Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps — Easy Weeknight Recipe
I fell in love with Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps on a rainy Friday night when I needed something satisfying, fast, and comforting. I had leftover roast chicken, a jar of garlicky aioli, and a stubborn craving for melted cheese — the result was a warm, handheld meal that felt like a hug. Since then, these wraps have become my go-to for busy weeknights, casual lunches, and potlucks. Wraps themselves have a long, global history as convenient street food — from Mexican tacos to Middle Eastern shawarma — and this version leans on Mediterranean flavors with the creamy garlic aioli and gooey cheddar for a universally loved comfort bite.
Who is this recipe for?
- This recipe is perfect for busy parents, weeknight cooks, and anyone who wants a quick, crowd-pleasing meal with minimal fuss.
Core ingredients overview:
- This dish combines shredded cooked chicken, garlic aioli, and cheddar cheese wrapped in large tortillas to create a flavorful, cheesy, and easy dinner that comes together in minutes.
Tools & Ingredients
Tools needed:
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Spatula or tongs
- Grater (if shredding cheese yourself)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Knife and cutting board
- Plate for assembling
- Optional: oven or toaster oven (for extra melty cheese)
Ingredients (with short benefits):
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded) — Lean protein that keeps the wraps hearty and satisfying.
- 1/2 cup garlic aioli — Adds creamy, garlicky flavor and moisture to bind the filling.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded) — Melts beautifully for gooey, savory richness.
- 4 large tortillas — Convenient handheld vessels that make the dish portable and family-friendly.
- Salt and pepper to taste — Enhances and balances the flavors.
Instructions:
- If your chicken isn’t already shredded, gently shred about 2 cups of cooked chicken on a cutting board or with two forks.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with 1/2 cup garlic aioli. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix until evenly coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and lightly oil the surface or use a nonstick pan.
- Lay one tortilla flat and spoon about 1/4 of the chicken mixture down the center of the tortilla.
- Sprinkle approximately 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken mixture.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling and roll tightly to form a wrap.
- Place the wrap seam-side down in the preheated skillet. Cook 2–3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the tortilla is golden and the cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining wraps.
- Remove from the skillet and let rest 1–2 minutes before slicing in half on a diagonal. Serve warm.
FAQ
Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
A: You can freeze assembled (but uncooked) wraps individually wrapped in foil or plastic. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or oven until heated through and the cheese melts. Note: tortillas can become a bit softer after freezing.
Q: What can I use instead of garlic aioli?
A: Substitute mayonnaise mixed with 1–2 cloves minced garlic, or use plain Greek yogurt with garlic and a squeeze of lemon for a lighter option.
Q: Can I make these vegetarian?
A: Yes — replace the chicken with cooked, seasoned chickpeas, crumbled tofu, or roasted vegetables and follow the same steps.
Q: How do I get the cheese extra melty without a stovetop?
A: Place assembled wraps on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and the cheese is melted.
Tips & Tricks
- Use warm tortillas: Briefly heat tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 10–15 seconds to make them more pliable and less likely to tear.
- Don’t overfill: Keep the filling to about 1/4 of each tortilla to make rolling easier and avoid spills while cooking.
- Crisp and melt combo: Cook seam-side down first to seal the wrap, then press gently to get a golden, crisp exterior while ensuring the cheese melts.
- Make it your own: Add fresh greens (spinach, arugula), sliced avocado, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra texture and flavor.
Conclusion
If you want more inspiration or variations, check out this recipe for Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for step-by-step photos, or read about an alternate take on the dish at Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps: A Deliciously Easy Meal. For a spiced-up version, see Cheesy Chicken Wraps | Spicedblog. If you’d like a slightly different ingredient list and prep tips, try Recipe: Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps. For additional serving ideas and cooking tips, visit Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps – Yeyfood.com: Recipes, cooking tips ….
Enjoy your Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps — share them with friends and family for a quick, comforting meal!