Spicy Easy Chicken Wraps

Category: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

Whip up a quick, flavorful meal with tender boneless chicken thighs marinated in garlic, paprika, and cayenne for a spicy kick. Sear the chicken until golden and juicy, then slice it and wrap in soft tortillas with crisp lettuce, sliced red onion, and ripe tomato. Drizzle on a creamy, tangy sauce made from mayonnaise, Frank’s hot sauce, fresh parsley, lemon, and an extra pinch of cayenne for added heat. These satisfying, high-protein wraps are ideal for lunch or dinner, delivering layers of texture and bold taste in every bite—perfect for both busy days and casual get-togethers.

Barbara Chef
Updated on Thu, 22 May 2025 22:10:13 GMT
A sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and chicken. Pin
A sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and chicken. | cookwithcarla.com

Looking for a meal that packs a punch of flavor and protein without a lot of fuss These spicy chicken wraps are my go to when I want something satisfying quick and totally craveworthy They have just the right amount of heat and feel fresh enough for lunch but hearty enough for dinner

I first tried these wraps on a busy weeknight and fell in love with how quickly dinner came together They have even made it into our regular meal prep rotation

Ingredients

  • Boneless chicken thighs: Tender and juicy they soak up marinades so well Use organic if you can find it
  • Oil: Helps the spices stick and keeps the chicken moist I like olive oil but any neutral oil works
  • Salt and pepper: Fundamental for flavor and brings out the other spices
  • Garlic powder: Brings a mellow depth I always look for fresh smelling powder without clumps
  • Paprika powder: Adds color and a smoky sweet kick Smoked or sweet both work but Spanish paprika is especially flavorful
  • Cayenne powder: Heats things up Add more if you like a real fire
  • Lettuce: Brings freshness and crunch Look for crisp green leaves
  • Red onion: Sharp tang and crunch Adds another layer of flavor
  • Tomato: Juicy slices balance the heat Aim for ripe and firm
  • Tortilla wraps: Soft wraps bring it all together Whole wheat or gluten free are great options
  • Mayonnaise: Creamy base for the sauce Go for full fat for richness
  • Frank's hot sauce: Signature tang and heat or swap in your favorite
  • Lemon: For brightness and zing Fresh is best
  • Fresh parsley: Chopped for a hint of herby lift Flat leaf adds stronger flavor
  • Cayenne seasoning: Extra boost of heat taste as you go

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:
Place the boneless chicken thighs in a mixing bowl Add oil salt pepper garlic powder paprika and cayenne Toss everything to coat the chicken evenly For best flavor let it sit overnight in the fridge If pressed for time marinate while you prep veggies
Prepare the Vegetables:
Rinse your lettuce well pat it dry and chop or tear into bite size pieces Peel and slice the red onion into thin rings Slice the tomato into rounds or half moons Keep these ready nearby
Cook the Chicken:
Heat your favorite heavy skillet over medium low heat Once hot add the marinated chicken Arrange so the pieces are not touching Let them cook for about five minutes before flipping Continue cooking until both sides are golden brown and the meat is cooked through about ten minutes total Transfer to a cutting board and let rest before slicing
Make the Sauce:
Add mayonnaise Frank's hot sauce lemon juice chopped parsley black pepper and cayenne seasoning to a small bowl Whisk until silky and blended Taste and adjust the level of spice or acidity to your preference
Assemble the Wraps:
Lay each tortilla flat on a clean surface Layer a generous bed of lettuce followed by juicy slices of chicken Arrange slices of red onion and tomato on top Spoon the spicy sauce over everything
Wrap It Up:
Fold each side of the tortilla towards the center Roll tightly from the bottom up so the filling is snug but not bursting Repeat with the rest of the tortillas
Serve and Enjoy:
Cut the wraps in half if you like Arrange on a plate and enjoy right away for best texture and flavor
A sandwich with lettuce, tomato and chicken. Pin
A sandwich with lettuce, tomato and chicken. | cookwithcarla.com

You Must Know

  • Loaded with protein keeps you fueled and full
  • Perfect for meal prep or a speedy dinner
  • Totally customizable with your favorite veggies or sauces

I always look forward to the burst of heat from the cayenne and Frank's hot sauce It reminds me of fun family picnics where everyone built their own wraps extra sauce was always a competition in our house

Storage Tips

These wraps keep well in the fridge for up to two days once assembled I like to keep the sauce on the side to prevent soggy tortillas If storing chicken and veg separately they last three to four days wrapped tight in containers

Ingredient Substitutions

No chicken thighs Chicken breast works just as well You can also swap in tofu or portobello mushrooms for a veggie version If you do not have Frank's hot sauce use any tangy hot sauce you enjoy For a lighter sauce swap half the mayo for Greek yogurt

A chicken wrap with lettuce and tomato. Pin
A chicken wrap with lettuce and tomato. | cookwithcarla.com

Serving Suggestions

Serve these wraps as a main with a crisp cucumber salad or pile on extra fresh herbs for more brightness I love packing them for picnics or slicing them up party style for a laid back get together

A Brief Cultural Note

Wraps are truly global you will find versions in so many cuisines Whether it’s Mexican burritos Turkish dürüms or classic American wraps they are all about bringing together bread protein and zesty flavors in every bite This recipe is a blend of those big bold tastes with a spicy twist

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How can I make the chicken extra juicy?

Let the chicken marinate overnight in your spice blend if possible; this deepens flavor and keeps it moist.

→ What are some substitutes for chicken thighs?

You can use boneless chicken breasts or even turkey if you prefer a leaner option. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

→ How can I adjust the spiciness?

Reduce or increase the cayenne powder and hot sauce in both the marinade and sauce to suit your heat preference.

→ Which tortillas work best for these wraps?

Soft flour tortillas provide flexibility for wrapping, but whole wheat or multigrain tortillas can add extra fiber.

→ Can I prepare the components ahead of time?

Cook the chicken and prep the vegetables in advance; assemble wraps just before serving for the freshest taste.

Spicy Easy Chicken Wraps

High-protein chicken wraps with bold spices, fresh veggies, and creamy, tangy sauce for a quick flavorful meal.

Preparation Time
15 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Total Time
25 mins

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Cuisine Type: American

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary Preferences: ~

What You'll Need

01 500 g boneless chicken thighs
02 4 tablespoons oil
03 Salt
04 Pepper
05 1 tablespoon garlic powder
06 1 tablespoon paprika powder
07 1 tablespoon cayenne powder
08 1 lettuce
09 1 red onion
10 1 tomato
11 4 tortilla wraps

→ Sauce ingredients

12 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
13 1 tablespoon Frank's hot sauce
14 1/2 lemon
15 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
16 Pepper
17 1 teaspoon cayenne seasoning

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Place the boneless chicken thighs in a bowl. Add the oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika powder, and cayenne powder. If time allows, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator for optimal flavor. If not, marinate the chicken while preparing the other ingredients.

Step 02

Wash and chop the lettuce, red onion, and tomato. Set aside.

Step 03

Heat a pan over medium-low heat. Once the pan is hot, add the marinated chicken thighs. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown on the outside.

Step 04

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Frank's hot sauce, lemon juice, chopped parsley, pepper, and cayenne seasoning. Adjust the amount of cayenne seasoning according to your desired level of spiciness. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 05

Lay out the tortilla wraps on a clean surface. Place a layer of lettuce on each tortilla. Top with slices of cooked chicken, followed by slices of red onion and tomato. Drizzle the spicy sauce over the fillings.

Step 06

Fold the sides of the tortilla inwards, then roll it up tightly from the bottom, enclosing the fillings. Repeat with the remaining wraps.

Step 07

Cut the wraps in half if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy your flavorful and spicy chicken wraps!

Tools You'll Need

  • Bowl
  • Pan
  • Knife
  • Chopping board
  • Mixing spoon

Allergy Information

Check every ingredient for potential allergens. Consult a healthcare professional for concerns.
  • Mayonnaise (egg)
  • Tortilla wrap (gluten, depending on brand)
  • Frank's hot sauce (may contain allergens depending on ingredients)

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes and don’t replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 420
  • Fats: 23.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32.5 g
  • Proteins: 28.2 g