If you love the flavors of the southwest and need a quick meal- you’re going to love these southwest chicken wraps! We love these especially on busy sports nights when time is of the essence.
Wraps in general are easy to prepare and can be filled with an endless combination of ingredients and cultural variations. Southwest chicken wraps are made with tender shredded chicken, fresh crisp veggies, and cheddar cheese, wrapped up tightly in soft flour tortillas. These wraps are excellent for busy nights, lunches, meal prep, and picnics. They are enjoyed cold and are incredibly light as there is no heavy sauces. Guess what else? They are made with all natural ingredients.
Southwest Chicken Wraps Ingredients
There is so much flavor and crunch from the fresh vegetables in these southwest chicken wraps that there is no need for extra spices or dressings. Here are the flavor packed simple and fresh ingredients:
Chicken
Shredded chicken is best in these southwest chicken wraps because it is easy to evenly spread onto the tortilla. Using shredded ensures every bite has juicy chicken. This method avoids the clumping that can occur with sliced or cubed chicken, making each wrap a harmonious blend of flavors. Shredded chicken also creates a compact, tightly wrapped bite that’s easier to eat.
Roma tomato
Roma tomatoes are the best variety to use in southwest chicken wraps. Their meatiness and minimal moisture content keep your wrap fresh without the risk of sogginess. The firm texture ensures they retain their shape when chopped, adding a subtle sweetness that beautifully balances the boldness of jalapeños.
Green onions
Unlike their stronger counterparts, green onions provide a gentle, peppery crunch that elevates the other ingredients without taking over the dish. Their vibrant flavor complements the richness of chicken and cheese, bringing brightness and freshness to each bite.
Jalapeño
Jalapeños aren’t just about adding heat—they contribute a layer of authentic flavor and texture to your wrap. This classic chili offers a moderate spice level without being overwhelming. Beyond their heat, jalapeños bring a fresh, citrusy note, creating a delightful contrast with the other ingredients.
Romaine lettuce
Romaine has firm, crunchy leaves which add a satisfying bite and texture contrast to soft or creamy ingredients. Unlike softer lettuces, romaine stays crisp. Southwest chicken wraps include bold, savory ingredients. Romaine brings in a clean, slightly sweet freshness that cuts through heavier elements and keeps the wrap from feeling too rich. Its firm ribs and broad leaves don’t wilt easily and can hold their shape inside a tortilla. This makes it ideal for meal prepping or for wraps that need to stay intact during transport. You get structure without sogginess. Unlike bitter or peppery greens, romaine has a mild flavor that complements spicy, smoky, or tangy ingredients without clashing. It enhances the other ingredients rather than competing with them.
Cheddar cheese
Cheddar cheese is the classic and practical choice in a southwest chicken wrap because it brings bold flavor and creamy texture which enhance the overall flavor of the wrap. It softens the spice without dulling the overall flavor.
Black beans
Black beans are a must in southwest chicken wraps. They have a soft, creamy interior with a slight firmness that holds up well inside. This texture makes the wrap feel more substantial and filling without being heavy. Black beans have a mild, earthy taste that enhances other southwest flavors. The addition of black beans also boosts both the protein and fiber content, helping to keep you fuller for longer and supporting digestion.
Taco sauce
Taco sauce is designed to complement classic taco ingredients, so it naturally works in a southwest chicken wrap. It’s a blend of tomato, vinegar, chili powder, cumin, garlic, and onion that is so easy to make from scratch. Even more, it can be refrigerated for up to one month, so you can use it for more than just the southwest chicken wraps! Taco sauce has a smooth, pourable texture that spreads easily through the wrap, keeping it flavorful without making it soggy. It’s just the right consistency to act as a binder for the ingredients while adding flavor depth. Our homemade taco sauce has a balanced blend of mild heat from chiles, tang from vinegar and a slight sweetness from tomatoes.
Flour tortilla
Flour tortillas are softer and more pliable than corn tortillas, making them ideal for wraps. They bend and fold without cracking, which means no tearing, no messy leaks, and a tight wrap. Flour tortillas have a mild, slightly buttery flavor that complements bold southwest ingredients without competing with them.
Preparation, Servings, and Storage
Get ready for a quick meal because these southwest chicken wraps take only 15 minutes to put together. This recipe yields four wraps that can be served immediately or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Even more, it requires zero cooking time and very few items for prepping so clean up is just as quick! Enjoy a delicious meal and more time with your family with southwest chicken wraps!
Southwest Chicken Wraps
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Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 flour tortillas
- 1 pound chicken, shredded
- Roma tomato, diced
- 2 Green onions, sliced
- 2 Jalapeños, chopped
- 1 cup Romaine lettuce, shredded
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 4 tbsp Taco Sauce
- 1/2 cup Black beans
Instructions
- In a small bowl, stir to combine the diced roma tomato, green onions, and jalepeno. Set aside.
- Lay the flour tortillas on a large work surface.
- Divide each ingredient evenly (shredded chicken, shredded lettuce, shredded cheese, black beans, and tomato mixture) onto each tortilla.
- Drizzle the taco sauce over the ingredients.
- Fold both sides of the tortilla about 1 inch over the ingredients and then tightly roll the wraps.
- Cut in half and serve immediately.
Nutrition
