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This wrap recipe bursts with bright flavors and textures making it a perfect quick lunch or satisfying light dinner. Tender chicken breast mingles with creamy avocado and the punch of fresh basil pesto all wrapped in a soft tortilla. The balance of protein greens and healthy fat keeps you full and energized.
I remember the first time I put this together using leftover pesto and rotisserie chicken. Now my family asks for these wraps whenever we have busy weekends or warm weather picnics.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: fresh and lean chicken gives the wrap its hearty protein core. Look for organic or air-chilled chicken for tenderness.
- Olive oil: high quality extra virgin olive oil helps the chicken stay moist and adds flavor
- Salt and black pepper: these bring out all the flavors in the chicken
- Flour tortillas: choose large soft tortillas that roll smoothly. Check for freshness and flexibility
- Avocado: ripe avocado brings creamy richness. Pick fruit with a slight give when gently squeezed
- Cherry tomatoes: juicy tomatoes brighten every bite. Look for firm reds or multi-color for a pretty wrap
- Baby spinach or mixed greens: fresh greens add crunch and color. Triple-washed spinach saves time
- Red onion: thin slices provide sweet sharpness. Choose a small fresh onion for milder taste
- Basil pesto: homemade or good-quality store-bought will add herby depth. Check for a bright green color and fresh aroma
- Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt: for a creamy pesto layer. Full-fat adds the most richness but low-fat works too
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Rub your chicken breasts thoroughly with olive oil salt and black pepper making sure all sides are coated. Cook in a preheated skillet over medium-high heat for about seven minutes per side. You want the outsides to be golden brown and the thickest part to reach a safe internal temperature. Let the cooked chicken rest for five minutes before slicing it thin for the wraps
- Mix the Sauce:
- In a small bowl combine your basil pesto and mayonnaise or Greek yogurt if using. Stir well to create a creamy spreadable sauce that clings to every layer inside the wrap
- Warm the Tortillas:
- Heat tortillas one at a time in a dry skillet or briefly in the microwave. Warm tortillas are more flexible and less likely to tear when rolling
- Layer the Fillings:
- Spread about one tablespoon of the pesto mixture onto each tortilla using the back of a spoon. Arrange a handful of spinach or mixed greens down the center followed by sliced chicken ripe avocado cherry tomato halves and thin red onion slices. Distribute everything evenly for consistent flavor in every bite
- Wrap and Serve:
- Bring in both sides of the tortilla over the fillings then roll up tightly from the bottom edge tucking in as you go. Slice each wrap in half with a sharp knife for easy eating and a beautiful presentation
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My favorite part of this recipe is the creamy avocado which adds such a dreamy texture to every bite. My kids love getting involved arranging their favorite toppings which makes lunch assembly a fun family ritual.
Storage Tips
Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in the fridge. They stay fresh and keep their texture for up to twenty-four hours. If making ahead for the next day wait to add avocado until serving to avoid browning
Ingredient Substitutions
No chicken on hand Try grilled turkey or even cooked shrimp. For a vegetarian version use sliced grilled halloumi or extra roasted vegetables in place of chicken
Serving Suggestions
These wraps are perfect on their own or alongside a tangy side salad roasted vegetables or veggie chips. For parties cut them into bite-size pinwheels and skewer with toothpicks for easy serving
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Cultural or Historical Context
The combination of pesto with grilled chicken is a blend of Italian and Mediterranean flavors adapted into the American lunch scene. Wraps like these have become popular for their portability and fresh taste echoing California’s influence on modern health-conscious meals
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make the chicken extra juicy?
For juicier chicken, avoid overcooking and let it rest for a few minutes after cooking. Slicing against the grain also keeps the texture tender.
- → Can I substitute the tortillas?
Yes, use gluten-free or whole grain tortillas. Lettuce leaves can also make a lighter, low-carb wrap alternative.
- → What kind of pesto works best?
Basil pesto, either homemade or store-bought, provides bright flavor. For variety, try arugula pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto.
- → How can I prep these wraps ahead of time?
Keep all fillings separate and assemble just before serving to avoid soggy tortillas. Pre-slice chicken and prepare toppings in advance.
- → What sides pair well with these wraps?
Serve with a crisp side salad, veggie chips, or fresh fruit to complete the meal and balance the textures and flavors.
- → How can I make the wraps creamier?
Mix pesto with mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a silkier, richer filling texture without overpowering the flavors.