Craving a quick and healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor? This Creamy Pesto and Spinach Chicken Wrap is your answer for a delicious and satisfying lunch or dinner. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how fresh it tastes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Cooked Chicken Breast: You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or quickly pan-fry some chicken breast.
- Whole Wheat Tortillas: Feel free to use your favorite wrap, like spinach wraps or gluten-free tortillas.
- Pesto: Store-bought or homemade works great. Look for a dairy-free pesto if you prefer.
- Cream Cheese: Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative can be used for a lighter option.
- Fresh Spinach: Arugula or mixed greens are good alternatives.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 2 tablespoons pesto
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 large whole wheat tortillas
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (if cooking chicken)
- Servings: 2
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (depending on ingredients)
- Tools Needed: Mixing bowl, spoon, cutting board, knife.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Creamy Pesto Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, pesto, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined. This creamy base is what makes these healthy chicken wraps so delicious.
2. Combine Chicken and Spinach
Add the shredded or diced cooked chicken and the chopped fresh spinach to the pesto cream cheese mixture. Gently fold everything together until the chicken and spinach are evenly coated.
3. Assemble Your Wraps
Lay out each whole wheat tortilla on a clean surface. Divide the chicken and spinach mixture evenly between the two tortillas, spreading it down the center.
4. Roll the Wraps
Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then tightly roll the wrap from the bottom up. You want a snug roll to keep all the delicious filling inside your healthy chicken wraps. Slice in half if desired before serving.
Variation Ideas:
- Add more veggies: Include diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or thinly sliced cucumber for extra crunch.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the pesto mixture will add a nice kick.
- Different cheese: Sprinkle in some feta or mozzarella cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Sun-dried tomato twist: Add a tablespoon of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the filling.
Storage Instructions:
You can store leftover Creamy Pesto and Spinach Chicken Wraps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. For best results, it’s ideal to assemble them right before eating to prevent the tortillas from getting soggy. These healthy chicken wraps are perfect for meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Absolutely! Pre-cooked chicken, like rotisserie chicken, makes this recipe even faster.
Q: What if I don’t have cream cheese?
A: You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing, or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Q: Are these wraps good for meal prep?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and pesto mixture ahead of time and store it separately. Assemble the wraps just before eating for the freshest taste.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Simply use your favorite gluten-free tortillas to make this a gluten-free meal.
Q: How do I prevent the wrap from getting soggy?
A: To avoid sogginess, you can lightly toast the tortilla before adding the filling, or assemble the wraps just before you plan to eat them.