Thai Peanut Chicken Wraps

These Thai Peanut Chicken Wraps bring together everything I crave in a quick weekday lunch vibrant flavors packed with protein and ready to eat as soon as you finish rolling the last tortilla. Creamy peanut dressing ties juicy chicken crisp coleslaw and fresh herbs into one delicious bite something I made on a whim for friends and now crave whenever I need a colorful mood boost.

The first time I served these was during a hot summer picnic and everyone loved how the cool veggies and creamy peanut sauce kept things light. Now these wraps are a go to when I need a fast meal that feels a little special but simple.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: I like to use rotisserie chicken or quickly poach my own Look for firm fresh meat and season before chopping for maximum flavor
• Coleslaw mix: A blend of cabbage and carrots adds crunch and color Freshness is key so pick a package where the greens still look crisp
• Carrot: Grated carrot boosts the sweetness and texture Optional but I love the extra pop of color and nutrition Go for firm bright orange carrots
• Cilantro: Adds a fresh herby note Choose leaves with no wilt spots and rinse well before chopping
• Roasted salted peanuts: These bring the crunch and real peanut flavor Choose unsalted for less sodium or toast your own for extra richness
• Large tortillas: Flour tortillas are easiest to roll but your favorite wrap will work Check for pliability so they do not crack when wrapping
• Peanut butter: Creamy peanut butter is best for a smooth dressing Natural peanut butter works too just stir well before using
• Soy sauce: Go for low sodium to balance the salty bite Choose a brand with natural ingredients
• Brown sugar or honey: Adds sweetness for balance Pick either based on your taste and what you have on hand
• Rice wine vinegar: Brings brightness A splash of regular rice vinegar is fine too
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic for real kick Use plump firm cloves
• Ginger: Fresh or jarred Both work for this recipe but peel fresh ginger for the cleanest flavor
• Sriracha sauce: Brings a gentle heat Adjust the amount for more or less spice
• Water: Optional for thinning the dressing Use as needed until you reach your ideal consistency

Instructions

Prepare the Peanut Dressing:

Whisk together peanut butter soy sauce brown sugar or honey rice wine vinegar minced garlic minced ginger and sriracha sauce in a small bowl or measuring cup Keep stirring until everything is smooth and the dressing is cohesive If it seems too thick add water a tablespoon at a time until you reach a pourable texture The dressing should taste creamy salty sweet and tangy all at once

Mix the Chicken Wrap Filling:

Combine chopped cooked chicken coleslaw mix grated carrot cilantro and peanuts in a large mixing bowl Pour the peanut dressing evenly over the mixture Use tongs to toss everything together allowing the flavors to coat every bite Let the filling sit for a few minutes to help meld the flavors and tenderize the slaw

Warm the Tortillas:

Place four to six tortillas on a microwave safe plate Cover with a slightly damp paper towel Microwave for 30 seconds until soft and flexible This makes them easier to roll and less likely to tear

Assemble the Wraps:

Lay a warm tortilla flat and spoon the filling down the center Fold the sides inward and roll tightly from the bottom up so the filling stays put Slice if desired These wraps are best served fresh while everything is cool crisp and peanutty

My favorite part of these wraps is piling on the cilantro The fresh flavor wakes everything up and reminds me of eating satay skewers in a Thai market on vacation Fun fact my youngest always tries to sneak extra peanuts for the crunch

Storage Tips

Wrap any leftover wraps tightly in plastic film or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to two days For best texture keep the filling and tortillas separate and assemble just before eating The dressing can be made three days in advance and stored in a jar

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap cooked shredded turkey or tofu for the chicken for an easy vegetarian version If you need a nut free option sunflower seed butter works almost as well Any crunchy raw veggie can stand in for the coleslaw mix so try chopped bell pepper or snap peas

How to Serve These Wraps

Serve chilled or at room temperature with fresh lime wedges and extra cilantro If making for a crowd slice wraps in half and stand them upright on a platter They pair really well with chilled mango or pineapple slices for a summer meal

Cultural Inspiration

Thai cooking celebrates contrasts in texture and flavor These wraps try to capture that with sweet salty spicy and crunchy elements all together The dressing is inspired by classic Thai peanut sauce often found with satay chicken You can customize the spice and sweetness to fit your table

Seasonal Adaptations

Use grilled chicken for smoky summer flavor Substitute shredded red cabbage in winter for extra crunch and color In spring try adding sliced fresh snap peas or radishes for a garden twist

Success Stories

A friend once made this recipe with leftover rotisserie chicken and the wraps disappeared before she finished rolling the last one One reader writes that the wraps have become a go to lunch box star for her teens because they never get soggy

Freezer Meal Conversion

While tortillas and slaw do not freeze well you can make the chicken peanut filling in advance and freeze in individual portions Cool completely before freezing and thaw overnight in the fridge Add freshly chopped veggies and roll just before eating

Give these wraps a try for effortless lunches or picnics and enjoy the vibrant flavors in every bite. They are as easy to customize as they are to make fresh and fun!

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I make the peanut dressing creamier?

Use creamy peanut butter and gradually add water until you reach your preferred texture.

→ Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Yes, try tofu, shrimp, or leftover roasted turkey for a different twist.

→ What kind of tortillas work best?

Soft flour tortillas are ideal, but large whole wheat wraps are also a good choice.

→ Are these wraps suitable for meal prep?

You can prepare the filling and dressing ahead, but assemble just before serving to avoid sogginess.

→ How spicy is the peanut dressing?

The sriracha adds mild heat. Adjust the amount to your taste for a milder or spicier kick.