BBQ Ranch Chicken Wrap: The Ultimate Recipe & Guide

BBQ Ranch Chicken Wrap: Craving a lunch that’s both incredibly satisfying and bursting with flavor? Look no further! Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, soft tortilla filled with tender, juicy chicken, slathered in a tangy BBQ sauce and creamy ranch dressing. It’s a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more.

While the exact origins of the BBQ Ranch Chicken Wrap are shrouded in mystery (likely born from a brilliant late-night craving!), the combination of barbecue and ranch is a distinctly American love affair. Barbecue sauce, with its smoky sweetness, has deep roots in Southern culinary traditions, while ranch dressing, invented in the 1950s, quickly became a national obsession. Marrying these two iconic flavors with chicken and wrapping it all up in a convenient tortilla? Pure genius!

People adore the BBQ Ranch Chicken Wrap for its incredible versatility and ease. It’s the perfect quick lunch for busy weekdays, a fantastic option for picnics, and a crowd-pleasing appetizer for parties. The combination of savory chicken, sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, and cool, creamy ranch creates a symphony of textures and tastes that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s easily customizable – add your favorite veggies, cheeses, or spices to create your own signature wrap. Get ready to discover your new favorite lunchtime staple!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the BBQ Ranch Sauce:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand!)
• 2 tablespoons buttermilk (or milk with 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
• For the Wraps:
• 4 large flour tortillas (10-12 inch)
• 1 cup shredded lettuce (iceberg or romaine)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
• 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon (optional, but highly recommended!)

Preparing the Chicken:

Okay, let’s start with the star of the show – the chicken! This is super easy, and we’re going to make sure it’s packed with flavor.

1. Prep the Chicken: First, pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear. If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, you can butterfly them by slicing them horizontally almost all the way through and then opening them up like a book. This will help them cook more evenly.
2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This is our simple but effective spice rub.
3. Rub the Chicken: Sprinkle the spice rub evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, making sure they’re well coated. Don’t be shy!
4. Heat the Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the pan to be nice and hot before you add the chicken.
5. Cook the Chicken: Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure! The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chicken.
6. Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing or shredding. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
7. Slice or Shred: After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips or shred it with two forks. I personally prefer slicing, but shredding works great too!

Making the BBQ Ranch Sauce:

Now, let’s whip up the magic sauce that will bring everything together. This BBQ Ranch is seriously addictive!

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, BBQ sauce, buttermilk (or milk with lemon juice), chopped chives, chopped parsley, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Whisk Until Smooth: Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you want it sweeter, add a little more BBQ sauce. If you want it tangier, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar. If you want it spicier, add a pinch more cayenne pepper.
4. Chill (Optional): For the best flavor, cover the sauce and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. But if you’re in a hurry, you can use it right away!

Assembling the BBQ Ranch Chicken Wraps:

Alright, we’re in the home stretch! Time to put these delicious wraps together.

1. Warm the Tortillas (Optional): If you want, you can warm the tortillas slightly to make them more pliable. You can do this by heating them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side, or by microwaving them for about 10-15 seconds.
2. Spread the Sauce: Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous amount of the BBQ Ranch sauce evenly over the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Add the Lettuce: Sprinkle a layer of shredded lettuce over the sauce.
4. Add the Chicken: Top the lettuce with a generous portion of the sliced or shredded BBQ chicken.
5. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken.
6. Add the Red Onion and Cilantro (Optional): Add a sprinkle of thinly sliced red onion and chopped cilantro (if using).
7. Add the Bacon (Optional): If you’re using bacon, crumble it over the other ingredients. Seriously, don’t skip the bacon if you have it!
8. Fold the Wrap: To fold the wrap, fold in the sides of the tortilla towards the center, then fold up the bottom edge tightly over the filling. Roll the wrap forward, keeping it tight as you go.
9. Cut and Serve: Cut the wrap in half on a diagonal, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize your BBQ Ranch Chicken Wraps? Here are a few ideas:

• Add Avocado: Sliced avocado adds a creamy texture and healthy fats.
• Add Corn: Grilled or canned corn adds a touch of sweetness and crunch.
• Add Black Beans: Black beans add protein and fiber.
• Use Different Cheese: Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Colby jack cheese.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken rub or the BBQ Ranch sauce. You can also add a few slices of jalapeño to the wrap.
• Use Different Tortillas: Try whole wheat tortillas, spinach tortillas, or even gluten-free tortillas.
• Grill the Wraps: For a warm and crispy wrap, grill it for a few minutes per side after assembling.
• Make it a Salad: Skip the tortilla and serve the BBQ Ranch chicken and toppings over a bed of lettuce for a delicious salad.
• Meal Prep Friendly: These wraps are great for meal prepping! Assemble the wraps (without cutting them) and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions:

These BBQ Ranch Chicken Wraps are delicious on their own, but here are a few side dishes that would pair well with them:

• Coleslaw
• Potato Salad
• Corn on the Cob
• French Fries
• Sweet Potato Fries
• Side Salad

Storage Instructions:

Store leftover BBQ Ranch Chicken Wraps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tortillas may become a little soggy over time, so it’s best to eat them as soon as possible. You can also store the chicken and sauce separately and assemble the wraps fresh when you’re ready to eat them.

Conclusion:

This BBQ Ranch Chicken Wrap isn’t just another lunch option; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The combination of smoky barbecue sauce, creamy ranch dressing, tender chicken, and crisp veggies creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. It’s quick, easy, and completely customizable, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights, picnics, or even a satisfying snack. Trust me, once you try it, this will become a staple in your recipe rotation.

But why is this wrap a must-try? It’s all about the balance. The sweetness of the BBQ sauce is perfectly offset by the tang of the ranch, while the chicken provides a hearty protein base. The crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes add freshness and crunch, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Want to take your BBQ Ranch Chicken Wrap to the next level? Here are a few ideas:

* Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ranch dressing or use a spicy BBQ sauce for an extra kick. A few slices of jalapeño would also do the trick!
* Go cheesy: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese over the chicken before wrapping it up. The melted cheese adds a creamy, gooey element that’s simply irresistible.
* Add some avocado: Sliced avocado adds a healthy dose of fats and a creamy texture that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
* Make it a salad: If you’re watching your carbs, skip the wrap and toss all the ingredients together in a bowl for a delicious and satisfying salad.
* Grill it: For a warm and toasty wrap, grill it for a few minutes on each side until the tortilla is golden brown and slightly crispy.
* Different protein: While chicken is the star here, feel free to substitute with pulled pork, shredded beef, or even grilled tofu for a vegetarian option.
* Experiment with veggies: Add other veggies like bell peppers, red onion, or corn for added flavor and nutrients.
* Make it ahead: Prepare the chicken and veggies ahead of time and store them separately. Assemble the wraps just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.

This recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it’s a starting point for your own culinary creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your perfect BBQ Ranch Chicken Wrap.

I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your family and friends. So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen and give it a try!

And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What were your favorite variations? Share your photos and comments below. Let’s create a community of BBQ Ranch Chicken Wrap enthusiasts! Happy cooking!