Fresh Pesto Chicken Wraps

This pesto chicken wrap recipe transforms simple ingredients into a meal that satisfies both your hunger and your taste buds without requiring hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights when cooking feels overwhelming but you still want something delicious.

I created these wraps during a particularly hectic week when I needed quick meals between meetings. Now they've become my go to lunch solution whenever I have leftover chicken in the fridge.

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken breast provides lean protein and makes these wraps satisfying. Rotisserie chicken works beautifully if you need a shortcut.
• Basil pesto delivers incredible flavor in seconds. Look for bright green varieties without excess oil floating on top for the best quality.
• Flour tortillas create the perfect vehicle. Choose the large 10inch size for easier wrapping.
• Baby spinach adds nutrition without overpowering other flavors. Fresh leaves provide better texture than frozen.
• Shredded cheese helps bind everything together. Fresh mozzarella has the best melt and mild flavor.
• Cherry tomatoes contribute bursts of acidity. Select firm tomatoes with vivid color for the sweetest flavor.
• Red onion introduces a pleasant bite. Soaking slices in cold water for 5 minutes reduces their sharpness.

StepbyStep Instructions

Prepare the chicken mixture

Combine your cooked chicken with pesto in a bowl, ensuring every piece gets coated with the herby sauce. The pesto not only flavors the chicken but also keeps it moist. Take time to really massage the pesto into the chicken for maximum flavor infusion.

Assemble your base

Lay each tortilla flat and arrange spinach leaves across the center but not quite reaching the edges. This creates a moisture barrier that prevents your wrap from becoming soggy while adding a nutritional boost.

Layer your proteins and vegetables

Distribute the pesto chicken evenly among the tortillas, followed by an even sprinkle of cheese. Arrange tomato halves and onion slices over the chicken, concentrating them in the center where they'll be fully contained when wrapped.

Master the wrap technique

Fold the bottom edge up over the filling, then fold in both sides before rolling upward to complete the wrap. Keep the filling compact by pulling back slightly as you roll forward, creating tension for a secure wrap.

Optional toasting

If time allows, briefly toast your wraps in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and slightly crisp. This step melts the cheese and melds the flavors while creating a pleasing textural contrast between the crisp exterior and soft filling.

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The basil pesto is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. When I first experimented with these wraps, I tried using plain chicken with separate herbs, but nothing compares to how pesto infuses every bite with intense flavor while adding minimal effort. My daughter now refuses to eat chicken wraps any other way.

Make Ahead Options

These pesto chicken wraps maintain their quality remarkably well when prepared in advance. For best results, assemble completely but wait to toast until just before eating. Wrap each assembled wrap tightly in parchment paper then in aluminum foil before refrigerating. This double wrapping prevents tortillas from drying out while keeping fillings secure. Consume within 24 hours for optimal freshness and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Pesto variations open up entirely new flavor profiles for this versatile recipe. Try sun-dried tomato pesto for a tangy twist or arugula pesto for a peppery kick. Vegetarians can substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas mashed with the same amount of pesto. For a lower carb option, large lettuce leaves create a fresh and crisp alternative to traditional tortillas, though they're best consumed immediately after assembly.

Serving Suggestions

These wraps stand beautifully on their own, but pairing them with complementary sides elevates the meal. A simple mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pesto. For a more substantial offering, serve alongside sweet potato chips or a small cup of tomato soup for dipping. When entertaining, slice wraps into pinwheels secured with toothpicks for elegant finger food that disappears quickly at gatherings.

Cultural Context

This recipe represents modern Mediterranean fusion cooking at its finest. Traditional Italian basil pesto combines with the convenience of Mexican-inspired wraps to create something greater than the sum of its parts. The combination honors the Mediterranean diet principles of fresh vegetables, herbs, and moderate protein while adapting to contemporary busy lifestyles. This crosscultural approach to everyday cooking reflects how global cuisine has evolved in home kitchens worldwide.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these pesto chicken wraps ahead of time?

Yes, these wraps can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap to keep them fresh. If you prefer a warm wrap, you can toast them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for the flour tortillas?

You can easily substitute the flour tortillas with whole wheat, spinach, or gluten-free wraps depending on your dietary preferences. Lavash bread or large lettuce leaves can also work for a lower-carb option.

→ How can I make these wraps dairy-free?

To make dairy-free pesto chicken wraps, use a dairy-free pesto (without Parmesan) and either omit the cheese entirely or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative. The wraps will still be flavorful with just the pesto chicken and vegetables.

→ What sides pair well with pesto chicken wraps?

These wraps pair wonderfully with a simple side salad, sweet potato fries, or a light soup. For a more substantial meal, serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a Mediterranean-style pasta salad.

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this dish?

Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for these wraps and is a great time-saver. Simply shred or slice the chicken from a store-bought rotisserie chicken and mix with the pesto. This makes the preparation even quicker and adds great flavor.

→ How do I prevent my wraps from getting soggy?

To prevent soggy wraps, pat the vegetables dry before adding them to the wrap. If making ahead, you can place the spinach down first as a barrier between the tortilla and moister ingredients. Another option is to keep the ingredients separate and assemble just before eating.