Smoked Gouda & Garlic Chicken Wrap Recipe

Savory Smoked Gouda & Garlic Chicken Wrap Recipe for Lunch Joy

Craving a mouthwatering smoked gouda & garlic chicken wrap that promises pure deliciousness?

Cheese lovers rejoice with this simple yet spectacular combination of smoky flavors and tender chicken.

Creamy gouda melts perfectly around succulent grilled chicken pieces, creating a symphony of taste in every bite.

Fragrant garlic adds an unexpected punch that makes this wrap truly memorable.

Crisp ingredients provide wonderful texture contrasts against the smooth, rich cheese.

Quick to assemble and guaranteed to satisfy serious hunger pangs, this wrap becomes an instant favorite.

Your taste buds will dance with excitement over this incredible culinary creation.

Smoked Gouda & Garlic Chicken Wrap That Packs Flavor

  • Savor Bold Flavors: Packed with smoky smoked gouda, zesty garlic, and perfectly seasoned chicken, this wrap delivers an explosion of mouthwatering taste sensations.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like adding different cheeses, vegetables, or sauces to match personal preferences and make the recipe uniquely yours.
  • Quick Cooking Adventure: Prepare the entire dish in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous meal cravings.
  • Versatile Meal Option: Great for lunch, dinner, picnics, or casual gatherings, this wrap transitions smoothly between different dining scenarios and satisfies varied hunger levels.

Ingredients to Make Smoked Gouda and Garlic Chicken Wrap

For the Proteins:
  • Chicken Breasts: Lean and tender meat that serves as the main protein in this flavorful wrap.
For the Cheese and Dairy:
  • Smoked Gouda Cheese: Rich and smoky cheese that adds a creamy, melty texture to the wrap.
  • Ranch Dressing or Garlic Sauce: Provides a tangy and creamy base that enhances the overall flavor profile.
For the Seasonings and Herbs:
  • Olive Oil: Helps to coat the chicken and provide a smooth, rich base for the marinade.
  • Minced Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic flavor to the chicken.
  • Smoked Paprika: Contributes a deep, smoky flavor and vibrant color to the chicken.
  • Cumin: Brings a warm, earthy spice to the chicken marinade.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.
For the Wrap Components:
  • Tortillas: Soft, flexible bread that serves as the wrap's outer shell.
  • Fresh Spinach Leaves: Optional green vegetable that adds a fresh, crisp texture.
  • Red Onion Slices: Optional ingredient that provides a sharp, tangy crunch.
For the Optional Finishing Touch:
  • Butter: Used to create a crispy, golden-brown exterior when grilling the wrap.

How to Assemble the Chicken Wrap

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Mix up a flavor-packed marinade with these ingredients:
  • Olive oil
  • Minced garlic
  • Smoked paprika
  • Cumin
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Massage the marinade all over the chicken breasts and let them soak up the goodness for 15-20 minutes. If you’ve got extra time, let it sit for up to an hour for maximum flavor.

Fire up a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it into thin, juicy strips against the grain.

Step 2: Create the Wrap Base

Spread out your tortillas on a clean workspace. Drizzle a creamy ranch dressing or zesty garlic sauce right in the center of each tortilla.

Layer on the mouthwatering ingredients:
  • Smoked gouda cheese
  • Fresh spinach leaves
  • Thinly sliced red onions

Pile the sliced chicken on top of these delicious ingredients.

Step 3: Grill and Crisp

Carefully roll each tortilla into a tight, compact wrap.

Heat up a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. For an extra crispy exterior, brush the outside of the wraps with a light layer of butter.

Place the wraps seam-side down and grill for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown and the cheese melts into gooey perfection.

Tips to Balance Flavors and Texture

  • Marinate chicken longer than 20 minutes to allow spices to deeply penetrate the meat, creating more intense and robust taste profiles.
  • Use room temperature smoked gouda for even melting and ensure the cheese gets gooey and stretchy inside the wrap.
  • Cut chicken against the grain to create tender, easy-to-bite pieces that enhance the overall eating experience.
  • Lightly butter wrap's exterior before grilling to achieve a golden, crunchy texture that adds delightful textural contrast.
  • Layer ingredients evenly to guarantee each bite contains a harmonious blend of chicken, cheese, and vegetables.

Variations to Customize Your Wrap

  • Mediterranean Fusion Wrap: Replace smoked gouda with crumbled feta cheese, add chopped kalamata olives, and swap ranch dressing for tzatziki sauce.
  • Spicy Southwest Chicken Wrap: Incorporate pepper jack cheese, add roasted corn, black beans, and chipotle mayo for a zesty kick.
  • Herb Garden Chicken Wrap: Use soft goat cheese, mix fresh herbs like basil and thyme into the chicken marinade, and drizzle with herb-infused olive oil.
  • Green Protein Power Wrap: Include avocado slices, swap spinach for kale, add quinoa for extra protein, and use green goddess dressing.

Pairings to Serve Alongside the Wrap

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Enjoy a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that cuts through the rich, smoky gouda and complements the garlic-spiced chicken.
  • Serve with Zesty Salad Side: Create a fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the wrap's creamy and savory flavors, adding a bright, tangy contrast.
  • Match with Craft Beer Companion: Select a light wheat beer or blonde ale that enhances the smoked cheese and helps cleanse the palate between bites.
  • Add Cool Cucumber Tzatziki: Prepare a quick cucumber yogurt dip with fresh dill and garlic to provide a cooling, refreshing element that pairs perfectly with the warm, spiced wrap.

How to Store Chicken Wraps Fresh

Store wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. Keep in the coldest part of the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bag. Can be frozen for up to 1 month. Label with date for easy tracking.

Place wrap on microwave-safe plate. Heat for 30-45 seconds, turning halfway through. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure food safety.

Unwrap and warm in lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side. This method helps restore crispy exterior and prevents soggy texture.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of cheese instead of smoked gouda?

Yes, you can substitute with other melty cheeses like provolone, swiss, or mild cheddar. Just ensure it melts well and complements the chicken’s smoky flavor.

  • Is this recipe spicy?

Not inherently. The spice level comes from the smoked paprika and cumin, which add warmth and depth without significant heat. If you want more kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne.

  • How long should I marinate the chicken?

Aim for at least 15-20 minutes to let the seasonings penetrate the meat. If you have extra time, marinating up to an hour will enhance the flavor even more.

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Smoked Gouda & Garlic Chicken Wrap Recipe

Smoked Gouda & Garlic Chicken Wrap Recipe


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4.9 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Savor Mediterranean-inspired Smoked Gouda & Garlic Chicken Wrap’s rich flavors dancing between warm tortilla layers. Creamy cheese, tender chicken, and zesty garlic create a perfect handheld meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Cheese and Sauce:

  • 1 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup creamy ranch dressing or garlic sauce

Wrap Components:

  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Create a zesty marinade by whisking olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper in a small mixing bowl.
  2. Thoroughly coat chicken breasts with the aromatic seasoning blend, allowing flavors to penetrate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature.
  3. Preheat grill pan or skillet to medium-high heat (around 375°F), ensuring surface is hot before cooking.
  4. Sear chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F and exterior develops a golden-brown crust.
  5. Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 3-4 minutes to retain moisture, then slice thinly against the grain.
  6. Lay tortillas flat on a clean work surface and spread a thin layer of creamy ranch or garlic sauce in the center.
  7. Strategically layer sliced smoked gouda cheese, fresh spinach leaves, and thinly sliced red onions across the tortilla.
  8. Arrange sliced chicken atop the cheese and vegetable layers, ensuring even distribution.
  9. Tightly roll each tortilla into a compact wrap, tucking in sides to prevent filling from falling out.
  10. Lightly butter exterior of wraps for enhanced crispiness and golden color.
  11. Grill wrapped tortillas in a preheated pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side until cheese melts and exterior turns crisp and golden brown.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken longer for deeper flavor infusion, using citrus juices like lemon or lime to tenderize the meat.
  • Choose whole wheat or low-carb tortillas for healthier alternative options that fit different dietary needs.
  • Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to add unexpected brightness and complexity to the wrap’s overall taste profile.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches safe internal temperature of 165°F without overcooking, maintaining juicy texture.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 34 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Nate Harper

Nate Harper

Founder & Recipe Curator

Expertise

Single-Recipe Development, Farm-to-Table Cooking, Seasonal Menu Planning, Culinary Storytelling, Home Kitchen Innovation

Education

Cascade Culinary Institute – Central Oregon Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Focus: Farm-to-table cuisine, sustainable cooking practices, and seasonal recipe creation.

Nate studied under experienced chefs who emphasized local sourcing, minimal waste, and building recipes from fresh, simple ingredients.


Nate Harper is the founder and creative force behind Make, Take, Bake. Raised in the wild beauty of Oregon’s high desert, Nate grew up surrounded by family gardens, farmers’ markets, and home kitchens that celebrated the seasons.
His early love for simple, honest food evolved into a professional passion when he attended Cascade Culinary Institute, where he sharpened his skills in creating recipes that are sustainable, satisfying, and made for everyday life.
Nate’s goal is to make cooking feel accessible, free of fuss, and full of flavor. He believes a single, thoughtfully built dish can stand alone, and sometimes even steal the show.

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