Save to Pinterest The first time I made these wraps, my kitchen smelled like honey and sizzling chicken in the best possible way. I had discovered a jar of chili crisp at the back of my pantry and decided to experiment. The sauce came together so perfectly that I started putting it on everything that week.
Last summer my friend Sarah dropped by unexpectedly while I was making these for lunch. She ended up staying for two hours just talking about how she needed the recipe immediately. Now she makes them every Sunday for her work week meal prep and sends me photos of her perfectly rolled wraps.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Thinly slicing them against the grain makes all the difference in tenderness and helps them cook evenly
- Smoked paprika: Adds this subtle depth that pairs beautifully with the honey in the sauce
- Honey chili crisp sauce: The honey mellows the heat while the chili crisp brings texture and bold flavor
- Large tortillas: Warming them first prevents cracking and makes rolling so much easier
- Fresh vegetables: Lettuce, cucumber, and scallions provide that satisfying crunch that contrasts with the tender chicken
Instructions
- Season the chicken well:
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, and smoked paprika over both sides of your sliced chicken pieces, rubbing it in gently so every bite is flavorful
- Sear until golden:
- Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium high heat and cook the chicken for about 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until you see beautiful golden brown edges and the chicken is cooked through
- Whisk the magic sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine honey, chili crisp, soy sauce, and rice vinegar until smooth and glossy
- Coat the warm chicken:
- Pour the sauce over your freshly cooked chicken and toss gently until every piece is covered in that sweet spicy glaze
- Warm your tortillas:
- Give each tortilla a quick 30 second warm up in a dry skillet or microwave so they become pliable and ready to roll
- Build your wrap:
- Spread a little mayonnaise down the center if you like, then layer lettuce, cucumber, carrots, scallions, and that sauced chicken
- Roll it up tight:
- Fold in the sides first, then roll from the bottom up, keeping everything snug inside the tortilla
- Slice and serve:
- Cut each wrap diagonally in half and enjoy immediately while the chicken is still warm and the vegetables are crisp
Save to Pinterest These wraps have become my go to when friends come over for casual lunch. Everyone customizes their own with extra vegetables or more sauce and we sit around the counter eating and talking. Something about food you eat with your hands just brings people together.
Making It Your Own
I love adding sliced avocado or pickled red onions when I have them in the fridge. The creaminess of avocado balances the heat from the chili crisp beautifully. You can also use crunchy tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian version that still soaks up all that sauce.
Sauce Secrets
The honey chili crisp sauce keeps in the refrigerator for up to two weeks and is incredible on rice bowls, burgers, or even as a dip for spring rolls. Sometimes I double the batch just to have it on hand for quick meals throughout the week.
Perfect Pairings
These wraps pair wonderfully with a light lager or citrusy iced tea. The slight bitterness of beer cuts through the sweet sauce while the bright notes in iced tea complement the fresh vegetables. Keep some extra napkins nearby because wraps can be gloriously messy.
- Try different brands of chili crisp to find your favorite heat level
- Pre cut all your vegetables before you start cooking the chicken
- Roll wraps in parchment paper for easier transport to work or picnics
Save to Pinterest There is something so satisfying about a wrap that holds together perfectly until that last bite. I hope these become a regular part of your lunch rotation too.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What makes honey chili crisp sauce special?
The sauce combines honey's natural sweetness with chili crisp's savory heat, soy sauce for umami depth, and rice vinegar for brightness. This creates a balanced glaze that coats the chicken perfectly.
- → Can I make this wrap ahead of time?
For best results, assemble wraps just before serving. However, you can prepare the seasoned chicken and sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Store components separately and combine when ready to roll.
- → What vegetables work best in this wrap?
Romaine or iceberg lettuce provides essential crunch and structure. Cucumber adds freshness, while shredded carrots contribute color and texture. Scallions bring mild flavor that complements the spicy chicken.
- → How spicy is this wrap?
The heat level depends on your chili crisp choice. Store-bought varieties range from mild to hot. Adjust the amount or choose a milder brand if you prefer less spice. The honey helps balance the heat.
- → Can I use corn tortillas instead?
Corn tortillas may crack when rolled tightly with substantial fillings. Large flour tortillas work best for their pliability. If using corn, consider serving as tacos or soft tacos instead of wrapped.
- → What protein alternatives work well?
Crispy tofu or tempeh make excellent vegetarian substitutes. Slice and pan-fry until golden, then toss with the honey chili crisp sauce. Shrimp or thinly sliced beef also pair beautifully with these flavors.