I remember the first time I tried a wrap; it was at a little cafe downtown, and I was instantly hooked by the portability and the explosion of flavors in every bite, which is why I’m so excited to share this recipe for Creamy Garlic Chicken Spinach Wraps with you— they’re a game-changer for busy weeknights or a fun weekend lunch. These aren’t just any wraps; they’re bursting with creamy, garlicky goodness that even the pickiest eaters will adore. Get ready to make a meal that’s both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy!
Why You’ll Absolutely Love These Creamy Garlic Chicken Spinach Wraps
Okay, friend, let’s get real. We all have those days where the thought of cooking a complicated meal is enough to make us order takeout. But trust me on this one: these Creamy Garlic Chicken Spinach Wraps are the perfect solution. They are quick, easy, and require minimal cleanup. What’s not to love?
- Quick and Easy: From start to finish, you’re looking at about 30 minutes, tops.
- Packed with Flavor: Garlic, cream cheese, spinach, and juicy chicken – it’s a flavor explosion!
- Versatile: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a picnic.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, cheeses, or spices to make it your own.
- Kid-Friendly: Even the little ones will gobble these up (especially if you let them help assemble!).
What You’ll Need: The Ingredients List
Let’s gather our ingredients! Don’t worry; most of these are probably already in your pantry.
- Chicken Breasts: About 1.5 pounds, boneless and skinless. You can also use leftover cooked chicken to save time.
- Spinach: 5 ounces, fresh spinach. Baby spinach works great!
- Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened. This is what gives it that creamy texture.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Because garlic makes everything better.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. For sautéing the garlic and chicken.
- Chicken Broth: 1/4 cup. Adds moisture and flavor.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup. Because, cheese!
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon. For that classic Italian flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. Don’t be shy!
- Large Tortillas: About 6-8, depending on the size. Flour tortillas work best.
Step-by-Step: Making the Magic Happen
Alright, let’s get cooking! I’ll walk you through each step, so you can’t go wrong. Remember, cooking should be fun, so relax and enjoy the process.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
First things first, let’s get that chicken ready. If you’re starting with raw chicken breasts, pat them dry with a paper towel (this helps them brown better) and season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly. Once it’s cool enough to handle, shred it with two forks. This is where leftover cooked chicken comes in handy to save time!
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Spinach
Now for the good stuff! In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic – burnt garlic is no fun!
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts down, about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once the spinach is wilted, drain any excess liquid. Nobody wants soggy wraps!
Step 3: Create the Creamy Garlic Sauce
This is where the magic happens! Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese and chicken broth to the skillet with the spinach and garlic. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Stir in the shredded chicken and Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Don’t be afraid to add a little extra garlic powder if you’re a garlic lover like me!
Step 4: Assemble the Wraps
Time to assemble our masterpieces! Lay a tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon about ½ cup of the creamy garlic chicken spinach mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Be careful not to overfill it, or you’ll have a mess on your hands!
Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then fold the bottom up and over the filling. Roll it up tightly like a burrito. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Step 5: Optional: Brown the Wraps
This step is totally optional, but it adds a nice touch. Heat a lightly oiled skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the wraps seam-side down and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. This gives them a nice texture and helps seal them up.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Cut the wraps in half and serve immediately. These are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of sour cream, salsa, or a simple salad.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Wraps
Want to take your Creamy Garlic Chicken Spinach Wraps to the next level? Here are a few of my favorite tips and tricks:
- Use a Good Quality Cream Cheese: It makes a difference! Full-fat cream cheese will give you the best, creamiest results.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Wring Out the Spinach: If you’re using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible. This will prevent your wraps from becoming soggy.
- Warm the Tortillas: Warming the tortillas slightly before assembling the wraps will make them more pliable and less likely to tear. You can warm them in a microwave, a dry skillet, or directly over a gas flame.
- Get Creative with Fillings: Feel free to add other veggies, cheeses, or sauces to your wraps. Some great additions include diced tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the creamy garlic chicken spinach mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply warm it up and assemble the wraps.
- Freezing: These wraps can be frozen for a quick and easy meal. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then warm them in a skillet or microwave.
Variations: Spice Things Up!
One of the best things about these Creamy Garlic Chicken Spinach Wraps is how versatile they are. Here are a few variations to try:
- Spicy Wraps: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy garlic sauce.
- Mediterranean Wraps: Add some chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese to the filling.
- BBQ Chicken Wraps: Use shredded BBQ chicken instead of plain chicken and add a drizzle of your favorite BBQ sauce.
- Vegetarian Wraps: Use chickpeas or white beans instead of chicken and add some extra veggies like roasted red peppers and zucchini.
Serving Suggestions: Complete the Meal
These wraps are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is always a good choice.
- Soup: A bowl of tomato soup or vegetable soup is a comforting and satisfying addition.
- Fries: Crispy French fries or sweet potato fries are a fun and indulgent treat.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad is a light and healthy option.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds a nice crunch and tang.
Other Recipes You Might Enjoy
If you love these Creamy Garlic Chicken Spinach Wraps, here are a few other recipes you might enjoy:
Craving something comforting and creamy? You have to try Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken. It’s an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. And if you’re looking for a quick and easy vegetarian option, Crispy Gnocchi With Spinach is a must-try. The combination of crispy gnocchi and wilted spinach is simply divine!
For a pasta dish that’s sure to impress, check out Marry Me Chicken Pasta. It’s packed with flavor and super easy to make. If you’re in the mood for chicken, Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is another fantastic option. The cream cheese sauce is just irresistible!
If you’re a seafood lover, don’t miss out on Salmon Spinach Pasta. It’s a healthy and delicious meal that’s ready in minutes. Or, for a hearty and satisfying dish, try Chicken And Spinach Casserole. It’s the ultimate comfort food!
Common Questions
Let’s tackle some common questions you might have before diving in:
- Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out the excess moisture. About 10 ounces of frozen spinach is equivalent to 5 ounces of fresh.
- Can I use different types of cheese? Of course! Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of goat cheese would be delicious.
- My cream cheese is not softening! What do I do? Cut the cream cheese into small cubes and microwave it for 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to melt it completely.
- Can I make these wraps ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the wraps and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- My filling is too thick! How can I thin it out? Add a little more chicken broth, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Recipe
There you have it, friend! My tried-and-true recipe for Creamy Garlic Chicken Spinach Wraps. I truly believe this will become a staple in your kitchen. They’re easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. So, go ahead, give it a try and let me know what you think! Happy cooking!
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach for the Creamy Garlic Chicken Spinach Wraps?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out the excess moisture. About 10 ounces of frozen spinach is equivalent to 5 ounces of fresh.
How long can I store the assembled Creamy Garlic Chicken Spinach Wraps in the refrigerator before cooking?
You can assemble the wraps and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
What can I do if my cream cheese is not softening properly?
Cut the cream cheese into small cubes and microwave it for 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to melt it completely.
My Creamy Garlic Chicken Spinach mixture is too thick. How can I thin it out?
Add a little more chicken broth, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Spinach Wraps
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside to cool slightly.
- Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken with two forks.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts down, about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess liquid.
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese and chicken broth to the skillet with the spinach and garlic. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Lay a tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon about ½ cup of the creamy garlic chicken spinach mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then fold the bottom up and over the filling. Roll it up tightly like a burrito.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- (Optional) Heat a lightly oiled skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the wraps seam-side down and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Cut the wraps in half and serve immediately. Serve with a side of sour cream, salsa, or a simple salad, if desired.
