Southwest Chicken Wraps

These Southwest Chicken Wraps are a delicious blend of flavor and nutrition, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting guests or preparing meals for the week, these wraps offer a delightful combination of spices, fresh vegetables, and tender chicken. Their versatility allows you to enjoy them as a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner. Get ready to savor every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these wraps in no time.
• Packed with Flavor: The blend of spices gives these wraps a zesty kick that will keep you coming back for more.
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with protein and fresh veggies, these wraps are a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy tasty leftovers throughout the week.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes the cooking process easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for cooking chicken evenly while keeping it juicy.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining spices and marinating the chicken before cooking.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps chop veggies quickly and safely.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for all your chopping needs.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1 ½ teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil

For the Wrap Filling

• 2 cups thinly shredded red cabbage
• 2 cups thinly shredded green cabbage
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tablespoons SideDish Southwest Dressing (code RACHAEL15)
• 1 lime (squeezed)

For Assembling the Wraps

• 4 burrito-sized tortillas (I like Siete Foods Cassava Flour Tortillas)
• 4 tablespoons SideDish Southwest Dressing
• 2 large avocados (sliced)
• 1 cup shredded goat cheddar cheese
• Tortilla chips (I like Siete Foods Tortilla Chips)

How to Make Southwest Chicken Wraps

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• In a mixing bowl, combine salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, and cumin.
• Add chicken tenders and avocado oil to the spice mixture. Toss until well-coated.
• Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• Heat a skillet over medium heat.
• Add the marinated chicken tenders to the skillet.
• Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.

Step 3: Prepare the Veggies

• While the chicken is resting, prepare your vegetables by shredding both red and green cabbage.
• Slice red onion and chop cilantro. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Wraps

• Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
• Spread 1 tablespoon of Southwest dressing on each tortilla.
• Layer shredded cabbage, red onion slices, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, and sliced chicken on top.
• Sprinkle goat cheddar cheese over the fillings.

Step 5: Roll It Up

• Carefully roll up each tortilla tightly from one end to another.
• Slice in half if desired and serve with tortilla chips on the side.

Enjoy your flavorful Southwest Chicken Wraps!

How to Serve Southwest Chicken Wraps

Southwest Chicken Wraps are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to suit different occasions and preferences. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

For a Casual Lunch

• Use a simple side salad to complement the wraps, providing a refreshing crunch.
• Pair with tortilla chips for a delightful crunch and a satisfying dip in salsa or guacamole.

As an Appetizer

• Cut the wraps into bite-sized pieces to create fun appetizers perfect for parties.
• Serve with a variety of dips, like sour cream or ranch dressing, for extra flavor.

For Meal Prep

• Pack individual wraps in meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches during the week.
• Include extra toppings like sliced jalapeños or cheese on the side for customization.

On Game Day

• Set up a wrap station where guests can build their own Southwest Chicken Wraps with assorted toppings.
• Offer drinks like iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing pairing.

How to Perfect Southwest Chicken Wraps

Making perfect Southwest Chicken Wraps is easy with just a few tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure your wraps are always flavorful and enjoyable.

• Marinate the chicken: Letting chicken tenders marinate in spices for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate your wrap’s taste and texture.
• Warm tortillas: Lightly heating tortillas makes them more pliable, preventing tearing when wrapping.
• Balance flavors: Ensure you have both creamy and crunchy textures in your wraps for an exciting bite.
• Experiment with dressings: Try different dressings to find your favorite flavor combination that complements the chicken.

Best Side Dishes for Southwest Chicken Wraps

Pairing side dishes with your Southwest Chicken Wraps can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad features corn, lime, and spices that match well with the wraps.
2. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds richness and pairs perfectly with tortilla chips served alongside the wraps.
3. Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed salad made with black beans, corn, and cilantro offers great flavor contrast.
4. Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds brightness and freshness to each bite.
5. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with spices complements the Southwest flavors beautifully.
6. Grilled Veggies: Assorted grilled vegetables bring additional colors and textures that pair well with your wraps.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Southwest Chicken Wraps, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for a perfect wrap every time.

• Using the wrong tortillas: Always opt for burrito-sized tortillas that can hold all your fillings without tearing. Siete Foods Cassava Flour Tortillas are a great choice.
• Overcooking the chicken: Ensure your chicken tenders are cooked just right. This keeps them juicy and flavorful. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your chicken properly with salt, pepper, and spices. This enhances the flavor significantly.
• Not letting chicken rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest before slicing. This helps retain moisture and improves texture.
• Ignoring freshness: Fresh ingredients like herbs and veggies make a huge difference in taste. Make sure everything is crisp and vibrant.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store wraps in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Southwest Chicken Wraps

• Wrap each individual wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Southwest Chicken Wraps

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake wrapped in foil for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on high for about 1-2 minutes, checking often.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 5 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Southwest Chicken Wraps.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with turkey, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

What can I add to my Southwest Chicken Wraps?

You can add black beans, corn, or different types of cheese for extra flavor and texture.

How do I make these wraps gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortillas and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftover Southwest Chicken Wraps are best eaten within 3 days when stored properly in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

These Southwest Chicken Wraps are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite ingredients or adjust the spice levels as you wish. Perfect for meal prep or serving guests, you’ll find yourself making these wraps again and again!