Chicken Caesar Wraps

This hearty Chicken Caesar Wrap transforms the classic salad experience into a portable meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or lunch on the go. The combination of crisp romaine, juicy chicken, and creamy Caesar dressing wrapped in a warm tortilla creates a satisfying handheld version of the beloved salad.

I started making these wraps when I needed a way to repurpose leftover grilled chicken from weekend barbecues. My family now requests these wraps specifically, sometimes even before I've grilled the chicken!

Ingredients

• Romaine lettuce washed and chopped fresh for that essential crunch that makes Caesar salad so satisfying
• Cooked chicken whether grilled, fried or rotisserie for convenient protein that adapts to your schedule
• Caesar dressing the backbone of flavor look for one with anchovy paste for authentic taste
• Parmesan cheese freshly grated provides sharp umami notes that elevate the entire wrap
• Homemade croutons adds texture contrast use day-old bread for the best results
• Flour tortillas or wraps choose 10-inch size for proper rolling capacity
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for seasoning to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling

Combine chopped romaine lettuce, cooked chicken pieces, Caesar dressing, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and croutons in a large bowl. Use tongs to thoroughly toss all ingredients until evenly coated with dressing. Season with salt and pepper according to your preference. The key is ensuring every component gets coated with dressing for consistent flavor in each bite.

Warm the Tortillas

Heat a large pan over medium heat and warm each tortilla for approximately 15 to 30 seconds per side. This crucial step makes the tortillas pliable and prevents cracking when rolling. Alternatively, place tortillas between paper towels and microwave for 15 to 30 seconds. Keep warmed tortillas covered with a kitchen towel to maintain their flexibility.

Assemble and Roll

Place each warmed tortilla on a clean surface and divide the Caesar salad mixture evenly among them, positioning it in the center. Fold in opposite sides of the tortilla, then roll it up burrito-style, tucking in the edges as you go. For easier eating, secure with a toothpick in the center. Serve whole or cut in half diagonally for an attractive presentation.

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The croutons are my secret weapon in this recipe. While store-bought work fine, taking an extra five minutes to make your own from day-old bread cubes tossed with olive oil, garlic powder, and herbs then toasted until golden adds a homemade touch that elevates these wraps from good to memorable.

Make-Ahead Tips

These wraps are perfect for meal planning. You can prepare all the components separately and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the dressing separate from the lettuce until ready to assemble to maintain crispness. When lunchtime arrives, simply toss the ingredients together and roll in a freshly warmed tortilla for maximum freshness and texture.

Clever Substitutions

Not everyone loves traditional Caesar dressing or has the same dietary needs. Feel free to substitute Greek yogurt-based Caesar dressing for a lighter option, or use spinach wraps instead of flour tortillas for added nutrients. For a gluten-free version, use corn tortillas or gluten-free wraps and make sure your croutons are made from gluten-free bread.

Serving Suggestions

These wraps pair beautifully with a side of sweet potato fries or a light soup for a complete meal. For entertaining, cut the wraps into pinwheels secured with toothpicks for an easy appetizer. They also travel well in lunch boxes when wrapped tightly in parchment paper or aluminum foil, making them perfect for picnics or office lunches.

The Caesar Connection

The Caesar salad was actually invented in Tijuana, Mexico, by Italian-American restaurateur Caesar Cardini in 1924. This wrap pays homage to the classic combination while making it more practical for modern eating. The original salad didn't even contain chicken, which was added later as the dish evolved across American restaurants.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chicken works best for these wraps?

You can use any type of cooked chicken - grilled, fried, or rotisserie chicken all work wonderfully. Rotisserie chicken offers convenience, while grilled chicken provides a leaner option. The recipe is flexible to accommodate whatever you have on hand.

→ Can I make these wraps ahead of time?

While the assembled wraps are best eaten the same day they're made, you can prep all the ingredients in advance. Store the lettuce, cooked chicken, dressing, cheese, and croutons separately in the refrigerator, then assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent soggy wraps.

→ How do I keep the wraps from falling apart?

To keep your wraps intact, don't overfill them and make sure to fold in the sides before rolling. Warming the tortillas first makes them more pliable and less likely to tear. Using a toothpick to secure the wrap, as suggested in the recipe, also helps keep everything together until serving time.

→ What can I serve with Chicken Caesar Wraps?

These wraps pair perfectly with fresh fruit, vegetable sticks, potato chips, a light soup, or a small side salad. For a more substantial meal, serve with sweet potato fries or a cup of tomato soup. The wraps are quite filling on their own, so light sides work best.

→ Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing?

Absolutely! While homemade dressing offers a fresh flavor, high-quality store-bought Caesar dressing works perfectly and saves preparation time. Choose a creamy variety for the best coating of ingredients, and adjust the amount to your preference.

→ Are there any vegetarian alternatives to this wrap?

To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like avocado, cucumber, or roasted red peppers. You could also substitute the chicken with plant-based protein alternatives such as grilled tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas for added protein.