Crispy BBQ Chicken Wrap: The Ultimate Recipe & Guide

Crispy BBQ Chicken Wrap: Craving a lunch or dinner that’s both satisfying and bursting with flavor? Look no further! Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, toasted tortilla filled with juicy, crispy chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, and all your favorite fresh toppings. This isn’t just a wrap; it’s an experience!

While the exact origins of the wrap are debated, its popularity exploded in the late 20th century as a convenient and customizable way to enjoy a variety of cuisines on the go. The beauty of the wrap lies in its versatility – it’s a blank canvas for culinary creativity. And when you combine it with the irresistible allure of barbecue chicken, you’ve got a winning combination.

People adore this Crispy BBQ Chicken Wrap for so many reasons. The contrast of textures – the crispy chicken against the soft tortilla and crunchy vegetables – is simply divine. The sweet and smoky barbecue sauce adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize to your liking. Whether you prefer a spicy kick, a creamy coolness, or a burst of freshness, you can tailor this wrap to perfectly suit your taste buds. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a meal that’s both delicious and easy to eat on the run? Get ready to discover your new favorite lunch!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• For the Wrap:
• 4 large flour tortillas (10-12 inch diameter)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded lettuce (iceberg or romaine)
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing (or your favorite dressing)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Pound the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures even cooking and tender chicken.
2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
4. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
5. BBQ Sauce Time: Return the shredded chicken to the skillet and pour in the BBQ sauce. Toss to coat the chicken evenly. Heat through for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and cling to the chicken.

Assembling the Wraps:

1. Warm the Tortillas: Lightly warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 15-20 seconds per side. This makes them more pliable and easier to roll without tearing. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a few seconds.
2. Layer the Cheese: Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle a generous layer of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese in the center of the tortilla, leaving about 1-2 inches of space around the edges.
3. Add the Chicken: Spoon a generous amount of the BBQ chicken over the cheese. Spread it evenly across the cheese layer.
4. Add the Toppings: Top the chicken with red onion slices, shredded lettuce, and chopped cilantro (if using). Drizzle with ranch dressing.
5. Fold the Wrap: Fold in the sides of the tortilla towards the center, covering the filling slightly. Then, tightly roll the tortilla from the bottom up, like a burrito.

Cooking the Wraps:

1. Prepare the Skillet: Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium heat. Brush the skillet with some of the melted butter.
2. Cook the Wraps: Place the assembled wraps in the skillet, seam-side down. Brush the tops of the wraps with the remaining melted butter.
3. Grill to Perfection: Cook the wraps for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Press down on the wraps with a spatula to ensure even browning and to help the cheese melt.
4. Cut and Serve: Remove the wraps from the skillet and let them cool slightly for a minute or two. Then, cut each wrap in half diagonally and serve immediately.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it Up: For a spicier wrap, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning or use a spicy BBQ sauce. You can also add some sliced jalapeños to the wrap filling.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to use your favorite cheeses. Pepper jack, Colby jack, or even a smoked gouda would be delicious.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with grilled or roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions. Toss the vegetables with BBQ sauce before adding them to the wrap.
• Add Some Crunch: For extra crunch, add some crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions to the wrap filling.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the BBQ chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to assemble the wraps, simply reheat the chicken.
• Dipping Sauces: Serve the wraps with extra ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or a creamy avocado dip for dipping.
• Lettuce Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of iceberg or romaine lettuce, try using shredded cabbage or spinach for a different texture and flavor.
• Onion Options: If you find red onion too strong, you can use thinly sliced green onions or sautéed onions instead.
• Herb Power: Don’t underestimate the power of fresh herbs! Besides cilantro, try adding some chopped parsley or chives to the wrap filling.
• Sweet and Savory: Add a touch of sweetness by including some grilled pineapple chunks or a drizzle of honey to the wrap.

Serving Suggestions:

These Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps are perfect for a quick and easy lunch, dinner, or snack. Serve them with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal. They are also great for parties and gatherings. You can even cut them into smaller pieces and serve them as appetizers.

Storage Instructions:

Leftover wraps can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, but be careful not to burn them.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per wrap):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: 600-700
• Protein: 30-40g
• Fat: 30-40g
• Carbohydrates: 50-60g

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy making and eating these delicious Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps! They are a crowd-pleaser and a great way to satisfy your BBQ cravings. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions or if you try any variations!

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! This Crispy BBQ Chicken Wrap recipe isn’t just another lunch option; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen. I truly believe this will become a staple in your meal rotation, and here’s why: the satisfying crunch of the chicken, the tangy sweetness of the BBQ sauce, and the fresh, vibrant veggies all come together in perfect harmony. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s infinitely customizable to suit your tastes. What more could you ask for?

But the real magic lies in the simplicity. We’re not talking about spending hours in the kitchen. This is a recipe designed for busy weeknights, quick lunches, or even a fun weekend picnic. The ingredients are readily available, and the steps are straightforward. Trust me, even if you’re a novice in the kitchen, you can absolutely nail this recipe. And the best part? You’ll be rewarded with a restaurant-quality wrap that’s far healthier and more satisfying than anything you could buy pre-made.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Now, let’s talk about how you can make this Crispy BBQ Chicken Wrap your own. Feel free to experiment with different types of BBQ sauce. A smoky chipotle BBQ sauce will add a kick, while a honey BBQ sauce will enhance the sweetness. You can also swap out the lettuce for spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some crumbled blue cheese or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar for a cheesy twist.

For a lighter option, consider using grilled chicken instead of crispy chicken. You can also skip the wrap altogether and serve the chicken and veggies as a salad. Another great idea is to use smaller tortillas to make mini wraps for appetizers or party snacks. The possibilities are truly endless!

If you’re serving this wrap for lunch, pair it with a side of sweet potato fries or a simple green salad. For dinner, it goes perfectly with corn on the cob or a creamy coleslaw. And don’t forget the drinks! A refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade is the perfect complement to the bold flavors of the wrap.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself. I’ve poured my heart into creating a wrap that’s not only tasty but also convenient and versatile. I genuinely believe that this Crispy BBQ Chicken Wrap will become a family favorite, and I can’t wait to hear what you think.

So, go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get cooking! And when you do, please, please, please share your experience with me. Did you make any modifications? Did you add any special ingredients? What did your family think? I’m all ears! You can leave a comment below, tag me on social media, or even send me an email. I love hearing from you and seeing your culinary creations. Happy wrapping!

I’m confident that once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked. It’s the perfect combination of flavors, textures, and convenience. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and give it a try. You won’t regret it!