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This crispy chicken bacon ranch wrap transforms ordinary ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that satisfies cravings for something both fresh and indulgent. The combination of crispy chicken, smoky bacon, and cool ranch creates a flavor explosion wrapped in a perfectly toasted tortilla.
I started making these wraps when my teenagers began complaining about boring lunch options. Now they request these wraps weekly, even helping to prep ingredients on Sunday for easy assembly throughout the week.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breast: Provides lean protein and takes on flavors beautifully when seasoned properly
- Bacon strips: Add smoky richness that complements the ranch perfectly
- Olive oil: For cooking the chicken to golden perfection
- Ranch seasoning mix: Creates that signature tangy flavor throughout the wrap
- Large flour tortilla: Serves as the perfect vessel for all the delicious fillings
- Shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese: Offer different textures and melting properties
- Fresh lettuce, tomato, and red onion: Add crunch, color, and freshness
- Mayonnaise and sour cream: Create a creamy base that binds everything together
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Bacon:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook bacon strips until perfectly crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Flip occasionally to ensure even cooking. The bacon should be cooked until it reaches that ideal balance of crispy exterior while maintaining a hint of chewiness. Once done, transfer to paper towels to drain excess grease while retaining all that wonderful bacon flavor.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Cook chicken breast in about a tablespoon of the remaining bacon grease for 6-8 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This method infuses the chicken with bacon flavor while achieving a golden brown exterior. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices before slicing into thin strips.
- Create the Ranch Mixture:
- Combine ranch seasoning with water until completely dissolved. This creates a concentrated ranch flavor that will coat the chicken pieces evenly. Toss the sliced chicken in this mixture ensuring each piece is well seasoned with that distinctive ranch flavor profile.
- Prepare the Creamy Base:
- Mix mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth and well blended. This creates a richer more complex base than using either ingredient alone. The tanginess of sour cream perfectly balances the richness of mayonnaise.
- Assemble the Wrap:
- Lay your tortilla flat and spread the creamy mayo mixture evenly across the center. Layer on the ranch coated chicken strips, both cheeses, crumbled bacon, and fresh vegetables. The order matters for texture and flavor distribution throughout each bite.
- Roll and Crisp:
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla then roll from bottom to top, creating a tight secure wrap. Place seam side down in a heated skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Apply gentle pressure with a spatula to ensure even contact with the pan surface for maximum crispiness.
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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the contrast between the warm crispy exterior and the cool fresh vegetables inside. My family has a tradition of Wrap Wednesday where everyone creates their own custom version based on this recipe, leading to some delicious discoveries like adding avocado or drizzling with hot honey.
Make-Ahead Options
These wraps work beautifully for meal prep with a few adjustments. Prepare all components separately and store in individual containers. The chicken and bacon can be cooked up to three days ahead and refrigerated. When ready to assemble, reheat the protein components briefly in a microwave or skillet before wrapping. For best results, assemble and crisp the wrap just before eating. If taking to work or school, wrap tightly in foil after cooking and cooling slightly to help maintain some crispness.
Flavor Variations
The basic chicken bacon ranch combination serves as an excellent foundation for countless variations. Try adding buffalo sauce to the chicken for a spicy kick or substitute grilled chicken with crispy breaded chicken for extra crunch. Mediterranean inspired versions work wonderfully with feta cheese, olives, and tzatziki instead of ranch. For a Southwest flair, add black beans, corn, and guacamole with a sprinkle of taco seasoning in place of ranch. Each variation maintains the satisfying handheld format while delivering entirely new flavor profiles.
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Serving Suggestions
These wraps pair perfectly with simple sides that complement without overwhelming. A light mixed green salad with vinaigrette offers freshness alongside the rich wrap. For heartier appetites, sweet potato fries or a cup of tomato soup make excellent companions. When serving for gatherings, consider cutting into pinwheels secured with toothpicks for an appealing appetizer presentation. A drizzle of additional ranch dressing or hot sauce on the side allows guests to customize to their taste preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I achieve a crispy tortilla for the wrap?
To achieve a crispy tortilla, cook the wrap seam-side down in a heated skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Flip it and cook the other side until golden and crispy.
- → Can I substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise mixture?
Yes, you can substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise mixture with ranch dressing or your preferred creamy dressing for a smoother texture.
- → What is the best way to cook the chicken for this wrap?
Cook the chicken breast in a skillet with a little bacon grease over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- → Are there alternatives to traditional bacon for the wrap?
You can use turkey bacon as a lighter alternative to traditional bacon without compromising on flavor.
- → How can I add spice to the wrap?
To add spice, include thin slices of fresh jalapenos, a dash of hot sauce, or sprinkle chili flakes over the filling.