Save Pin The first time I made these wraps, my kitchen smelled like honey and frying chicken for days, and I honestly did not mind one bit. My roommate kept wandering in, asking if they were ready yet, which I took as a very good sign.
We started making these on Friday nights when we wanted something that felt like takeout but came out of our own kitchen. Now they have become this whole ritual where we put on music and take our time with the prep.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Cutting them into strips helps them cook evenly and makes the wrap so much easier to eat
- Buttermilk: This tenderizes the chicken like nothing else and helps the coating stick perfectly
- Panko breadcrumbs: They create this incredible crunch that regular breadcrumbs just cannot match
- Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle depth that makes the coating taste restaurant quality
- Honey and hot sauce: The magic combination that transforms everything into something addictive
- Romaine lettuce: Stays crispy longer than other greens and holds up beautifully against the warm chicken
- Flour tortillas: Large ones are essential here because you need room for all the good stuff inside
Instructions
- Get the chicken ready:
- Let those strips soak in buttermilk while you prep everything else, at least 15 minutes but longer is even better
- Make the coating station:
- Mix the flour, panko, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish until well combined
- Fry the chicken:
- Cook the coated strips in hot oil for about 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden and perfectly crispy
- Whisk the hot honey:
- Warm the honey, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes gently over low heat until blended into a glossy sauce
- Coat the chicken:
- Toss the fried chicken in the hot honey until every piece is beautifully glazed
- Prep the Caesar:
- Toss the romaine with Caesar dressing, Parmesan, and tomatoes until everything is lightly coated
- Warm the tortillas:
- Give them a quick heat in a dry pan so they are pliable and ready for folding
- Assemble and roll:
- Layer Caesar salad and hot honey chicken, fold in the sides, and roll everything up tight
Save Pin My friend took one bite and immediately asked how soon I could teach her to make these. That is usually when I know a recipe is worth keeping around.
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I swap in grilled chicken when I want something lighter, and the hot honey still works beautifully. You could also add sliced avocado or pickled red onions for extra layers of flavor.
Perfect For Crowds
These wraps are surprisingly portable, which makes them perfect for picnics or packed lunches. The components can also be served as separate bowls for a build your own wrap situation that kids absolutely love.
Timing Tips
The chicken stays warm for quite a while after frying, so you can make it first and focus on assembly. I like to have all my ingredients laid out in separate bowls before I start rolling.
- Warm the tortillas just before assembling for easiest rolling
- Do not overfill or you will never get them closed properly
- Serve them right away while that crunch is at its peak
Save Pin These wraps have become one of those recipes I can make without even thinking, and honestly, they never get old.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, for a lighter option, bake the breaded chicken at 400°F for 15-18 minutes until golden and cooked through. Air-frying is also an excellent alternative for similar crispy results with less oil.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Control the heat by adjusting the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes in the honey mixture. Start with less and taste before tossing the chicken, adding more gradually until you reach your preferred spice level.
- → What can I substitute for buttermilk?
Mix regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let sit for 5 minutes. Alternatively, use Greek yogurt thinned with milk for a tangy marinating liquid that tenderizes the chicken.
- → Are there gluten-free options?
Use gluten-free flour blended with panko breadcrumbs for the coating, and choose gluten-free tortillas. Always verify that your hot sauce and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- → How long can I prepare ahead?
Marinate the chicken up to 8 hours in advance. Prepare the Caesar salad mixture separately and assemble wraps right before serving for optimal freshness and warm tortillas.
- → What beverages pair well with this meal?
Serve with cold beverages like iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp beer to balance the spicy-sweet honey coating. A refreshing citrus drink complements the bold flavors beautifully.