Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps are a perfect blend of savory flavors, making them an excellent option for a quick lunch, dinner, or even a grab-and-go snack. These wraps are filled with juicy, seasoned chicken, rich, melted cheese, and an irresistible garlic-infused sauce, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. Not only are they incredibly delicious, but they’re also easy to prepare and customize with various add-ins, such as veggies or additional spices.
The beauty of Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps is their simplicity. They use basic ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen, but the result is far from basic. Garlic and cheese combine to create a flavor profile that’s comforting and indulgent, while the chicken provides lean protein to keep you satisfied. You can make these wraps ahead of time for a convenient meal prep option, or whip them up in under 30 minutes for a fast yet filling dinner.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps are versatile enough to please everyone. Pair them with a side salad, chips, or even a bowl of soup for a more complete meal. In this detailed guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps, from selecting the best ingredients to troubleshooting any common mistakes. Let’s dive in!
What You’ll Need for a Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps
Chicken:
The chicken is the star of these wraps, providing the main source of protein. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, depending on your preference. Chicken breasts are leaner, while thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. If you’re short on time, you can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken, which will save you a step in the preparation process.
Garlic:
Garlic is key to infusing the chicken and sauce with a deep, savory flavor. You’ll need fresh garlic for the best taste, though garlic powder can be used as a substitute in a pinch. Make sure to finely mince or grate the garlic so that it evenly distributes throughout the dish. Garlic lovers can adjust the amount to taste, but keep in mind that too much garlic can overpower the other flavors.
Cheese:
For the cheesy component, shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or a combination of both work beautifully. Mozzarella melts well and gives the wrap a nice stretchy, gooey texture, while cheddar adds a sharp, bold flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, gouda, or pepper jack for a bit of a kick.
Tortillas or Wraps:
The wrap itself serves as the vessel for all the delicious fillings. Opt for soft flour tortillas or whole wheat wraps for a healthier option. You can also use low-carb tortillas if you’re watching your carbohydrate intake. Make sure the tortillas are large enough to hold all the fillings without tearing.
Butter or Olive Oil:
To cook the garlic and give the chicken a rich, flavorful coating, you’ll need either butter or olive oil. Butter will give the wraps a richer, creamier taste, while olive oil offers a lighter, healthier option. If you want a mix of both, you can use half butter and half olive oil for a balanced flavor profile.
Herbs and Spices:
Season the chicken with a variety of herbs and spices to enhance its flavor. A combination of salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning works well to complement the garlic and cheese. You can also add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a bit of heat, or even some fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a more herbaceous note.
Sour Cream or Mayonnaise:
To add creaminess to the wraps, a light spread of sour cream or mayonnaise can be used. Sour cream adds a slight tang that balances the richness of the cheese, while mayonnaise provides a creamy, smooth texture. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute with Greek yogurt.
Optional Add-ins:
- Vegetables: Add crunch and nutrition by including vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, onions, or avocado slices. These not only bulk up the wraps but also add color and freshness.
- Bacon (Turkey): If you want to elevate these wraps to another level, adding crispy turkey bacon will provide a savory, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese and garlic.
How to Make a Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps
- Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of butter or olive oil. Once the butter is melted or the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken to the pan. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until it’s fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, simply reheat it in the skillet until warmed through. - Make the Garlic Sauce:
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the garlic sauce. In a small saucepan, melt a tablespoon of butter and add the minced garlic. Cook the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, then stir in any additional seasonings like red pepper flakes for heat. Once the garlic is softened and the mixture is fragrant, remove it from the heat and set it aside. - Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes it easier to shred. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can also chop it into cubes if you prefer chunkier pieces in your wrap. - Assemble the Wraps:
Lay out your tortillas or wraps on a clean surface. Spread a small amount of sour cream or mayonnaise on each tortilla, if using. Then, add a generous amount of shredded chicken to the center of each tortilla. Drizzle the garlic sauce over the chicken, making sure to get some garlic bits in each wrap for maximum flavor. Sprinkle a handful of shredded cheese over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly distributed. - Fold the Wraps:
Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up from the bottom, tucking in the sides as you go to create a secure wrap. You can use toothpicks to hold the wraps together if needed. - Grill the Wraps (Optional):
If you prefer a crispy, golden exterior, you can grill the wraps before serving. Heat a clean skillet over medium heat and add a little butter or oil. Place the wraps seam-side down in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted. - Serve:
Cut the wraps in half and serve immediately, while the cheese is still gooey and melted. These wraps pair perfectly with a side salad, sweet potato fries, or even a cup of soup for a complete meal.
Serving and Storage Tips for
Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps are best served hot, fresh off the skillet when the cheese is still melted, and the tortilla is crispy. However, if you’re making these for meal prep, they also store well and can be reheated.
To store leftovers, wrap each tortilla tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes, though the tortilla may not be as crispy.
If you want to freeze the wraps, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then heat in the oven or microwave.
Mistakes to Avoid while making Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps
- Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough, which will make your wraps less enjoyable. Make sure to cook the chicken until it’s just done and still juicy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Too Much Garlic: Garlic is a strong flavor, and while it’s the highlight of this dish, using too much can overpower the other ingredients. Stick to the recipe, or if you love garlic, increase it slightly but not too much.
- Not Melting the Cheese Enough: Make sure the cheese is fully melted for the best texture and flavor. If grilling the wraps, allow enough time for the cheese to melt completely inside.
- Tearing the Tortillas: If you overfill the wraps, the tortillas may tear. Be mindful of how much filling you’re adding and fold them securely to avoid spillage.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Leftover Chicken: If you’re short on time, you can use leftover grilled chicken or even rotisserie chicken for this recipe. This makes the process faster without sacrificing flavor.
- Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to these wraps. Bell peppers, spinach, or avocado make great additions that add texture, flavor, and nutrients.
- Make It Spicy: If you love a bit of heat, add some sliced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the wraps for a spicy kick.
- Add Extra Protein: For an even heartier wrap, consider adding cooked turkey bacon or some scrambled eggs if you’re making a breakfast version.
FAQ
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas. Many grocery stores carry gluten-free wraps that work just as well.
Can I make this wrap dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use a dairy-free cheese substitute and either skip the butter or use a plant-based butter alternative. Coconut or almond milk-based yogurt can replace sour cream or Greek yogurt as well.
Can I prepare these wraps ahead of time?
Yes, Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps are great for meal prep. Prepare them as directed, then wrap them individually and store in the refrigerator or freezer. When ready to eat, simply reheat.
Conclusion
Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps are a flavorful, satisfying, and versatile meal that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or an easy dinner option, these wraps deliver on taste, texture, and nutrition. With a combination of juicy chicken, melty cheese, and a garlic-infused sauce, they’re bound to become a favorite in your household.
PrintCheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 wraps 1x
Description
A Delicious, Quick, and Easy Chicken Wrap Loaded with Garlicky Goodness and Melty Cheese!
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large tortillas (flour or whole wheat)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic Chicken Filling:
- In a medium skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through and well-coated with the creamy mixture.
- Add the Cheese:
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheeses start to melt and combine with the chicken. Set aside.
- Assemble the Wraps:
- Lay out each tortilla and spread a tablespoon of sour cream onto each one. Spoon the cheesy garlic chicken mixture evenly down the center of each tortilla.
- Wrap the Tortillas:
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up from the bottom to create a snug wrap.
- Cook the Wraps:
- In a clean skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Place the wraps seam-side down and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Serve:
- Slice the wraps in half, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add lettuce, spinach, or even avocado to the wraps for extra texture and flavor.
- Storage: These wraps can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or in the microwave before serving.
- Make it Spicy: For a kick, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 380
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 25g