Caesar Chicken Salad Wrap

My coworker used to bring these wraps to our team lunches, and I'd watch her assemble them at the break room table with quiet envy. One day she scribbled the method on a sticky note, and I've been making them ever since. The smell of garlic and char from the grill pan always reminds me of those shared meals. It's proof that the best recipes don't need a formal handoff, just a generous friend and a scrap of paper.

I made these for a picnic once, wrapping each one in parchment and tying them with kitchen twine like little gifts. My sister opened hers on a blanket under an oak tree and declared it better than any sandwich she'd packed all summer. We sat there in the dappled shade, crouton crumbs on our laps, and I realized how much a simple wrap can elevate an ordinary afternoon.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These grill fast and slice cleanly when you let them rest, which keeps the juices from running all over your cutting board.
• Olive oil: Just enough to coat the chicken so it doesn't stick to the grill and develops those beautiful char lines.
• Salt, black pepper, garlic powder: A simple trio that seasons without overwhelming the creamy dressing you'll add later.
• Romaine lettuce: The sturdy leaves hold up to dressing and don't wilt immediately, which matters when you're packing these for later.
• Caesar dressing: Store-bought works in a pinch, but homemade with anchovies and lemon makes people ask for seconds.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated melts slightly into the warm chicken and adds that nutty, salty punch Caesar salads are known for.
• Croutons: They bring crunch and a hint of toasted bread flavor that balances the creamy dressing.
• Flour tortillas: Large ten-inch rounds are key so you have enough surface to fold and roll without tearing.

Instructions

Season and grill the chicken:

Preheat your grill or grill pan until it's properly hot, then brush the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle on the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Grill each side for five to seven minutes, listening for that satisfying sizzle, and pull it off when the juices run clear.

Rest and slice:

Let the chicken sit on a plate for five minutes so the juices redistribute instead of pooling on your board. Slice it thinly against the grain for tender bites that nestle perfectly into the wrap.

Toss the salad:

In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine, Caesar dressing, parmesan, and croutons, tossing until every leaf is lightly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, though the dressing usually carries enough salt.

Assemble the wraps:

Lay out your tortillas and divide the dressed salad evenly among them, mounding it in the center. Top each pile with sliced chicken and a crack of fresh black pepper.

Roll and serve:

Fold in the left and right sides of each tortilla, then roll from the bottom up, tucking as you go to keep everything snug. Slice in half on the diagonal if you want that deli-style presentation, then serve right away.

Save

One evening I doubled the recipe for a potluck and watched a quiet neighbor take three wraps home in foil. The next week she asked for the sticky note version, and I realized this recipe had started traveling again, one scribbled note at a time, just like it came to me.

Making It Your Own

I've swapped in grilled shrimp when I find them on sale, and the briny sweetness pairs beautifully with the anchovy notes in a good Caesar dressing. Crispy bacon bits add a smoky crunch that makes the wraps feel indulgent, and halved cherry tomatoes bring a pop of acidity that cuts through the richness. If you're feeding someone who avoids gluten, use gluten-free tortillas and skip the croutons or swap in roasted chickpeas for crunch.

Storing and Packing

If you're making these for lunch the next day, keep the components separate in the fridge and assemble them in the morning so the tortilla doesn't get soggy. I like to wrap the finished rolls in parchment and secure them with a rubber band, which keeps everything tight and makes them easy to unwrap on the go. They'll hold for about four hours at room temperature, but after that the lettuce starts to weep and the wrap loses its structure.

Pairing and Serving

These wraps shine alongside a handful of kettle chips or a simple fruit salad, nothing too heavy since the wrap itself is satisfying. I've served them with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc at casual dinners, and the acidity of the wine mirrors the lemon in the dressing. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon and a sprig of mint feels just as refreshing.

• Serve with a side of pickles or olives for a briny contrast.
• Pack extra dressing in a small container if anyone likes their wraps extra saucy.
• Slice wraps into pinwheels for a party platter that looks more impressive than the effort required.

Save

These wraps have become my answer to the question of what to make when time is short but you still want something that feels like a real meal. I hope they find a place in your rotation, maybe even on a sticky note passed to someone you care about.

Recipe FAQs

→ How should I grill the chicken breasts evenly?

Pound chicken breasts to uniform thickness before grilling to ensure even cooking. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side over medium-high heat. Use a meat thermometer to confirm internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

→ Can I prepare the Caesar salad mixture ahead of time?

Prepare ingredients separately and assemble just before serving. Toss lettuce with dressing right before wrapping to prevent sogginess. Store grilled chicken, chopped lettuce, and dressing in separate containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ What are good substitutions for the protein?

Grilled shrimp, baked tofu, or crispy bacon work wonderfully as alternatives. For shrimp, grill for 2-3 minutes per side. Baked tofu should be pressed and pan-fried until golden. Adjust cooking times based on your chosen protein.

→ How can I make this wrap more flavorful?

Add crispy bacon bits, sliced cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro enhance the flavor. Consider mixing the Caesar dressing with a touch of lemon juice or adding anchovy paste for deeper umami notes.

→ Are there dietary modifications for this wrap?

Use whole wheat, gluten-free, or spinach tortillas for dietary needs. Substitute dairy-free Caesar dressing and nutritional yeast for parmesan. For vegetarians, use tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken breast.