Name: Spice Up Your Dinner with Portuguese-Style Chilli Chicken Wraps
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless); 1 tablespoon Sweet Paprika (or smoked paprika); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Sea Salt Flakes (or regular salt); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly cracked); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or any neutral oil); 2 tablespoons Chili Paste (adjust to spice tolerance); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (or lime juice); 2 cloves Fresh Garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon Fresh Ginger (minced); 1 teaspoon Caster Sugar (or regular sugar); 4 pieces Pita Bread (or tortillas); 3 tablespoons Mayonnaise (or avocado); 1 cup Gouda Cheese (shredded); 2 cups Iceberg Lettuce (shredded); 1 serving Optional Fries (for dipping)

When I first slipped one of these Portuguese-Style Chilli Chicken Wraps into my mouth, it was like a savory fiesta for my taste buds! Juicy, marinated chicken mingled with melty gouda and zesty chili sauce delivers a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its deliciousness, but also in the fact that it can be whipped up in under 30 minutes—ideal for those busy weeknights when takeout feels too tempting. Plus, you’ll love how customizable these wraps are, allowing you to adapt them with your favorite cheeses, fresh veggies, or even make them gluten-free! So, are you ready to infuse your weeknight meals with a dash of spice and a whole lot of flavor?

Why Are These Wraps a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: With just under 30 minutes needed, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.

Bursting with Flavor: Each bite showcases a delightful mix of marinated chicken, gooey gouda, and a spicy chili sauce that dances on your taste buds.

Fully Customizable: Whether you’re in the mood for a spicy kick or a veggie boost, feel free to switch things up with different cheeses, wraps, or fresh greens.

Perfect for Health-Conscious Eaters: Make these wraps gluten-free or dairy-free—perfect for accommodating dietary preferences while still packing a flavor punch.

Crowd-Pleaser: They’re not just a hit for dinner but also make a fantastic party food; serve with air-fried chips for an ultimate snack option.

Try these out alongside our delicious Spicy Chicken Tacos for a full-flavored feast!

Portuguese-Style Chilli Chicken Wraps Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

Chicken Breasts – Main protein source; use boneless, skinless varieties for tenderness.
Sweet Paprika – Adds depth and mild sweetness to the marinade; substitute with smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
Onion Powder – Enhances savory depth; fresh onions can be used if finely chopped.
Garlic Powder – Provides robust flavor; fresh garlic is a flavorful substitute.
Sea Salt Flakes – Enhances all flavors; regular salt can be used as a substitute.
Black Pepper – Adds a touch of heat; use freshly cracked for the best flavor.
Olive Oil – Crucial for marinating chicken and cooking; any neutral oil works as a substitute.

For the Chili Sauce

Chili Paste – Adds heat to the sauce; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Lemon Juice – Balances flavors and adds acidity; lime juice serves as a great alternative.
Fresh Garlic & Ginger – Infuse the chili sauce with zesty flavors; pre-minced versions can be convenient.
Caster Sugar – Balances the heat; normal sugar can work in a pinch.

For the Wrap Assembly

Pita Bread – The base of the wrap; alternative wraps like tortillas can be used for variety.
Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess; substitute with avocado for a healthier option.
Gouda Cheese – Melts beautifully; alternatives like cheddar or pepper jack can be delicious.
Iceberg Lettuce – Adds crunch; any crisp salad greens can be substituted easily.
Optional Fries – Serve as a crunchy side; perfect for dipping!

These Portuguese-Style Chilli Chicken Wraps are not just easy to whip up but also allow for delightful customization, perfect for satisfying any craving!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Portuguese-Style Chilli Chicken Wraps

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by slicing boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken with sweet paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, sea salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Make sure the chicken is well-coated in the marinade. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even longer for enhanced flavor, while you prep the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, cook the marinated chicken strips for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. If using an air fryer, preheat it to 200°C (400°F) and cook the chicken strips for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway. The chicken should be juicy and slightly charred.

Step 3: Make the Chili Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together chili paste, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, minced ginger, and caster sugar. Stir until smooth, adjusting the seasoning to your taste; it should balance the heat with a hint of sweetness. This zesty chili sauce will be drizzled over your Portuguese-Style Chilli Chicken Wraps, enhancing their flavor profile.

Step 4: Assemble the Wraps
Warm up the pita bread or your choice of wrap in a pan or microwave for about 10-15 seconds to make them pliable. Spread a layer of mayonnaise or avocado on one side of the wrap. Next, layer the melted gouda cheese, the succulent cooked chicken, and a handful of crunchy iceberg lettuce. Drizzle generously with the chili sauce before rolling the wrap tightly.

Step 5: Serve Immediately
Slice the assembled Portuguese-Style Chilli Chicken Wraps in half for easy eating. Serve them alongside optional fries or air-fried chips for a delightful crunch. Make sure to keep any remaining chili sauce on the side for dipping, and relish every bite of this flavor-packed creation!

How to Store and Freeze Portuguese-Style Chilli Chicken Wraps

Fridge: Keep assembled wraps in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave before serving.
Freezer: Wrap unbaked wraps tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking or reheating.
Reheating: Bake from thawed at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through, ensuring the chicken stays juicy and flavors intact.
Marinated Chicken: If pre-marinating, you can store the marinated chicken in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking, ensuring a burst of flavor in your wraps.

Make Ahead Options

These Portuguese-Style Chilli Chicken Wraps are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, which allows the spices to penetrate deeply and enhance the flavor. Prepare the chili sauce ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just give it a stir before using to refresh the flavors. For maximum freshness, assemble the wraps only when ready to serve. Simply warm the pita breads (or your chosen wrap) for a few seconds, fill them with the precooked chicken and sauce, add fresh lettuce, and roll tightly for a deliciously satisfying meal without the last-minute rush!

Expert Tips for Portuguese-Style Chilli Chicken Wraps

Marination Time: Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to deepen the flavors. The longer, the better!
Wrap Warm-Up: Warm your wraps before assembling them. This prevents tearing and ensures a better texture for a smooth bite!
Spice Balance: Adjust the chili paste in your sauce to suit your heat preference. Balance it with sugar or lemon juice to avoid overpowering heat.
Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked; it should be golden brown with no pink inside. Using a meat thermometer helps in achieving perfect doneness.
Make It Your Own: Don’t hesitate to customize these wraps! Try different cheeses or add your favorite veggies to make these Portuguese-Style Chilli Chicken Wraps uniquely yours.

What to Serve with Portuguese-Style Chilli Chicken Wraps

Looking to build the perfect meal around these flavor-packed wraps? Here’s what pairs beautifully with them!

Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy freshness and tangy dressing contrast the warm, spicy wraps, offering a cooling balance that brightens each bite.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispy texture complement the savory, spiced chicken while making for a delightful side.
Grilled Vegetables: A medley of zucchini, bell peppers, and onions adds a vibrant flair and a healthy touch alongside your wraps.
Crispy Potato Chips: For a bit of crunch, salty chips elevate the meal experience, and they work wonderfully with the zesty chili sauce.
Chilled Gazpacho: This refreshing cold soup serves as a light starter, cleansing the palate perfectly before diving into hearty wraps.
Mango Salsa: Sweet and spicy, this salsa brings a tropical twist that harmonizes beautifully with the flavors of the chicken and chili sauce.
Lemonade Spritzer: A light, fizzy beverage with a hint of citrus will refresh your palate and enhance the wraps without overpowering them.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, a warm, gooey cake provides a rich and indulgent finish, balancing the heat from the wraps with sweetness.
Carrot Sticks with Hummus: A healthy and satisfying option, these crunchy veggies dipped in creamy hummus add a lovely texture contrast.
Spicy Pickles: For those who love a tangy bite, spicy pickles offer a robust contrast while keeping the meal exciting!

Portuguese-Style Chilli Chicken Wraps Variations

Feel free to get creative with these wraps and make them your own with simple tweaks that add delightful flavors and textures!

Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or drizzle with your favorite hot sauce for an extra layer of heat. Spice lovers will appreciate this fiery addition!
Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh cilantro or parsley into the chili sauce for a bright, herbal flavor that complements the heat beautifully. It’s a fresh touch you’ll love.
Creamy Avocado: Swap mayonnaise for mashed avocado for a creamy and healthier alternative. The rich texture of avocado adds a wonderful contrast to the other ingredients.
Cheese Variants: Experiment with different cheeses like feta for a tangy contrast or pepper jack for a spicier option. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor profile to the wraps.
Veggie Boost: Include grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach for added nutrition. Veggies not only enhance flavor but also add great texture and color to your wraps.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute pita bread with lettuce leaves for a fresh and low-carb option that still wraps everything beautifully. It’s a fun and guilt-free way to enjoy these delicious flavors!
Different Wrap Types: Try whole grain tortillas or even flatbreads for a different texture experience. The possibilities are endless, especially if you want something beyond the usual pita.

Looking for other flavor-packed recipes? Check out our mouthwatering Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl for another exciting option sure to please!

Portuguese-Style Chilli Chicken Wraps Recipe FAQs

How do I select the perfect chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken breasts, go for boneless, skinless cuts to ensure tenderness and ease of preparation. Look for ones that are pale pink and firm to the touch with no dark spots. If you can, opt for fresh chicken instead of frozen, as it will enhance the overall flavor and texture of your wraps.

How should I store Portuguese-Style Chilli Chicken Wraps?
You can keep your assembled wraps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them gently in a pan or the microwave to keep them nice and warm before serving. If you love make-ahead meals, consider prepping the chicken and chili sauce a day in advance to save time.

Can I freeze these wraps for later use?
Absolutely! Unbaked wraps can be frozen for up to 2 months. To do so, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and then bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through again! This method preserves the juicy chicken and the delightful flavors of the wraps.

What would I do if my chicken is overcooked?
Very common! If you find that your chicken has dried out while cooking, don’t fret! Slice the cooked chicken and toss it in some extra chili sauce or olive oil to help moisten it. You could even add a splash of broth or lemon juice to rejuvenate the flavors. Just keep an eye on the cooking time the next time!

Are these wraps suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, indeed! These wraps can be made gluten-free by substituting pita bread with lettuce wraps or gluten-free tortillas. For dairy-free options, swap gouda with avocado spread or omit the cheese altogether. Always double-check your pantry for any allergens, especially with pre-packaged ingredients like mayonnaise or chili paste. You can always tailor it to fit your dietary needs.