Description
These cheesy garlic chicken wraps combine tender, flavorful chicken seasoned with garlic, paprika, and Italian herbs with a rich blend of cream cheese and shredded mozzarella and cheddar. Wrapped in warm tortillas and pan-seared in butter to a crispy golden finish, they make for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tablespoon garlic powder as substitute)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Wrap Assembly:
- 4 large flour tortillas (whole wheat tortillas work as a healthier alternative)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 bell pepper, julienned (adds crunch and nutrition)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Seasoning: In a large bowl, mix minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and toss until they are evenly coated with the seasoning. Allow the chicken to marinate for 5 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- Cook the Chicken to Perfection: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces without overcrowding the pan. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked thoroughly (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Create the Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Mix until smooth and spreadable. This mixture acts as a flavorful binder for the wraps.
- Warm the Tortillas: Warm each tortilla in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side or wrap them in damp paper towels and microwave for 20 seconds. Warm tortillas are more flexible and less prone to tearing during assembly.
- Assemble Your Wraps: Spread an even layer of the cheese mixture across each warmed tortilla, leaving about a 1-inch border. Layer the cooked chicken on top, followed by the remaining cheeses and optional vegetables like sliced onions and bell peppers. Roll the tortilla tightly from bottom to top, tucking in the sides as you go to secure the filling.
- Achieve the Perfect Golden Finish: Heat butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Place each wrap seam-side down onto the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden and crispy. Carefully flip and cook the other side for an additional 2 minutes. This final step melts the cheese inside and crisps the exterior beautifully.
Notes
- Do not overstuff the wraps to prevent tearing and ensure even cooking.
- The cream cheese mixture prevents sogginess by creating a moisture barrier inside the wrap.
- Warm tortillas are essential to avoid cracking during rolling.
- Cook the wraps seam-side down first and press firmly to avoid unwrapping during cooking.
- Use medium heat for cooking to achieve a golden crust without burning.
- To reduce calories, opt for low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat shredded cheeses.
- Substitute whole wheat tortillas and add more veggies like spinach or tomatoes for a healthier option.
- Chicken can be swapped with turkey breast or seasoned tofu for dietary preferences.
- Wraps can be assembled ahead and refrigerated up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cheesy garlic chicken wraps, chicken wraps, quick chicken recipe, easy dinner, skillet chicken wraps, cheesy wraps, garlic chicken, weeknight meals
