a skillet.

FAQs

Are these Southwest wraps spicy?

These wraps do have a bit of heat due to the chipotle peppers, but you can reduce the spice by omitting the jalapeños or using chipotle powder instead of the peppers.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a more tender, flavorful option. Just be sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

How can I make these wraps less spicy?

To reduce the spice level, skip the jalapeños and use chipotle powder instead of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.

Can I make these wraps ahead of time?

Yes! You can meal prep these wraps and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze them for up to 2 months.

What can I serve with these wraps?

These wraps pair wonderfully with a side of kale salad, crispy avocado fries, or a refreshing cucumber salad.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Are these wraps gluten-free?

To make these wraps gluten-free, use gluten-free tortillas.

Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, you can use frozen corn instead of fresh, just be sure to thaw it before adding it to the wraps.

How do I store leftover sauce?

Keep leftover sauce in a separate container in the fridge for up to 4 days, and use it as a dip for other meals.

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with steak or even use beans for a vegetarian option.

Conclusion

Southwest chicken wraps are a versatile, flavorful meal perfect for any occasion. They’re easy to make, can be customized to suit different tastes, and are a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re making them for a quick dinner or prepping them for lunch throughout the week, these wraps will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the balance of spice, creaminess, and freshness in each bite!