Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps

This cheesy garlic chicken wrap recipe has become my weeknight dinner hero when I need something quick yet satisfying. The combination of tender shredded chicken, creamy garlic aioli, and melty cheddar creates a simple but irresistible meal that even picky eaters approve.

I first created these wraps when trying to repurpose some rotisserie chicken in my fridge. What started as a desperate dinner solution has now become a requested favorite that my family asks for weekly.

Ingredients

• Cooked shredded chicken: Provides the protein foundation without any additional cooking required. Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here.
• Garlic aioli: Adds creaminess and bold flavor that elevates the entire wrap. Store bought works fine but homemade takes these to another level.
• Cheddar cheese: Creates that perfect melty texture and savory depth. Sharp cheddar offers more flavor impact than mild varieties.
• Large tortillas: Hold everything together. Look for fresh, pliable ones that won't crack when folded.
• Salt and pepper: Balance and enhance the other flavors. Always taste and adjust before wrapping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

Combine your shredded chicken with the garlic aioli in a medium bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure every piece of chicken is coated with the creamy garlic goodness. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. The chicken mixture should be moist but not dripping.

Assemble Your Wraps:

Lay each tortilla flat on your work surface. Place about half cup of the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla, spreading it in a rectangular shape but leaving about an inch border around the edges. Sprinkle a quarter cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken mixture on each tortilla.

Perfect Wrapping Technique:

Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in both sides. Roll the wrap upward tightly to create a secure package. The tighter you roll, the better your wrap will hold together when cooking and eating.

Grill to Perfection:

Heat a skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking. Place each wrap seam side down in the skillet and cook for approximately 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown and slightly crispy. Carefully flip and cook the other side for another 2 minutes until the cheese inside has melted completely.

Serving Presentation:

Remove from heat and let cool slightly for 1 minute. Slice each wrap diagonally with a sharp knife to create two triangular pieces. Arrange on plates and serve immediately while still warm and the cheese is at its melty best.

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The garlic aioli is truly the secret ingredient that transforms these wraps from basic to craveable. I discovered this by accident when I had no mayo but had leftover aioli from a previous dinner. That happy accident created what my youngest son now calls his favorite dinner ever.

Make Ahead Options

These wraps are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the chicken mixture up to three days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, simply assemble and grill the wraps. You can even fully assemble the wraps and wrap them individually in foil or plastic wrap to grill later. Just add an extra minute to the cooking time if starting with refrigerated wraps.

Easy Variations

Turn these wraps into a complete meal by adding vegetables to the filling. Sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or caramelized onions all work beautifully with the chicken and cheese. For a spicy version, add a tablespoon of hot sauce to the aioli or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. You can also swap the cheddar for pepper jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavor profiles.

Serving Suggestions

These wraps shine when paired with simple sides. A fresh green salad with vinaigrette dressing provides a nice acidic contrast to the richness of the wraps. For a more substantial meal, serve with sweet potato fries or a light soup. If serving for a casual gathering, cut the wraps into smaller portions and provide a variety of dipping sauces like sriracha mayo, ranch, or salsa.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for these wraps?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves preparation time. Simply shred the meat from the chicken and proceed with the recipe as directed. The slight roasted flavor actually enhances the overall taste of the wraps.

→ How do I make homemade garlic aioli?

To make homemade garlic aioli, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2-3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly and let sit for at least 30 minutes before using to allow the flavors to develop.

→ Can these wraps be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these wraps in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat until the tortilla crisps up and the cheese melts again, about 2-3 minutes per side.

→ What can I serve with these chicken wraps?

These wraps pair wonderfully with a light side salad, sweet potato fries, or a cup of tomato soup. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh fruit salad to balance the richness of the wraps.

→ Can I use different cheese varieties?

Definitely! While cheddar provides a classic flavor, you can experiment with mozzarella for extra stretchiness, pepper jack for some heat, or a blend of cheeses for more complex flavor. Gouda and Swiss also work beautifully in these wraps.

→ Are there any vegetarian alternatives?

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas (mashed slightly), roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, or plant-based chicken alternatives. The garlic aioli and cheese will still provide plenty of flavor.