If you’re craving a deliciously satisfying lunch that’s bursting with flavor, you’ve just found your new go-to. This Grilled Chicken Wraps with Lettuce, Cheese, and Ranch Recipe brings together tender, smoky grilled chicken, crisp iceberg lettuce, creamy melted cheese, and the perfect drizzle of ranch dressing all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. It’s a simple, fresh, and irresistible meal that’s as quick to make as it is tasty—ideal whether you’re prepping for a picnic, a packed lunch, or a light dinner at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting together the ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, but don’t let simplicity fool you. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in your wraps that will keep you coming back for more.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, sliced thin for fast grilling and juicy results.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a warm, mild smokiness that complements grilled chicken beautifully.
- Chili powder: Just a hint for a subtle kick that brightens the flavors.
- Garlic granules: Infuses the chicken with a savory depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Salt and ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out natural flavors.
- Olive oil: For cooking the chicken to a juicy, golden finish.
- Flour tortilla wraps: Soft and pliable, perfect for folding around all the fillings.
- Iceberg lettuce leaves: Crisp and fresh, adding a satisfying crunch and vibrant green color.
- Cheddar or mozzarella cheese: Shredded to melt smoothly and layer on creamy richness.
- Ranch dressing: The cool and tangy finishing touch that ties every bite together.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Wraps with Lettuce, Cheese, and Ranch Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Begin by coating your chicken cutlets with the smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic granules, salt, and black pepper. This blend wakes up the chicken with smoky, spicy, and savory notes that make every bite exciting.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Heat your olive oil in a pan, grill pan, or outdoor grill until hot. Cook the chicken cutlets on each side until nicely browned and cooked through, with an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This step creates that irresistible smoky char that makes grilled chicken so special.
Step 3: Rest and Slice
Once grilled, let the chicken rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping each slice tender and moist. Then slice the chicken into strips perfect for wrapping.
Step 4: Assemble the Wrap
Lay out your tortilla and start layering with iceberg lettuce leaves, grilled chicken strips, and a generous handful of shredded cheese. Drizzle ranch dressing over the top for creaminess and tang. Fold the tortilla carefully by tucking in the sides first, then rolling tightly to keep all the tasty fillings securely inside.
Step 5: Lightly Grill the Wrap
Place your wraps on the grill or grill pan for a couple of minutes on each side. This warms everything through, melts the cheese, and crisps the tortilla slightly for added texture.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Wraps with Lettuce, Cheese, and Ranch Recipe
Garnishes
To add even more freshness, consider a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or parsley on top. A few thin slices of ripe avocado or a dash of hot sauce can also elevate the experience, giving layers of flavor and a pop of color.
Side Dishes
Pair your wraps with crunchy veggie sticks like carrots and celery or a vibrant, tangy coleslaw to keep things light and refreshing. Sweet potato fries or a crisp garden salad also make fantastic companions for a balanced, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the wraps sliced in halves or quarters for easy sharing and eye-catching presentation—perfect for parties or family meals. You can also wrap individual portions in foil for picnics or packed lunches, making them portable without losing any flavor or freshness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any wraps left over, store them tightly wrapped in foil or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping the wraps enclosed well helps maintain the tortilla’s softness and keeps the fillings fresh.
Freezing
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the grilled chicken strips separately for up to two months. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator before assembling your wraps so everything stays fresh and tasty.
Reheating
To reheat leftover wraps, warm them gently in a pan or on a grill pan until the cheese melts again and the wrap is lightly crisped. If microwaving, do so for short intervals to prevent sogginess, ideally wrapped in a paper towel to absorb moisture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of lettuce in this recipe?
Absolutely! While iceberg lettuce offers a satisfying crunch and mild flavor, you can substitute with romaine, butter lettuce, or even baby spinach depending on your preference.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Grilled Chicken Wraps with Lettuce, Cheese, and Ranch Recipe?
Yes! Swap the grilled chicken for grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms or use a protein-rich filling like black beans or chickpeas to create a delicious vegetarian wrap.
What type of cheese melts best in these wraps?
Cheddar and mozzarella are both excellent choices because they melt smoothly and add a creamy texture that complements the chicken and ranch. You can also experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a hint of spice.
Can I prepare these wraps in advance for a party?
You can assemble the wraps a few hours ahead, but it’s best to keep the ranch dressing separate until serving to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy. Wraps wrapped tightly in foil and refrigerated will hold up nicely for a few hours.
How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe has a gentle kick from the chili powder, balanced by the creamy ranch dressing. If you prefer no heat, simply reduce or omit the chili powder, or add extra to suit your taste if you love spice.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about these Grilled Chicken Wraps with Lettuce, Cheese, and Ranch Recipe that makes lunchtime feel special without the fuss. They’re quick, flavorful, and oh-so-versatile, perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend lunches. I can’t recommend enough giving this recipe a try—you might just find yourself making these wraps again and again!
PrintGrilled Chicken Wraps with Lettuce, Cheese, and Ranch Recipe
These grilled chicken wraps offer a flavorful and quick summer lunch option, combining perfectly seasoned grilled chicken with fresh lettuce, melty cheese, and creamy ranch dressing, all wrapped in a soft flour tortilla. Ideal for packed lunches or picnics, they are easy to assemble and deliciously satisfying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 wraps
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, sliced into cutlets (650g total)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic granules
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if frying)
Wrap and Fillings
- 4 flour tortilla wraps
- 4 large iceberg lettuce leaves
- 1 cup cheddar or mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup ranch dressing
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken cutlets with smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic granules, salt, and black pepper, ensuring even coating of all pieces.
- Preheat the Cooking Surface: Heat a grill, grill pan, or frying pan on medium-high heat. Add olive oil if using a pan instead of a grill for cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken cutlets on the hot grill or pan. Cook each side until the chicken is thoroughly cooked, reaching an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C). This usually takes about 4-5 minutes per side depending on thickness.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from heat and let it rest on a plate for 5 minutes to retain juices and ensure tenderness.
- Cut and Prepare for Assembly: Slice the rested chicken into strips suitable for wrapping.
- Assemble the Wraps: Lay out a flour tortilla. Place one large iceberg lettuce leaf on it, followed by a generous portion of sliced chicken, shredded cheese, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
- Seal the Wrap: Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, tuck in the fillings, then fold the bottom over and roll tightly away from you, pressing slightly on the seam to secure the wrap.
- Grill the Wrap: Place the assembled wraps on the grill or lightly oiled grill pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until the tortilla is lightly crisp and cheese starts to melt.
- Serve: Remove the wraps from heat, slice each in half, and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can add additional grilled or fresh vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, or cucumbers to enhance the wrap.
- For packed lunches, individually wrap the wraps tightly in foil and include a small ice pack to keep fresh.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container or individually wrapped in foil in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To assemble wraps perfectly, fold the sides inward, then the bottom up over the fillings, roll tightly away from you, and press the seam to keep the wrap closed.