These wraps are incredibly easy to whip up, relying on simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making them perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend lunch. The combination of juicy chicken, aromatic garlic, and melty cheese is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, hitting all the right comfort food notes. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this delicious meal comes together. Why wait? Give these Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps a try tonight—you won’t believe how simple and utterly irresistible they are!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouthwatering wraps:
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Cut into small, bite-sized pieces (about ½ to ¾ inch). Uniformity ensures even cooking.
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil: Plus potentially more for cooking chicken if needed.
- 4-6 Cloves Garlic: Minced. Adjust the amount based on your love for garlic! Tip: Use fresh garlic for the most potent and vibrant flavor; pre-minced often lacks the same punch. Learn more about the Health Benefits of Garlic.
- ¼ cup Unsalted Butter: Melted.
- 1 tsp Dried Oregano: Or Italian seasoning blend.
- ½ tsp Dried Parsley: Plus more fresh parsley for garnish, if desired.
- Salt: To taste. Universal Tip: Remember to salt your ingredients at different stages, including the chicken directly, for layers of flavor.
- Black Pepper: Freshly cracked, to taste.
- 1.5 cups Shredded Cheese: A blend works beautifully! Tip: Combine mozzarella (for stretch) and cheddar or Monterey Jack (for flavor) for the ultimate cheesy experience. Colby Jack or Provolone are also great options.
- 4-6 Large Flour Tortillas: Burrito size works best for ample filling room. Whole wheat or low-carb options work too.
- (Optional additions for filling): Cooked bacon bits, sautéed onions or bell peppers, a dollop of ranch dressing or sour cream inside the wrap.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps:
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces completely dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps the chicken sear properly rather than steam, creating a much better texture and color. Season the chicken generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Don’t be shy; this is a key layer of flavor. Ensure all pieces are evenly coated.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. You want the pan hot enough to hear a sizzle when the chicken hits it. Once the oil shimmers slightly, carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature, leading to steaming instead of searing. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s golden brown on all sides and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer for safety. Consult Food Safety Guidelines for Chicken for accurate information. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a clean plate. Tent loosely with foil to keep warm.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat under the skillet to medium-low. If the skillet looks dry, add a touch more olive oil or a small knob of butter. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly until it becomes fragrant. Be very careful not to burn the garlic, as it will turn bitter quickly. You’re looking for a light golden color and a wonderful aroma.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: Pour the melted butter into the skillet with the fragrant garlic. Stir well to combine. Add the dried oregano and dried parsley to the butter mixture. Stirring the herbs into the warm butter helps ‘bloom’ them, releasing more of their essential oils and intensifying their flavor compared to just sprinkling them on later. Let the sauce simmer gently for about a minute for the flavors to meld beautifully. Taste the sauce and add a pinch of salt and pepper if needed, keeping in mind the chicken is already seasoned.
- Coat the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring every piece of chicken is coated in that luscious, garlicky goodness. Let the chicken warm through in the sauce for another minute or two over low heat. The aroma at this stage should be incredible! If you enjoy garlicky chicken, you might also love exploring recipes like our Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Garlic Bread Subs or the popular Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta.
- Warm the Tortillas: Slightly warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and easier to fold without tearing. You can do this by quickly heating them one by one in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 15-20 seconds per side, or by wrapping the stack in a slightly damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds until just warm and flexible.
- Assemble the Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps: Lay a warm tortilla flat on your work surface. Sprinkle a small amount of the shredded cheese down the center of the tortilla. This bottom layer of cheese helps create a barrier and melts beautifully. Spoon a generous portion of the cheesy garlic chicken mixture over the cheese. Be careful not to overfill, or wrapping will be difficult. Top the chicken with another generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. This ensures maximum cheesiness throughout the wrap.
- Fold the Wraps: Fold in the two sides of the tortilla first, bringing them slightly towards the center over the filling. Then, tightly fold the bottom edge up and over the filling, tucking it in snugly. Continue rolling the tortilla away from you into a tight cylinder or burrito shape. The initial side folds help keep the filling contained. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Optional – Sear the Wraps (Highly Recommended!): For the best experience with maximum melted cheese and a slightly crispy exterior, you can sear the wraps. Carefully place the assembled wraps, seam-side down, back into the (wiped clean) skillet over medium heat. You can add a tiny bit of butter or oil if desired, but a dry sear works well too. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside is completely melted and gooey. You can gently press down on the wraps with a spatula to encourage even browning and melting. This step transforms them from good to great Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps.
- Serve: Remove the toasted wraps from the skillet. Let them rest for a minute before slicing them in half diagonally (this shows off the beautiful filling) or serving them whole. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps!
Serving Ideas
Serving your freshly made Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps is all about complementing their rich, savory flavors. For a simple yet satisfying meal, pair these wraps with a crisp, refreshing side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette; the acidity cuts through the richness beautifully. Alternatively, classic comfort food sides like seasoned potato wedges, sweet potato fries, or crispy onion rings are always a winning combination. A small cup of tomato soup also makes for a delightful “dip and sip” experience. The possibilities are endless, and a perfect side dish enhances the entire eating experience.
When plating, consider slicing the Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps diagonally to showcase the enticing layers of chicken, garlic sauce, and melted cheese. Arrange the halves on a platter or individual plates. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness. For an extra touch, serve with small dipping bowls of ranch dressing, extra garlic butter sauce, or even a spicy aioli. These wraps are fantastic for a quick weeknight dinner, a hearty lunch, or even cut into smaller pinwheels for a party appetizer.
FAQs
1. Can I make Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prep components ahead! Cook the garlic chicken filling completely, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat the chicken mixture in a skillet or microwave, then assemble the wraps with fresh tortillas and cheese, and toast them just before serving for the best texture. Assembled and toasted wraps are best eaten fresh but can be stored and reheated, though the tortilla may lose some crispness.
2. What’s the best kind of cheese to use for these wraps?
A combination of cheeses often yields the best results! Mozzarella provides that classic cheesy pull and mild flavor. Cheddar (sharp or medium) adds a bolder, tangy taste. Monterey Jack or Colby Jack melts exceptionally well and offers a creamy texture. Provolone also works nicely with garlic and chicken. Using a blend of a good melter (like mozzarella or Monterey Jack) and a flavorful cheese (like cheddar) is my personal recommendation for perfect Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps. Pre-shredded cheese works for convenience, but shredding your own block cheese often results in smoother melting as it doesn’t contain anti-caking agents.
3. Can I use leftover cooked chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken or previously cooked chicken breast is a fantastic shortcut. Simply shred or dice the cooked chicken and add it to the skillet after you’ve sautéed the garlic and made the garlic butter sauce (Step 4 & 5). Toss the chicken in the sauce to coat and heat through for a couple of minutes before assembling the wraps. Ensure the chicken is heated thoroughly. This makes the recipe even quicker!
4. How do I store and reheat leftover Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps?
Store any leftover assembled and toasted wraps tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, the best methods are using an air fryer (at around 350°F for 3-5 minutes) or a toaster oven to help crisp the tortilla back up. You can also reheat them in a dry skillet over medium-low heat, turning occasionally, until warmed through and the cheese is re-melted. Microwaving works but will result in a softer, potentially soggy tortilla.
5. How can I make these wraps spicy?
There are several easy ways to add some heat! You can add ¼ to ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce along with the other seasonings. Alternatively, mix in some finely diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled) with the chicken filling. Serving the wraps with a side of hot sauce, sriracha, or a spicy aioli for dipping is another great option that allows everyone to customize their own spice level. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning also works well.
6. What kind of tortillas are best?
Large burrito-size flour tortillas (around 10-12 inches) are generally the easiest to work with, as they provide ample space for filling and fold neatly. However, whole wheat tortillas offer more fiber and a nuttier taste. Low-carb or keto-friendly tortillas can also be used if preferred. Corn tortillas are generally too small and brittle for this type of wrap unless you use several smaller ones to make tacos instead of a large wrap. Always warm your chosen tortilla slightly before filling to prevent cracking.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps are more than just a quick meal; they’re a full-on flavor experience packed into a convenient, handheld package. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic garlic butter sauce, and rivers of melted cheese is simply irresistible. We’ve walked through how easy it is to bring this dish together, from perfectly searing the chicken to assembling and toasting the wraps for that delightful textural contrast. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for adapting to your family’s tastes and a guaranteed hit for lunch or dinner any night of the week. You get restaurant-quality flavor with minimal fuss right in your own kitchen.
Pro Tip: For an even deeper garlic flavor, roast a head of garlic beforehand and mash the soft cloves into the butter sauce instead of using minced raw garlic. Pro Tip: Don’t skip searing the wraps after assembling – this step is crucial for melting the cheese evenly and creating that wonderfully crisp exterior that takes these wraps to the next level.
Want to change things up? Try adding some crumbled cooked bacon for a salty crunch, or mix in some sautéed mushrooms and onions with the chicken. For a slightly different flavor profile, swap the oregano for fresh rosemary or thyme. Enjoy making – and devouring – these incredibly satisfying Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps!
Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps: The Ultimate Comfort Food
These Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps are a flavor-packed, ultra-satisfying meal you can whip up fast! With tender chicken tossed in a buttery garlic sauce and loads of gooey melted cheese wrapped in warm tortillas, this recipe is comfort food done right – easy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 wraps 1x
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Wraps
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 4–6 Cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter, melted
- 1 tsp Dried Oregano (or Italian seasoning blend)
- 1/2 tsp Dried Parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly Cracked Black Pepper, to taste
- 1.5 cups Shredded Cheese (mozzarella + cheddar or Monterey Jack blend recommended)
- 4–6 Large Flour Tortillas (burrito size)
- Optional Add-ins: Cooked bacon bits, sautéed onions or bell peppers, ranch dressing or sour cream
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pat chicken dry, season generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken in a single layer, turning until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside.
- Make Garlic Butter: In same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low. Add garlic and cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Stir in melted butter, oregano, and parsley. Simmer 1 minute.
- Combine: Return cooked chicken to skillet. Toss with garlic butter sauce until fully coated. Let warm through.
- Warm Tortillas: Briefly heat each tortilla in a skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.
- Assemble: Place some shredded cheese in the center of each tortilla. Top with garlic chicken, then more cheese.
- Wrap: Fold in sides, roll tightly into a burrito-style wrap.
- Toast (Optional but Recommended): Place wraps seam-side down in skillet over medium heat. Sear 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
- Serve: Slice in half, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy hot!
Notes
Add roasted garlic to the butter sauce for extra depth. Sauté mushrooms or onions with the chicken for variation. These wraps also work great with leftover rotisserie chicken for an even faster meal!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wrap
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: cheesy garlic chicken wraps, easy chicken wraps, garlic chicken recipe, melted cheese wraps