Are you looking for a quick, nutritious, and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed hot or cold? Look no further than the delightful chicken pesto wraps! Bursting with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, these wraps are not only easy to prepare, but also offer a perfect blend of textures and tastes that are sure to please your palate. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner, a picnic, or a healthy lunch option, these wraps are bound to become a favorite. In this blog, we’ll guide you through each step of the recipe, ensuring you master the art of creating the perfect chicken pesto wrap every time. Let’s dive into the culinary journey that promises satisfaction in every bite!
Preparation of Vegetables
Begin by preparing the lettuce. Use about 1 to 1½ baby cos or baby Roma lettuces. The technique to achieve lovely thin strips of lettuce is known as chiffonade, which involves stacking the leaves and slicing them thinly across. This method not only enhances the visual appeal but also ensures the lettuce integrates well into the wrap. After slicing, it’s crucial to rinse the lettuce thoroughly to remove any dirt hidden between the layers.
Next, gather 200 grams of cherry tomatoes, but feel free to substitute with baby Roma or grape tomatoes if preferred. These should be sliced in half, or quartered if you prefer smaller pieces, to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the wrap, offering bursts of juiciness in every bite.
Creating the Pesto
Now, let’s dive into creating the pesto, a star component of our dish. In a blender bowl, combine 5 grams each of pine nuts and Parmesan Reggiano, along with two cloves of garlic. Add about two cups of fresh basil leaves, which amounts to one whole bunch. A squeeze of lemon juice adds a bright, acidic note, while approximately three tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil brings everything together into a smooth, rich paste. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, and blend until you achieve a thick but pourable consistency. Adjust with more olive oil if necessary.
If you prefer traditional methods, this pesto can be made using a mortar and pestle, which might enhance the flavors by breaking down the ingredients more gently.
Making the Sauce
The next step involves preparing a flavorful sauce that complements the pesto. Start by mixing ¾ cup of mayonnaise in a bowl with the previously prepared garlic paste, 20 grams of Parmesan, and finely chopped capers. To this mixture, add one teaspoon each of Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce, followed by a squeeze of lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. This sauce should be well-blended, achieving a creamy consistency that brings out the individual flavors of each ingredient.
Seasoning and Cooking the Chicken
The chicken, crucial to the wrap, needs careful attention to seasoning. For one kilo of boneless, skinless chicken breast, butterfly them to ensure they cook evenly. Season generously with onion powder, garlic powder, a blend of dried Italian herbs, and optional chili for a hint of heat. Add a couple of teaspoons of olive oil, ensuring the seasoning covers every surface of the chicken.
Heat a large pan over high heat, adding olive oil before placing the chicken fillets. To achieve a beautiful sear and lock in the juices, cook the chicken in batches if needed. Aim for 3½ to 4 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through. Allow the cooked chicken to rest momentarily to let the juices redistribute before slicing.
Assembling the Wraps
Once the chicken has cooled and been sliced or diced as desired, mix it thoroughly with the freshly made pesto, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
To assemble the wraps, spread the majority of your mayonnaise sauce across five burrito-style tortillas. Top with the pesto chicken and distribute the lettuce and tomato mixture evenly. Begin wrapping by folding the tortilla over the filling, tucking in the edges to secure all components neatly. Finish by wrapping tightly.
Storing and Serving
For storage, wrap each chicken pesto wrap securely in food-safe paper or airtight bags. While these wraps keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days, for maximum freshness, it’s recommended to enjoy them as soon as possible. Although these wraps are delicious when served fresh, they can be toasted for an extra layer of texture or left cold.
However, avoid freezing them, as this affects the lettuce’s texture upon thawing, making it soggy. If you fancy prepping ahead, freeze the pesto chicken separately and assemble the wraps fresh.
Enjoying the Wraps
When it comes time to serve, slicing the wraps at an angle gives a beautifully layered presentation showcasing the vibrant ingredients within. These chicken pesto wraps are more than just a meal; they’re an experience of flavors and freshness.
This recipe not only brings you delicious, nutritious satisfaction but also the flexibility to enjoy at home or on the go. For those seeking a meal that’s as practical as it is flavorful, look no further than these chicken pesto wraps. Enjoy, and don’t forget to savor each bite!
Whip up these easy chicken pesto wraps packed with nutrition and flavor! Enjoy hot or cold with fresh ingredients and a delicious homemade pesto. Perfect for any meal!
