Southwest Chicken Wraps

These Southwest Chicken Wraps are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. They make an excellent lunch option or a fun dish to serve at gatherings. Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, these wraps are not only satisfying but also easy to prepare. Once you try them, you’ll find yourself making them on repeat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a bold taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, these wraps are a fast option for busy days.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize your wraps by adding other veggies or proteins based on your preference.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time, and enjoy delicious lunches throughout the week.
• Healthy Choice: These wraps are filled with nutritious ingredients, making them a great choice for health-conscious eaters.

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Tools and Preparation

To create your Southwest Chicken Wraps, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet is crucial for cooking chicken evenly and achieving that perfect sear.
• Cutting Board: It provides a safe surface to chop vegetables and prepare your ingredients without mess.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing through chicken and veggies smooth and safe.
• Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining spices or mixing dressings to ensure even distribution.

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

How to Make Southwest Chicken Wraps

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• In a mixing bowl, combine salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, and cumin.
• Add chicken tenders to the bowl and coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
• Drizzle with avocado oil and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add marinated chicken tenders to the skillet.
• Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

• While the chicken rests, shred red and green cabbage.
• Slice red onion and chop cilantro. Set aside in a mixing bowl.

Step 4: Assemble the Wraps

• Lay out tortillas on a flat surface.
• Spread 1 tablespoon of SideDish Southwest Dressing on each tortilla.
• Layer sliced chicken, shredded cabbage mix, avocado slices, goat cheddar cheese, and additional dressing as desired.

Step 5: Roll Up & Serve

• Fold in the sides of each tortilla then roll tightly from one end to another.
• Cut in half if desired, serve with tortilla chips on the side for extra crunch!

How to Serve Southwest Chicken Wraps

Serving Southwest Chicken Wraps can be a delightful way to impress your guests or enjoy a hearty lunch. These wraps are versatile and can be paired with various sides and toppings to enhance their flavor.

Classic Serving Suggestions

• With Extra Dressing: Drizzle more SideDish Southwest Dressing over the wraps for an extra kick.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with sliced lime on the side for a zesty squeeze just before eating.

Topping Ideas

• Sliced Jalapeños: Add some heat and crunch with fresh jalapeño slices.
• Fresh Salsa: A scoop of fresh salsa adds bright flavors and complements the wraps perfectly.

Accompaniment Choices

• Tortilla Chips: Pair with tortilla chips for a crunchy side that balances the softness of the wraps.
• Guacamole: Offer guacamole as a creamy dip to elevate the taste of each bite.

How to Perfect Southwest Chicken Wraps

To make perfect Southwest Chicken Wraps, focus on the balance of flavors and textures. These tips will help you achieve delicious results every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor profile significantly.
• Marinate Chicken: Marinate your chicken tenders ahead of time for deeper flavor absorption.
• Warm Tortillas: Warm your tortillas before assembling to make them more pliable and easier to roll.
• Layer Wisely: Start with dressing, then add veggies, followed by chicken, cheese, and toppings for even distribution.

Best Side Dishes for Southwest Chicken Wraps

Pairing side dishes with your Southwest Chicken Wraps can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing salad with grilled corn, cilantro, lime, and cotija cheese.
2. Black Bean Salad: This hearty salad combines black beans, tomatoes, onions, and avocado for added protein.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with cilantro and lime complements the wraps beautifully.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Crispy roasted sweet potatoes add sweetness and nutrition to your meal.
5. Pico de Gallo: A fresh tomato salsa that packs flavor and freshness alongside your wraps.
6. Chili Lime Carrots: Roasted or steamed carrots tossed in chili lime seasoning offer a sweet-spicy crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Southwest Chicken Wraps, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your wraps turn out perfectly.

• Using the wrong tortillas: Choosing small or flimsy tortillas can lead to spills. Opt for burrito-sized, sturdy options like cassava flour tortillas for better wrapping.
• Overcooking the chicken: Dry chicken ruins the enjoyment of wraps. Cook chicken just until it’s no longer pink, ensuring it remains juicy and flavorful.
• Skipping the seasoning: Forgetting to season your chicken and veggies can make your wraps bland. Use spices like chili powder and cumin to enhance flavor.
• Not letting chicken rest: Cutting into hot chicken right away makes it lose moisture. Allow it to rest before slicing for juiciness.
• Ignoring portion sizes: Overstuffing wraps can lead to messy eating. Keep portions balanced so they’re easy to handle and enjoy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Southwest Chicken Wraps in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Southwest Chicken Wraps

• Wrap each individual wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer bag; they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.

Reheating Southwest Chicken Wraps

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate; heat for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing and enjoying Southwest Chicken Wraps.

Can I make Southwest Chicken Wraps ahead of time?

You can prep everything ahead, but it’s best to assemble the wraps just before serving. This keeps the tortillas from getting soggy.

What can I substitute for chicken in Southwest Chicken Wraps?

You could use grilled shrimp, tofu, or even beans for a vegetarian option that still packs great flavor.

How do I spice up my Southwest Chicken Wraps?

Consider adding jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy salsa for an extra kick if you love heat!

Are these wraps healthy?

Yes! Southwest Chicken Wraps are high in protein and can be customized with fresh veggies, making them a nutritious meal option.

Final Thoughts

Southwest Chicken Wraps are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with different proteins or veggies based on your preferences. Whether you’re hosting guests or meal prepping for yourself, these wraps are sure to satisfy cravings with their vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients.