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This hearty Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap has been my go-to lunch solution for busy weekdays, combining the perfect balance of protein, crunch, and creamy ranch flavor all rolled into one portable meal.
I first created these wraps when looking for ways to use leftover rotisserie chicken, and they've since become my family's most requested lunch option. My teenagers even ask for them in their school lunches, which is the ultimate seal of approval.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken 3 cups chopped. Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor. Look for moist chicken without added preservatives.
- Mayonnaise 1/3 cup. Provides creamy richness. Choose a quality full-fat mayo for best results.
- Ranch dressing 1/3 cup. The star flavor component. Homemade ranch works wonderfully but a good store bought option saves time.
- Celery 1 stalk chopped. Adds essential crunch. Select crisp stalks without wilting.
- Fresh parsley 2 tablespoons chopped. Brightens the flavor. Fresh is significantly better than dried here.
- Salt and pepper to taste. Balances flavors. Sea salt and freshly cracked pepper provide the best taste.
- Bacon 8 strips thick cut. Creates textural contrast. Look for uncured bacon with minimal additives.
- Lettuce 8 leaves. Adds freshness and prevents soggy wraps. Romaine or green leaf varieties work best.
- Flour tortillas 4 large. The vessel for all deliciousness. Choose 10-12 inch tortillas that feel pliable.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Salad
- Combine chopped chicken, mayonnaise, ranch dressing, celery, and parsley in a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper to your preference. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Allow flavors to meld for 5 minutes if time permits.
- Assemble the Wraps
- Lay a large flour tortilla flat on a clean cutting board. Place two lettuce leaves in the center of the tortilla, slightly overlapping. The lettuce creates a moisture barrier that prevents the wrap from becoming soggy. Spoon approximately 3/4 cup of chicken salad onto the lettuce, forming a horizontal line across the center of the tortilla.
- Add the Bacon
- Place two strips of crispy bacon on top of the chicken salad. Breaking the bacon in half makes it easier to distribute evenly. Press gently to help the bacon adhere to the chicken salad mixture.
- Roll the Wrap
- Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up and over the filling. Tuck it under the filling while pulling back slightly to create a tight roll. Fold in both sides of the tortilla, then continue rolling from the bottom until completely closed. Place seam side down to prevent unraveling.
- Slice and Serve
- Using a serrated knife, cut the wrap diagonally through the middle with a gentle sawing motion. This creates two triangular halves that are easier to eat and display the beautiful layers of filling.
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The combination of crispy bacon with creamy chicken salad creates an irresistible textural contrast that elevates this simple wrap to something special. I remember making these for a family picnic where even my picky nephew who typically avoids anything green devoured two whole wraps without complaint.
Tortilla Selection Matters
The success of these wraps largely depends on choosing the right tortillas. Large burrito-sized flour tortillas work best as they provide ample surface area for rolling without tearing. Look for tortillas labeled as "burrito size" or those that are at least 10 inches in diameter. Fresh tortillas with good flexibility prevent tears during rolling. If your tortillas seem stiff, warm them briefly in the microwave under a damp paper towel for about 10 seconds to increase pliability.
Make-Ahead Tips
These wraps excel as a meal prep option with a few simple strategies. Prepare the chicken salad up to three days ahead and store it separately from the tortillas and lettuce. When ready to eat, assemble fresh wraps for the best texture. Alternatively, fully assembled wraps can be made the night before and refrigerated tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. The lettuce barrier helps prevent sogginess, but for best results, wait to slice until just before eating.
Creative Variations
Transform these wraps by experimenting with different flavor profiles. For a Southwest version, add black beans, corn, and substitute cilantro for parsley with a dash of taco seasoning. Create a Mediterranean twist by incorporating feta cheese, olives, and swapping the ranch for tzatziki sauce. For added texture and nutrition, consider mix-ins like diced avocado, shredded carrots, or thinly sliced red onion. The versatility of this recipe allows for endless customization based on your preferences or what needs using up in your refrigerator.
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Commonly Asked Questions
- → Can I make these wraps ahead of time?
Yes! These wraps can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container. However, they don't freeze well, so it's best to enjoy them fresh or within a few days.
- → What size tortillas work best for these wraps?
Large flour tortillas are strongly recommended. Medium or smaller tortillas can lead to overstuffing, causing the wraps to tear. If you only have smaller tortillas available, simply reduce the amount of filling per wrap and make additional wraps.
- → Can I customize these wraps with additional ingredients?
Absolutely! These wraps are highly customizable. Try adding shredded cheddar cheese, sliced avocado, or black olives to enhance the flavor profile. You can also serve with extra ranch dressing on the side for dipping.
- → What's the best way to cut these wraps neatly?
For clean, neat cuts, use a serrated knife to slice through the wraps. If you don't have a serrated knife, a very sharp chef's knife will also work. Make sure to apply gentle pressure to avoid squeezing out the filling.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken for these wraps?
Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for these wraps! It's a convenient time-saver and adds great flavor. Simply remove the skin, shred or chop the meat, and mix with the other ingredients. This is an excellent way to repurpose leftover rotisserie chicken.
- → Is there a lower-calorie alternative to the mayonnaise?
Yes, you can substitute the regular mayonnaise with light mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, or a combination of both to reduce calories while maintaining creaminess. This modification will slightly alter the flavor profile but still result in delicious wraps.