This healthy pesto chicken wrap is an easy, family-friendly recipe perfect for weeknight dinners. It features pesto-marinated grilled chicken, a creamy Caesar-style salad mix, ripe avocado and crisp tomatoes, all wrapped in a whole wheat tortilla. If you enjoy wraps, try other variations or use this as a base idea for your favorite fillings.
For more ideas, check my collection of healthy chicken wraps for simple lunch and meal-prep options.
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One of my favorite ways to prepare juicy chicken is to marinate it in pesto and grill it until golden. Pesto adds bright, savory flavor and the grilled chicken works well in many quick, healthy meals throughout the week.
WHY LOVE HEALTHY CHICKEN PESTO WRAP RECIPE
- Flavorful Combination: Pesto brings rich, herbaceous notes that complement the chicken perfectly.
- Balanced Meal: These wraps combine protein, vegetables and whole grains for a satisfying, balanced meal.
- Convenience: Wraps are easy to assemble and portable for lunches or on-the-go dinners.
- Customization: You can swap ingredients to match preferences or what you have on hand.
INGREDIENTS AND SUBSTITUTIONS NEEDED FOR PESTO CHICKEN WRAP
The ingredient list is straightforward and allows for a few shortcuts to save time. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breasts or tenderloins – Use lean chicken tenderloins or thinly sliced chicken breasts. Leftover cooked chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken also work great.
- Pesto sauce – A store-bought pesto saves time and works well. Homemade pesto is also delicious if you prefer.
- Spices – Simple seasonings such as paprika and black pepper are all you need to enhance the chicken.
- Whole wheat tortilla – Choose a whole wheat or low-carb wrap you like.
- Caesar salad mix – A pre-packaged Caesar mix is a quick shortcut; for this recipe use the lettuce, Parmesan and dressing.
- Tomato slices – Grape or cherry tomatoes add a touch of sweetness and freshness.
- Bacon slices – Optional, for extra savory flavor.
- Avocado – Sliced avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats.
HOW TO MAKE PESTO CHICKEN
Preheat a griddle or grill to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, combine the chicken tenderloins or sliced chicken breast with pesto and seasonings. Set aside to marinate while you prepare the salad mix.
In another bowl, toss shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, cooked bacon, Parmesan and Caesar dressing until well combined. Set aside.
Lightly spray the griddle or grill pan with a high smoke point oil (avocado oil works well). Grill the chicken strips 5–6 minutes per side, or until they release easily and are golden brown. Cook in batches if necessary, then set the cooked chicken on a plate to rest for a few minutes.
After resting, chop or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and lightly toast each tortilla for 1–2 minutes per side.
BUILDING EASY PESTO CHICKEN WRAPS
Place a warmed tortilla on a plate or cutting board. Layer the salad mixture evenly over the tortilla.
Top the salad with sliced avocado.
Add the shredded pesto chicken over the avocado, then fold or roll the tortilla tightly to enclose the filling.
Slice in half if desired and enjoy immediately.
WHAT TO SERVE WITH CHICKEN WRAPS
Here are some simple side ideas to pair with pesto chicken wraps:
- Mixed green salad: A fresh salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers and a light vinaigrette balances the wrap.
- Sweet potato fries: Baked sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness and a satisfying texture.
- Hummus and veggie platter: Fresh cut vegetables with hummus are a healthy, crunchy side.
- Mashed avocado or guacamole: An extra avocado dip pairs nicely with the pesto flavors.
- Light soup: A warm tomato-basil or roasted red pepper soup complements the meal on cooler days.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Try different vegetables, swap basil pesto for sun-dried tomato pesto, or add cheeses such as feta for a tangy twist.
Yes. Grilled shrimp, turkey, or tofu are all good substitutes that change the flavor profile while keeping the wrap satisfying.
Yes. Store components separately (chicken, salad mix and tortillas) and assemble just before eating to keep everything fresh.
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Healthy Pesto Chicken Wrap Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Griddle pan
- 1 Medium bowl
- 1 Small bowl
Ingredients
Pesto Chicken
- 1 pkg Chicken tenderloins
- 1/4 cup Pesto
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- 1/4 tsp Paprika
Pesto Wrap
- 1 Wrap
- 1/2 cup Lettuce (shredded)
- 1/4 cup Grape tomato (chopped)
- 1/2 Avocado (sliced)
- 3 slices Bacon
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp Caesar dressing
Instructions
- Preheat a griddle or grill to 375 degrees.
- In a bowl, combine the chicken with pesto and seasonings. Set aside to marinate.
- In another bowl, mix shredded lettuce, tomatoes, chopped bacon, Parmesan and Caesar dressing. Set aside.
- Spray the griddle with a high-heat oil and grill chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Let rest, then shred or chop.
- Lightly toast tortillas in a medium skillet for 1–2 minutes per side.
Building Pesto Chicken Wraps
- Place a warm tortilla on a flat surface.
- Layer the salad mixture over the tortilla.
- Add sliced avocado on top of the salad.
- Top with shredded chicken and wrap tightly.