Description
Creamy Chicken and Bacon Wraps
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
4 large flour tortillas
1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
2. Assemble Wraps: Lay a tortilla flat and spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto the center. Roll the tortilla tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese and parsley over the wraps for added flavor and presentation.
4. Serve: Serve cold or warm by microwaving for 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts slightly.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect wraps every time. First, ensure your chicken is fully cooked, cooled, and shredded. Cook your bacon until crisp, then crumble it. Allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to soften. In your large bowl, combine the chicken, bacon, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and cheddar cheese. Use a sturdy spoon or your hands to mix thoroughly until the mixture is uniform and holds together. Lay a tortilla on a clean surface and spoon about 3/4 cup of the filling in a line just below the center. Fold the bottom edge up and over the filling, then tightly roll from left to right, ensuring the sides are tucked in. Place the wrap seam-side down. Repeat for all tortillas.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile wraps are perfect for lunch, picnics, or a quick dinner. For a complete meal, serve them with a side of crispy sweet potato fries, a light garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or a bowl of tomato soup. For a party platter, slice the wraps into 1-inch pinwheels and secure with toothpicks. Pair with dipping sauces like ranch, chipotle mayo, or a spicy barbecue sauce to elevate the flavors.
How-to Summary
In summary, this recipe involves mixing a creamy filling of shredded chicken, bacon, cream cheese, mayo, and cheddar. The filling is spooned onto large tortillas, which are then rolled tightly, tucking in the sides. They can be garnished with extra cheese and parsley, and served either cold or briefly warmed to melt the cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these wraps ahead of time? Absolutely. You can assemble the wraps, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving. This makes them ideal for meal prep.
Can I use a different protein? Yes. Cooked and shredded turkey or canned tuna (well-drained) are excellent substitutes for the chicken.
How can I prevent my tortillas from cracking? To increase pliability, briefly warm each tortilla in a dry skillet for 10-15 seconds or microwave them under a damp paper towel for 20 seconds before assembling.
Are there any lighter ingredient alternatives? You can use light cream cheese, low-fat mayonnaise, and reduced-fat cheddar cheese to create a lower-calorie version without sacrificing too much creaminess.
How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover wraps tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, consume them cold or reheat gently in the microwave.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overfilling the tortillas, as this will cause them to burst when rolling. Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened; lumps from cold cream cheese will create an uneven filling. Do not skip the step of tucking in the sides of the tortilla as you roll, as this keeps the filling securely inside. Finally, if serving warm, avoid overheating in the microwave, which can make the tortilla soggy—20-30 second intervals are best.
Conclusion
These Creamy Chicken and Bacon Wraps are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining familiar, savory flavors in a convenient handheld format. Their simplicity, make-ahead potential, and customizability make them a fantastic recipe for any occasion. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily master this delicious dish and add a reliable favorite to your culinary repertoire.