Pin it My neighbor showed up one Saturday afternoon with a rotisserie chicken and a bag of romaine, insisting we make lunch together. She tossed everything into tortillas with a drizzle of Caesar dressing, and I was stunned at how something so simple tasted so complete. That afternoon turned into a weekly tradition, and now I grill my own chicken because the char makes all the difference. It's become my go-to when I want something filling but not heavy, something I can eat with one hand while reading or working in the garden.
I made these for a picnic once, wrapping each one in parchment paper and tying them with kitchen twine. My friends thought I'd ordered catering, but it was just chicken, lettuce, and a little care in the rolling. We sat on a blanket near the water, and I watched everyone devour theirs in minutes, reaching for seconds before I'd even finished mine. That's when I realized this recipe wasn't just easy, it was the kind of thing that made people feel taken care of.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These grill quickly and slice beautifully, and seasoning them simply lets the Caesar flavor shine without competition.
- Olive oil: A light coating keeps the chicken from sticking and helps the seasoning cling to every inch of the surface.
- Salt, black pepper, and garlic powder: This trio is all you need to bring out the chicken's natural flavor without overpowering the creamy dressing later.
- Romaine lettuce: The sturdy leaves hold up to the dressing and won't wilt immediately, giving you that crisp bite even an hour after assembling.
- Caesar dressing: Whether you make it from scratch or grab a bottle, this is the soul of the wrap, so choose one you'd happily eat with a spoon.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated melts slightly into the dressing and adds a salty, nutty depth that pre-shredded just can't match.
- Croutons: They add texture and a subtle garlic note that makes each bite feel layered and interesting.
- Flour tortillas: Soft, pliable, and large enough to hold everything without tearing when you roll them up tight.
Instructions
- Season and Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan until it's hot enough that a drop of water sizzles on contact. Brush each chicken breast with olive oil, then season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, pressing gently so the spices stick.
- Cook Until Juicy:
- Place the chicken on the grill and let it cook undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature hits 165 degrees and the juices run clear. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
- Toss the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine, Caesar dressing, parmesan, and croutons, tossing until every leaf is lightly coated. Don't overdress or the wrap will get soggy.
- Assemble the Wraps:
- Lay each tortilla flat and spoon a generous portion of the salad mixture down the center, leaving space on the sides. Top with sliced chicken, then fold in the sides and roll tightly from the bottom up.
- Slice and Serve:
- Cut each wrap in half on a diagonal for easier handling and a prettier presentation. Serve immediately while the croutons are still crunchy.
Pin it One evening I made these for dinner and ate mine standing at the counter, still warm from the grill. My daughter wandered in, took one look, and asked if she could have hers for breakfast the next day. I laughed, but she was serious, and honestly, cold Caesar chicken wraps are just as good the morning after. That's when I knew this recipe had earned a permanent spot in our rotation.
How to Store and Reheat
Wrap any leftovers tightly in foil or parchment and refrigerate for up to two days. The chicken stays tender, though the croutons will lose their crunch. If you're meal prepping, store the grilled chicken and salad components separately, then assemble wraps fresh each day. I've never tried reheating these because they're just as satisfying cold, but if you must, a quick toast in a dry skillet brings back some of the tortilla's softness without making it soggy.
Ways to Make It Your Own
I've added crispy bacon when I had some left over from breakfast, and the smokiness turned this into something almost indulgent. Cherry tomatoes bring a pop of sweetness that balances the salty parmesan, and grilled shrimp works beautifully if you're craving seafood. For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for marinated tofu or roasted chickpeas, and you'll still get plenty of protein and texture. Sometimes I use whole wheat tortillas when I want a nuttier flavor, and it pairs surprisingly well with the Caesar dressing.
Serving Suggestions
These wraps are filling enough to stand alone, but a handful of kettle chips or a simple side of fruit makes it feel like a real lunch spread. I've served them at casual gatherings where people can grab and go, and they always disappear fast. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon is the perfect drink pairing, light enough not to compete but refreshing enough to cleanse your palate between bites.
- Serve with sweet potato fries for a heartier meal.
- Pack them in parchment for picnics or lunchboxes.
- Pair with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
Pin it This wrap has become my answer to busy days when I still want something that feels like I tried. It's proof that a handful of good ingredients and a little attention can turn lunch into something worth sitting down for.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can grill the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, then slice and assemble wraps when ready to serve. This makes for quick meal prep.
- → What's the best way to prevent soggy wraps?
Assemble wraps just before serving. If making ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss the salad components minutes before wrapping. Pat the romaine dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- → Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves cooking time. Use about 2 cups of shredded chicken to replace the grilled chicken breasts.
- → What are good substitutions for Caesar dressing?
Ranch, Greek yogurt-based dressing, or a lemon-herb vinaigrette all complement this wrap well. For a lighter option, try a Caesar-style dressing made with Greek yogurt.
- → How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortillas and ensure your croutons and dressing are certified gluten-free. Most stores carry reliable gluten-free alternatives for both items.
- → Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?
Substitute the chicken with grilled tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas. For vegan, use dairy-free Caesar dressing and skip the parmesan, or use nutritional yeast as a substitute.