Discover the ultimate Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps recipe! Quick, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. Easy to make, packed with flavor, and family-approved!
Typicallyboneless and skinless chicken breasts are easiest to work with, but thighs can be used if you prefer a juicier bite. Aim for around 1 to 1.5 pounds of chicken, enough to feed 4 people.
Flour Tortillas
You can use regular-sized tortillas or larger burrito-style wraps. For a healthier twistopt for whole wheat tortillas. If you’re gluten-free, use certified gluten-free wraps.
Garlic
Fresh garlic is key for robust flavor. Plan on using at least 3-4 cloves for a bold garlicky punch.
Cheese
A blend of mozzarellacheddar, or Monterey Jack works best for a gooey, melty texture. Shredded is ideal for easy incorporation.
Marinade Essentials
Olive Oil: Helps the chicken stay moist and also carries the flavors.
Salt and Pepper: Balances and enhances all the other seasonings.
Herbs and Spices: Consider oreganopaprika, dried basil, or Italian seasoning.
Optional Veggies
Bell Peppers: Redgreen, or yellow, sliced thinly for a sweet crunch.
Onions: Sautéed or caramelized onions add great depth.
Spinach or Lettuce: For a burst of color and nutritional benefits.
Additional Sauces or Spreads (Optional)
Garlic Aioli or Mayonnaise: Amp up the creaminess factor.
Hot Sauce or Sriracha: Perfect for those who crave a little heat.
Barbecue Sauce: Adds a tangy-sweet note if you’re looking to shake things up.
Garnishes
Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: Chopped herbs bring a pop of color and a refreshing element.
Extra Cheese: Because who can say no to more cheese?
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Prep the Chicken:- If you’re using chicken breasts, consider pounding them lightly to an even thickness for faster, more uniform cooking. Alternatively, slice them into thin strips.
Create the Marinade:- In a large bowl or a zip-top bag, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices (such as oregano, paprika, or Italian seasoning).- Stir to combine thoroughly.
Coat the Chicken:- Add the chicken strips or breasts to the marinade, ensuring every piece is well-coated.- Let the chicken marinate for at least 15-30 minutes. If time permits, you can cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours to maximize flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a Skillet:- Place a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil if necessary.
Cook Until Golden:- Add the marinated chicken pieces, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.- Cook for approximately 4-6 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until the chicken is cooked through and has a golden-brown exterior.- If you’re using a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Rest and Slice:- Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Slice into bite-sized pieces or thin strips, perfect for stuffing into your tortilla.
Step 3: Sauté Additional Veggies (Optional)
Add to the Same Skillet:- If you’re including sautéed onions or bell peppers, place them in the same skillet after removing the chicken.- Sauté for around 5 minutes or until softened and slightly caramelized. Season with salt, pepper, or your favorite herbs.
Set Aside:- Transfer the cooked veggies to a plate or bowl, and keep them nearby for assembly.
Step 4: Assemble the Wraps
Warm the Tortillas:- Briefly heat each tortilla in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make them more pliable.
Spread the Fillings:- Lay a warm tortilla on a flat surface.- If desired, spread a thin layer of garlic aioli, mayonnaise, or a sauce of your choice.
Add the Chicken and Veggies:- Arrange a handful of sliced chicken and sautéed veggies down the center of the tortilla.
Sprinkle Cheese:- Generously sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the chicken and veggies.- This is where the “cheesy” magic happens!
Wrap It Up:- Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it tightly from the bottom up.- For a crispy exterior, you can place the wrap seam-side down in a hot skillet or press it in a panini press.
Step 5: Melt and Serve
Heat for Melty Goodness:- If you want the cheese extra melty, cook the assembled wraps in a skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes per side.- Alternatively, use a sandwich press or grill pan.
Slice and Serve:- Cut each wrap diagonally for a more appealing presentation.- Serve them immediately while they’re warm and gooey.
Pro Tip:
If you have leftover chicken from a previous dinner, you can skip the marinating step and jump straight to assembly. Just be sure to add a bit of garlic flavor via a sauce or spice blend!
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~450
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 650mg
(Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on exact ingredients and brands used)