Name: Portuguese-style Chilli Chicken Wrap Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Portuguese
Ingredients: 600 g (1 lb 5 oz) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced horizontally to make thin schnitzels about 5 mm–1 cm (¼–½ inch) thick; 1 tsp sweet paprika; ½ tsp onion powder; ½ tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp sea salt flakes; ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; ½ cup (125 g) chilli paste (Italian chilli paste, sambal oelek); ¼ cup (60 ml) olive oil; 1 tbsp lemon juice; ½ tsp freshly minced garlic; ½ tsp freshly minced ginger; ½ tsp caster (superfine) sugar; Sea salt flakes, to taste; Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; 4 pita bread wraps (or any wraps you prefer); ⅓ cup (90 g) whole-egg mayonnaise; 4 slices gouda cheese (can substitute with any melty cheese or omit for a dairy-free option); 2 cups (140 g) finely shredded iceberg lettuce; Air-fryer chips (fries), oven fries or freezer fries (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 90 reviews

If you love bold flavors wrapped up in a convenient and delicious bite, you are absolutely going to fall head over heels for this Portuguese-style Chilli Chicken Wrap Recipe. It combines tender, juicy chicken schnitzels marinated with aromatic spices and smothered in a vibrant, tangy chilli sauce. Paired with creamy gouda, crisp lettuce, and a touch of mayo, this wrap offers a perfect harmony of heat, creaminess, and crunch. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal to share, this recipe will become your new go-to for anything chicken wrap related.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl with black speckles filled with a bright red chunky sauce with visible seeds and oil glistening on top. Above it, there is a white bowl with green liquid that looks like oil. To the right, a wooden spoon holds white salt, and next to it are two pieces of light beige ginger root. Below, a round wooden bowl contains mixed black and white pepper and salt. A whole garlic bulb is on the far right, and on the bottom left, there is a half yellow lemon showing its juicy segments. All items are placed on a light wood surface with a white marbled texture background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Portuguese-style Chilli Chicken Wrap Recipe is surprisingly simple to pull together, with each ingredient playing a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the spice-rubbed chicken to the punchy chilli sauce and melty cheese, every element counts.

600 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Thinly sliced schnitzels ensure quick, even cooking and tender bites.
1 tsp sweet paprika: Adds a warm, smoky undertone essential to Portuguese flavor profiles.
½ tsp onion powder: Brings subtle savory sweetness without overpowering the dish.
½ tsp garlic powder: Delivers that lovely depth and aromatic base for the marinade.
1 tsp sea salt flakes: Enhances all the spices and balances the flavors perfectly.
½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Provides a gentle spice hit for complexity.
2 tbsp olive oil: Helps the marinade adhere and adds richness during cooking.
½ cup chilli paste (like Italian chilli paste or sambal oelek): This is the star of the sauce, giving that fiery kick with a beautiful depth.
¼ cup olive oil: Smooths out the chilli sauce, giving it a luscious texture.
1 tbsp lemon juice: Adds bright acidity that cuts through the heat and richness.
½ tsp freshly minced garlic: Fresh and vibrant notes that intensify the sauce’s complexity.
½ tsp freshly minced ginger: Lightly spicy and fragrant, balancing the chili’s heat.
½ tsp caster sugar: Just enough sweetness to mellow the fiery sauce.
Sea salt flakes, to taste: To season the sauce further and lift the flavors.
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste: Adds a final touch of spice.
4 pita bread wraps (or your favorite wraps): Soft and pliable, perfect for wrapping all the ingredients snugly.
⅓ cup whole-egg mayonnaise: Creamy and cooling, it tempers the spice beautifully.
4 slices gouda cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a mild, buttery taste; it can be swapped or omitted for dairy-free options.
2 cups finely shredded iceberg lettuce: Brings refreshing crunch and lightness to the wrap.
Air-fryer chips, oven fries, or freezer fries (optional): The perfect crispy side to complete this hearty yet fresh meal.

How to Make Portuguese-style Chilli Chicken Wrap Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by tossing the thin chicken schnitzels in a zesty blend of sweet paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and give everything a good mix so each piece is coated evenly. This simple marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but infuses every bite with a tantalizing smoky and aromatic flavor that sets your wrap apart.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a heavy-based frying pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken schnitzels for just 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn golden and are cooked through. If you prefer, an air fryer or barbecue will give equally fantastic results—just keep an eye so the edges don’t burn. This quick cooking locks in juiciness while creating a nice crust that adds wonderful texture inside your wrap.

Step 3: Make the Chilli Sauce

Whisk together the vibrant chilli paste with olive oil, lemon juice, fresh garlic, ginger, and a touch of sugar. Season it with salt and pepper to balance those bright, spicy flavors perfectly. This sauce is the heart of the Portuguese-style Chilli Chicken Wrap Recipe, bringing the punch you crave, plus a subtle sweetness and zestiness that sings in every bite.

Step 4: Assemble the Wraps

Warm your pita wraps gently, either in a dry pan or microwave, to make them flexible and inviting. Spread a generous dollop of mayo on each, then place a slice of gouda on top. Layer on the hot chicken so the cheese melts slightly, add a pile of shredded iceberg lettuce for crunch, and finish with a generous drizzle of the luscious chilli sauce. Roll it all up tightly and get ready for pure flavor heaven.

How to Serve Portuguese-style Chilli Chicken Wrap Recipe

A white plate holds a large serving of thick, golden fries with a slightly crispy texture. On the right side of the plate is a wrap partially covered in light brown paper, with the open end showing layers inside: a base of grilled dark brown chicken pieces, fresh light green lettuce, creamy white sauce, and bright red chunky sauce with bits of chili. Next to the fries is a small white bowl filled with the same red chili sauce. The whole setup is on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes take this wrap to the next level. A sprinkle of chopped fresh coriander or parsley gives a green, herbaceous pop. For an extra zing, a few thin slices of pickled red onions bring vibrant acidity that complements the spicy chicken perfectly. And if you’re a fan of creamy textures, a bit more mayonnaise or a squeeze of fresh lemon adds a delightful finishing touch.

Side Dishes

Nothing pairs better with this chicken wrap than some crispy fries—whether air-fried, oven-baked, or your favorite frozen fries. Their golden crunch contrasts beautifully with the soft wrap and juicy chicken. A simple side salad of tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion tossed in light vinaigrette also keeps the meal feeling fresh and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress guests, slice your Portuguese-style Chilli Chicken Wraps in half at a sharp diagonal, revealing the colorful layers inside. Secure each half with a toothpick and arrange on a platter with small bowls of extra chilli sauce and mayo for dipping. You could also serve the chicken and sauce build separately, letting everyone customize their own wraps for a fun, interactive meal experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the cooked chicken and chilli sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. This keeps the chicken juicy and the sauce fresh, preventing sogginess when you reheat and assemble again.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken pieces, but it’s best to avoid freezing the assembled wraps as the texture of the wraps and fresh lettuce won’t hold up well. Freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave until piping hot. Warm the wraps separately and assemble fresh with all the other ingredients for the best texture. Adding fresh lettuce and cheese after reheating keeps everything crisp and delightful.

FAQs

Can I use other types of chicken cuts for this recipe?

Absolutely! While thin schnitzels are ideal for quick cooking and even flavor coating, you can use chicken tenders or thigh fillets sliced thinly. Just adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure they’re thoroughly cooked yet juicy.

Is the gouda cheese necessary?

Gouda adds a lovely creamy melt that balances the spicy sauce, but it’s totally optional. You can substitute with any melty cheese like mozzarella or cheddar, or skip it altogether for a dairy-free version. Just make sure your mayonnaise fits your dietary preferences if skipping cheese.

How spicy is this Portuguese-style Chilli Chicken Wrap?

The heat level depends largely on the chilli paste you choose. Italian chilli paste can be moderate, sambal oelek is usually hotter. You can adjust by using less paste or diluting the sauce slightly if you prefer milder flavors.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You could swap chicken for plant-based chicken alternatives or grilled vegetables but keep in mind the classic flavors and textures will change. The chilli sauce and wrap assembly remain delicious options for vegetarian adaptations.

What’s the best way to warm pita wraps?

Warming them briefly in a dry frying pan or microwave wrap them in a damp paper towel for 15-20 seconds helps make them flexible and soft, perfect for rolling without cracking.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly satisfying about this Portuguese-style Chilli Chicken Wrap Recipe that feels both homely and exciting at the same time. Its vibrant spices, juicy chicken, and creamy elements come together to create an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or just yourself, this wrap brings joy and flavor to the table in every bite. Give it a go—you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again!