Save My sister called me from her car one afternoon, stuck in traffic and starving. She asked what she could make that felt like restaurant quality but took less than half an hour. I walked her through this wrap over speakerphone, and by the time she got home, she had a plan. Twenty-five minutes later, she sent me a photo of her kitchen counter: four golden wraps cut in half, stacked like they belonged in a cafe window. She said it tasted better than takeout, and I believed her.
I made these wraps for a group of friends during a last minute backyard hangout, the kind where no one expects much beyond chips and dip. I grilled the chicken outside while they sat around talking, and when I brought the wraps to the table, everyone went quiet for a few minutes. One friend, who usually picks at food, finished hers in under five minutes and asked if there were more. That was the moment I realized this recipe had earned a permanent spot in my rotation.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These cook fast and slice beautifully, but make sure theyre not too thick or theyll dry out before the center cooks through.
- Olive oil: A light coating keeps the chicken from sticking to the grill and helps the seasonings adhere without adding heaviness.
- Salt, black pepper, and garlic powder: This simple trio builds a savory base that complements the Caesar dressing without competing with it.
- Romaine lettuce: The crisp, sturdy leaves hold up to dressing and wrapping better than softer greens, and they add a refreshing crunch.
- Caesar dressing: Whether you use store bought or homemade, this is the flavor anchor, so choose one you actually enjoy tasting on its own.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated melts slightly into the greens and adds a nutty, salty punch that pre shredded versions cant match.
- Croutons: They bring texture and a little toasted flavor, but if theyre stale or too hard, theyll poke through the tortilla.
- Flour tortillas: Go for the larger, softer ones that fold without cracking, and warm them slightly if theyve been in the fridge.
Instructions
- Season and grill the chicken:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium high heat, brush the chicken breasts with olive oil, and season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Grill for 5 to 7 minutes per side until the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees, then let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
- Toss the Caesar salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine, Caesar dressing, parmesan cheese, and croutons, tossing until every leaf is lightly coated. Dont overdress it or the wraps will get messy and soggy.
- Assemble the wraps:
- Lay out the tortillas on a clean surface and divide the Caesar salad mixture evenly among them, placing it in the center of each. Top with the sliced grilled chicken, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly from the bottom to form a snug wrap.
- Slice and serve:
- Cut each wrap in half on a diagonal if you like, and serve immediately while the chicken is still warm and the lettuce is cold and crunchy.
Save One evening, I made these wraps for my partner after a long day, and we ate them on the couch with a show playing in the background. Halfway through, he paused and said it felt like we were eating out, except better because we didnt have to put on shoes or wait for a table. That small comment stuck with me because it reminded me that good food doesnt need to be complicated or fancy to feel special.
Customizing Your Wraps
This recipe is flexible enough to handle whatever you have on hand or whatever your mood calls for. I have added crispy bacon bits, sliced cherry tomatoes, and even diced avocado when I had extras in the fridge, and each version felt like a different meal. You can swap the chicken for grilled shrimp, pan seared tofu, or even rotisserie chicken if youre in a hurry. The Caesar base stays the same, but the final wrap becomes yours.
Packing for Lunch
These wraps travel surprisingly well if you pack them right. I wrap each one tightly in parchment paper or foil, which keeps everything together and makes them easy to eat on the go. If youre making them the night before, go lighter on the dressing and pack extra on the side so the tortilla doesnt get soggy. I have also tried packing the salad and chicken separately and assembling the wrap at lunchtime, which works great if you have a few extra minutes.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
I usually serve these wraps with a handful of kettle cooked chips or a simple side salad, but theyve also stood on their own as a complete meal. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the creamy dressing and grilled chicken, though sparkling water with lemon works just as well if youre keeping things casual. If youre feeding a crowd, set out the components in bowls and let everyone build their own wrap.
- Add a side of sweet potato fries or roasted vegetables for a more filling meal.
- Serve with a light soup like tomato basil or minestrone if its a cooler day.
- Keep extra Caesar dressing on the side for dipping or drizzling.
Save This wrap has become my answer to the question of what to make when I want something fresh, hearty, and fast. It works for solo lunches, quick dinners, and casual gatherings, and it always feels like I did more than I actually did.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy when grilling?
Don't overcook the chicken. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side over medium-high heat until the juices run clear. Let it rest for 5 minutes after cooking before slicing, which allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- → Can I prepare the components ahead of time?
Yes, you can grill the chicken and chop the lettuce several hours ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the wraps just before serving to keep the tortillas soft and prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
- → What are good substitutes for the protein?
Grilled shrimp works beautifully for a seafood version, or use seasoned tofu for a vegetarian option. Turkey breast or salmon are also excellent alternatives that pair well with Caesar flavors.
- → How do I prevent the wrap from falling apart?
Don't overstuff the wrap. Place fillings in the center, fold in the sides first, then roll tightly from one end. Wrapping in foil or parchment paper helps keep it together if serving later.
- → Can I make this with homemade Caesar dressing?
Absolutely. Homemade dressing adds fresh flavor and lets you control ingredients for allergies. Mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, anchovy paste, Worcestershire sauce, and Parmesan for an easy homemade version.
- → Are there good wine pairings for this meal?
Crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the Caesar flavors beautifully with its acidity and citrus notes. Pinot Grigio or a light Chardonnay also work well. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lemon is refreshing.