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This cheesy garlic chicken wrap recipe brings together tender chicken, melty cheese, and rich garlic flavor in a handheld meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of spices gives the chicken incredible flavor while the two cheese blend creates that irresistible pull when you take a bite.
I created this recipe when my teenager needed something quick between sports practices, and now it's requested at least weekly at our house. The combination of cheeses makes all the difference.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Provides lean protein and absorbs all the seasonings beautifully. Look for boneless skinless for quickest prep
- Olive oil: Helps the spices adhere to the chicken and prevents sticking during cooking
- Garlic powder: Delivers robust flavor that permeates the entire wrap. Use fresh if you have it
- Onion powder: Adds savory depth without overpowering the garlic notes
- Paprika: Brings subtle smokiness and gorgeous color to the chicken
- Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing all other flavors
- Cheddar cheese: Offers sharp flavor that stands up to the seasoned chicken
- Mozzarella cheese: Creates that perfect stretchy texture when melted
- Flour tortillas: Work best for holding everything together without breaking. Choose large ones
- Creamy garlic sauce: Binds everything together while adding luxurious flavor
- Fresh parsley: Brightens the finished dish with color and freshness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the Chicken:
- Combine diced chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt and pepper in a bowl. Use your hands to massage the seasonings into every piece for maximum flavor distribution. Let sit for 5 minutes if you have time to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Cook undisturbed for 3 minutes to develop good color, then stir and continue cooking another 3 to 5 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F and no pink remains inside.
- Prepare the Wraps:
- Lay out flour tortillas on a clean work surface. Spread about 2 tablespoons of creamy garlic sauce on each tortilla, covering about three quarters of the surface but leaving the edges clean. This creates a flavor base and helps everything stick together.
- Add Fillings:
- Divide the cooked chicken evenly among the tortillas, placing it in a line slightly off center. Sprinkle generously with both cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, using more or less depending on how cheesy you prefer your wraps. The combination of cheeses is crucial for both flavor and texture.
- Fold and Toast:
- Fold in the sides of each tortilla, then roll from bottom to top, tucking in the filling as you go to create a secure wrap. Return the skillet to medium heat and place wraps seam side down. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until golden and crisp, then carefully flip and cook the other side until cheese is completely melted.
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The creamy garlic sauce is something I discovered by accident when I ran out of regular sauce one night. My daughter actually clapped when she tasted the result, and now I always keep a jar in the refrigerator for these wraps and so many other dishes.
Make Ahead Options
These wraps can be assembled completely ahead of time, wrapped tightly in foil, and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply unwrap and heat in a skillet for about 4 minutes per side until heated through and crispy. The foil method keeps everything from drying out while storing.
Customization Ideas
The basic recipe is delicious as is, but you can easily adapt it to your tastes or what you have on hand. Try adding sautéed bell peppers and onions for extra vegetables. Swap the chicken for leftover turkey or even cooked ground beef. For a vegetarian version, substitute black beans mixed with the same seasonings. The garlic flavor profile works beautifully with any of these variations.
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Serving Suggestions
These wraps are substantial enough to serve as a complete meal, but they pair wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside sweet potato fries or a cup of tomato soup. During summer months, fresh corn on the cob makes an excellent accompaniment.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftover wraps, let them cool completely before wrapping individually in foil or parchment paper. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, use a skillet over medium heat rather than the microwave to maintain the crispy exterior.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What can I substitute for the creamy garlic sauce?
You can easily substitute the creamy garlic sauce with mayonnaise mixed with minced garlic, garlic aioli, ranch dressing with added garlic powder, or Greek yogurt blended with garlic and herbs. For a spicier option, try mixing sour cream with garlic and hot sauce.
- → Can I prepare these wraps ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the seasoned chicken mixture up to 2 days ahead and store it refrigerated. For best results, assemble and cook the wraps just before serving to ensure the tortillas stay crispy and the cheese melts properly. If needed, you can fully assemble them a few hours ahead and reheat in a skillet or oven until the cheese melts.
- → What sides pair well with these chicken wraps?
These wraps pair wonderfully with a simple green salad, sweet potato fries, tortilla chips with guacamole or salsa, roasted vegetables, or a light tomato soup. For a heartier meal, serve with Mexican rice or a bean salad. A tangy coleslaw also complements the rich, cheesy flavor of the wraps.
- → How can I make these wraps spicier?
To increase the heat level, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning mix. You could also include diced jalapeños or green chilies with the chicken filling, use pepper jack cheese instead of or alongside the cheddar, or mix hot sauce into the garlic cream sauce. Serving with hot salsa on the side is another great option.
- → Can I use whole wheat or corn tortillas instead?
Yes, whole wheat tortillas work great as a healthier alternative with a slightly nuttier flavor. Corn tortillas can be used but tend to be smaller and less pliable, so you may need to make smaller wraps or use two overlapping tortillas. Corn tortillas also benefit from being briefly warmed before filling to increase flexibility and prevent cracking.
- → How do I prevent the wraps from becoming soggy?
To avoid soggy wraps, make sure your chicken isn't too wet when added to the tortilla. You can pat it dry with paper towels after cooking if needed. Apply a thin layer of garlic sauce, and if preparing ahead, keep the sauce separate until just before cooking. Finally, cook the assembled wraps until they're golden and crispy on both sides, which creates a barrier against moisture.