Description
Looking for a fresh, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or a romantic Valentine’s Day treat? Slow Cooker Chicken Caesar Wraps are a delicious solution! This slow cooker adaptation of the classic Chicken Caesar Wraps recipe features tender, slow-cooked chicken tossed with crisp romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and crunchy homemade croutons, all wrapped in soft flour tortillas.
Ingredients
- Romaine Lettuce (3 cups, chopped):
- Why it’s important: Adds crisp, fresh texture essential for Caesar salad.
- Substitutions: Baby spinach, kale, or mixed greens.
- Cooked Chicken (1 ½ cups, chopped, ~1 lb raw chicken breast or thighs):
- Why it’s important: Provides a tender, protein-packed base.
- Substitutions: Rotisserie chicken (skip slow cooker), turkey, or plant-based chicken for vegetarian.
- Caesar Dressing (â…“ cup, or more to taste):
- Why it’s important: Delivers creamy, tangy, garlicky flavor.
- Substitutions: Greek yogurt-based Caesar, vegan Caesar, or ranch dressing.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese (â…“ cup):
- Why it’s important: Adds nutty, salty richness.
- Substitutions: Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or nutritional yeast for vegan.
- Homemade Croutons (½ cup):
- Why it’s important: Brings crunchy, garlicky texture.
- Substitutions: Store-bought croutons, toasted nuts, or omit for gluten-free.
- Kosher Salt (to taste, ~¼ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Enhances overall flavor.
- Substitutions: Sea salt or table salt.
- Black Pepper (to taste, ~¼ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds mild heat and depth.
- Substitutions: White pepper or a pinch of cayenne.
- Flour Tortillas or Wraps (4, 10-inch):
- Why it’s important: Creates a soft, portable wrap.
- Substitutions: Whole wheat tortillas, gluten-free wraps, or lettuce leaves for low-carb.
For Slow Cooker:
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs (1 lb, boneless, skinless):
- Why it’s important: Base for the cooked chicken.
- Substitutions: Bone-in chicken (add 1 hour on low).
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth (¼ cup):
- Why it’s important: Keeps chicken moist.
- Substitutions: Water or white wine.
- Garlic Powder (½ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds subtle flavor to chicken.
- Substitutions: 1 minced garlic clove or omit.
Tip: Grate Parmesan fresh for maximum flavor, and make croutons by tossing cubed bread with olive oil, garlic powder, and salt, then baking at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.
Instructions
Step 1: Slow Cook the Chicken
- Lightly grease the slow cooker insert with cooking spray or oil.
- Place 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker. Season with ½ tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Add ¼ cup chicken or vegetable broth.
- Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
- Remove chicken, let rest for 5 minutes, then chop or shred into bite-sized pieces (~1 ½ cups). Cool slightly.
- Tip: Drain excess liquid to avoid a watery salad, and shred with two forks for a finer texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Caesar Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine 3 cups chopped romaine lettuce, 1 ½ cups chopped chicken, ⅓ cup Caesar dressing, ⅓ cup grated Parmesan, and ½ cup homemade croutons.
- Toss with tongs to coat evenly. Season with ¼ tsp kosher salt and ¼ tsp black pepper, adding more dressing (1–2 tbsp) if desired.
- Tip: Add croutons just before assembling to keep them crunchy, and toss gently to preserve lettuce crispness.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 4 (10-inch) flour tortillas for 15–30 seconds per side until pliable. Alternatively, microwave between paper towels for 15–30 seconds.
- Cover with a kitchen towel to keep warm.
- Tip: Warm one at a time in the skillet for even heating, or stack in the microwave for speed.
Step 4: Assemble the Wraps
- Lay each tortilla flat on a clean surface. Divide the Caesar mixture evenly (~¾–1 cup per wrap), placing it in a line down the center.
- Fold in the opposite sides, then roll tightly from the bottom, burrito-style. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Tip: Avoid overfilling to prevent tearing, and roll tightly for a neat wrap.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve whole or cut diagonally in half to showcase the filling. Arrange on a platter with extra croutons or Parmesan for garnish.
- Pair with cucumber slices, fruit salad, or potato chips for a complete meal.
- Tip: For Valentine’s Day, cut wraps into heart shapes with a cookie cutter or serve with heart-shaped croutons.
