If you’re craving a bold and flavorful meal that’s quick to make Longhorn Firecracker Chicken Wraps are just what you need. Inspired by the popular steakhouse favorite these wraps pack a punch with spicy marinated chicken crisp veggies and a creamy tangy sauce all wrapped up in a soft tortilla.
We love how this recipe balances heat and freshness making it perfect for lunch or a casual dinner. Plus it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings or sides. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal prepping for the week these wraps deliver satisfying taste without a ton of fuss.
Let’s dive into how to make these fiery delicious wraps that bring restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen. You’ll be surprised how simple it is to create such a crowd-pleasing dish that’s bursting with zest and texture.
Ingredients
To make our Longhorn Firecracker Chicken Wraps flavorful and perfectly balanced, we need to gather fresh ingredients for the chicken marinade, wrap fillings, and the signature spicy sauce. Below is a detailed breakdown of everything we’ll need.
Chicken Marinade Ingredients
We start by preparing a bold and spicy marinade that infuses the chicken with that classic Longhorn Firecracker heat and flavor.
| Ingredient | Amount | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breast | 1 pound | Thinly sliced or diced |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons | |
| Sriracha sauce | 1 tablespoon | Adjust for preferred heat |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | Adds smoky depth |
| Ground black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Freshly ground preferred |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | To taste |
Wrap and Filling Ingredients
The filling is essential to create the satisfying crunch and fresh texture that balances the spicy chicken.
- Large flour tortillas – 4 (Soft and pliable for easy wrapping)
- Shredded iceberg lettuce – 2 cups (For crisp freshness)
- Diced tomatoes – 1 cup (Seeded for less moisture)
- Sliced red onions – ½ cup (Thinly sliced for a bit of bite)
- Shredded cheddar cheese – 1 cup (Sharp cheddar preferred)
- Sliced avocado – 1 medium (Adds creaminess to the wrap)
- Fresh cilantro – 2 tablespoons (Chopped for bright, herbal notes)
Sauce Ingredients
This creamy, spicy sauce ties all components together perfectly, creating that irresistible firecracker flavor profile.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | Use full-fat for best flavor |
| Sriracha sauce | 2 tablespoons | Adjust based on spice tolerance |
| Honey | 1 tablespoon | Balances heat with sweetness |
| Fresh lime juice | 1 tablespoon | Adds tangy brightness |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon | |
| Smoked paprika | ½ teaspoon | Adds subtle smokiness |
| Salt | To taste |
Together these ingredients ensure our Longhorn Firecracker Chicken Wraps deliver on taste and texture with every bite.
Tools and Equipment Needed
To create our Longhorn Firecracker Chicken Wraps with precision and ease, we’ll need the right set of tools and equipment. These items ensure each step from marinating the chicken to assembling the wraps is smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools for Preparation
- Cutting board: Choose a sturdy, clean cutting board to dice vegetables and slice chicken safely.
- Sharp chef’s knife: A well-sharpened knife helps us cut the chicken breast and vegetables evenly.
- Mixing bowls: Use medium bowls for marinating the chicken and preparing the spicy sauce.
- Measuring spoons and cups: Accurate measurements keep our marinade balanced and flavorful.
- Whisk or fork: For blending the marinade and sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Tongs or spatula: To handle the chicken during cooking without piercing it, preserving juices.
- Non-stick skillet or grill pan: Ideal for cooking the marinated chicken evenly with a nice sear.
Tools for Assembly
- Large plate or cutting board: For laying out the tortillas and arranging fillings.
- Small spoon or brush: To spread the creamy spicy sauce evenly across the tortillas.
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper: Optional for wrapping and holding the wraps together if serving later.
| Tool | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting board | Chopping chicken and vegetables | Use separate boards for meats and veggies to prevent cross-contamination |
| Sharp chef’s knife | Slicing ingredients | Keep it sharp for uniform cuts |
| Mixing bowls | Marinade and sauce preparation | At least two bowls recommended |
| Measuring spoons/cups | Accurate ingredient measurements | Essential for consistency |
| Whisk or fork | Mixing sauces and marinade | Helps emulsify ingredients |
| Tongs or spatula | Cooking and handling chicken | Prevents piercing the meat |
| Non-stick skillet/grill pan | Cooking the marinated chicken | Preheat for best searing |
| Large plate/cutting board | Arranging ingredients and assembling wraps | Keeps workspace organized |
| Spoon or brush | Spreading sauce | Ensures even flavor distribution |
| Aluminum foil/parchment paper | Wrapping for storage or serving | Keeps wraps intact and fresh |
Our carefully selected tools and equipment make the cooking process for Longhorn Firecracker Chicken Wraps straightforward and enjoyable, helping us achieve that unbeatable restaurant-quality taste right at home.
Preparation
Getting each component ready with care ensures our Longhorn Firecracker Chicken Wraps deliver that perfect balance of heat and freshness. Let’s break down the preparation into easy steps.
Preparing the Chicken
- Marinate the Chicken:
Cut the boneless chicken breasts into thin strips for quick cooking and better flavor absorption. In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
Toss the chicken strips in this marinade, coating thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to infuse bold spicy flavors.
- Cook the Chicken:
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken strips in a single layer.
Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and charred lightly. Use tongs to turn the chicken for even cooking. Remove from heat and set aside.
Preparing the Vegetables and Wraps
- Vegetable Prep:
- Shred 2 cups iceberg lettuce into thin strips for crunch.
- Dice 1 large tomato into small, even pieces.
- Thinly slice ½ cup red onions for mild pungency.
- Slice 1 ripe avocado into even strips for creamy texture.
- Roughly chop ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves for an herbal burst.
- Warm the Tortillas:
Use large flour tortillas for flexibility and softness. Warm each tortilla on a dry skillet over medium heat for 15 seconds per side, or microwave wrapped in a slightly damp paper towel for 20 seconds. This step prevents tearing during assembly.
Making the Firecracker Sauce
In a small bowl whisk the following ingredients until smooth and creamy:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ⅓ cup |
| Sriracha Sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Honey | 1 tbsp |
| Fresh Lime Juice | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic Powder | ½ tsp |
| Smoked Paprika | ¼ tsp |
| Salt | ⅛ tsp |
The sauce ties together the wrap’s heat and creaminess with a zesty tang. Adjust Sriracha to taste for desired spice level.
“A well-made firecracker sauce is what sets these wraps apart, delivering a delicious punch that complements every bite.”
With the chicken marinated, veggies chopped, tortillas warmed, and sauce mixed, our Longhorn Firecracker Chicken Wraps are ready to be assembled and enjoyed.
Cooking
Let’s dive into the cooking process for our Longhorn Firecracker Chicken Wraps, focusing on perfectly cooked spicy chicken and fresh, well-balanced assembly. Following these steps guarantees a flavorful wrap with crisp textures and bold heat.
Cooking the Chicken
- Preheat your non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. This ensures a nice sear and quick cooking without drying the chicken.
- Remove the marinated chicken strips from the refrigerator. Allow any excess marinade to drip off to avoid steaming.
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the hot pan to prevent sticking.
- Place the chicken strips in a single layer in the pan. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking.
- Cook the chicken for 3–4 minutes on the first side until you see golden-brown edges and slight char marks.
- Flip the strips with tongs or a spatula, cooking for another 3–4 minutes. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest for a few minutes. This step locks in juices and keeps the chicken tender.
| Step | Time | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat skillet | 2–3 minutes | Medium-high heat | Use non-stick or grill pan |
| Cook first side | 3–4 minutes | Look for golden-brown edges | |
| Cook second side | 3–4 minutes | Internal temp 165°F | Ensure chicken is fully cooked |
| Rest chicken | 5 minutes | Retains moisture |
Assembling the Wraps
- Warm the large flour tortillas for about 15–20 seconds each in a dry skillet or microwave. This improves pliability and prevents tearing.
- Lay a tortilla flat on your work surface or plate.
- Using a small spoon or brush, spread 1–2 tablespoons of the creamy firecracker sauce evenly across the center of the tortilla.
- Place a generous handful (approximately 4 ounces) of the cooked spicy firecracker chicken strips on top of the sauce.
- Layer on fresh fillings in this order:
- Shredded iceberg lettuce for crispiness
- Diced tomatoes for juice and bright flavor
- Sliced red onions for a mild sharpness
- Sliced avocado for creaminess
- Shredded cheddar cheese for richness
- Fresh cilantro for a pop of herbaceous aroma
- Fold the bottom of the tortilla upward over the filling, then fold in the sides tightly. Roll the wrap securely.
- For easier eating and presentation, wrap the finished wrap in aluminum foil or parchment paper if desired.
“Pro tip: Warming the tortillas and resting the chicken are key steps to prevent breakage and maintain flavor balance in every bite.”
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Longhorn Firecracker Chicken Wraps, pairing them with complementary sides and beverages enhances the meal experience while balancing the bold, spicy flavors. Here are our top serving ideas and presentation tips:
Ideal Side Dishes to Pair
We recommend serving the wraps with fresh or lightly seasoned sides that provide texture and palate relief:
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries — The natural sweetness contrasts the heat from the Sriracha-spiked chicken.
- Classic Coleslaw — A creamy, cool slaw featuring cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing calms the spice and adds crunch.
- Black Bean and Corn Salad — A zesty, colorful salad with lime juice, cilantro, and diced peppers boosts freshness.
- Tortilla Chips with Guacamole or Salsa — Adds a crunchy appetizer option, echoing the wrap’s Southwestern vibe.
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Potato Fries | Sweet and Savory | Counterbalances spicy heat with natural sweetness |
| Classic Coleslaw | Creamy and Tangy | Provides cool, crunchy texture to cool the palate |
| Black Bean and Corn Salad | Fresh and Zesty | Adds brightness and complements Mexican-inspired spices |
| Tortilla Chips with Salsa | Crunchy and Light | Enhances theme, offers extra texture and zesty contrast |
Beverage Pairings for Longhorn Firecracker Chicken Wraps
Refreshing, lightly sweetened beverages balance the spicy, smoky notes in the wraps:
- Iced Tea with Lemon — A classic refresher that cleanses the palate.
- Mango or Pineapple Agua Fresca — Offers tropical sweetness that cools heat.
- Light Lager or Pale Ale — For adult meals, a mild beer complements smoky flavors without overpowering.
- Sparkling Water with Lime — Adds fizz and acidity to cut through richness.
Presentation Tips for Serving
- Warm each wrap just before serving and slice diagonally to expose the colorful fillings.
- Garnish plates with fresh cilantro sprigs or lime wedges for a vibrant touch.
- Serve sauce on the side in small ramekins so guests can customize their spice level.
- Use rustic wooden boards or cast-iron skillets to enhance the hearty, casual steakhouse vibe.
Make-Ahead Tips
To streamline your process and enjoy the bold flavors of Longhorn Firecracker Chicken Wraps with minimal fuss, we recommend these practical Make-Ahead Tips. Preparing certain components in advance enhances the flavor and saves valuable time when you’re ready to serve.
1. Marinate the Chicken Early
Marinating the chicken is crucial for infusing those spicy, smoky notes characteristic of the wraps. We suggest:
- Marinate for at least 20 minutes, but for deeper flavor, extend up to 4 hours.
- Store the marinated chicken in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Keep refrigerated until ready to cook.
2. Cook the Chicken Ahead
Cooking the chicken beforehand helps with quick assembly:
- Grill or sauté the chicken strips as per the recipe instructions.
- Let the cooked chicken cool to room temperature.
- Store in an airtight container, then refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
- Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling to avoid drying out.
3. Prepare the Sauce and Veggies Early
The creamy, spicy sauce and fresh veggies keep your wraps vibrant:
- Mix the spicy creamy sauce and transfer it to a sealed jar or container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days; the flavors develop and intensify.
- Wash and chop the lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. Store separately in airtight containers lined with paper towels to absorb moisture. Keep refrigerated.
- Slice avocado just before assembly to prevent browning.
4. Warm and Wrap Later
To maintain the wrap’s texture:
- Store flour tortillas in their original packaging or an airtight bag at room temperature.
- Warm tortillas just before assembly to ensure softness and flexibility.
| Component | Make-Ahead Step | Storage Time | Storage Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marinated Chicken | Marinate chicken strips | Up to 4 hours | Airtight container, fridge |
| Cooked Chicken | Cook and cool | 2 days (fridge), 1 month (freeze) | Airtight container |
| Spicy Creamy Sauce | Mix and store | Up to 3 days | Sealed jar, fridge |
| Veggies (except avocado) | Chop and store | Up to 1 day | Airtight container with paper towels, fridge |
| Tortillas | Store as-is | Up to 1 week | Airtight bag, room temp |
Quick Assembly Reminder
When ready to assemble, follow these steps:
- Warm tortillas for 15-20 seconds in a dry skillet or microwave.
- Reheat chicken gently if refrigerated or frozen.
- Add fresh veggies and sauce quickly, avoiding pre-assembling for long to prevent sogginess.
- Slice avocado last and add immediately before wrapping.
Conclusion
Longhorn Firecracker Chicken Wraps bring bold flavors and easy preparation together in one satisfying meal. They’re perfect for anyone looking to spice up lunch or dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
With their customizable ingredients and simple assembly, these wraps fit seamlessly into busy lifestyles while delivering restaurant-quality taste. We’re confident you’ll enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as we do.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Longhorn Firecracker Chicken Wraps?
Longhorn Firecracker Chicken Wraps are a flavorful meal featuring spicy marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy sauce wrapped in a soft tortilla. They’re inspired by a popular steakhouse dish and perfect for lunch or casual dinners.
What ingredients are needed for the marinade?
The marinade includes boneless chicken breast, olive oil, soy sauce, Sriracha sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt for bold, spicy flavor.
How do I make the creamy spicy sauce?
Mix mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, honey, fresh lime juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt to create a balanced creamy and spicy sauce.
Can I customize the wraps?
Yes! You can add toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, or side dishes such as sweet potato fries and coleslaw.
What equipment is needed to prepare these wraps?
You’ll need a cutting board, sharp knife, mixing bowls, measuring spoons, whisk or fork, tongs or spatula, and a non-stick skillet or grill pan for cooking.
How long should the chicken marinate?
Marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.
Why should the tortillas be warmed before assembly?
Warming tortillas makes them more pliable, preventing breakage during wrapping and ensuring a better texture.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Allow the chicken to rest after cooking to retain moisture and keep it juicy.
What are some good side dishes to serve with these wraps?
Sweet potato fries, classic coleslaw, black bean and corn salad, and tortilla chips with guacamole or salsa pair well.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate and cook the chicken, prepare the sauce and veggies ahead to save time during assembly.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store cooked chicken, sauce, and vegetables separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
What beverages complement these wraps?
Iced tea with lemon, fruity agua frescas, light lager or pale ale, and sparkling water with lime are great options.