Pin These Crispy Chicken Bacon Caesar Wraps are the ultimate handheld meal, combining golden, pan-fried chicken thighs with smoky bacon and the fresh crunch of romaine lettuce. Whether you're looking for a quick, satisfying lunch or a stress-free dinner, these wraps deliver a perfect balance of textures and savory flavors in every bite.
Pin The secret to this recipe lies in the double-cooked chicken: fried for a golden crust and then baked to juicy perfection. Tossed in creamy Caesar dressing and tucked into a warm tortilla, it's a classic salad transformed into a portable feast.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 2 large eggs (beaten), 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
- Bacon: 8 slices bacon
- Vegetables & Greens: 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- Caesar Dressing: 1/3 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Wrap: 4 large flour tortillas
- Optional Additions: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, freshly ground black pepper, lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- Prepare a breading station: Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in a second, and panko mixed with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a third.
- Step 3
- Dredge each chicken thigh in flour, dip in egg, then coat thoroughly in seasoned panko.
- Step 4
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken thighs for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to prepared baking sheet.
- Step 5
- Bake chicken thighs in oven for 15–18 minutes, until cooked through and crispy. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice.
- Step 6
- While chicken bakes, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels.
- Step 7
- In a large bowl, toss chopped romaine with Caesar dressing until well coated.
- Step 8
- Warm tortillas briefly in a dry pan or microwave.
- Step 9
- To assemble, lay out each tortilla. Arrange a generous amount of Caesar-dressed romaine in the center, top with sliced crispy chicken, 2 bacon slices, and a sprinkle of Parmesan and black pepper if desired.
- Step 10
- Roll up tightly, folding in sides to secure the filling. Slice in half and serve with lemon wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Make sure to let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing; this ensures the juices stay inside the meat rather than running out on your cutting board. Using a parchment-lined baking sheet makes cleanup effortless while keeping the panko coating crisp.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a lighter alternative, try grilling the chicken thighs instead of breading and frying them. You can also substitute the pork bacon with turkey bacon to lower the fat content, or add fresh avocado and cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these wraps with extra lemon wedges on the side to brighten the flavors. They pair beautifully with a crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a simple side of sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
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With its vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch, these Crispy Chicken Bacon Caesar Wraps are bound to become a regular in your meal rotation. Simply roll, slice, and enjoy a cafe-quality lunch right at home!
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I make these wraps ahead of time?
Prepare the crispy chicken and cook bacon in advance, storing separately in the refrigerator. Keep the dressed romaine separate and assemble wraps just before serving to maintain the crispy texture and prevent sogginess.
- → What's the best way to reheat leftover wraps?
Remove any cold ingredients like lettuce before reheating. Wrap the tortilla loosely in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave for 30-60 seconds. Add fresh dressed romaine after reheating.
- → Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Chicken breast works well but may cook faster. Pound to even thickness, reduce baking time to 12-15 minutes, and watch closely to prevent drying. Thighs naturally stay juicier and more flavorful.
- → How do I make these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and certified gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Swap flour tortillas for corn or gluten-free alternatives. Always verify your Caesar dressing is certified gluten-free.
- → Can I grill the chicken instead of frying?
Absolutely. Season chicken with the same spices, then grill over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. You'll get delicious char marks and smoky flavor.
- → What other toppings work well in these wraps?
Sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, or pickled red peppers add brightness and texture. A drizzle of extra Caesar or ranch dressing ties everything together beautifully.