Tired of soggy, uninspiring lunches that leave you reaching for snacks an hour later? I’ve been there too! As the heart behind FoodyDish, I discovered that the perfect midday meal needs to be quick, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. These Grilled Pesto Chicken Wraps transformed my lunch routine juicy, herb-infused chicken with vibrant pesto all wrapped up in portable perfection.
When I first created these Grilled Pesto Chicken Wraps in my home kitchen, they quickly became my go-to solution for busy workdays. The tender chicken pairs beautifully with the aromatic basil pesto, creating a symphony of flavors that feels indulgent yet comes together in minutes.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through my foolproof method for perfectly grilled chicken, share my secret pesto tricks, and show you how to assemble wraps that won’t fall apart mid-bite. You’ll discover ingredient substitutions, meal prep strategies, and creative variations to keep this recipe exciting week after week.
Why These Grilled Pesto Chicken Wraps Work
- Protein-packed yet light enough for an energizing lunch without the afternoon slump
- Ready in under 20 minutes from start to finish perfect for busy weekdays
- Portable and mess-free design makes them ideal for work, picnics, or on-the-go meals
- Balanced nutrition with lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables
- Customizable base recipe that works with whatever ingredients you have on hand
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Grilled Pesto Chicken Wraps
Best Chicken Options for Wraps
For the juiciest, most flavorful Grilled Pesto Chicken Wraps, chicken breasts are my top choice. Their lean profile absorbs marinade beautifully while cooking quickly on the grill. Look for breasts that are uniform in thickness or plan to pound them evenly for consistent cooking.
If you prefer darker meat, boneless, skinless chicken thighs make an excellent alternative with more natural moisture and flavor just allow an extra minute or two on the grill.
Wrap Selection Tips
The foundation of great Grilled Pesto Chicken Wraps starts with the right wrap. I recommend:
- Large flour tortillas (10-12 inches) for their pliability and strength
- Whole wheat wraps for added fiber and nutty flavor
- Spinach tortillas for a pop of color and subtle vegetable flavor
- Gluten-free wraps made from cassava or almond flour if you’re avoiding gluten
Fresh vs. Store-Bought Pesto
While homemade pesto delivers unparalleled freshness, quality store-bought varieties work beautifully in these Grilled Pesto Chicken Wraps when you’re short on time. Look for refrigerated options with minimal preservatives and vibrant green color.
Ingredients & Prep for Grilled Pesto Chicken Wraps
Chicken Prep Essentials
For perfectly tender, flavorful chicken in your wraps:
- Pound chicken breasts to even 1/2-inch thickness for quick, uniform cooking
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure proper browning
- Allow chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor)
Pesto Marinade
- 1/4 cup prepared pesto
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Additional Wrap Components
- 4 large tortillas or wraps of choice
- 1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Additional pesto for spreading (2-3 tablespoons)
Step-by-Step Grilled Pesto Chicken Wrap Instructions
Pre-Cooking Chicken Prep for Wraps
- In a bowl, combine pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper
- Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them
- Turn to coat evenly and let sit for at least 15 minutes (or refrigerate for up to 4 hours)
- Remove chicken from refrigerator 15 minutes before cooking if chilled
Grilling the Perfect Chicken for Wraps
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F)
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off
- Place chicken on oiled grates and grill 4-5 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F
- Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips against the grain
Wrap Assembly Method for Pesto Chicken
- Warm tortillas for 10-15 seconds in microwave or on a dry skillet to increase flexibility
- Spread 1-2 teaspoons of additional pesto in the center of each wrap
- Layer spinach or mixed greens, sliced grilled chicken, tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese
- Fold in sides of the wrap, then roll from bottom up, tucking in fillings as you go
- For a sealed wrap, return briefly to dry skillet seam-side down
Serving Your Pesto Chicken Wraps
For the best texture and flavor, serve immediately or within 2 hours. If packing for later, wrap tightly in parchment paper, then foil to maintain freshness and structure.
Love fresh recipe inspiration? Check out more quick lunch ideas on my Pinterest page for weekly meal prep inspiration!
Pro Tips for Perfect Grilled Pesto Chicken Wraps
Avoiding Dry Chicken in Wraps
- Use an instant-read thermometer to prevent overcooking remove chicken at exactly 165°F
- Allow chicken to rest fully before slicing to redistribute juices
- If meal-prepping, store chicken separately and assemble wraps just before eating
- Add a thin spread of Greek yogurt beneath the pesto for extra moisture
Wrap Rolling Techniques
- Don’t overfill leaving 1-2 inches empty at the top of your wrap ensures proper closure
- Warming tortillas makes them more pliable and less likely to tear
- Roll tightly and evenly for structural integrity
- Secure with parchment paper and a toothpick for on-the-go lunches
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare all components separately and store refrigerated up to 3 days
- Assemble wraps the morning of or just before eating
- For meal prep, store sliced chicken in its own juices to maintain moisture
Flavor Variations for Grilled Pesto Chicken Wraps
Mediterranean Twist
Transform your wraps with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and cucumber for a Greek-inspired lunch.
Southwest Spin
Add black beans, corn, avocado, and swap the pesto for a cilantro-lime dressing.
Italian-American Fusion
Include roasted red peppers, fresh mozzarella, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a caprese-inspired wrap.
Nutritional Adaptations
| Dietary Need | Adaptation |
|---|---|
| Dairy-Free | Replace feta with avocado; use dairy-free pesto |
| Gluten-Free | Use certified gluten-free wraps or large lettuce leaves |
| Lower Carb | Serve as a salad or use low-carb tortillas |
| Higher Protein | Add a slice of provolone cheese or 1/4 cup white beans |
Serving Suggestions for Grilled Pesto Chicken Wraps
- Pair with a light soup like tomato basil for a complete meal
- Serve alongside a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette
- Include a handful of sweet potato chips for a satisfying crunch
- For casual entertaining, cut wraps into pinwheels and arrange on a platter with extra pesto for dipping
FAQs About Grilled Pesto Chicken Wraps
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of grilling my own?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time and works beautifully. Just warm the chicken slightly and toss with a tablespoon of pesto before assembling your wraps.
How can I pack these for lunch without them getting soggy?
The key is layering—place greens first (after the pesto spread), then meat, then veggies. This creates a moisture barrier. Additionally, pack juicier ingredients like tomatoes separately if possible.
Can I freeze these wraps for later?
While the assembled wraps don’t freeze well, you can freeze the grilled pesto chicken in portions. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and assemble fresh wraps when needed.
What’s the best way to warm up leftover wraps?
For the best texture, warm them in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for 1-2 minutes per side. Microwaving works in a pinch but may result in a softer texture.
Conclusion
These Grilled Pesto Chicken Wraps have revolutionized my lunch routine, proving that midday meals can be both exciting and effortless. The combination of tender grilled chicken, vibrant pesto, and fresh vegetables creates a portable feast that keeps me energized throughout the afternoon.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility you can adapt it to whatever ingredients you have on hand while maintaining that perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables. It’s become a favorite with my family and friends who now request these wraps for picnics and casual gatherings.
I encourage you to make these Grilled Pesto Chicken Wraps your own! Experiment with different greens, cheeses, or even the type of pesto you use. Tag @foodydish in your creations I’d love to see how you’ve customized this recipe to suit your taste buds.
Happy wrapping!
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Grilled Pesto Chicken Wraps: Quick Lunch Magic Revealed!
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 wraps 1x
Description
Fresh and flavorful grilled pesto chicken wraps made with juicy marinated chicken, vibrant basil pesto, crisp vegetables, and warm tortillas perfect for a quick lunch or easy dinner.
Ingredients
1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup basil pesto
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
4 large flour tortillas or wraps
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup shredded romaine or mixed greens
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Pound chicken breasts to even thickness if needed.
3. In a bowl, toss chicken with pesto, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through and nicely charred.
5. Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
6. Slice chicken into strips.
7. Warm tortillas briefly on the grill or skillet.
8. Assemble wraps by layering greens, grilled chicken, tomatoes, onion, and cheese.
9. Drizzle with extra pesto if desired.
10. Roll tightly, slice in half, and serve.
Notes
Use whole wheat or spinach wraps for extra nutrition.
Add avocado slices or roasted red peppers for more flavor.
Wraps are best enjoyed fresh but can be prepped ahead for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wrap
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 760mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: grilled chicken wraps, pesto chicken wrap, easy chicken wraps, healthy wraps