Mary KellyHave you ever bitten into a wrap so delicious that it made you wish you could replicate that flavor in your own kitchen? Well, let me tell you my story about discovering the absolute delight that is Jimmy John’s Thai Chicken Wrap.
This wrap is fresh, zesty, and packed with a hearty punch of flavor. But, the truth is, sometimes I just can’t justify the trip to a sandwich shop. So, I set out on a mission: creating my own copycat version at home. Join me on this culinary adventure where I’ll share the ins and outs of crafting a Thai-inspired chicken wrap that’s so close to the original, you might just forget to visit your local Jimmy John’s.
What is Jimmy John’s Thai Chicken Wrap?
This recipe captures the essence of Jimmy John’s original wrap, marrying tender chicken strips with fresh vegetables and a uniquely savory sauce. It’s all wrapped up in a warm tortilla, making it not just a delicious meal but also a convenient one. Whether you’re in the mood for a healthy lunch or a quick dinner, this Thai Chicken Wrap will hit the spot. Each bite is an explosion of flavors that will make you want to have it again and again.
Why You’ll Love this Jimmy John’s Thai Chicken Wrap Copycat Recipe
If you’re looking for reasons to love this recipe, let’s start with the flavor. The combination of peanut butter, hoisin sauce, and fresh veggies creates a delightful mix that’s both satisfying and refreshing. It’s also incredibly customizable. Want more spice? Add some heat with sriracha. Prefer extra crunch? Toss in some nuts! Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy weeknights!
The Ingredients
Before we dive into making these delightful wraps, let’s gather the ingredients.
- 2 tablespoons canola oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 3/4 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup smooth peanut butter
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon freshly minced ginger
- 4 cups broccoli slaw mix
- 1 medium red onion, cut in half and thinly sliced
- 2 to 3 tablespoons water
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 6 warm flour tortillas (8 inches)
Gathering these ingredients will set you on the right path to recreating this flavor-packed wrap.
Step by Step Instructions
Let’s jump into the action and start bringing this wrap to life!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breast to the pan. Season it with garlic salt and black pepper.
Cook the chicken for about 5–7 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and golden on the outside. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, giving the chicken strips enough room to sear nicely.
Step 2: Create the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the smooth peanut butter, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Mix it until well blended. Add in the minced garlic and ginger for that extra kick. This sauce is what brings all the flavors together.
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Once the chicken is done, reduce the heat to low. Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir everything together to make sure each piece of chicken is evenly coated in that delicious sauce. If you find the sauce too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 4: Add the Veggies
Now, it’s time to toss in the broccoli slaw and sliced red onion. Mix everything well. The slaw will add a wonderful crunch to your wrap. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened but still crisp.
Step 5: Warm the Tortillas
While the chicken and veggie mixture is cooking, I usually like to warm my tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over low heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Step 6: Assemble the Wraps
Grab a warmed tortilla. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken and veggie mixture into the center. Be careful not to overfill it! This is crucial for proper wrapping. Fold in the sides, then roll it tightly from the bottom up.
Repeat this process for the remaining tortillas.
Tips & Tricks
Creating the perfect wrap can require some finesse. Here are my top five tips to make your experience even better:
- Don’t rush the chicken cooking process. A little crispness goes a long way in terms of flavor.
- Customize sauce levels. Adjust the amount of sugar or hoisin sauce according to your preference. A little more sweetness can balance the saltiness just right.
- Wrap tightly. When assembling the wrap, ensure it’s tight enough to hold everything in without leaking.
- Use fresh veggies. Freshness is key. The crunch of fresh broccoli slaw makes the wrap more enjoyable.
- Serve with a dipping sauce. Consider serving your wraps with extra peanut sauce on the side. It’s heavenly!
Nutrition Information
Can I Store Jimmy John’s Thai Chicken Wrap?
Absolutely! If you want to make these wraps in advance, just wait until they cool completely. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in airtight containers. They should keep in the fridge for about 2–3 days.
What Can I Serve with Jimmy John’s Thai Chicken Wrap?
Serving side dishes can elevate a meal. Here are some suggestions that complement the flavors of the wrap:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: The sweetness of seasonal fruits can offer a refreshing contrast to the savory wrap.
- Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers with a hint of vinegar can cleanse your palate.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Soft inside and crispy outside, they provide a comforting side.
- Chips and Salsa: For a crunch and zing that brings added texture and flavor balance.
- Herb Quinoa: Adding a protein-rich side can make the meal more hearty.
Variations
There are plenty of avenues to explore when it comes to this recipe. Here are five fun variations:
- Spicy Sriracha Variation: Add a few drops of sriracha to your sauce for a spicy kick. The heat complements the peanuts.
- Vegan Option: Replace the chicken with tofu and use a plant-based peanut butter. This makes it vegan-friendly.
- Add Mandarin Oranges: Toss some canned mandarin oranges into the filling for a burst of sweet goodness.
- Coleslaw Variation: Swap the broccoli slaw for a traditional coleslaw mix for a different texture.
- Grilled Variation: Cook the chicken on a grill for a smoky flavor. The char brings an additional layer of taste.
Jimmy John’s Thai Chicken Wrap Copycat Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by heating 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breast to the pan. Season it with garlic salt and black pepper.
- Cook the chicken for about 5–7 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and golden on the outside. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, giving the chicken strips enough room to sear nicely.
- In a small bowl, combine the smooth peanut butter, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Mix it until well blended. Add in the minced garlic and ginger for that extra kick. This sauce is what brings all the flavors together.
- Once the chicken is done, reduce the heat to low. Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir everything together to make sure each piece of chicken is evenly coated in that delicious sauce. If you find the sauce too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Now, it’s time to toss in the broccoli slaw and sliced red onion. Mix everything well. The slaw will add a wonderful crunch to your wrap. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened but still crisp.
- While the chicken and veggie mixture is cooking, I usually like to warm my tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over low heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
- Grab a warmed tortilla. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken and veggie mixture into the center. Be careful not to overfill it! This is crucial for proper wrapping. Fold in the sides, then roll it tightly from the bottom up.
- Repeat this process for the remaining tortillas.
Nutrition
Notes
- Don’t rush the chicken cooking process. A little crispness goes a long way in terms of flavor.
- Customize sauce levels. Adjust the amount of sugar or hoisin sauce according to your preference. A little more sweetness can balance the saltiness just right.
- Wrap tightly. When assembling the wrap, ensure it’s tight enough to hold everything in without leaking.
- Use fresh veggies. Freshness is key. The crunch of fresh broccoli slaw makes the wrap more enjoyable.
- Serve with a dipping sauce. Consider serving your wraps with extra peanut sauce on the side. It’s heavenly!
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Creating a copycat of Jimmy John’s Thai Chicken Wrap is not just about following a recipe; it’s about redefining what dinner can look like. Each bite is a reminder that cooking can be both fun and rewarding.
This wrap is not only delicious, flavorful, and adaptable, but it also showcases the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something special. So why not roll up your sleeves and give it a try? I assure you, it will quickly become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!
