When the weather warms up, there’s nothing better than a fresh, vibrant meal that’s light but still full of flavor. Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps offer the perfect balance of crispy bacon, tender grilled chicken, and creamy ranch dressing—all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. But we’re adding an Italian-inspired twist with fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, turning this classic comfort food into a Mediterranean delight. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or need a quick weeknight dinner, these wraps are the ideal summer meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Bacon:
- 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Italian Twist:
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella, torn into small pieces
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (optional for drizzle)
For the Ranch Dressing:
- 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought ranch dressing (or you can make an Italian-style dressing for a more authentic twist)
For the Wraps:
- 4 large flour tortillas (or use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option)
- 1 cup mixed greens or arugula
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Once hot, cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips. This ensures the juices stay inside, keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- While the chicken cooks, place the bacon slices in a cold skillet and turn the heat to medium.
- Cook the bacon until it’s crispy and golden, about 5-7 minutes per side. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess grease. Then, chop the bacon into smaller pieces for easy wrapping.
Step 3: Prepare the Wraps
- Lay your tortillas flat on a clean surface. Start by spreading a generous spoonful of ranch dressing (or Italian dressing) in the center of each tortilla.
- Add a handful of mixed greens or arugula for some freshness.
- Layer the sliced chicken and crispy bacon on top, followed by small pieces of fresh mozzarella. Add fresh basil for that Italian flair and sprinkle cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of summer flavor.
Step 4: Roll the Wraps
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll tightly from the bottom up, making sure the ingredients stay inside.
- If desired, drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the top of the wraps for a tangy sweetness that complements the savory chicken and bacon.
- Slice the wraps in half diagonally, and they’re ready to serve!
Tips and Tricks
- Make-Ahead Option: You can grill the chicken and cook the bacon a day ahead of time. Store the cooked chicken and bacon in the refrigerator and assemble the wraps when you’re ready to eat.
- Healthy Swap: For a lighter version, swap the bacon for turkey bacon, and use a light ranch dressing or a homemade yogurt-based dressing.
- Extra Veggies: Add grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or roasted red onions to the wraps for even more flavor and texture.
- Gluten-Free: Simply use gluten-free tortillas, and you’ll have a gluten-free meal everyone can enjoy.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and creamy ranch dressing creates a deliciously satisfying meal. By adding an Italian twist—fresh mozzarella, aromatic basil, and tangy balsamic glaze—this wrap becomes more than just a comfort food classic. It’s a perfect dish for the summer months, bringing together the warmth of grilled chicken and bacon with the freshness of Mediterranean flavors. The balance of savory, creamy, and slightly tangy notes makes each bite a delightful experience.
Serving Suggestions
These Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps are perfect on their own, but for a complete meal, pair them with some tasty sides. Try a light summer salad with a lemon vinaigrette, a bowl of pasta salad, or roasted veggies to keep things fresh and flavorful. You can also serve them alongside some crispy baked potato fries or a refreshing fruit salad to complement the savory wraps.
For a fun drink pairing, go for a sparkling lemonade or a glass of iced tea. If you’re looking for something a bit more sophisticated, a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc would pair wonderfully with the fresh flavors of the wraps.
Conclusion
These Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps with an Italian twist are the ultimate summer meal. Perfect for light lunches, family dinners, or even meal prep, they combine all the flavors you love into one easy-to-make wrap. The combination of crispy bacon, grilled chicken, creamy ranch dressing, and fresh mozzarella with basil will make you look forward to every bite. If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful wrap that’s both filling and satisfying, this recipe is a must-try.
Give this recipe a try and share your results with us! We’d love to see how you add your personal touches to this wrap. Don’t forget to explore our other summer recipes for more fresh meal ideas!
