Southwest Cream Cheese Wraps

This hearty Southwest Cream Cheese Chicken Wrap has become my go-to meal for busy weeknights when I need something satisfying that the whole family will enjoy. The creamy, spiced filling wrapped in a warm tortilla delivers bold flavors in every bite while being incredibly versatile for any mealtime.

I first created these wraps when trying to use up leftover rotisserie chicken and they were such a hit that they quickly became part of our regular rotation. My husband now requests them for his work lunches at least once a week because they hold up so well and taste just as good cold as they do warm.

Ingredients

• Cooked shredded chicken: Brings protein and substance to these wraps and makes them filling enough for a main meal
• Cream cheese: Creates the creamy base that holds everything together while adding richness and tanginess
• Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: Melts beautifully and adds that irresistible cheesy pull when you bite in
• Black beans: Provide plant-based protein and a hearty texture that complements the chicken
• Corn kernels: Add pops of sweetness and bright color to contrast with the savory elements
• Red bell pepper: Introduces fresh crunch and vibrant color; look for ones that feel firm and heavy for their size
• Green onions: Deliver a mild onion flavor without overpowering the other ingredients; choose ones with bright green tops
• Taco seasoning: Infuses the entire filling with Southwestern flavors in one easy step
• Salt and black pepper: Enhance all the other flavors; use freshly ground pepper for best results
• Large flour tortillas: Serve as the perfect wrapper; look for the burrito size for easiest rolling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cream Cheese Mixture:

Combine softened cream cheese with shredded cheese, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for about 30 minutes beforehand for easy mixing. Use a sturdy spatula to work the ingredients together until completely smooth with no cream cheese lumps remaining. This forms the creamy base that will bind all other ingredients.

Add the Filling Ingredients:

Fold in your shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, and chopped green onions. Use gentle folding motions to ensure everything gets evenly coated with the cream cheese mixture without mashing the beans or corn. The filling should be thick but spreadable with distinct textures from each ingredient visible throughout.

Assemble the Wraps:

Lay out your flour tortillas on a clean work surface. Scoop approximately half cup of filling onto each tortilla, placing it slightly below center. Spread the filling into a horizontal line, leaving about an inch border around the edges. This placement allows for easier rolling and helps prevent filling from escaping.

Roll Technique:

Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up and over the filling, then fold in both sides. Continue rolling upward until the wrap is completely sealed. Place seam side down to help it stay closed. For extra security, you can lightly dampen the final edge with water before completing the roll.

Cooking Options:

For grilling, heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place wraps seam side down and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown with visible grill marks. For baking, arrange wraps on a baking sheet seam side down and bake at 375°F for exactly 10 to 12 minutes until the tortilla becomes lightly crisp and the filling is heated through.

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The cream cheese is truly the secret star of this recipe. I discovered its transformative power accidentally when I ran out of sour cream one day. The richness it adds completely elevates these wraps beyond basic chicken burritos. My daughter, who normally picks apart everything I make, actually ate a whole wrap without complaint, which in our house counts as a five-star review.

Make Ahead Tips

These wraps are ideal candidates for meal preparation. You can make the filling up to three days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply warm the filling slightly in the microwave to make it more spreadable before assembling your wraps. Alternatively, assemble the entire wraps and wrap each individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

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Storage and Reheating

Store assembled wraps in the refrigerator for up to three days, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For longer storage, freeze the wraps individually by wrapping them first in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to two months. To reheat from refrigerated, unwrap and place in a skillet over medium heat for about 3 minutes per side until heated through and crispy. For frozen wraps, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes until heated through.

Customization Ideas

These wraps welcome endless variations based on your preferences and what you have on hand. For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and double the beans or add crumbled tofu. Spice lovers can add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the filling. Try swapping the cheddar for pepper jack cheese for an extra kick, or use a combination of cheeses for more complex flavor. For a breakfast twist, add scrambled eggs to the filling and serve with salsa. You can also make mini versions using small tortillas for perfect party appetizers.

Serving Suggestions

These Southwest wraps pair beautifully with a variety of sides to complete your meal. Serve with a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette for a fresh contrast to the rich filling. A side of tortilla chips with fresh salsa or guacamole enhances the Southwestern theme. For a heartier meal, offer Spanish rice or cilantro lime rice alongside. When serving for gatherings, cut each wrap into pinwheels secured with toothpicks and arrange on a platter with dipping sauces for an impressive presentation that always disappears quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these wraps ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the wraps up to 3 days in advance and store them in the fridge. Alternatively, freeze them for up to 2 months for longer storage.

→ What are the best ways to serve these wraps?

These wraps are versatile and can be served warm or cold. Grill or bake them for added crispiness, or enjoy them as-is for a quick meal.

→ What protein alternatives can I use?

You can substitute the chicken with ground beef, turkey, or tofu to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

→ Can I make these wraps spicy?

Absolutely! You can add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy taco seasoning to enhance the heat level of the filling.

→ What side dishes pair well with these wraps?

Serve these wraps with a side of salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

→ How do I reheat these wraps?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, on a skillet until crispy, or in the microwave in 30-second bursts.

→ Can I make this recipe low-carb?

Yes, you can use lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas instead of traditional flour tortillas for a low-carb alternative.