Fried Chicken and Lettuce Wrapped in Tortilla with Caesar Dressing
Fried chicken is a beloved comfort food known for its crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior. But when you wrap it in a lettuce leaf and serve it with Caesar dressing in a tortilla, you elevate this classic dish to new heights. This Fried Chicken and Lettuce Wrapped in Tortilla gives the richness of crispy chicken with the freshness of lettuce and the creamy, tangy flavor of Caesar dressing. It’s a perfect fusion of flavors and textures that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a fun dinner idea, or something to serve at your next party, this fried chicken wrap is versatile and guaranteed to please. The combination of crispy chicken, fresh lettuce, and the creamy dressing creates a satisfying meal with just the right balance of crunch and creaminess.
Ingredients for Fried Chicken and Lettuce Wrapped in Tortilla with Caesar Dressing
For the Fried Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk (optional for extra moistness)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Wrap:
- 4 large flour tortillas (or whole wheat, if preferred)
- 1 cup Romaine lettuce, chopped or shredded
- Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Fried Chicken and Lettuce Wrapped in Tortilla with Caesar Dressing
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pound the chicken: To ensure even cooking, lightly pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This helps them cook through without drying out.
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Mix well to combine.
- Dredge the chicken: Dip each piece of chicken first into the buttermilk (if using), then into the flour mixture, pressing down lightly to ensure the coating sticks. Repeat the process to double-coat the chicken for extra crispiness.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
- Heat the oil: In a large frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to submerge the chicken halfway, but not completely. The oil should be around 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the hot oil. Fry for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Drain the chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 3: Prepare the Wrap
- Warm the tortillas: Heat the flour tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side to make them more pliable and warm.
- Chop the lettuce: While the chicken is cooling, chop the Romaine lettuce into small pieces, or shred it into strips. This adds a fresh, crunchy element to the wrap.
- Slice the chicken: After the chicken has cooled for a couple of minutes, slice it into thin strips. This makes it easier to wrap in the tortilla and ensures even distribution in each bite.
Step 4: Assemble the Wraps
- Spread Caesar dressing: Drizzle a generous amount of Caesar dressing onto the center of each tortilla.
- Add lettuce: Layer the chopped lettuce on top of the dressing, creating a bed of freshness for the crispy chicken.
- Add the fried chicken: Arrange the sliced fried chicken on top of the lettuce. The warm, crispy chicken will contrast nicely with the cold, fresh lettuce and creamy Caesar dressing.
- Garnish with Parmesan (optional): Sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken for an extra boost of flavor, if desired.
Step 5: Wrap and Serve
- Wrap the tortilla: Carefully fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly, ensuring the chicken and lettuce are well-contained.
- Serve: Slice the wraps in half and serve immediately. These wraps can be eaten with a side of fries, sweet potato wedges, or a light side salad.
Tips for Making the Best Fried Chicken and Lettuce Wrapped in Tortilla
- Use chicken thighs for more flavor: While chicken breasts are the most common choice, chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a great alternative for this recipe.
- Double-coat the chicken: For extra crispy fried chicken, double-dip the chicken in buttermilk and flour. This gives it a thicker, crunchier coating.
- Customize the dressing: While Caesar dressing is traditional, you can easily switch it up with a ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or even a spicy chipotle mayo if you prefer a different flavor.
- Make your own dressing: If you want to elevate the recipe further, try making your own Caesar dressing using garlic, lemon juice, anchovies, and Parmesan cheese for a fresh and tangy touch.
- Add extras: Feel free to add other toppings like sliced tomatoes, avocado, or crispy bacon to customize your wraps to your liking.
Variations of Fried Chicken and Lettuce Wrapped in Tortilla
Spicy Fried Chicken Wraps
Add some hot sauce to the flour coating or drizzle some spicy buffalo sauce over the fried chicken before wrapping it in the tortilla. This will give your wraps a fiery kick that pairs wonderfully with the coolness of the Caesar dressing.
Grilled Chicken Wraps
For a lighter version, you can grill the chicken instead of frying it. Simply season the chicken with your favorite spices and grill it until cooked through. This will reduce the calories but still provide a satisfying meal.
Asian-Inspired Wraps
Instead of Caesar dressing, try using a tangy sesame ginger dressing or a sweet teriyaki sauce. Add some shredded cabbage or carrots for a crunchier, more Asian-inspired twist on the classic wrap.
What to Serve with Fried Chicken and Lettuce Wrapped in Tortilla with Caesar Dressing
- Sweet Potato Fries: Serve your wraps with a side of crispy sweet potato fries for a sweet and savory pairing.
- Coleslaw: A side of creamy coleslaw balances the richness of the fried chicken and adds a fresh, crunchy element.
- Pickles: Tangy pickles or pickle chips are a great addition to the wrap for some acidity that cuts through the creaminess of the dressing.
- Corn on the Cob: For a more substantial meal, serve your wraps with buttery corn on the cob or grilled corn to add a summery touch.
Conclusion: A Perfectly Crispy and Creamy Wrap
The Fried Chicken and Lettuce Wrapped in Tortilla with Caesar Dressing is a delightful meal that combines crispy, juicy chicken with fresh lettuce and a rich, creamy dressing. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking to try something new, these wraps are a fantastic choice for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
With a few simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create this mouthwatering dish at home. It’s the perfect option for a weeknight dinner, a weekend treat, or a fun addition to any party spread.
Fried Chicken and Lettuce Wrapped in Tortilla with Caesar Dressing
Equipment
- Skillet
- Tongs
- Knife and Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 4 fried chicken tenders
- 1 head romaine lettuce leaves separated
- 2 tbsp Caesar dressing
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 tomato sliced
Instructions
- Step 1: Fry the Chicken
- Fry the chicken tenders in hot oil until crispy and golden, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and season with salt.
- Step 2: Prepare the Wrap
- Take large romaine lettuce leaves and lay them flat on a plate.
- Place a fried chicken tender in the center of each lettuce leaf.
- Step 3: Assemble the Wrap
- Drizzle with Caesar dressing, then top with shredded parmesan and tomato slices.
- Wrap the lettuce around the chicken like a taco.
Video
Notes
Try using grilled chicken for a healthier option.