Description

There’s something inherently satisfying about biting into a wrap that’s bursting with vibrant flavors and contrasting textures. The Southwest Chicken Wrap is no exception. Packed with juicy marinated chicken, smoky and slightly spicy vegetables, hearty rice, creamy black beans, and a drizzle of tangy Southwest crema, it’s a symphony of tastes in every bite.

This wrap is a testament to how simple, wholesome ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. Born from the bold flavors of Southwestern cuisine, it’s a dish that embodies the warmth and vibrancy of the region. Imagine sitting outside on a sunny afternoon, surrounded by cacti and the faint aroma of mesquite in the air – that’s the spirit these wraps capture.

In our house, this dish often steals the spotlight during busy weekdays. It’s quick to prepare, delightfully customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, there’s something deeply comforting about assembling these wraps, wrapping them snugly, and sharing them with loved ones. Whether you’re making lunch to go, prepping a family dinner, or planning a picnic menu, these wraps are the perfect choice. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

Scale

¾ lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
¼ cup lime juice (about one lime)
½ tsp chili powder
½ tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
¼ tsp salt
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp chipotle pepper in adobo sauce

For the Southwest Wrap

4 large tortillas
1 cup uncooked rice
1 small red bell pepper, chopped
1 jalapeño, chopped
½ red onion, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp olive oil (to sauté the veggies)
¾ cup thawed or fresh corn kernels
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
¼ cup cotija cheese

For the Southwest Crema

⅓ cup sour cream
1½ tbsp honey
½–1 tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo
1 tbsp lime juice
3 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
1–2 tbsp water (to thin the crema)
¼ tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by patting the chicken dry and cutting it into small, bite-sized pieces. This helps it cook quickly and absorb maximum flavor. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken with olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. Stir everything together until the chicken is evenly coated. For best results, let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, though overnight marination enhances the flavors beautifully.

Step 2: Cook the Rice and Make the Crema

While the chicken marinates, prepare the rice according to the package instructions. Fluffy, perfectly cooked rice serves as a hearty base for the wrap. While the rice cooks, make the Southwest crema. Combine sour cream, honey, chipotle peppers in adobo, lime juice, cilantro, water, and salt in a blender. Blend until smooth, adjusting the water for your desired consistency. The crema should be creamy yet pourable – perfect for drizzling.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is slightly caramelized on the outside. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Using the same skillet, heat 1 tsp of olive oil. Add the chopped bell pepper, jalapeño, sliced red onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. Toss the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the vegetables, stirring to combine and warm everything through.

Step 5: Assemble the Wraps

Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Start by spreading a layer of cooked rice in the center. Top with the chicken and vegetable mixture, followed by black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese. Drizzle the Southwest crema generously over the top. To fold, bring the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it tightly from the bottom to form a snug wrap.

Step 6: Serve

Cut the wrap in half for easier handling, or serve it whole if you prefer. Pair with a side salad, tortilla chips, or simply enjoy it as is. For an extra flavor boost, serve with a side of the Southwest crema for dipping.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free tortillas. Adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing the amount of chipotle in adobo sauce.