Save This maple mustard chicken salad wrap recipe transforms leftover chicken into a delicious meal that balances sweet maple syrup with tangy mustard. The combination creates a perfect lunch option that's both satisfying and fresh.
I created this recipe when looking for ways to use leftover rotisserie chicken, and it's become my go-to lunch for busy workdays. The sweet-tangy dressing elevates basic chicken salad to something truly craveable.
Ingredients
- cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded: 2 cups Provides lean protein and serves as the hearty base for our wrap
- Dijon mustard: 3 tablespoons Adds tangy depth look for a quality brand with visible mustard seeds for best flavor
- pure maple syrup: 2 tablespoons Provides natural sweetness use real maple syrup not pancake syrup for authentic flavor
- Greek yogurt: 2 tablespoons Creates creaminess with less fat than mayo while adding protein and tanginess
- apple cider vinegar: 1 tablespoon Brightens all flavors and balances the sweetness
- olive oil: 1 tablespoon Adds richness and helps bind the dressing
- celery, finely chopped: 1 cup Provides essential crunch and freshness
- red onion, finely diced: 1/2 cup Adds color and mild sharpness choose firm onions without soft spots
- red bell pepper, diced: 1/2 cup Contributes sweet crunch and vibrant color
- fresh parsley, chopped: 1/4 cup Brings brightness and color look for perky bunches with no wilting
- large flour tortillas: 4 Creates the portable wrap structure warm slightly for easier rolling
- mixed salad greens: 2 cups Adds nutrients and freshness choose prewashed varieties for convenience
- avocado, sliced: Optional 1 Contributes healthy fats and creamy texture
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing:
- Whisk together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil in a medium bowl until completely smooth. The mustard will help emulsify the dressing, creating a silky texture. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, starting with 1/4 teaspoon of each and adjusting to taste. The dressing should be tangy with a noticeable maple sweetness.
- Combine with chicken and vegetables:
- Add your cooked chicken, celery, red onion, red bell pepper, and parsley to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together, making sure each piece gets evenly coated. The warm chicken will absorb the flavors better, but cold leftover chicken works perfectly too. Let this mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Assemble the wraps:
- Lay out your tortillas on a clean work surface. Place about 1/2 cup of salad greens or spinach in the center of each tortilla, creating a bed for the chicken mixture. Divide the chicken salad evenly among the tortillas, spooning it directly onto the greens. If using avocado, fan out 2-3 slices over each portion of chicken salad.
- Roll the wraps:
- To roll each wrap, fold in the sides of the tortilla first, then roll up tightly from the bottom, tucking in the filling as you go. The key is to keep everything compact without tearing the tortilla. If your tortillas seem stiff, warm them for 10 seconds in the microwave to make them more pliable.
- Serve or store:
- For immediate serving, slice each wrap diagonally with a sharp knife. For later use, wrap tightly in foil or parchment paper, which helps keep everything secure. These wraps can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before the tortillas begin to soften too much.
Save The maple syrup in this recipe is my secret ingredient for elevating chicken salad. My family was skeptical when I first mentioned it, but now they request these wraps regularly. The natural sweetness balances the tangy mustard perfectly without tasting overly sweet.
Make-Ahead Tips
These wraps can be prepared in different stages depending on your needs. For the freshest result, store the chicken salad mixture separately from the tortillas and greens, then assemble just before eating. The chicken salad mixture actually improves after sitting in the refrigerator for 4-24 hours as the flavors meld together beautifully.
If you need grab-and-go options, fully assembled wraps will keep well for about 8 hours in the refrigerator. To prevent soggy tortillas, pat the salad greens completely dry before assembling and avoid adding avocado until just before eating.
Ingredient Substitutions
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. If you prefer a creamier dressing, replace the Greek yogurt with mayonnaise. For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based yogurt alternative or all mayonnaise.
No maple syrup? Honey makes an excellent substitute though it will change the flavor profile slightly. For a lower sugar option, try using just 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and adding a pinch of cinnamon to enhance the perceived sweetness.
Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this recipe and saves significant time. You can also use leftover turkey, grilled chicken, or even canned chicken in a pinch.
Serving Suggestions
These wraps pair beautifully with simple sides that complement without overwhelming. A light soup like tomato bisque or cucumber gazpacho makes an excellent companion for cooler and warmer months respectively.
For a complete lunch, serve with fresh fruit such as grapes or apple slices. The sweetness of the fruit balances the tangy wrap perfectly. If serving for dinner, consider adding a side of sweet potato fries or a simple green salad dressed with just lemon and olive oil.
For gatherings, cut the wraps into pinwheels and secure with toothpicks for an attractive appetizer that can be prepared ahead of time.
Save These wraps are a versatile and delicious way to use up leftover chicken. Enjoy them for a quick lunch or a satisfying snack.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and works perfectly for this dish. It saves time and ensures juicy, flavorful meat.
- → What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
Mayonnaise is a simple replacement for Greek yogurt. You can also use a dairy-free alternative if needed.
- → Are these wraps suitable for a gluten-free diet?
To make the wraps gluten-free, use certified gluten-free tortillas or wraps in place of regular flour tortillas.
- → How can I add extra crunch to the wraps?
Add chopped walnuts or almonds to the filling for an extra layer of texture and nutty flavor.
- → What side dishes pair well with these wraps?
Pair these wraps with a light salad, chips, or a crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc for a complete meal.