Spicy Harissa Chicken Wraps with Cucumber Slaw: 5 Steps!

spicy harissa chicken wraps cucumber slaw

By:

Julia marin

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these spicy harissa chicken wraps with cucumber slaw! I first discovered harissa while wandering through a local market, and I was instantly captivated by its vibrant color and tantalizing aroma. It completely transformed my cooking! The rich, spicy flavor of the harissa pairs so beautifully with the crunch of the cucumber slaw, creating a wrap that’s not just a meal, but an experience. Trust me, once you try these wraps, they’ll become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Every bite is an explosion of flavor that will leave you craving more!

spicy harissa chicken wraps cucumber slaw - detail 1

Ingredients List

For these spicy harissa chicken wraps with cucumber slaw, you’ll want to gather the following fresh and flavorful ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts (about 1 pound) – Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy grilling and slicing.
  • 3 tablespoons harissa paste – This North African chili paste adds heat and depth; feel free to adjust to your spice preference.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil – A good quality extra virgin olive oil works best for marinating the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing the flavors of the chicken and slaw.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground black pepper gives a nice kick to the marinade.
  • 4 large tortillas – Opt for your favorite type, whether flour, corn, or whole wheat for a healthier option.
  • 1 cup cucumber, julienned – Use a crisp cucumber to add a refreshing crunch to your slaw.
  • 1/2 cup carrots, shredded – Freshly grated carrots bring sweetness and color to the slaw.
  • 1/4 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced – This adds beautiful color and a slight crunch; feel free to substitute with green cabbage if desired.
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar – This will help balance the flavors in the slaw with a tangy touch.
  • 1 tablespoon honey – Adds a hint of sweetness to counter the heat of the harissa.
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil – For a nutty flavor that complements the slaw beautifully.
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish – This vibrant herb adds a burst of freshness to finish off your wraps.
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Multi-Purpose Sealer

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3 in 1 Kitchen Sink Drain Strainer

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Extend kitchen sink drain basket

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Microwave Splatter Cover for Food

How to Prepare Spicy Harissa Chicken Wraps with Cucumber Slaw

Marinate the Chicken

First things first, let’s get that chicken marinating! In a bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons of harissa paste, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper until it’s well combined. Coat the chicken breasts thoroughly in this vibrant marinade, making sure every inch is covered. I like to let it sit for at least 30 minutes; this is key to allowing the flavors to really soak in. If you have time, marinating for a few hours (or even overnight) will elevate the taste even more!

Grill the Chicken

Now, let’s fire up the grill! Preheat it to a medium-high heat, and once it’s nice and hot, place your marinated chicken breasts on the grill. You’ll want to grill them for about 6-7 minutes per side, but keep an eye on them! The goal is to get that perfect char while ensuring they’re cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once grilled, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This step is crucial as it helps the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken tender and juicy!

Prepare the Cucumber Slaw

While the chicken is resting, let’s whip up that refreshing cucumber slaw! In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of julienned cucumber, 1/2 cup of shredded carrots, and 1/4 cup of thinly sliced red cabbage. In a separate small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil until well blended. Pour this dressing over the vegetables and toss everything together gently. The crunch of the veggies combined with the tangy dressing creates a beautiful balance that complements the spicy chicken perfectly!

Assemble the Wraps

Now comes the fun part—assembling your wraps! Start by warming your tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side until they’re pliable. Lay a tortilla flat and layer on some sliced chicken, followed by a generous scoop of the cucumber slaw. Don’t be shy with that slaw; it adds a great crunch! Carefully roll the tortilla tightly, tucking in the sides as you go to keep everything inside. Slice each wrap in half on a diagonal for a stunning presentation, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro for that vibrant pop!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bold and vibrant flavors from the spicy harissa chicken and refreshing cucumber slaw.
  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.
  • Healthy ingredients packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
  • Customizable with your favorite veggies or additional toppings.
  • Great for gatherings, offering a fun and interactive meal option!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up these spicy harissa chicken wraps with cucumber slaw! For the slaw, try adding different veggies like bell peppers for crunch, or thinly sliced radishes for a peppery kick. You could also swap out the cucumber for shredded jicama or even mango for a sweet twist! As for the marinade, consider mixing things up with a yogurt-based marinade for a creamier texture or using a citrus-based marinade for a refreshing zing. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices too; smoked paprika or cumin can add a whole new layer of flavor!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To store any leftover spicy harissa chicken wraps, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to enjoy them again, I recommend reheating the wraps in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side until warmed through. This keeps the tortillas nice and soft while reviving the flavors beautifully. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it can make the wraps soggy!

Nutritional Information

Each spicy harissa chicken wrap is approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying yet healthy option. You’ll find about 15g of fat, 25g of protein, and 40g of carbohydrates per wrap. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! While I love using chicken, you can easily substitute it with turkey, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!

What if I can’t find harissa paste? No worries! You can make a quick substitute using a mix of chili powder, cumin, and a splash of olive oil. It won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll still add a nice kick!

Can I make the slaw in advance? Yes, you can! Just prepare the slaw a few hours ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, I suggest adding the dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp.

How do I store leftovers? Wrap any leftover spicy harissa chicken wraps tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat them gently for the best taste!

For more information on harissa and its health benefits, check out this article.

If you’re interested in learning about the nutritional value of cucumbers, this study provides great insights.

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spicy harissa chicken wraps cucumber slaw

Spicy Harissa Chicken Wraps with Cucumber Slaw: 5 Steps!


  • Author: Julia marin
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Spicy harissa chicken wraps with cucumber slaw offer a vibrant and flavorful meal. The combination of tender chicken marinated in harissa and a refreshing cucumber slaw creates a delightful contrast.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
  • 3 tablespoons harissa paste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 large tortillas
  • 1 cup cucumber, julienned
  • 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
  • 1/4 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. In a bowl, mix harissa paste, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade. Let them sit for 30 minutes.
  4. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let it rest before slicing.
  5. In another bowl, combine cucumber, carrots, red cabbage, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil. Toss well.
  6. Warm the tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side.
  7. Layer sliced chicken and cucumber slaw onto each tortilla.
  8. Roll the tortillas tightly and slice in half. Garnish with cilantro.

Notes

  • For added heat, increase the amount of harissa used.
  • Try adding avocado slices for creaminess.
  • Use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option.
  • Experiment with different vegetables in the slaw.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: North African

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 wrap
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: spicy harissa chicken wraps, cucumber slaw, grilled chicken wraps, North African cuisine

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.

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