Save These avocado chicken salad wraps are my answer when I need something fresh and filling but do not want to turn on the stove for long. Creamy avocado, juicy chicken, and a rainbow of veggies all tuck into a soft wrap with a punchy dressing. They come together so quickly and are just as good eaten at home or packed up for a lunch on the go.
Every time I roll these up my family gets excited They love the creamy and crunchy combo I first made these when I wanted something equally hearty and refreshing after a summer swim and now I rotate them year round
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: tender and high in protein I like to use leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken for best flavor and texture
- Ripe avocado: brings creaminess and heart healthy fats Choose avocados that just yield to gentle pressure but are not squishy
- Celery: for crunch and freshness Look for firm and pale green stalks without brown spots
- Red bell pepper: for vibrant color and a touch of sweetness Pick ones with glossy skin and firm flesh
- Red onion: adds bite and color Use half for milder onion flavor or soak chopped onion in water to mellow sharpness
- Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt: for the dressing Try plain whole milk Greek yogurt if you want it lighter
- Fresh lime juice: gives zip and brightness Use fresh limes for best result and roll them on the counter to get the most juice
- Dijon mustard: adds subtle tang and depth Go for a smooth Dijon
- Garlic powder: for gentle savoriness Buy from a reputable spice company for strong flavor
- Salt and black pepper: brings balance Use kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper for the best finish
- Flour tortillas or gluten free wraps: hold it all together Choose large wraps that are soft and pliable so they roll easily
- Baby spinach or mixed greens: offer freshness and extra nutrition Reach for deep green leaves free from wilting
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken and Veggies:
- Dice or shred cooked chicken breast into bite sized pieces Arrange in a large mixing bowl Dice the avocado just before mixing to prevent browning Finely chop the celery red bell pepper and red onion Add all to the bowl making sure everything is roughly the same size for even bites
- Make the Dressing:
- In a separate small bowl whisk together mayonnaise or Greek yogurt lime juice Dijon mustard garlic powder salt and pepper until very smooth Taste and adjust seasoning if you like more tang or salt
- Combine the Salad:
- Pour the creamy dressing over the chicken and veggies Use a spatula to gently fold everything together so all the ingredients are coated with the dressing Try not to mash the avocado too much for best texture
- Assemble the Wraps:
- Lay the tortillas or gluten free wraps flat on a clean surface Place a handful of baby spinach or mixed salad greens in the middle of each wrap
- Fill and Roll:
- Spoon the chicken avocado salad mixture evenly over the greens in each wrap Spread it out slightly but leave room around the edges so you can roll without spillage
- Roll the Wraps:
- Fold in the sides first then roll up tightly from the bottom keeping the filling snugly inside Slice each wrap in half for easy handling
- Serve or Store:
- Serve right away while the wraps are freshest or wrap tightly in parchment or wax paper to take with you
Save Red onion is my favorite in this because it adds a pop of color and a sharp bite The first time my husband tasted these he raved about how fresh and satisfying they felt even though we had eaten them straight from the fridge before a family picnic
Storage Tips
These wraps taste best fresh but you can make the salad filling up to one day in advance Store the filling separately from the wraps and greens so nothing gets soggy Wrap tightly in plastic or an airtight container Avocado can brown over time but a squeeze of extra lime helps keep it green
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have chicken try canned tuna chopped turkey or even chickpeas for a plant based twist Swapping out red bell pepper for cucumber or carrots works too Lettuce leaves can replace wraps if you are going totally gluten free
Serving Suggestions
Pair these wraps with a simple side of fruit or kettle chips for a balanced plate A handful of pickled onions or sliced jalapeños on top add punch When serving at parties I slice wraps into smaller pinwheels for easy grabbing
Cultural and Historical Context
Chicken salad has long roots in American lunch and deli culture Avocado puts a California inspired spin on a classic and keeps the wraps fresh Avocado chicken salad wraps remind me of modern office potlucks where everyone brings a dish that can survive travel and time on the table
Seasonal Adaptations
Use grilled corn or thinly sliced radishes in summer for more crunch Try apple or dried cranberries in the fall for sweetness and tartness Sprinkle sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nutty bite any time of year
Helpful Notes
Do not overmix once you add the dressing to prevent the avocado from turning to mush Warm tortillas briefly before filling for easier rolling and less cracking If packing for lunch keep the wrap chilled and eat within a few hours for best taste
Success Stories
A week after making these for my family a friend texted saying she tweaked them with extra jalapeño and now they are her teenage sons favorite wrap recipe ever I have also brought these to potlucks and never had leftovers Even my pickiest eater came back for seconds and thirds so now I double the batch
Freezer Meal Conversion
For the best quality I do not recommend freezing these wraps as avocado and fresh veggies do not thaw well Chicken salad filling on its own can be made with just chicken and dressing and stored in the freezer simply add veggies and avocado after thawing for fresh taste
Save These wraps are perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying snack They are incredibly versatile making them a go-to for busy days and special occasions alike
Recipe FAQ
- → How can I make these wraps gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular tortillas with certified gluten-free wraps to keep the meal gluten-free.
- → Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, Greek yogurt is an excellent lighter alternative to mayonnaise, adding creaminess with less fat.
- → What chicken works best for this dish?
Cooked, diced, or shredded chicken breast—either poached, roasted, or grilled—adds great flavor and texture.
- → How can I add extra flavor?
Mix in chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness and added aroma.
- → Can these wraps be made ahead?
Yes, prepare the filling ahead and assemble the wraps right before serving to keep them fresh and crisp.
- → Is this dish high in protein?
Absolutely. Each wrap contains a hearty amount of protein thanks to the generous chicken filling.