Pesto Chicken Wraps

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Introduction

Looking for a quick, satisfying, and flavorful lunch idea? Pesto Chicken Wraps are the perfect solution! Packed with tender chicken, vibrant pesto, crisp vegetables, and creamy cheese, all rolled up in a soft tortilla, this wrap delivers a delightful combination of flavors and textures in every bite.

Ideal for meal prepping, packing a lunch for work, or even a fuss-free dinner, these wraps are versatile, easy to customize, and bursting with Mediterranean-inspired goodness. With their rich, savory flavor and convenience, Pesto Chicken Wraps are sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation!

Perfect for:

  • Office lunches
  • On-the-go meals
  • Quick and easy dinners
  • Meal prepping
  • Healthy yet indulgent meals

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why you’ll fall in love with these Pesto Chicken Wraps:

  • Bursting with Flavor – The combination of zesty pesto, juicy chicken, and fresh veggies creates a flavor-packed bite every time.
  • Quick and Easy – This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
  • Versatile and Customizable – Swap out ingredients to fit your taste or dietary preferences, like using a different protein or a gluten-free wrap.
  • Great for Meal Prep – These wraps hold up well in the fridge, making them an ideal grab-and-go lunch or snack.
  • Healthy and Balanced – Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, these wraps are a wholesome meal option.
  • Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for family dinners, picnics, or entertaining guests, as everyone can enjoy a personalized wrap.
  • Travel-Friendly – Whether for school, work, or a road trip, these wraps are convenient and mess-free to eat on the go.
  • Vibrant and Colorful – The vibrant greens from the pesto and veggies make these wraps as visually appealing as they are delicious.
  • Kid-Friendly – Simple yet satisfying flavors make this recipe a hit with picky eaters.
  • Budget-Friendly – With simple, everyday ingredients, this recipe is light on your wallet while delivering big on taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes
  • Servings: 4 wraps
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories per wrap
  • Key Nutrients: Protein, Fiber, Healthy Fats

Ingredients

To make these delicious Pesto Chicken Wraps, you’ll need:

  • Tortillas: 4 large whole wheat or spinach tortillas
  • Chicken Breast: 2 cups cooked and shredded (grilled, rotisserie, or leftover chicken works perfectly)
  • Pesto: 4 tablespoons (homemade or store-bought)
  • Cheese: 1 cup shredded mozzarella or sliced provolone
  • Vegetables: 1 cup baby spinach, 1 medium tomato (sliced), and ½ cucumber (sliced)
  • Optional Add-Ons: Sliced avocado, roasted red peppers, or shredded carrots

Ingredient Highlights

  • Chicken: A great source of lean protein that keeps you full and energized.
  • Pesto: Adds bold, herby flavor and healthy fats from olive oil and nuts.
  • Spinach: Provides fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants while keeping the wrap fresh and light.
  • Tortillas: Whole wheat or spinach tortillas add fiber and a hearty base for the wrap.
  • Cheese: Mozzarella or provolone adds creaminess and a touch of indulgence.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make the perfect Pesto Chicken Wraps:

  1. Prepare the Chicken: If using leftover or rotisserie chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces. If cooking fresh chicken, grill or pan-sear seasoned chicken breasts until fully cooked, then shred or slice.
  2. Mix with Pesto: In a large bowl, toss the shredded chicken with pesto until evenly coated. Adjust the pesto quantity based on your taste preference.
  3. Assemble the Wrap: Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Add a layer of baby spinach in the center, followed by slices of tomato and cucumber.
  4. Add Chicken and Cheese: Top the veggies with a generous portion of the pesto-coated chicken and sprinkle shredded mozzarella or add sliced provolone.
  5. Wrap It Up: Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it tightly to form a wrap.
  6. Optional Step: For a warm and melty version, toast the wrap in a skillet or panini press for 2-3 minutes on each side.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Slice the wrap in half and serve immediately, or wrap tightly in foil or parchment paper for later.

How to Serve

Here are a few ways to serve your Pesto Chicken Wraps:

  • On Their Own: These wraps are filling and flavorful enough to enjoy as a standalone meal.
  • With a Side: Pair with a small salad, roasted veggies, sweet potato fries, or a cup of soup for a complete meal.
  • For a Crowd: Slice the wraps into smaller portions and serve as party appetizers or snacks.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to help you perfect your Pesto Chicken Wraps:

  • Use Homemade Pesto: If possible, make your own pesto for a fresher, more vibrant flavor. Blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
  • Grill or Sear the Chicken: Cooking the chicken on a grill or in a cast-iron skillet will add a smoky, charred flavor that complements the pesto.
  • Marinate the Chicken: Marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and Italian herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking to enhance its flavor.
  • Add a Crunch: Include crunchy elements like thinly sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or crushed roasted nuts (e.g., almonds or cashews) for texture.
  • Toast the Wrap: Lightly toast the tortilla or flatbread in a dry skillet for a warm, slightly crispy wrap.
  • Layer with Cheese: Add a slice of fresh mozzarella, provolone, or even feta to give the wrap a creamy, melty texture.
  • Incorporate Greens: Balance the richness of the pesto with fresh greens like arugula, spinach, or romaine lettuce.
  • Include a Tangy Element: Add pickled red onions, sun-dried tomatoes, or a splash of balsamic glaze for a pop of acidity to balance the flavors.
  • Roll It Tight: To keep the wrap intact, fold in the sides and roll it tightly, securing it with parchment paper or toothpicks if needed.
  • Serve with a Side Dip: Pair your wrap with a small bowl of extra pesto, garlic aioli, or a yogurt-based dip for added flavor and fun!

Recipe Variations

Try these fun variations of Pesto Chicken Wraps:

  • Caprese Pesto Chicken Wrap: Fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic glaze.
  • Greek Pesto Chicken Wrap: Feta, cucumbers, kalamata olives, red onions, and spinach-dill pesto.
  • Spicy Southwest Pesto Chicken Wrap: Roasted corn, black beans, jalapeños, and cilantro pesto with chipotle mayo.
  • Asian-Inspired Pesto Chicken Wrap: Shredded carrots, red bell peppers, sesame seeds, and sesame-garlic pesto.
  • Vegan-Friendly Pesto Wrap: Grilled tofu or tempeh, avocado, sprouts, and vegan nutritional yeast pesto.
  • Buffalo Pesto Chicken Wrap: Buffalo sauce chicken, lettuce, celery, blue cheese, and basil-spinach pesto.
  • Italian Deli-Style Pesto Wrap: Prosciutto, sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan, and basil pesto.
  • California-Style Pesto Chicken Wrap: Avocado, baby greens, sunflower seeds, and lemony pesto.
  • Mexican Pesto Chicken Wrap: Chipotle pesto, roasted bell peppers, queso fresco, and cilantro.
  • Breakfast Pesto Chicken Wrap: Scrambled eggs, bacon, cheddar cheese, chicken, and pesto.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze assembled wraps, but you can freeze the shredded chicken mixed with pesto. Thaw and assemble the wraps fresh when needed.
  • Storage: Store assembled wraps in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Special Equipment

Here’s what you might need to make Pesto Chicken Wraps:

  • Grill Pan or Grill – To grill the chicken for that smoky flavor and char marks.
  • Food Processor or Blender – To make homemade pesto if you’re not using store-bought.
  • Mandoline Slicer – For thinly slicing vegetables like cucumbers or carrots for the wrap.
  • Salad Spinner – To dry washed greens, like spinach or arugula, which might go in the wrap.
  • Sharp Chef’s Knife – Essential for cutting the chicken, veggies, and wraps cleanly.
  • Pasta Roller Attachment (optional) – If making fresh wraps or flatbread dough from scratch.
  • Meat Thermometer – To ensure the chicken is cooked to the perfect temperature (165°F/74°C).
  • Tortilla Warmer – To keep wraps or flatbreads warm and pliable.
  • Citrus Zester – If you’re adding a touch of fresh lemon zest to brighten the pesto.Mixing Bowls – For tossing vegetables or mixing fillings for the wrap.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?
    Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works great, but homemade pesto adds an extra layer of freshness.
  2. Can I make these wraps dairy-free?
    Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
  3. What other vegetables can I add?
    Roasted red peppers, shredded carrots, or sliced red onion are excellent additions.
  4. How can I make these wraps more filling?
    Add extras like quinoa, avocado, or more chicken for a heartier meal.

Conclusion

Pesto Chicken Wraps are the ultimate quick and satisfying meal, perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep! Filled with bold pesto flavor, tender chicken, and fresh, vibrant ingredients, these wraps offer a delicious balance of taste and nutrition.

Whether you’re on the go or enjoying a cozy meal at home, Pesto Chicken Wraps are easy to make and sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. With their perfect mix of indulgence and freshness, they deliver a flavorful, well-rounded meal every time.

I’d love to see your version of Pesto Chicken Wraps! Snap a photo, share it on Instagram, and tag me so I can admire your creation. Don’t forget to share how you made it your own in the comments. Happy wrapping!

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