Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps Recipe
Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps combine tender, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and the savory flavor of ranch dressing, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. This easy-to-make wrap is a perfect quick dinner, lunch, or party snack that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of smoky bacon, creamy ranch, and flavorful chicken, all wrapped in a warm tortilla, makes for a satisfying and delicious meal.
This recipe is versatile, easy to customize, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a portable lunch. Let’s break down everything you need to know to create these mouthwatering wraps.
The Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap is an iconic combination of flavors, bringing together the smokiness of bacon, the creaminess of ranch dressing, and the hearty, comforting nature of chicken. These wraps are incredibly easy to prepare and are a great meal for busy days or casual get-togethers. Whether you’re preparing them for yourself or serving them to a group, these wraps will quickly become a family favorite.
Not only are these wraps flavorful, but they are also versatile. You can mix in vegetables, switch up the protein, or even adjust the seasoning to suit your tastes. They’re the perfect handheld meal—quick, portable, and filling.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore every element of this recipe—from the preparation of the chicken to assembling the wraps and offering suggestions on how to make it your own. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a dish that will impress guests, the Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap is the answer.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients and equipment, let’s move on to the detailed step-by-step instructions for making the Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps.
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken: Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Cook the chicken: Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown on the outside. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest for a few minutes.
- Slice the chicken: After the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips against the grain.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- Cook the bacon: In the same skillet (or a separate one if preferred), cook the bacon over medium heat. Fry the bacon until it’s crispy and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain the bacon: Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess fat. Once cooled slightly, chop the bacon into smaller pieces for easy wrapping.
Step 3: Prepare the Veggies
- Chop the veggies: While the chicken and bacon are cooking, dice the tomato and shred the lettuce. Set them aside for assembling the wraps.
Step 4: Assemble the Wraps
- Warm the tortillas: Warm the flour tortillas in the skillet for about 30 seconds per side, or microwave them for 20-30 seconds to make them more pliable.
- Layer the ingredients: On each tortilla, start by adding a handful of shredded lettuce. Next, layer on a few slices of the cooked chicken, followed by a sprinkle of bacon, diced tomato, and a generous spoonful of ranch dressing (or any alternative dressing you prefer). Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Wrap it up: Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll it up tightly, ensuring all ingredients are securely enclosed.
Step 5: Serve
- Cut and serve: Once all the wraps are assembled, slice them in half diagonally for easy eating. Serve immediately, or wrap them in foil for a portable meal.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some useful tips and tricks to ensure your Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps turn out perfect every time:
- Chicken Substitutes: If you prefer, you can substitute the chicken with grilled turkey, pulled pork, or even a vegetarian protein like tofu or tempeh.
- Crispy Bacon: For extra crispy bacon, bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of frying. This method ensures the bacon cooks evenly without splattering.
- Tortilla Alternatives: Try using whole wheat or spinach tortillas for a healthier twist. Gluten-free tortillas are also an option for those with dietary restrictions.
- Homemade Ranch Dressing: If you have the time, try making your own ranch dressing by combining mayonnaise, buttermilk, fresh herbs (such as dill, chives, and parsley), and garlic. Homemade ranch will take your wraps to the next level.
- Make Ahead: You can prep the chicken, bacon, and veggies ahead of time. Just store them in airtight containers in the fridge and assemble the wraps when ready to serve.
Customization Ideas
One of the best things about Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps is how easily they can be customized to fit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas for making the wraps uniquely yours:
- Add more vegetables: For added crunch and flavor, consider adding cucumber slices, bell peppers, or avocado.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add some jalapeño slices, hot sauce, or a drizzle of buffalo sauce to the wrap.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar is classic, you can also use mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Add a fried egg: For a richer, heartier wrap, top it with a fried egg for extra protein and creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Here are a few ideas for what to serve alongside your Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps:
- French fries or sweet potato fries: Crispy fries make a great side dish for these wraps, providing a satisfying crunch and extra indulgence.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw pairs beautifully with the richness of the wraps and adds a cool crunch.
- Side salad: A light side salad with a simple vinaigrette or ranch dressing will complement the flavors of the wraps and keep the meal balanced.
- Pickles: Serve with a side of tangy pickles for a refreshing contrast to the savory, creamy wraps.
Reheating:
- Reheat the wraps in the microwave or skillet. If you’re reheating a cold wrap, you might want to add a little more ranch dressing before serving to freshen it up.
Variations of the Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap
One of the best things about Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps is their adaptability. You can experiment with various ingredients and modifications to suit different dietary preferences or simply to switch up the flavor profile. Here are several variations you can try:
1. Spicy Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap
For those who like a bit of heat, you can easily spice up the wraps:
- Add jalapeños: Thinly slice fresh jalapeños and layer them into the wrap. Alternatively, pickled jalapeños add a tangy, spicy kick.
- Spicy ranch dressing: Mix regular ranch dressing with a few tablespoons of hot sauce, or try a spicy ranch dressing variant.
- Buffalo chicken: Coat the cooked chicken in buffalo sauce before adding it to the wrap. This will give it a zesty, spicy flavor while complementing the richness of the bacon.
2. Chicken Caesar Wrap
Switch the ranch dressing for a creamy Caesar dressing, and use romaine lettuce instead of other greens. You can also add some Parmesan cheese for an extra savory touch.
3. BBQ Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap
For a smoky, tangy flavor, swap the ranch dressing for BBQ sauce:
- BBQ chicken: Coat the chicken with BBQ sauce before cooking, or use pulled BBQ chicken for a more decadent wrap.
- Add a drizzle of additional BBQ sauce before wrapping it up to bring the smoky flavor to the forefront.
4. Veggie Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap
If you want a lighter option, try this variation by incorporating more vegetables:
- Add extra veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, red onions, or avocado for added flavor, crunch, and texture.
- You can replace the bacon with crispy chickpeas or roasted tofu for a vegetarian version that still provides texture and flavor.
5. Grilled Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap
For a slightly lighter version with a smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of pan-frying it. Grilled chicken imparts a different texture and flavor, and it can be seasoned with herbs like thyme or rosemary for an added punch.
6. Low-Carb/Gluten-Free Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap
For those following a low-carb or gluten-free diet:
- Low-carb tortillas: Use a low-carb wrap or lettuce wraps instead of traditional flour tortillas. Lettuce wraps provide a fresh, crisp alternative and are an excellent way to cut back on carbs.
- Keto-friendly: To make the wrap even more keto-friendly, swap out the cheddar cheese for a full-fat cheese like mozzarella and avoid any starchy additions like tomatoes.
Party-Size Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps
If you’re looking to serve a larger group or want to prep a few meals ahead of time, you can easily scale this recipe up for a crowd. Here’s how to make party-sized wraps:
1. Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap Platters
Instead of individual wraps, you can prepare these as larger, party-style wraps. Lay out large tortillas (such as 12-inch tortillas) and layer the chicken, bacon, lettuce, and other ingredients. Roll up the wraps tightly, slice them into bite-sized pinwheels, and serve them on a platter. This method is excellent for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings.
2. Make-Ahead Wraps
If you’re hosting a party or need to prep lunch for the week, make-ahead wraps are perfect:
- Prepare all the ingredients ahead of time (cook the chicken, bacon, and chop veggies), but leave the wrapping and dressing until just before serving. This helps the wrap stay fresh.
- Wrap each finished wrap in plastic wrap or foil, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, simply unwrap and enjoy!
3. Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap Casserole
For a baked variation, create a casserole version of the wraps:
- Lay the wrapped tortillas side by side in a baking dish. Top them with extra ranch dressing and shredded cheese, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- This dish provides all the flavors of the wrap but in a warm, cheesy, casserole-style dish, ideal for colder weather or comfort food cravings.
Pairing Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps with Drinks
While Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps are delicious on their own, pairing them with the right beverage can elevate your meal even further. Here are a few drink pairings that complement the wraps:
1. Soft Drinks
- Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade balances the rich flavors of the wraps, offering a refreshing contrast.
- Iced tea: A cool, unsweetened iced tea provides a light and hydrating pairing that doesn’t overpower the wraps.
- Soda: Classic sodas like cola or root beer work well with this hearty meal, giving you a sweet and fizzy contrast.
2. Non-Alcoholic Options
- Sparkling water: For those avoiding alcohol, sparkling water with a splash of lime provides a refreshing, fizzy accompaniment.
- Fruit-infused water: Water infused with cucumber, mint, or citrus adds an extra layer of refreshment without overpowering the flavor of the wraps.
Healthier Modifications for Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps
If you’re looking to make a healthier version of this recipe without compromising on flavor, consider these substitutions:
1. Healthier Chicken Options
- Grilled chicken breast: Grilled chicken provides less fat than pan-fried chicken and still offers great flavor. You can marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs for added flavor without extra calories.
- Lean turkey: Substitute chicken with lean turkey breast for a lighter version of the wrap.
2. Lighter Dressing
- Low-fat ranch dressing: Use low-fat or reduced-fat ranch dressing to reduce the calorie and fat content. Alternatively, you can make a healthier homemade ranch using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or mayonnaise.
- Greek yogurt ranch: Mix Greek yogurt with ranch seasoning for a creamy, protein-packed alternative to regular dressing.
3. More Veggies
- Extra vegetables: Add additional vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, and spinach to bulk up the wrap without adding many calories. These will also contribute fiber and nutrients, making your wrap more balanced.
- Avocado: Add slices of avocado for healthy fats. Avocado not only improves the texture of the wrap but also provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
4. Whole Wheat or Low-Carb Tortillas
- Whole wheat tortillas: Whole wheat tortillas contain more fiber and nutrients than standard flour tortillas. They also add a nutty flavor that complements the savory ingredients.
- Low-carb tortillas: If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, swap traditional flour tortillas for low-carb options to significantly cut down on carbohydrates.
Conclusion
Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps are an incredibly versatile, delicious, and easy-to-make dish that can be customized to suit a variety of tastes, dietary preferences, and occasions. Whether you’re enjoying them as a quick weekday lunch, serving them at a party, or making a healthier version, these wraps will surely satisfy your cravings.
With their rich, savory flavors from the chicken and bacon, the freshness of the vegetables, and the creamy ranch dressing, Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps are the perfect handheld meal. The options for customization are endless, from spicing them up with hot sauce to turning them into a baked casserole. By following the tips and ideas provided in this guide, you can create the ideal wrap for any situation.
Whether you’re making these wraps for yourself or for a group, you can be sure that this simple yet satisfying dish will always be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the process of creating your perfect Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps—and of course, enjoy the delicious results!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps are an incredibly versatile, delicious, and easy-to-make meal. The crispy bacon, tender chicken, and creamy ranch dressing wrapped in a soft tortilla make for a satisfying meal any time of day. The recipe is customizable, so you can add your favorite ingredients to make it your own. Whether you’re preparing these wraps for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, they are sure to impress.
By following the step-by-step instructions and utilizing the tips and tricks provided, you’ll create a wrap that’s flavorful, filling, and perfect for any occasion.
Enjoy your Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps—a meal that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps Recipe
Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps combine tender, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and the savory flavor of ranch dressing, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. This easy-to-make wrap is a perfect quick dinner, lunch, or party snack that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of smoky bacon, creamy ranch, and flavorful chicken, all wrapped in a warm tortilla, makes for a satisfying and delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 6 slices cooked bacon (crumbled)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (or homemade ranch dressing)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup lettuce (shredded)
- 1/2 cup tomato (diced)
- 4 large flour tortillas (or whole wheat for a healthier option)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking, optional)
- 1/4 cup green onions (chopped, optional)
Instructions
- Cook the bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan, drain on paper towels, and crumble.
- Prepare the chicken: While the bacon is cooking, warm the shredded or diced chicken in a separate pan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the wraps: Lay out the tortillas on a flat surface. In the center of each tortilla, layer the cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded lettuce, diced tomato, and green onions (if using). Drizzle with ranch dressing.
- Wrap the tortillas: Fold in the sides of each tortilla and then roll it up tightly from the bottom, securing the filling inside.
- Optional – Toast the wraps: Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with olive oil. Place the wraps seam side down in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. This step is optional but adds a nice crunch and extra flavor.
- Serve: Slice the wraps in half, serve immediately, and enjoy!
Notes
- Make-Ahead: You can cook the chicken and bacon ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to assemble, just warm the chicken and bacon slightly before wrapping them in the tortillas.
- Storage: Leftover wraps can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 day. If refrigerated, the wraps can be eaten cold or reheated in the microwave or oven. For a crispier wrap, reheat them in a skillet.
- Customization: The recipe is highly customizable. Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or grilled vegetables. You can also switch the ranch dressing for a spicier buffalo ranch or make your own healthier version using Greek yogurt.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh, and use plant-based bacon for added texture and flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb tortillas or lettuce leaves for a keto-friendly or low-carb alternative. This will cut down on the carbohydrates while still maintaining the flavor and filling nature of the wrap.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of chips, a light salad, or even fruit for a well-rounded meal.
- Dressing Tip: For a lighter option, use low-fat ranch dressing or Greek yogurt ranch. You can also adjust the amount of dressing based on your taste preference—some like more ranch for extra creaminess, while others prefer a lighter touch.