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+ servings
Southwest Chicken Wrap

Savory Southwest Chicken Wraps Bursting with Flavor

Quick and healthy Southwest Chicken Wrap featuring tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and zesty crema.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Marinating Time 24 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 14 minutes
Servings: 4 wraps
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Southwest
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 2 lbs Chicken Breasts can substitute with tofu or beef
  • 1/4 cup Lime Juice lemon juice works well as a substitute
  • 1 tbsp Chili Powder can swap with paprika for milder spice
  • 1 tbsp Onion Powder fresh onions can replace for extra bite
  • 1 tbsp Garlic Powder replace with fresh minced garlic if preferred
  • 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika regular paprika is a good alternative
  • 1 chipotle Chipotle Pepper in Adobo jalapeños can be used for less spice
  • 1 tsp Salt adjust to taste
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil avocado oil is a healthy alternative
For the Wrap Assembly
  • 4 large Tortillas whole grain tortillas for a nutritious twist
  • 1 cup Uncooked Rice can substitute quinoa for gluten-free
  • 1 cup Red Bell Pepper any bell pepper variety works
  • 1 medium Jalapeño omit for no spice or replace with milder peppers
  • 1 medium Red Onion green onions or shallots can substitute
  • 1 cup Corn Kernels canned or frozen works great
  • 1 cup Black Beans pinto beans or chickpeas can be used
  • 1/2 cup Cotija Cheese substitute with feta or skip for dairy-free
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt for a tangy alternative
  • 1 tbsp Honey agave syrup can be substituted
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro omit if cilantro isn’t preferred

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • skillet
  • Rice Cooker

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Begin by dicing the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and place them in a mixing bowl. Pour in the lime juice, olive oil, and sprinkle the chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and chipotle pepper in adobo. Stir well to ensure all pieces are coated and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for 15-24 hours for maximum flavor.
  2. While the chicken marinates, prepare the rice according to the package instructions, typically rinsing the rice, boiling water, and simmering until tender—about 15-20 minutes. Set aside the cooked rice, keeping it warm for assembling your wraps.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces, spreading them out in a single layer. Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  4. In the same skillet, add the chopped red bell pepper, jalapeño, and red onion to the remaining oil and chicken drippings. Sauté for about 8 minutes until the vegetables are softened and slightly charred. Add minced garlic in the last minute of cooking.
  5. Lay out the large tortillas on a clean surface. Begin layering each tortilla by placing a generous scoop of cooked rice, sautéed chicken and vegetable mixture, then add black beans, corn kernels, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese. Drizzle the creamy sauce over the top before folding the tortillas securely.
  6. With the wraps assembled, slice them in half or serve whole on a platter. Garnish with extra fresh cilantro for freshness.

Nutrition

Serving: 1wrapCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Allow chicken to marinate for 24 hours if possible for enhanced flavor. Cook chicken thoroughly to 165°F. Prevent soggy wraps by using freshly cooked rice and letting it cool slightly before assembly.

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