Southwest Chicken Flavor Wraps

Southwest Chicken Wraps make lunch quick exciting and full of bold flavor I whipped these up one busy afternoon and they instantly became my favorite way to use leftover chicken or jazz up a store-bought rotisserie

I first threw these together before heading out on errands and was surprised how much everyone loved them Even picky eaters cleaned their plates and asked for more

Ingredients

• Sour cream: brings creamy richness to the sauce Choose full fat for the best flavor or substitute plain Greek yogurt for extra protein and tang

• Salsa: gives a southwest kick Use your favorite brand or homemade salsa and select mild medium or hot based on your spice tolerance I adore Herdez for fresh flavor

• Taco seasoning: is the secret to that bold Tex Mex taste You can use homemade or a reliable store brand Just check labels for sugar and salt content if you have dietary needs

• Chopped lettuce: adds crunch and freshness Go for sturdy lettuces like romaine or iceberg so your wrap stays crisp and does not get soggy

• Shredded cheddar cheese: gives melty goodness and a salty kick Try pepper jack for extra heat or hunt for sharp cheddar with a deep yellow color for maximum flavor

• Tortilla strips: offer a satisfying crunch Look for them in the salad toppings aisle or crush up plain corn tortillas for a homemade touch If you love extra crunch use a generous handful

• Burrito sized tortillas: are your wrap carriers Opt for flour for the classic taste or pick whole wheat for more fiber Try spinach or tomato wraps for a colorful twist Always choose fresh soft tortillas to prevent tearing

• Grilled chicken: brings tender protein I often use Tyson grilled strips thawed or any leftover chicken works well Rotisserie chicken saves even more time and adds great flavor

• Tomatoes: add juicy bursts of acidity Chopped vine ripe tomatoes or cherry tomatoes work beautifully for freshness

Step by Step Instructions

Make the sauce:

Combine sour cream salsa and taco seasoning in a small bowl Whisk until creamy with no streaks Taste and adjust seasoning if needed Set aside to let flavors mingle

Mix the filling:

In a large bowl add chopped lettuce shredded cheese tomatoes and tortilla strips Drizzle two tablespoons of the sauce over the mixture and gently toss until everything is coated and evenly distributed

Fill the tortilla:

Lay one burrito sized tortilla flat Place a quarter of the lettuce mixture just below the center of the tortilla Top with a quarter of the grilled chicken Distribute the filling in a thick line to make rolling easier

Wrap it up:

Fold the left and right sides of the tortilla toward the center over the filling Pull the bottom edge up and over the filling then roll tightly upwards into a secure wrap Try to tuck in the edges with your fingers as you go so everything stays inside

Repeat and slice:

Continue filling and rolling until all wraps are done Slice each wrap in half using a sharp knife Place on a platter or cutting board seam side down

Serve:

Arrange wraps and serve right away with remaining sauce for dipping For extra flavor offer guacamole sour cream or salsa on the side

I cannot get enough of the creamy sauce You will want to double the batch just for dipping My family loves this wrap so much that it always disappears at backyard lunches I remember my son sneaking extra tortilla strips into his wrap for even more crunch

Storage Tips

These wraps taste best fresh If you need to pack them for lunch wrap each tightly in plastic wrap and store in an insulated lunch bag with an ice pack Try to keep the sauce and tortilla strips separate then assemble right before eating to avoid sogginess

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap sour cream for plain Greek yogurt for a tangier lighter sauce Use any sturdy leafy green in place of romaine such as chopped spinach or cabbage If cheddar is not your favorite replace it with Monterey Jack mozzarella or even crumbled cotija for a new flavor twist Vegetarians can sub the chicken for black beans or grilled veggies for a plant based version

Serving Suggestions

Serve wraps with a side of tortilla chips fresh fruit or a crunchy slaw For a bigger meal pair with sweet potato fries or a cup of Southwest corn chowder The wraps also make great appetizers if sliced into pinwheels

Cultural Note

Southwest flavors are inspired by the culinary traditions of the American Southwest featuring bold spices grilled meats salsa and fresh vegetables This wrap brings all those elements together in a fun portable form perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed lunches

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use leftover chicken in these wraps?

Yes, leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken works great and brings extra flavor and convenience.

→ What tortillas should I choose?

Any burrito-sized tortilla works, including traditional, whole wheat, low-carb, spinach, or tomato flavored varieties.

→ Are the tortilla strips necessary?

They add crunch, but you can leave them out or replace with crushed chips if you prefer a softer texture.

→ What sauce options work well?

The Southwest sauce adds zest, but you can try sour cream, salsa, Catalina, or guacamole instead, alone or together.

→ How should I store wraps if making ahead?

For freshest taste, enjoy right away. If packing, wrap tightly and keep chilled to preserve crispness and prevent sogginess.

→ What sides pair nicely with these wraps?

Chips, fries, or crisp vegetables make great companions for a fuller meal.