Folded Crispy Chipotle Chicken Wraps

Folded crispy chipotle chicken wraps are the ultimate combination of convenience, flavor, and crunch. Perfectly seasoned chipotle chicken, melty cheese, fresh vegetables, and your favorite toppings are layered on a tortilla, folded into a pocket, and toasted to golden-brown perfection. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or a delicious game-day snack, these wraps are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Inspired by restaurant-style crispy wraps but easy to make at home, this recipe combines bold, smoky chipotle flavors with a satisfying crunch for a truly irresistible dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bold Flavors: The chipotle seasoning brings smoky, spicy depth to the chicken, complemented by the creamy and cheesy elements.
2. Customizable: Use your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or sauces to make each wrap your own.
3. Quick and Easy: With less than 40 minutes from prep to table, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
4. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these crispy, cheesy wraps.
5. Portable: Great for on-the-go lunches, picnics, or meal prepping.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 wraps
• Serving Size: 1 wrap

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Chipotle Chicken

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce (from a can of chipotles in adobo)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Wraps

• 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella)
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• ½ cup guacamole (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

For Cooking

• 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chipotle Chicken

1. Heat the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the cooked chicken and stir to coat.
2. Season the Chicken: Add the chipotle sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well to evenly coat the chicken with the seasonings. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Assemble the Wraps

1. Cut the Tortilla: Make a single cut from the center of each tortilla to the edge, creating a starting point for folding.
2. Layer the Ingredients: Imagine the tortilla divided into four quadrants. Add a different filling to each quadrant:
   • Quadrant 1: Chipotle chicken
   • Quadrant 2: Shredded cheese
   • Quadrant 3: Shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes
   • Quadrant 4: Sour cream and guacamole (if using)
3. Fold the Tortilla: Start with the quadrant next to the cut and fold it over onto the next quadrant. Continue folding until you have a triangular, layered pocket.

3. Cook the Wraps

1. Heat the Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or olive oil.
2. Toast the Wraps: Place the folded wraps seam-side down in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Press gently with a spatula to help them stay folded and toast evenly.
3. Repeat: Cook the remaining wraps, adding more butter or oil to the pan as needed.

4. Serve

1. Plate and Garnish: Serve the wraps hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
2. Add Dipping Sauces: Pair with extra chipotle sauce, salsa, or ranch dressing for dipping.
3. Enjoy: Serve with a side of tortilla chips, rice, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Ingredient Background

Chipotle Sauce

Chipotle sauce, made from smoked jalapeños in adobo, adds a smoky, slightly spicy flavor to the chicken. It’s a staple in Mexican-inspired cooking and pairs beautifully with creamy and cheesy elements.

Chicken

Shredded or diced cooked chicken is the base protein for the wraps. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option, but grilled or roasted chicken works just as well.

Cheese

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella melt beautifully, adding creamy, gooey goodness to the wraps. For an extra kick, try pepper jack cheese.

Tortillas

Flour tortillas are soft, pliable, and easy to fold, making them ideal for crispy wraps. Whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas can be used as alternatives.

Technique Tips

• Don’t Overfill: Overstuffing the wraps makes them difficult to fold and prone to spilling. Stick to moderate amounts of each filling.
• Use Fresh Tortillas: Fresh, soft tortillas fold more easily without cracking. Warm them slightly if needed to make them more pliable.
• Keep the Heat Moderate: Cook the wraps over medium heat to achieve a golden crust without burning the tortilla before the cheese melts.
• Press with a Spatula: Gently press the wraps with a spatula as they cook to help them hold their shape and toast evenly.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Mini Wraps: Use smaller tortillas for snack-sized versions of the wraps, perfect for parties or appetizers.
• Burrito-Style: Roll the tortilla instead of folding it for a burrito-style wrap.
• Open-Faced Wrap: Toast a tortilla flat, layer the ingredients on top, and serve as a flatbread.
• Wrap Bowl: Turn the ingredients into a bowl by layering the chicken, cheese, and toppings over rice or greens.

Additional Tips for Success

• Prep Ahead: Prepare the chipotle chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble the wraps just before cooking for the best texture.
• Reheat Leftovers: Reheat leftover wraps in a skillet or air fryer to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
• Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, include sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach in the filling.
• Extra Crispy: Brush the outside of the folded wraps with melted butter or oil before cooking for an extra crispy finish.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Wraps: Swap the chicken for black beans, pinto beans, or grilled vegetables.
• Breakfast Wraps: Replace the chicken with scrambled eggs, and add breakfast sausage or bacon for a morning twist.
• Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb tortillas or large lettuce leaves as wraps.
• Spicy Wraps: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.
• BBQ Chicken Wraps: Substitute chipotle sauce with your favorite barbecue sauce for a tangy twist.

Freezing and Storage

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store assembled but uncooked wraps in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Cook them fresh when ready to eat.
• Cooked Wraps: Store cooked wraps in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer for the best results.

Freezing

• Before Cooking: Assemble the wraps and freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap. Cook from frozen in a skillet, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• After Cooking: Freeze cooked wraps and reheat in the oven or air fryer for a crispy finish.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Whole Wheat Tortillas: Use whole wheat tortillas for added fiber.
• Low-Fat Cheese: Substitute regular cheese with reduced-fat cheese.
• Greek Yogurt: Replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a protein boost.
• More Veggies: Load the wraps with extra vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or avocado for added nutrients.
• Grilled Chicken: Use grilled chicken breast for a leaner option.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Game Day Snacks: Cut the wraps into halves or quarters for bite-sized, shareable snacks. Serve with an assortment of dipping sauces.
• Lunch Boxes: Pack the wraps with a small container of salsa or guacamole for a portable, satisfying lunch.
• Dinner Parties: Serve the wraps as part of a Mexican-inspired spread with rice, beans, and a taco salad.
• Picnics: Wrap the assembled wraps in foil for an easy-to-transport, mess-free meal.

Special Equipment

• Non-Stick Skillet or Griddle: Ensures even toasting and prevents sticking.
• Sharp Knife: For cutting the wraps cleanly if serving as smaller portions.
• Pastry Brush: Optional, for brushing the wraps with butter or oil before toasting.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Corn tortillas are less pliable and more likely to crack when folded. Flour tortillas are recommended for this recipe.

2. How do I reduce the spiciness?
Use less chipotle sauce or substitute with a mild barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor without the heat.

3. Can I make these wraps gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free tortillas and ensure the chipotle sauce and seasonings are gluten-free.

4. What cheese melts best in these wraps?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack melt beautifully and complement the flavors.

5. Can I bake the wraps instead of frying them?
Yes, bake the assembled wraps at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.

6. How do I keep the wraps from falling apart?
Don’t overfill the wraps, and ensure the tortilla is fresh and pliable. Press gently with a spatula while toasting to help the layers stick together.

7. Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?
If using raw chicken, dice it into small pieces and cook it with the chipotle sauce and seasonings in a skillet until fully cooked before assembling the wraps.

8. Are these wraps freezer-friendly?
Yes, the wraps freeze well. Assemble and freeze them uncooked for best results, then cook from frozen when needed.

Conclusion

Folded crispy chipotle chicken wraps are an easy, flavorful meal or snack that’s sure to impress. With their smoky chipotle chicken, melty cheese, and crispy tortilla, these wraps strike the perfect balance of texture and taste. Whether you’re making them for a quick dinner, packing them for lunch, or serving them at a party, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Try this recipe today and enjoy the irresistible crunch and bold flavors of these versatile wraps!

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