Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps

This hearty Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap has been my go-to lunch option for years when I need something quick yet satisfying. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing creates a flavor explosion that never disappoints, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla for the perfect portable meal.

I first created these wraps when I needed a quick solution for packing work lunches. Now they've become our family's most requested weekend lunch that everyone gathers around the table for, even my pickiest eater asks for seconds!

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken: The foundation of our wrap use rotisserie chicken for maximum convenience and flavor
• Mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base for our chicken salad use good quality for best results
• Ranch dressing: Provides that unmistakable herby tangy flavor homemade works beautifully but store bought is fine
• Celery: Adds essential crunch and freshness dice it small for best texture distribution
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the entire dish with color and flavor flat leaf Italian variety works best
• Thick cut bacon: The star component that makes these wraps irresistible cook until extra crispy
• Large flour tortillas: Must be large size to properly contain all the delicious filling
• Lettuce leaves: Creates a moisture barrier and adds freshness romaine or green leaf work well

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Chicken Salad:

Combine your chopped chicken, mayonnaise, ranch dressing, chopped celery, fresh parsley, salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Mix everything thoroughly until every piece of chicken is coated in the creamy dressing. This step builds the foundation of flavor, so take your time ensuring everything is well incorporated.

Prepare the Tortillas:

Lay a large flour tortilla flat on your work surface. Place two lettuce leaves in the center, slightly overlapping. This creates a barrier that prevents the tortilla from getting soggy and adds a nice textural crunch to each bite.

Add Fillings:

Spoon approximately one quarter of your chicken salad mixture onto the lettuce leaves, keeping it centered in a rectangular shape rather than spread out. This helps with proper rolling. Top with two strips of your crispy bacon, laying them parallel across the chicken salad.

Roll the Wrap:

Fold in both sides of the tortilla over the edges of the filling, then roll from the bottom up, keeping it tight as you go. The key is maintaining gentle pressure without tearing the tortilla. A properly rolled wrap stays together when cut.

Slice and Serve:

Using a sharp serrated knife, cut diagonally through the center of the wrap with a gentle sawing motion. This creates two equal halves with an attractive presentation that shows off all the layers inside. Repeat the process with remaining ingredients.

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My absolute favorite thing about these wraps is the textural contrast between the crispy bacon and the creamy chicken salad. Every time I make these for friends, I get asked for the recipe. There's something about the combination that just works perfectly together, and I find myself craving them regularly.

Storage Tips

These wraps maintain their freshness remarkably well when stored properly. Once prepared, wrap each half tightly in plastic wrap, making sure all edges are sealed. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I find they're actually best when made a few hours ahead, as this allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. However, note that these wraps do not freeze well due to the mayonnaise and lettuce content, which would become watery when thawed.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe offers wonderful flexibility based on what you have available. Instead of chicken, try using turkey, tuna, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. If you're watching calories, substitute Greek yogurt for part or all of the mayonnaise. Not a fan of ranch? Italian dressing works beautifully as an alternative. For a gluten free version, use large lettuce leaves as the wrap instead of tortillas, creating a refreshing lettuce wrap variation that's equally delicious.

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Serving Suggestions

These wraps shine as a standalone lunch, but pairing opportunities abound. Serve alongside a light soup like tomato bisque for a hearty lunch combination. A simple side salad with vinaigrette complements the creamy wrap perfectly. For an easy entertaining idea, cut the wraps into pinwheels and secure with toothpicks for an attractive appetizer platter. Always consider serving with extra ranch dressing on the side for dipping each delicious bite.

Common Recipe Questions

→ How long can I store these chicken bacon ranch wraps?

Wrapped and cut chicken bacon ranch wraps can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when properly covered in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container. They do not freeze well, so it's best to enjoy them fresh or within the recommended refrigeration timeframe.

→ What size tortillas should I use for these wraps?

Large flour tortillas are strongly recommended for these wraps. Medium-sized tortillas may lead to overstuffing, which can cause tearing. If you only have smaller tortillas available, consider reducing the amount of filling per wrap and making more wraps overall.

→ Can I add other ingredients to these wraps?

Absolutely! While the basic wrap is delicious on its own, you can customize it by adding shredded cheddar cheese, olives, or avocado. For an enhanced flavor experience, serve with additional ranch dressing on the side for dipping.

→ How do I get clean cuts when slicing the wraps?

For clean, presentable cuts, use a serrated knife to slice through the wraps. If a serrated knife isn't available, a very sharp chef's knife is the next best option. Make sure to cut with a gentle sawing motion rather than pressing down too firmly.

→ Is there a way to make these wraps healthier?

Yes! Consider using low-fat mayo and ranch dressing, whole wheat tortillas instead of white flour ones, and adding extra vegetables like diced tomatoes or shredded carrots. You could also use turkey bacon as a leaner alternative to regular bacon.

→ Can I prepare the chicken salad mixture ahead of time?

The chicken salad component can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This makes assembly even quicker when you're ready to serve. Just remember to assemble the final wraps shortly before eating for optimal freshness and to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy.