Save Last Tuesday I was starving after running errands all morning and threw this together with whatever was in the fridge. The smell of bacon mingling with spices hit me and I knew this random experiment would become a regular thing. My husband took one bite and actually paused his show to ask what I made. Now its the wrap my friends text me about when they need comfort food.
My sister was visiting during a particularly chaotic week and I made these for a quick lunch. She watched me assemble them with that skeptical look she gets when I say something is easy. Then she took a bite and her eyes went wide. Now she calls me whenever she makes them to report back on her modifications.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Pat them really dry before seasoning so the spices cling and the sear gets golden
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for bringing out the chicken's natural flavor
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that balances the creamy elements
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Distributes evenly unlike fresh garlic which can burn
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This is what gives the chicken that gorgeous color and subtle smoky depth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the bacon fat go further and adds fruity notes
- 8 strips of bacon: Cook until just pliable not crispy since they finish in the wrap
- 4 large flour tortillas: The 10-inch size is perfect for folding without tearing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Mild cheddar melts beautifully without overpowering
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Creates the silky base for the sauce
- 2 tablespoons sour cream: Adds just enough tang to cut through the rich ingredients
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens the whole sauce and prevents it from feeling heavy
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard: A tiny kick that makes people wonder what makes it special
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce: Provides that essential crunch against the warm fillings
- 1 medium tomato diced: Use firm tomatoes and seed them to prevent a soggy wrap
- ½ avocado sliced: Creamy contrast that makes each bite feel luxurious
Instructions
- Season the chicken:
- Mix salt pepper garlic powder and smoked paprika in a small bowl then rub evenly over both sides of each chicken breast. Let it sit while you cook the bacon so the flavors penetrate.
- Cook the bacon partially:
- Start bacon in a cold skillet over medium heat cooking until lightly browned but still flexible about 4 minutes per side. You want it done enough to render fat but not so crispy it shatters.
- Sear the chicken:
- Add olive oil to the bacon drippings and heat until shimmering. Sear chicken 4 minutes per side until golden then reduce heat cover and cook 6 to 8 minutes until it hits 165°F inside. Let it rest 5 minutes before slicing.
- Whisk the sauce:
- Combine mayonnaise sour cream lemon juice and Dijon mustard in a small bowl until completely smooth. Taste and add a pinch of salt and pepper if needed.
- Warm the tortillas:
- Heat a dry skillet over medium and warm each tortilla 15 to 20 seconds per side. Stack them in a clean kitchen towel so they stay pliable for rolling.
- Build your wraps:
- Spread 2 tablespoons sauce down the center of each tortilla. Slice chicken into thin strips and arrange over sauce then top with 2 bacon strips ¼ cup cheese lettuce tomato and avocado slices.
- Roll and crisp:
- Fold in the sides then roll tightly from bottom to top. Return seam side down to the skillet and press with a spatula cooking 2 minutes per side until golden and crispy all over.
- Serve immediately:
- Let wraps rest 1 minute so the cheese sets slightly then slice diagonally. Pass extra sauce at the table for dipping.
Save The first time I made these for a crowd I tripled the recipe and set up a wrap bar. People went quiet around the table just focused on eating. That's when you know a recipe is a keeper.
Make-Ahead Magic
I've learned that cooking the chicken and bacon the night before makes these come together in minutes. Just slice everything cold and assemble. The sauce keeps for days in the fridge and actually tastes better after the flavors meld.
Customization Station
My oldest prefers spicy so I add pickled jalapeños to hers. Sometimes I swap in pepper jack for the cheddar or use spinach tortillas to sneak in some greens. The structure stays solid no matter what you throw at it.
Serving Suggestions
Sweet potato fries on the side make this feel like restaurant food. A simple cucumber salad with vinegar cuts through the richness beautifully. These also pack perfectly for picnics since they hold up well at room temperature.
- Cut wraps in half before serving so you can see all those beautiful layers
- Wrap the bottom half in parchment paper to keep things tidy while eating
- Double the sauce recipe because everyone wants extra
Save These wraps have saved me on countless busy weeknights and impromptu gatherings. Hope they become your go-to too.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I ensure my chicken is perfectly cooked and juicy?
After searing the chicken until golden on both sides, reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and allow it to cook through until an internal temperature of 165°F is reached. Resting the chicken for 5 minutes after cooking also helps retain its juiciness.
- → Can I prepare any components of this wrap in advance?
Absolutely! The tangy mayonnaise sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. You can also cook the chicken and bacon beforehand, cooling them completely before storing, for quicker assembly when you're ready to enjoy.
- → What are some good substitutions or additions for this dish?
For a different flavor, try whole-wheat or spinach tortillas. You can add a spicy kick with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for variety.
- → What makes this wrap "crispy"?
The crispiness comes from two main elements: the bacon, which is cooked until crunchy, and the final step where the assembled wrap is lightly pressed and browned in a skillet until its exterior is golden and crisp.
- → What are some recommended side dishes to pair with this handheld meal?
This substantial wrap pairs wonderfully with lighter sides. Consider serving it with a crisp garden salad, a side of sweet potato fries, or even a simple cup of fresh fruit to balance the richness.