Introduction
Transform your weeknight dinner routine with these delicious chicken wraps marinated in zesty lime and spices. Perfectly grilled chicken is paired with fresh lettuce, creamy avocado, and ranch dressing, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. This recipe is not only simple to make but also packed with flavor, making it a hit for both adults and kids alike.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken Marinade:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Juice of 2 limes
– ¼ cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
Wrap Ingredients:
– 4 cups shredded lettuce
– ¼ cup ranch dressing
– Hot sauce, to taste
– 1 avocado, sliced
– 4 large tortillas
Prep Time
10 minutes (or longer for enhanced flavor)
Cook Time
16-20 minutes
Total Time
26-30 minutes
Yield
4 wraps
Enjoy a refreshing and delightful meal with these chicken wraps, perfect for lunch or dinner!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Marinade:
In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin seeds, chili powder, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts into the bowl with the marinade. Ensure the chicken is well-coated by turning it a few times. Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes. For enhanced flavor, consider marinating for several hours in the refrigerator.
Cook the Chicken:
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If using a grill, oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking. Grill the marinated chicken for approximately 8-10 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring it is fully cooked. If using a skillet, sear the chicken on both sides, then transfer it to a preheated oven at 350°F to finish cooking, which helps prevent burning.
Slice the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This will help the juices redistribute. After resting, slice the chicken thinly against the grain for the best texture.
Prepare the Lettuce Mixture:
In a separate bowl, take the shredded lettuce and add ranch dressing. Mix well, ensuring the lettuce is evenly coated. Add a few dashes of hot sauce according to your taste and mix again.
Assemble the Wraps:
Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Begin layering by adding a generous portion of the dressed lettuce, followed by sliced avocado and the grilled chicken. If you desire, drizzle additional ranch dressing or hot sauce on top. Next, fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly from the bottom to enclose the filling. For easier handling, consider slicing the wrap in half before serving.
Notes
Marination Time:
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour or overnight if time allows.
Serving Suggestions:
These wraps can be served with extra sides such as chips, fresh fruit, or a simple salad for a more complete meal.
Storage:
If you have any leftovers, store the wraps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for optimal freshness, it’s best to assemble the wraps just before serving.
Spice Adjustments:
Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder and hot sauce according to your preferred spice level.
Cook techniques
Marinating Chicken
To achieve maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 10 minutes, but ideally a few hours. This allows the marinade to penetrate the meat, enhancing its taste and tenderness.
Grilling Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high to ensure even cooking. Grill the marinated chicken for about 8-10 minutes per side, avoiding turning too frequently to achieve a nice sear.
Slicing Chicken
After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
Tossing the Lettuce
Combine shredded lettuce with ranch dressing in a separate bowl. This ensures even distribution of flavor and prevents the tortillas from becoming soggy.
Assembling Wraps
When constructing your wraps, layer the ingredients carefully to prevent them from falling apart. Start with the dressed lettuce, followed by the avocado and sliced chicken, and then add additional condiments if desired.
FAQ
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate for at least 10 minutes and up to a few hours for enhanced flavor.
Can I cook the chicken in a skillet instead of grilling?
Yes, you can sear the chicken in a skillet and then finish cooking it in the oven at 350°F to prevent burning.
What can I substitute for ranch dressing?
You can use yogurt-based dressings, vinaigrettes, or any dressing of your choice to add flavor to the lettuce.
How do I prevent my wraps from falling apart?
Ensure to layer the fillings evenly and tightly roll the tortilla. Folding in the sides before rolling up can also help secure the ingredients.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! This marinade works well with other proteins such as beef, pork, or shrimp. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the protein used.
Conclusion
This chicken wrap recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with flavors from the zesty lime marinade, creamy ranch dressing, and fresh avocado. It makes for a delicious meal that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner, perfect for both busy weeknights and casual gatherings.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Grilled Shrimp Wrap
Use grilled shrimp marinated in a mix of lime juice, garlic, and chili powder, paired with spicy mayo and shredded cabbage.
BBQ Chicken Wrap
Substitute the marinade with barbecue sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor, add grilled corn and cilantro for a delicious twist.
Vegetarian Bean Wrap
Replace chicken with a mix of black beans and corn, seasoned with cumin and lime. Add diced tomatoes and avocado for freshness.
Taco-Inspired Chicken Wrap
Add diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and taco sauce to the chicken wraps for a fun, taco-themed version.
Greek Chicken Wrap
Marinate chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano, then add feta cheese, cucumbers, and tzatziki sauce for a Greek flair.
