Are you tired of the same boring lunch options? This pesto chicken wrap recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to meal! I've been making these delicious wraps for years, and they never fail to impress my family and friends. The combination of tender grilled chicken, fresh basil pesto, and creamy mozzarella creates the perfect Italian-inspired lunch that's both satisfying and nutritious.
What makes this pesto chicken wrap recipe so special is how it balances flavors and textures perfectly. The aromatic basil pesto adds that Mediterranean flair we all crave, while the protein-packed chicken keeps you full for hours. Whether you're meal prepping for the week, need a quick lunch solution, or even want a light and satisfying dinner, this pesto chicken wrap recipe delivers every single time. Trust me, once you try this method, you'll never go back to boring sandwiches again!
Why This Italian-Inspired Wrap Recipe Stands Out
This pesto chicken wrap recipe isn't just another lunch idea; it's a game-changer for busy people who refuse to compromise on flavor. I discovered this combination during my travels through Italy, where fresh ingredients and simple preparation methods create extraordinary meals. The secret lies in using high-quality pesto and perfectly seasoned chicken that complement each other beautifully.
The beauty of this pesto chicken wrap recipe comes from its versatility and nutritional value. With over 25 grams of protein per serving, it's perfect for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste. The fresh vegetables add crucial vitamins and fiber, while the whole wheat tortilla provides sustained energy. This pesto chicken wrap recipe has become my signature dish for potlucks, picnics, and everyday lunches because it's foolproof and always receives rave reviews.
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Ingredients
- Whole wheat tortillas (10-inch size works best)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced thin
- Fresh baby spinach leaves
- Tomato, sliced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
Seasonings and Extras
- Cream cheese (for extra creaminess)
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper
- Sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Season chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
- Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips
Prep Your Vegetables
- Wash and dry the baby spinach thoroughly
- Slice the tomato into ¼-inch thick rounds
- Cut the red onion into thin, uniform slices
- If using sun-dried tomatoes, chop them roughly
Warm and Assemble
- Warm tortillas in microwave for 20 seconds or in a dry skillet for 30 seconds
- Spread 2 tablespoons of pesto evenly across each tortilla, leaving 1-inch border
- Layer spinach leaves, sliced chicken, mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, and onions
- Add cream cheese dots if desired for extra richness
Rolling Technique
- Slice diagonally in half for easier eating and better presentation
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla about 1 inch
- Starting from the bottom, roll tightly but gently to avoid tearing
- Secure with toothpicks if needed
Expert Cooking Tips
- Getting the perfect pesto chicken wrap recipe requires attention to these crucial details that I've learned through years of experimentation:
Chicken Preparation Secrets:
- Always pound chicken breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking
- Let chicken rest after cooking to retain juices
- Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness
Assembly Mastery:
- Use room temperature tortillas to prevent cracking
- Don't overfill; less is more for easy rolling
- Pat vegetables dry to prevent soggy wraps
Flavor Enhancement Tricks:
- Mix pesto with a tablespoon of mayonnaise for creaminess
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat
- Use different cheese varieties like provolone or goat cheese
Make-Ahead Magic:
- Prepare all components separately and assemble when ready
- Wrap tightly in aluminum foil to maintain freshness
- Store in refrigerator for up to 2 days
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
This versatile pesto chicken wrap recipe adapts beautifully to different dietary needs and preferences:
- Protein Alternatives: Transform this recipe by substituting grilled shrimp, turkey, or even chickpeas for vegetarians. Each protein brings its own unique flavor profile while maintaining the Mediterranean essence.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like creamy goat cheese, sharp provolone, or dairy-free alternatives. Feta cheese adds a tangy Mediterranean twist that pairs beautifully with the basil pesto.
- Vegetable Additions: Roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or cucumber slices add wonderful texture and flavor variations. Avocado slices create a creamy element that complements the pesto perfectly.
Dietary Modifications:
- Low-Carb Version: Use large lettuce leaves instead of tortillas
- Gluten-Free: Choose certified gluten-free tortillas
- Dairy-Free: Omit cheese or use plant-based alternatives
- Vegan: Replace chicken with marinated tofu or tempeh
Equipment Recommendations
Success with this pesto chicken wrap recipe depends on having the right tools:
- Large Skillet or Grill Pan: Cast iron works best for even heat distribution and perfect searing
- Meat Thermometer: Ensures chicken reaches safe internal temperature without overcooking
- Sharp Chef's Knife: Essential for clean vegetable cuts and chicken slicing
- Cutting Board: Large wooden or plastic board provides ample workspace
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent flavor
- Aluminum Foil or Plastic Wrap: For storage and transport
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Short-Term Storage
- Properly stored, this pesto chicken wrap recipe stays fresh for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
Meal Prep Strategy
- Prepare chicken and vegetables on Sunday for quick weekday assembly. Store components separately to maintain optimal texture and prevent soggy wraps.
Freezing Instructions
- While not ideal for whole wraps, you can freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before assembling fresh wraps.
Grandma's Secret That Changed Everything
Here's the game-changing secret I learned from my Italian grandmother: always toast your tortilla lightly before assembly. This simple step creates a barrier that prevents the pesto chicken wrap recipe from becoming soggy, while adding a subtle nutty flavor that elevates the entire dish.
The second secret involves letting your assembled wrap rest for 10 minutes before cutting. This resting period allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a more cohesive taste experience. My grandmother always said patience in the kitchen leads to perfection on the plate, and this pesto chicken wrap recipe proves her wisdom every single time.
FAQ
What goes in a chicken pesto wrap?
A classic pesto chicken wrap recipe includes grilled chicken, basil pesto, fresh mozzarella, spinach, tomatoes, and red onion wrapped in a flour tortilla. Additional ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or avocado can enhance the flavor profile.
What goes with pesto in a wrap?
Pesto pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, spinach, tomatoes, and Mediterranean vegetables. Creamy elements like avocado or cream cheese complement pesto's herbaceous flavor perfectly.
Do chicken and pesto go together?
Absolutely! Chicken and pesto create one of the most popular flavor combinations in Italian cuisine. The herb-rich pesto enhances chicken's mild flavor while adding aromatic complexity to any pesto chicken wrap recipe.
Do you put pesto on chicken before or after cooking?
For wraps, apply pesto after cooking to maintain its fresh flavor and vibrant color. However, you can also marinate chicken in pesto before cooking for deeper flavor penetration.
Perfect Pairings for Your Next Meal
Now that you've mastered this incredible pesto chicken wrap recipe, why not explore other delicious recipes that complement this Mediterranean-inspired meal? These two recipes pair wonderfully with your newfound wrap-making skills and will expand your culinary repertoire even further.
Consider trying our crispy Fried Chicken Recipe for when you want to switch up your protein preparation method, or dive into our comforting Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti Recipe for a hearty dinner option. Both recipes share similar Italian-inspired flavors that will complement your pesto chicken wrap recipe perfectly, giving you a complete arsenal of crowd-pleasing meals that showcase fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Pesto Chicken Wrap Recipe
Pesto Chicken Wrap Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet or grill pan Cast iron preferred for even heat
- 1 Meat thermometer Ensures chicken reaches 165°F
- 1 Sharp Chef’s Knife For slicing chicken & vegetables
- 1 Cutting board Large wooden or plastic
- 1 set Measuring cups & spoons For accuracy
- As needed Aluminum Foil / Plastic Wrap For storing wraps
Ingredients
- 2 large Whole wheat tortillas (10-inch) Room temperature prevents cracking
- 1 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cooked, sliced
- ¼ cup Basil pesto Homemade or store-bought
- 4 oz Fresh mozzarella cheese Sliced thin
- 2 cups Baby spinach leaves Washed & dried
- 1 large Tomato Sliced
- ½ Red onion Thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoon Olive oil For cooking chicken
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning For chicken
- Salt & black pepper To taste, for chicken
- ¼ cup Sun-dried tomatoes Optional, chopped
- 2 tablespoon Cream cheese Optional, extra creaminess
Instructions
- Season chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook chicken in skillet with olive oil, 6–7 minutes per side.
- Rest chicken for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Prep vegetables: wash spinach, slice tomato & onion.
- Warm tortillas in microwave (20 sec) or skillet (30 sec).
- Spread 2 tablespoon pesto on each tortilla.
- Layer spinach, chicken, mozzarella, tomato, and onion.
- Add extras: cream cheese dots, sun-dried tomatoes.
- Roll wrap tightly by folding sides inward, then rolling.
- Slice diagonally, secure with toothpicks if needed, and serve.
Notes
- Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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