Pesto Chicken and Avocado Bacon Salad Wraps Recipe

If you’re looking for a lunch that feels like a treat but is shockingly easy to pull together, these Pesto Chicken and Avocado Bacon Salad Wraps will absolutely make your day. Imagine tender, herby chicken mingling with creamy avocado, crisp bacon, and bright basil, all snugly wrapped up with a punchy, homemade dressing. It’s a texture and flavor party in every bite, and from the very first mouthful, you’ll understand why I keep this recipe on repeat. There’s color, crunch, and satisfaction all wrapped—quite literally—into one delicious bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about these Pesto Chicken and Avocado Bacon Salad Wraps is how every ingredient is there for a reason—either adding a burst of flavor, irresistible texture, or that perfect fresh salad crunch. Nothing fussy, but each choice works wonders to create wraps you’ll crave again and again.

• Mayo: The creamy foundation for your punchy dressing, giving it irresistible richness.
• Extra virgin olive oil: For a lovely, fruity flavor and silky finish in the dressing.
• Lemon juice: Adds zest and brightness, waking up all the other flavors.
• Dijon mustard: Lends a little tang and mild heat that makes the dressing memorable.
• Worcestershire sauce: Deep, savory layers without overpowering the lighter notes.
• Garlic: Just a clove or two, finely grated, is enough to infuse the entire salad with aromatic punch.
• Kosher salt & black pepper: Classic seasonings for balance and to let each component shine.
• Grated parmesan: A finishing touch of umami and a salty bite in the dressing.
• Large tortillas: The wrap itself—use your favorite kind, or go gluten-free if needed.
• Shredded lettuce: For a crisp, refreshing crunch in every mouthful.
• Avocado: Soft, buttery, and rich—brings balance and creaminess.
• Fresh basil: Torn leaves add peppery, fresh perfume rivaling any salad shop creation.
• Basil pesto: Herby, garlicky, and vibrant, it’s truly the hero flavor here.
• Grilled chicken: Use cubed or shredded—protein-packed and deeply satisfying.
• Cooked bacon: Crumbled for pops of saltiness and crunch that make these wraps unforgettable.
• Blue cheese or cheddar: Either choice is fantastic—blue cheese if you love strong, tangy notes or cheddar for a milder, creamy finish.

How to Make Pesto Chicken and Avocado Bacon Salad Wraps

Step 1: Make the Dreamy Dressing

Start by grabbing a medium bowl or glass jar and combine the mayo, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, grated garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and parmesan. Whisk until smooth and creamy—give it a taste to adjust the seasoning just how you like it. This dressing is pure magic, trust me.

Step 2: Toss Up the Salad Filling

In a big salad bowl, toss together the shredded lettuce, diced avocado, and torn basil. Drizzle in about half of your freshly whisked dressing and give everything a gentle but thorough toss. You want every shred of lettuce and chunk of avocado lightly coated and glistening.

Step 3: Warm and Prep Your Tortillas

Wraps are much easier (and tastier) when the tortillas are soft and pliable. One at a time, zap your tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds. This quick warm-up makes them perfectly rollable and less likely to tear.

Step 4: Assemble the Pesto Chicken and Avocado Bacon Salad Wraps

Spread a generous layer of basil pesto all over the center of each tortilla—don’t be shy, since this is where the flavor starts. Next, pile on a hearty scoop of your dressed salad, followed by grilled chicken, crumbled bacon, and your cheese of choice. A little extra drizzle of dressing over the top never hurts. You’re building layers of deliciousness!

Step 5: Wrap and Roll

Fold the bottom of the tortilla up over the filling, then tuck in the sides and roll tightly. Repeat with your remaining tortillas and filling. If you want a toasted wrap, heat a skillet with a slick of olive oil and sear each wrap for a couple minutes to get that crispy, golden finish—totally irresistible.

How to Serve Pesto Chicken and Avocado Bacon Salad Wraps

Garnishes

A finishing sprinkle of fresh torn basil or extra parmesan is always welcome on the plate. If you love a peppery kick, a grind or two of black pepper over the top is perfect. Don’t forget an extra dollop of pesto or a side of your homemade dressing for dipping—these little touches transform the wrap into something restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

Keep it fresh and simple: a handful of veggie chips, a cup of crisp baby carrots, or a tangy, vinegary slaw are all ideal companions. If you’re feeling fancy, pair your Pesto Chicken and Avocado Bacon Salad Wraps with a fresh fruit salad or a cup of tomato basil soup for a total lunch upgrade.

Creative Ways to Present

For a picnic-ready twist, slice the wraps into pinwheels and secure each piece with a toothpick—perfect finger food for gatherings. You can also serve the salad and wrap components “DIY-style” so everyone builds their own, making it a fun, interactive meal. For an elegant brunch platter, halve the wraps on a diagonal and arrange them with colorful veggies and fresh herbs.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Pesto Chicken and Avocado Bacon Salad Wraps, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. They’ll keep well for a day, staying fresh and flavorful—though for best texture, I recommend enjoying within 24 hours.

Freezing

It’s best not to freeze assembled wraps because the avocado and lettuce won’t hold up to thawing. However, you can freeze the grilled chicken and bacon separately—just add them to your fresh wrap when you’re ready to assemble.

Reheating

For that perfect just-made warmth, pop leftover wraps in a skillet over medium heat with a touch of olive oil, turning until golden and heated through. Avoid microwaving assembled wraps, as this can make the tortillas a bit soggy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto instead of homemade?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works wonderfully for Pesto Chicken and Avocado Bacon Salad Wraps, especially on busy days. Just choose a good-quality refrigerated brand for best flavor.

What kind of chicken works best?

Grilled chicken breast or rotisserie chicken both shine in these wraps. Just make sure it’s moist and cut into bite-sized pieces for maximum enjoyment.

Are these wraps good for meal prep?

They’re fantastic for meal prep if you keep the components separate—store salad, chicken, bacon, and dressing individually, then assemble fresh to avoid sogginess.

Can I omit the bacon for a lighter option?

Absolutely, you can skip the bacon or substitute with crispy chickpeas or turkey bacon. The wraps will still be loaded with flavor from the pesto, basil, and chicken.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Toss the avocado pieces in a bit of lemon juice before adding them to the salad. The citrus helps keep them vibrant and pretty, even if you prep a bit ahead.

Final Thoughts

Give these Pesto Chicken and Avocado Bacon Salad Wraps a spot at your table and I guarantee you’ll be hooked after the first bite. They’re bright, bold, and comforting—a wonderful way to make any lunch or casual dinner feel special. I can’t wait for you to try them and see just how deliciously easy homemade wraps can be!

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