Spicy Chicken Mango Wraps: A Refreshing & Easy Recipe for Any Occasion

These wraps are truly a revelation: refreshingly light, perfectly spiced, incredibly flavorful, and wonderfully satisfying without being heavy. They make an absolutely delicious meal or appetizer, ideal for your next summer picnic, a quick yet vibrant lunch, or a delightful starter at any gathering. The unique combination of sweet mango and savory, spicy chicken creates a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds and keeps you coming back for more.

Imagine a culinary adventure packed into a convenient wrap, bursting with bold Mexican-inspired flavors and a delightful counterpoint of tropical sweetness. This recipe brings you just that: easy-to-prepare chicken wraps infused with aromatic Mexican spices, perfectly balanced by the luscious sweetness of fresh mango and the crisp crunch of iceberg lettuce. A few slices of juicy, ripe tomato add a final touch of freshness and vibrant color, completing this irresistible package.

These wraps aren’t just delicious; they are incredibly versatile and perfect for those who love to enjoy good food outdoors. Whether you’re planning a beach day, a park picnic, or a backyard barbecue, these wraps are your go-to. Simply assemble them, wrap them snugly in plastic foil, and keep them chilled. By the time you’re ready to eat, all the individual flavors will have had time to meld together beautifully, resulting in a cohesive and deeply satisfying taste experience that’s even better than when first prepared. The cooling period enhances both the texture and the aromatic profile, transforming simple ingredients into a gourmet delight ready for your enjoyment.

The beauty of these wraps lies in their simplicity and the explosion of flavors they deliver. They strike a perfect balance between savory and sweet, with a hint of spice that awakens the palate without overpowering it. This makes them appealing to a wide range of tastes, from those who enjoy a gentle kick to those who appreciate a more pronounced heat. Furthermore, their light and fresh nature makes them an excellent choice for warmer weather, offering a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down.

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Mastering Your Wraps: Essential Tips for Success

Creating the perfect wrap is an art, but it’s an art that’s easy to master with a few key techniques. These tips will help ensure your Spicy Chicken Mango Wraps are not only delicious but also beautifully presented and safe to enjoy, especially when you’re on the go.

• Keep it Cool for Outdoor Feasts: When transporting your delicious wraps to a picnic, an outdoor lunch, or any al fresco dining experience, always prioritize food safety. Store them in an insulated cooler packed with sufficient cooling elements, such as ice packs or frozen gel packs. Maintaining a consistent cold temperature is crucial to prevent bacterial growth and ensure your food remains fresh and safe to eat. Food poisoning is the last thing you want to worry about when enjoying a lovely meal outdoors!
• Achieve Even Layers for a Perfect Bite: To ensure every bite of your wrap is packed with a harmonious blend of ingredients, the way you layer is key. Avoid piling ingredients in the center. Instead, aim to arrange all your fillings in a neat, continuous line down the middle of the wrap. This technique allows for a uniform distribution of chicken, mango, lettuce, and tomato as you roll, providing a consistent texture and flavor profile throughout the entire wrap. It also helps prevent the wrap from becoming too bulky in one section and sparse in another.
• The Art of Rolling and Chilling: After filling your wrap, roll it up tightly and securely. Once rolled, don’t rush to serve it. Instead, wrap each individual wrap snugly in plastic film or parchment paper and place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This chilling time is transformative. It allows the wrap to become more compact and firm, preventing it from unraveling or falling apart when eaten. More importantly, it gives the various flavors time to meld and deepen, creating a more complex and integrated taste that truly elevates the overall experience. A well-chilled wrap is not only more enjoyable to eat but also looks much more appealing!

The Vibrant Ingredients: Building Blocks of Flavor

The success of these Spicy Chicken Mango Wraps lies in the quality and balance of their core ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, contributing to the overall freshness, flavor, and texture. Let’s explore what makes each element indispensable:

• The Star Protein: Spicy Chicken Breast: We start with lean, tender chicken breast, cut into strips for quick cooking and easy incorporation into the wrap. The magic happens when these chicken strips are generously seasoned with a robust Mexican spice blend. This isn’t just about heat; it’s about depth of flavor. A good Mexican seasoning, whether it’s a taco or fajita mix, typically includes chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a hint of oregano. These spices infuse the chicken with an earthy, smoky, and slightly fiery character that forms the savory backbone of the wrap. Pan-frying the chicken strips ensures they are cooked through, juicy, and perfectly browned, locking in all those wonderful flavors.
• The Tropical Sweetness: Ripe Mango: The mango is the refreshing hero that beautifully counters the chicken’s spice. Its vibrant, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor, along with its soft, juicy texture, adds a tropical dimension that elevates the wrap from good to exceptional. Choosing a ripe mango is crucial: it should yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a sweet, fruity aroma. Once peeled and pitted, the mango is cut into strips, mirroring the chicken, ensuring an even distribution of its delightful sweetness in every bite. If you’re new to cutting mangoes, my video tutorial below offers two easy methods to prepare this fantastic fruit.
• The Crisp Counterpart: Iceberg Lettuce: For that essential crunch and a touch of coolness, iceberg lettuce is unparalleled. Its crisp texture provides a satisfying contrast to the tender chicken and soft mango, while its mild flavor allows the other ingredients to shine. Washing and gently patting the lettuce dry ensures it remains fresh and doesn’t make the wrap soggy.
• The Juicy Pop: Fresh Tomato: Fresh tomatoes add a burst of juiciness and a hint of acidity that brightens the entire wrap. Slicing them into small pieces and, importantly, removing as many seeds as possible, prevents excess moisture that could make the wrap soggy. The natural sweetness and slight tang of a good tomato complement both the spicy chicken and the sweet mango wonderfully.
• The Vessel: Soft Wraps: The foundation of our creation, the wraps themselves, should be soft, pliable, and large enough to hold all the delicious fillings without tearing. Flour tortillas are a popular choice, but feel free to experiment with whole wheat or even gluten-free alternatives. Briefly warming the wraps before assembly makes them more flexible and easier to roll, minimizing the chance of cracks and ensuring a neat, compact wrap.

🎥 Video: How to Slice a Mango Effortlessly

Preparing a mango can sometimes feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! In this helpful video, I’ll walk you through two simple and effective methods to slice your mango easily and efficiently. Whether you need cubes for your wraps or other recipes, these techniques will make mango preparation a breeze. Watch now to master your mango-slicing skills and get the most out of this delicious tropical fruit!

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Delicious Wraps

Making these Spicy Chicken Mango Wraps is a straightforward process that yields incredibly satisfying results. Follow these detailed steps to assemble your perfect meal:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by taking your chicken breast and slicing it into thin, even strips. This allows for quick and uniform cooking. Once sliced, generously sprinkle the chicken strips with your chosen Mexican seasoning. Use your hands to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated with the spices. You can let it marinate for 10-15 minutes if you have extra time for deeper flavor, but it’s not strictly necessary for this quick recipe.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a touch of oil. Add the seasoned chicken strips and fry them until they are tender, cooked through, and lightly browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes, depending on the thickness of your strips. Ensure there’s no pink left in the center. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Mango: Using one of the methods shown in the video above, peel your fresh mango. Carefully remove the large pit from the center. Then, cut the mango flesh into uniform strips, similar in size to your chicken strips. This ensures an even distribution of sweetness throughout the wrap.
4. Prepare the Tomatoes: Take your tomato and cut it into small, bite-sized pieces. To prevent your wraps from becoming watery, try to remove as many seeds and excess liquid from the tomato as possible. A quick blot with a paper towel can help.
5. Wash the Lettuce: Thoroughly wash the iceberg lettuce leaves under cold water. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel or use a salad spinner. Crisp, dry lettuce is key for texture and to avoid a soggy wrap.
6. Warm the Wraps: Lightly warm your tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 15-20 seconds per side, or in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Warming makes them more pliable and easier to roll without cracking.
7. Assemble Your Wraps: Lay a warmed wrap flat on a clean surface. Begin by covering a section of the wrap with a layer of iceberg lettuce. Next, create a neat line of mango strips, followed by a line of tomato pieces. Finally, add a generous portion of the cooked spicy chicken strips down the center. Remember to distribute the fillings evenly across the middle section of the wrap, leaving some space around the edges for rolling.
8. Roll and Secure: Carefully fold in the sides of the wrap over the filling. Then, starting from the bottom, tightly roll the wrap upwards. Once rolled, wrap each individual wrap snugly in plastic film or parchment paper. This helps it hold its shape and prevents it from unraveling.
9. Chill for Enhanced Flavor: Place the wrapped wraps in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This chilling period is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld together and for the wrap to become compact and firm. This makes for a much neater and more enjoyable eating experience. Repeat the process for your second wrap. When ready to serve, you can cut them in half diagonally for an attractive presentation.

Serving Suggestions and Customizations

These Spicy Chicken Mango Wraps are fantastic on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and can be easily customized to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.

Perfect Pairings:

• Fresh Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette makes for a complete and healthy meal.
• Crispy Tortilla Chips: For added crunch, serve with a side of your favorite tortilla chips and maybe some guacamole or salsa.
• Fresh Fruit Skewers: Complement the mango in the wraps with other tropical fruits like pineapple, kiwi, or berries on a skewer for a refreshing dessert.
• Black Bean Salad: A zesty black bean and corn salad would perfectly complement the Mexican flavors of the chicken.

Creative Customizations:

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make these wraps your own!

• Protein Power-Ups: Not a chicken fan? Try grilled shrimp, pan-fried tofu, or even seasoned black beans for a vegetarian option. Shredded pork or beef also works beautifully.
• Amplify the Spice: For those who crave more heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper to your chicken seasoning, a sprinkle of fresh jalapeño slices, or a drizzle of sriracha mayo before rolling.
• Creamy Additions: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt, a swirl of homemade lime crema, or a slice of avocado can add a wonderful creamy texture and cool down the spice.
• Vary the Greens: While iceberg lettuce provides excellent crunch, you can also use romaine lettuce, spinach, or a spring mix for different textures and nutritional benefits.
• Extra Veggies: Thinly sliced red onion, bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), or corn kernels can enhance the flavor and nutritional content. Fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice also adds a burst of freshness.
• Nutty Crunch: A sprinkle of toasted pecans or cashews can add an unexpected layer of crunch and richness.

Health Benefits: A Nutritious Choice

Beyond their delicious taste, these Spicy Chicken Mango Wraps offer significant nutritional benefits, making them a smart choice for a healthy meal:

• Lean Protein: Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall satiety. Protein helps keep you feeling full and energized.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Mangoes are packed with Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and fiber. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, while Vitamin A is crucial for vision and immune function.
• Fiber-Filled Veggies: Iceberg lettuce and tomatoes contribute dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping regulate blood sugar levels. They also provide various vitamins and antioxidants.
• Low in Saturated Fat: With lean chicken and fresh vegetables, these wraps are naturally low in unhealthy saturated fats, supporting heart health.
• Hydrating: The fresh fruit and vegetables contribute to your daily water intake, keeping you hydrated, especially important during warmer months.

By opting for whole wheat wraps, you can further increase the fiber content and make these wraps an even more wholesome choice. Enjoy a meal that tastes incredible and fuels your body with essential nutrients!

📖 Recipe

RECIPE CARD

Wraps with mango and spicy chicken

Andréa

These wraps are refreshing, a bit spicy, very flavorful, and light. A delicious recipe for wraps with mango and spicy chicken for your next summer picnic, lunch, or appetizer.

5 of 2 votes

Print Recipe
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Lunch

Cuisine Mexican – Tex Mex

Servings 2 persons

Calories 231 kcal

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Ingredients

• ▢ 5½ oz chicken breast
• ▢ 1 teaspoon Mexican seasoning, taco or fajita seasoning
• ▢ 2 wraps
• ▢ ½ mango
• ▢ 3½ oz iceberg lettuce
• ▢ 1 tomato

All my recipes are written both in Metric (gram / ml) and US Customary (cups / pounds). Here you can select which type of amount you would like to see.

Metric – US Customary

Instructions

• ▢
  Cut the chicken into strips and sprinkle with the spices.
• ▢
  Fry the slices in a skillet until tender and done.
• ▢
  Peel the mango, get the pit out and cut into strips.
• ▢
  Cut the tomatoes into small pieces and remove as many seeds as possible.
• ▢
  Wash the lettuce.
• ▢
  Heat the wraps slightly, so they are more pliable.
• ▢
  Cover with some iceberg lettuce, a row of mango, a row of tomato, and then the chicken.
• ▢
  Roll the wrap and turn a plastic film around it.
• ▢
  Allow at least one hour to come at taste in the refrigerator. Repeat for the second wrap.

Notes

• When taking the wraps to a picnic or outdoor lunch, store it in a cooler with a cooling element. Food poisoning is surely the last thing you ever want to get!
• If you want an even layer of stuff, make sure you put everything in a line in the middle. Roll it up so that you get as much padding everywhere.
• Roll the wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Therefore your wrap will become compact and it looks much better.

Nutrition

Calories: 231kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 20gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 48mgSodium: 302mgFiber: 4gSugar: 11gVitamin A: 1388IUVitamin C: 30mgIron: 3mg

Keyword a healthy lunch recipe, a savory picnic recipe

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