Southwestern Chicken Wraps

Add different textures by including diced cucumbers or crunchy tortilla strips inside the wraps.

Serve with lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of juice before eating.

Try using whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option.

Experiment with different sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or chipotle mayo in place of the sour cream.

Let the filling cool slightly before assembling to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy.

Add a scoop of guacamole or diced avocado for creaminess and flavor.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver for the wrap. Just shred or chop it before using.

What can I substitute for black beans?

You can substitute black beans with pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas, depending on your preference.

Is it possible to make the wraps vegetarian?

You can easily omit the chicken and add more vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, or add extra beans for protein.

What type of cheese works best in these wraps?

Monterey Jack cheese is great for its mild flavor, but you can also use cheddar, pepper jack for heat, or a non-dairy cheese.

How can I make the wraps spicier?

Add sliced jalapenos, hot sauce, or diced green chiles to the filling before rolling the wraps for an extra kick.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just assemble the wraps when you're ready to serve.

How should I store leftovers?

Wrap any leftover assembled wraps in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The filling can also be stored separately.

Can I freeze these wraps?

While it's possible to freeze assembled wraps, it's best to freeze just the filling and assemble the wraps fresh when you're ready to eat. Fillings freeze well for up to 2 months.

Can I add other vegetables?

Bell peppers, avocados, or shredded carrots are great additions. Just be sure to avoid overfilling the wraps.

What is the best way to warm the tortillas?

Warming tortillas can be done in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side or wrapped in a damp paper towel and microwaved for about 15-20 seconds.

Skillet: For heating the olive oil and cooking the garlic, beans, salsa, corn, and cumin.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring out ingredients such as the olive oil, salsa, chicken, cumin, and sour cream.

Cutting Board: For chopping the garlic and cilantro, and for holding the chicken and romaine while shredding.

Sharp Knife: Used for finely chopping the garlic and cilantro as well as cutting the finished wraps in half.

Mixing Spoon: For stirring the garlic and other ingredients in the skillet.

Serving Spoon: For spreading the sour cream on the tortillas and distributing the filling ingredients evenly.

Tortilla Warmer or Microwave: If using a tortilla warmer, it will help keep the tortillas warm until ready to fill. Alternatively, a microwave can be used to warm tortillas.

Guacamole: Add a spoonful of guacamole for a creamy, rich contrast to the zesty flavors of the wraps.

Pico de Gallo: Offering a fresh and crunchy element, homemade pico de gallo made from diced tomatoes, onions, and jalapenos adds a bright flavor that pairs nicely with the savory chicken and beans.

Jalapeno Ranch Dressing: This creamy dressing adds a spicy zing; it can serve as a dip for the wraps or as a drizzle on top to add flavor without overpowering the dish.

Nacho Cheese Sauce: Serve a warm nacho cheese sauce on the side for dipping. The richness and cheesiness create a fun, indulgent touch alongside the fresh ingredients in the wraps.

Corn Salad: A simple corn salad made with corn, bell peppers, lime juice, and cilantro can serve as a refreshing side dish that echoes the wrap's ingredients, providing additional texture and flavor contrast.

Black Bean Soup: A complementary black bean soup can be served as a starter or side. The flavors connect well with the black beans in the wraps.

Wine Pairings
Sauvignon Blanc: This wine is zesty and bright, with its crisp acidity cutting through the rich sour cream, then complementing all the fresh veggies. Look for one that has citrus, green apple, or even herbal notes.

Chardonnay: A nice, unoaked Chardonnay, especially one that's vibrant and refreshing, contributes fruitiness that plays well with the southwestern spice flavors and offers soft floral notes. Don't go for anything too buttery here, keep it clean.

Grenache: A juicy Grenache offers flavors of red fruits and light spice that can go nicely with the cayenne spice in the wraps and highlight those flavorful beans. A younger Grenache will keep things refreshing.

Other Alcohol Pairings
Margarita: A classic margarita, especially with fresh lime juice, will really wake up the flavors in these wraps.

Beer: Look for a lighter wheat or even a Mexican lager. The crispness and light body won't overpower the dish.

Tequila: A smooth tequila, particularly one that's been chilled, pairs well due to its earthly undertones balancing nicely with the spices.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Limeade: A zesty limeade adds a refreshing tartness that pairs nicely with the flavors in the wraps.

Spicy Tomato Juice: Something with a hint of spice can really enhance it without overshadowing your dish. A quality spicy tomato juice, especially one containing jalapeno, will mix well with the southwestern vibes.

Cucumber Mint Spritzer: Refreshing cucumber mixed with a touch of mint can bring lightness to your meal.