Description
There’s something deeply satisfying about the crunch of golden brown chicken tucked into a soft tortilla, a meal that feels both indulgent and entirely manageable on a busy weeknight. Crispy chicken wraps have become my family’s go to for those evenings when everyone is running in different directions but still wants a hot, delicious dinner that doesn’t taste rushed.
Ingredients
- For the Crispy Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, pounded to ½-inch thickness
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for maximum crunch)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Vegetable or canola oil, for pan-frying
- For the Wraps & Fillings:
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size works best)
- 2 cups shredded lettuce (romaine or iceberg for crunch)
- 1 large tomato, diced
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- ¼ cup ranch dressing, or sauce of your choice
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken into 1-inch wide strips. Place them between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even ½-inch thickness. This step is non-negotiable for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Set Up Your Breading Station: You’ll need three shallow dishes. In the first, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place the beaten eggs in the second dish. Add the panko breadcrumbs to the third.
- Bread the Chicken: Working with one piece at a time, dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it fully into the egg, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, press the chicken firmly into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring a complete and even coating. Pro Tip: Use one hand for the dry ingredients and the other for the wet to avoid clumpy club fingers.
- Cook to Golden Perfection: Heat about ¼ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is ready, flick a tiny bit of flour into it; if it sizzles, you’re good to go. Carefully add the breaded chicken strips in a single layer, without crowding the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until the exterior is deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a wire rack set over a baking sheet; this keeps the bottom from getting soggy while you finish the rest.
- Assemble the Wraps: Warm the tortillas slightly in a dry skillet or microwave for 15-20 seconds to make them pliable. Place a tortilla on a flat surface. In the center, add a handful of shredded lettuce, a few pieces of the crispy chicken, a sprinkle of diced tomato, and a generous pinch of cheese. Drizzle with your chosen sauce.
- Wrap it Up: Fold the sides of the tortilla inward over the filling, then, starting from the bottom, roll it up tightly, burrito-style. If you’re taking it on the go, you can wrap the bottom half in parchment paper or foil to keep everything secure.
Notes
Smart Substitutions: Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and certified gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Corn tortillas can work, but they may crack more easily. Dairy-Free: Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. A vegan ranch or tahini sauce works wonderfully. Low-Carb: Swap the flour for almond flour and the panko for crushed pork rinds. Use a low-carb tortilla or large lettuce leaves as your wrap.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wrap
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 145mg