Pin it
Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps make a perfect weeknight dinner or quick lunch when you want comfort without fuss. They take juicy shredded chicken, melt it with three cheeses, and wrap it all up in soft tortillas brushed with garlic butter until golden. These wraps were born out of a fridge clean-out, but my family now requests them for every movie night—they never last long enough for leftovers.
Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps have become my go-to when friends come over unexpectedly. The aroma of the garlic butter as the wraps hit the skillet always has everyone asking for seconds, even before I plate them.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: Shredded or diced for hearty protein and a satisfying texture; using freshly cooked or leftover rotisserie chicken makes prep even faster
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: For a perfect melty stretch and mild creamy flavor; look for low moisture mozzarella for best results
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Gives sharp tangy notes and that classic cheesy richness; choose a good quality block over pre-shredded for better melt
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings salty bite and savory depth; always grate fresh for superior taste and texture
- Large flour tortillas: Soft and pliable for wrapping all the fillings securely; check for tortillas with no cracks and good flexibility
- Unsalted butter: Melted to carry the garlic and toast the wraps evenly; choose high quality butter for rich flavor
- Garlic: Fresh and minced for pungent aroma and deep savory flavor
- Dried parsley: Adds a hint of freshness and color; use dried for convenience or fresh if you have it on hand and chop finely
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mozzarella, cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Mix until all ingredients are evenly blended for a balanced cheesy bite in every wrap.
- Fill and Roll:
- Lay a flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Place about 120 grams of the filling in the center. Fold both sides tightly inward, then roll up from the bottom to seal the filling inside. Keep the seam on the bottom to help hold its shape as it cooks.
- Make the Garlic Butter:
- Melt the unsalted butter in a small bowl. Add the minced garlic and dried parsley. Stir thoroughly to infuse the butter with flavor. This mixture is key for that classic garlic bread aroma and crispy exterior.
- Sear the Wraps in a Skillet:
- Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Brush each wrap generously with the garlic butter, then place seam-side down. Cook each wrap for two to three minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp. The slow browning gives you a satisfying crunch with every bite.
- Finish in the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 190 degrees Celsius. Arrange the seared wraps on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Brush again with any remaining garlic butter. Bake for ten to twelve minutes, flipping halfway, until the wraps are crisp outside and piping hot inside.
- Serve Hot with Sauces:
- Cut each wrap in half if you like and serve while hot. Pair with dipping sauces such as ranch, marinara, or creamy garlic aioli for extra flavor. For family gatherings, I line them up on a platter so everyone can try a different sauce.
Pin it
These wraps always remind me of Saturday afternoons when we would gather in the kitchen to experiment with leftover roast chicken. I love the flecks of Parmesan throughout the gooey filling. Whenever I see that stretch of cheese as you pull apart a wrap, I know it’s a winner in my house.
Storage Tips
Let the wraps cool completely on a wire rack to prevent sogginess before storing. Wrap individually in foil or parchment, then place in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep well for up to three days. For best reheating results, use an oven or air fryer to regain the crispy texture instead of microwaving, which softens the tortilla.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap mozzarella for provolone or gouda if desired for a different melty personality. Craving more heat? Add diced jalapeños or swap in pepper jack cheese. For a lower carb version, try using large collard leaves, blanched briefly, as the wrap instead of tortillas.
Serving Suggestions
Slice wraps into bite-size rounds for a party platter. Serve alongside a crisp green salad or bowl of tomato soup for a more balanced meal. Add a spoonful of salsa or tzatziki for a refreshing twist.
Cultural and Historical Context
Wraps like these take inspiration from both Mexican burritos and classic American grilled cheese traditions. The addition of garlic butter recalls the comforting flavors of Italian garlic bread. This mashup reflects the way home cooks often bring together familiar tastes into new family favorites.
Pin it
If you experiment with other cheeses or fillings, let the kids help assemble the wraps. I find that giving everyone their own wrap to fill turns dinner into a fun DIY activity. And truly nothing beats the look on their faces when they bite through the crisp garlicky wrap into the cheesy center.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I keep the wraps from unrolling during cooking?
Place the wraps seam-side down in the pan or on the baking sheet. The heat will help seal the edges and keep them intact.
- → Can I substitute other cheeses?
Absolutely. Try Monterey Jack, provolone, or Swiss for a different flavor, or use all mozzarella for extra stretch.
- → What's the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may soften the tortilla.
- → Are there alternative fillings I can use?
Swap chicken with cooked turkey, beef, or add sautéed veggies like peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with these wraps?
Popular choices include ranch, marinara, or creamy garlic aioli, but any favorite sauce works beautifully.
- → Can I prepare these wraps ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the wraps and store in the fridge. Brush with butter and cook when ready to serve for best texture.