Description
Crunchy Chicken & Veggie Fiesta Wraps combine juicy pan-seared chicken strips with crisp, sautéed vegetables, all wrapped inside warm toasted tortillas and slathered with a zesty lime-cumin sauce. This handheld meal offers a delightful play of textures and bright, vibrant flavors perfect for brunch, quick lunches, or a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- ½ cup carrots, julienned
- ½ cup red bell pepper, thin strips
Sauce & Marinade
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lime juice (fresh)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp honey or agave
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Seasonings & Garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ tsp red-pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, sliced (for serving)
Instructions
- Preparing the Wrap Base: Warm each tortilla over a dry skillet for 20-30 seconds per side until pliable to prevent tearing during rolling and to add a subtle toasted flavor. Keep the warmed tortillas covered with a clean kitchen towel to retain heat.
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken strips with 1 tablespoon olive oil, fresh lime juice, ground cumin, minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss well and let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate for a juicy, flavorful bite.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and spread the chicken strips in a single layer. Cook without moving them for 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook another 3 minutes until fully cooked. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Lower the heat to medium and add the sliced red cabbage, julienned carrots, and red bell pepper strips in the same skillet. Stir-fry gently for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are just tender but still retain a satisfying crisp. Season lightly with salt and optional red-pepper flakes for a mild heat.
- Make the Fiesta Sauce: Reduce heat to low, stir in the honey, about 2 tablespoons of water, and an extra squeeze of lime juice if desired for more tanginess. Simmer for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the vegetables beautifully.
- Combine Chicken & Veggies: Return the seared chicken strips to the skillet with the veggies and toss gently to coat everything evenly with the sauce. Heat for 1 more minute to meld flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Assemble the Wraps: Place a warmed tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken-veggie mixture down the center. Top with sliced avocado and a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro. Fold the sides in and roll tightly, pressing gently to seal the wrap.
- Finish with a Quick Grill: Return the rolled wraps to the hot skillet. Grill each side for 1-2 minutes while pressing lightly with a spatula until the tortilla edges are crisp and golden, producing the signature crunch.
Notes
- Pat chicken strips dry before marinating to achieve the best sear and crispy crust.
- Cook chicken over medium-high heat quickly to lock in juices and develop a caramelized surface.
- Keep vegetables slightly al dente for retained color, crunch, and nutrients.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; this causes steaming instead of searing.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of orange juice to the sauce or crumble feta cheese just before serving.
- Use gluten-free tortillas or large lettuce leaves for low-carb or gluten-free versions.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; tortillas should be kept separately to maintain softness.
- Reheat the filling in a skillet and tortillas separately in a dry pan before assembling to preserve the crunch.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dinners
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: chicken wraps, crunchy chicken wraps, veggie wraps, fiesta wraps, quick brunch recipe, lime-cumin chicken, healthy wraps, toasted tortilla wraps
