Pesto Chicken Wrap Recipe – A Simple and Delicious Meal for Any Time of the Day 🌯
Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️
Pesto Chicken Wraps are the perfect blend of fresh flavors, healthy ingredients, and a quick cooking time. Whether you’re looking for an easy, healthy lunch or a satisfying dinner, this wrap is both nutritious and delicious. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant pesto sauce, crisp veggies, and soft tortillas, this wrap is a meal that checks all the boxes: flavor, texture, and convenience. It’s also highly customizable, so feel free to swap in your favorite ingredients. From meal prep to a quick weeknight dinner, this pesto chicken wrap recipe is sure to become a regular favorite in your household.
Ingredients 🥗
Before you start, here’s what you’ll need for the pesto chicken wrap:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breasts | 2 (about 1 lb) |
| Pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade) | 1/4 cup |
| Flour tortillas (large) | 4 |
| Romaine lettuce | 1 cup (shredded) |
| Tomato (sliced) | 1 |
| Red onion (sliced) | 1/2 small |
| Fresh mozzarella (optional) | 1/2 cup (shredded) |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
Time and Servings ⏰
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 4 wraps |
Step-by-Step Guide 📜
1. Cook the Chicken 🐔
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F or 74°C). Once done, set the chicken aside to rest for 5 minutes, then slice it thinly.
2. Prepare the Pesto Sauce 🌱
While the chicken is resting, get the pesto ready. You can use store-bought pesto or make your own by blending fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and salt. Make sure the pesto is smooth and creamy for easy spreading.
3. Assemble the Wrap 🌯
Take your flour tortillas and lay them flat on a clean surface. Spread a spoonful of pesto on each tortilla, leaving space around the edges for folding. Then, layer the sliced chicken, shredded lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, and mozzarella if using.
4. Wrap it Up 🌮
Once all ingredients are layered, fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it tightly. Cut the wrap in half on a diagonal for a nice presentation. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
Recipe Notes 📝
- Pesto Tip: Don’t skip the storage trick — it’s at the end of the post!
- Chicken Options: You can also grill the chicken for a smoky flavor or use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for grilled vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a plant-based alternative.
- Tortilla Alternatives: If you’re looking for a low-carb option, use lettuce wraps instead of flour tortillas.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
This pesto chicken wrap is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides, such as:
- Soup: A warm tomato basil soup pairs perfectly with this wrap.
- Salad: A fresh Greek salad complements the pesto flavor wonderfully.
- Drink: Serve with an ice-cold lemonade or a refreshing iced tea.
If you’re craving another quick and flavorful wrap, this tasty Honey Mustard Chicken Wrap Recipe is a great one to try next.
Storage & Reheating 🔄
Storage:
Store any leftover wraps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating:
To reheat, unwrap the wrap and place it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warm. Alternatively, wrap it in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes.
Health Benefits 💪
Pesto chicken wraps provide a balanced meal with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. The chicken offers lean protein, the pesto provides antioxidants from basil, and the veggies add vitamins and minerals. It’s a well-rounded meal that helps keep you full and satisfied.
Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect 🏅
Wait till you see the secret ingredient for extra tip to make the recipe perfect!
Here’s the secret: Add a touch of balsamic glaze on top of the wrap just before serving. It enhances the flavors with a tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the pesto and chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid 🚫
- Overcooking the Chicken: Be sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Too Much Pesto: A little pesto goes a long way. Don’t slather too much sauce, as it can make the wrap soggy.
- Not Letting the Chicken Rest: Letting the chicken rest before slicing helps retain the juices, making the meat more tender.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) 🤔
1. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just assemble the wraps when you’re ready to eat.
2. What kind of tortilla works best for this recipe?
Large flour tortillas are ideal, but you can use whole wheat, spinach, or low-carb tortillas depending on your dietary preference.
3. How do I make this recipe healthier?
To make the wrap healthier, use whole wheat tortillas, grilled chicken instead of pan-fried, and skip the mozzarella for a lighter version.
4. Can I freeze these wraps?
It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled wraps, as the texture of the veggies and pesto might change once thawed. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and pesto separately and assemble the wraps later.
5. Can I add more veggies?
Absolutely! You can add avocado, cucumber, or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor.
Final Thoughts 📝
This pesto chicken wrap recipe is simple, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual lunch gatherings. It’s a meal that everyone in your family will love! Don’t hesitate to play around with the ingredients and adjust the flavors to suit your preferences. And remember, the secret ingredient at the end will make this recipe even better!
