This dish features juicy chicken, creamy avocado, and crisp vegetables wrapped in a whole wheat tortilla. A tangy Greek yogurt dressing enhances the fresh flavors, complemented by the optional addition of feta and cilantro. Quick to prepare, it's high in protein and perfect for an energizing lunch or light dinner. The wrap can be customized with extra ingredients such as sliced jalapeños for spice or turkey as an alternative protein. Serve immediately for best texture or refrigerate for later, noting avocado browns with time. Ideal for meal preps needing minimal cooking.
This Chicken Avocado Wrap packs a punch of flavor and nutrition thanks to its combination of juicy chicken, smooth avocado, crisp veggies, and a tangy homemade dressing. Whenever I need a speedy lunch that feels fresh but also filling I turn to this wrap. It is my goto for busy days and quick picnics with the kids.
You can make this wrap in just 25 minutes without heating up the kitchen. I remember making it for an impromptu park lunch and it became the star of our picnic basket.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: Choose wellcooked and tender chicken for juicy flavor. Rotisserie chicken gives extra taste and saves time.
- Ripe avocado: Go for a slightly soft avocado without bruises for creamy texture. Perfectly ripe adds richness.
- Baby spinach leaves: Fresh leaves give vibrant color and crunch. Look for bright green and crisp spinach.
- Medium tomato: Use a ripe but firm tomato for juiciness without sogginess.
- Red onion: Thin slices add a sharp bite and color. Select onions with tight skins for freshness.
- Shredded carrots: Adds sweetness and crunch. Choose carrots with bright orange color and no bends.
- Whole wheat tortillas: Look for flexible and soft tortillas for easy wrapping. Whole grain provides extra fiber.
- Greek yogurt: Thick and tangy base for the dressing. Pick unsweetened for best flavor.
- Mayonnaise: Adds silkiness to the dressing. Opt for light or olive oil varieties for a healthier twist.
- Fresh lime juice: Brings zesty brightness to the wrap. Squeeze fresh for better taste than bottled.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for perfect seasoning. Adjust to your liking.
- Crumbled feta cheese: Optional but adds salty bite. Choose block feta and crumble yourself if possible.
- Fresh cilantro: Optional for herbaceous lift. Pick bright fragrant leaves.
Instructions
- Make the Dressing:
- Combine Greek yogurt with mayonnaise and lime juice in a small bowl. Add salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly with a spoon until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning. This creates a tangy layer that ties the whole wrap together.
- Prepare the Tortillas:
- Lay out all the whole wheat tortillas on a clean work surface. This keeps ingredients organized and helps with assembly speed.
- Spread the Dressing:
- Take a generous spoonful of dressing and evenly spread onto each tortilla. Cover the surface leaving about half an inch at the edges to prevent overflow when rolling.
- Layer the Vegetables and Chicken:
- Begin with a bed of spinach leaves on each tortilla. Next evenly scatter the shredded chicken followed by avocado slices diced tomato red onion and shredded carrots. Try to distribute everything so every bite gets all the flavors.
- Add Optional Toppers:
- If using sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped cilantro across each wrap. These extras give a pop of salty and fresh notes.
- Roll the Wraps:
- Starting from one side roll each tortilla tightly while tucking in the sides as you go. A snug roll keeps all the fillings wrapped in and makes for neat slices.
- Slice and Serve:
- Once rolled carefully slice each wrap in half using a sharp knife. Serve immediately for best texture focus on keeping avocado green and everything crisp. If needed wrap in foil for easy meal prep or transport.
My favorite part is always the avocado It adds that buttery texture I cannot resist and my son always tries to sneak a few extra slices into his wrap. I love how every bite feels balanced and satisfying without being heavy.
Storage Tips
If making ahead wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap to keep everything fresh. Refrigerate for up to a day but eat soon for best texture keep in mind avocado may turn slightly brown. For onthego lunches bring dressing separately and assemble at the last minute.
Ingredient Substitutions
No chicken Use turkey or canned tuna for similar protein. Swap spinach for romaine or arugula for different flavors. Dairy free choices include plain coconut yogurt and omitting feta. Gluten free tortillas work well for those needing to avoid wheat.
Serving Suggestions
These wraps pair beautifully with a crisp salad or fresh fruit. Sometimes I add a handful of roasted chickpeas for extra crunch on the side. They are also great sliced into rings for party platters or finger food.
Cultural and Historical Context
Wrap sandwiches gained popularity in American delis in the 1980s merging Tex Mex tortillas with classic deli fillings. They remain a modern staple for healthy onthego eating thanks to their versatility convenience and vibrant flavors.
Seasonal Adaptations
Use baby kale or microgreens in spring and summer for added freshness Roast root veggies in winter and stuff them into the wraps for warmth Try grilled chicken hot off the grill in summer for smoky flavor
Success Stories
Many friends tell me this recipe is their reliable option for office lunches and picnics. One neighbor made a batch for her book club everyone asked for the recipe the next week. My mother always chooses this when we need something quick impressive and satisfying.
Freezer Meal Conversion
While wraps taste best fresh you can freeze the filling separately. Reheat gently and assemble with tortillas and avocado at serving time for best texture.
Serve these wraps right away for best results or pack them up for a nutritious lunch on the go. Enjoy the fresh flavors with every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
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Yes, turkey works well as a substitute for chicken, keeping the wrap flavorful and high in protein.
- → How can I make this gluten-free?
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Swap regular tortillas with gluten-free varieties to suit your dietary needs. Always check labels for allergens.
- → What veggies can I add or substitute?
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Try adding lettuce, bell peppers, or cucumber. Substitute spinach with arugula for a peppery touch.
- → How do I keep avocado fresh in the wrap?
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As avocado can brown, prepare wraps right before serving or wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- → Is this wrap suitable for meal prep?
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Yes, prepare and store in the fridge for up to a day. Assemble fresh for optimal taste and texture.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
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Use dairy-free yogurt and skip feta cheese. The wrap remains creamy and delicious.