Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Asian Chicken Wraps?
They are a fusion dish featuring tender chicken pieces, a sweet and savory hoisin-soy sauce, fresh coleslaw, and crunchy chow mein noodles wrapped in a flour tortilla.
What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless chicken is recommended, which can be either chicken breast or chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces.
How do I prepare the sauce?
Whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, light brown sugar, and cornstarch in a small mixing bowl until well combined.
Can I use a pre-packaged coleslaw mix?
Yes, this recipe calls for half of a 16-ounce package of coleslaw mix for convenience.
How long does it take to cook the chicken?
The chicken typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes to cook through until it is no longer pink in the center.
What provides the crunch in these wraps?
The crunch comes from a 5-ounce can of crispy chow mein noodles added at the end of the cooking process.
How many tortillas does this recipe require?
The recipe is designed for 5 burrito-size flour tortillas.
Is there a specific way to sauté the garlic?
Sauté the minced garlic in a skillet with non-stick spray for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant before adding the chicken.
How do I make the tortillas easier to roll?
Heat the flour tortillas according to the package instructions until they are warm and pliable.
Can I add other vegetables to the wraps?
Yes, the recipe is customizable, allowing you to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or shredded carrots.
How do I thicken the sauce?
The cornstarch in the sauce mixture acts as a thickening agent as it heats up in the skillet with the chicken and vegetables.
What is the best way to assemble the wraps?
Place a generous spoonful of the mixture in the center of a warm tortilla, fold in the sides, and roll it up burrito-style.
How do I keep the wraps from opening?
You can secure the wraps with a toothpick if desired to keep them from unrolling.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with firm tofu cubes or a plant-based meat alternative.
What if I don't have light brown sugar?
You can substitute it with honey or maple syrup, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Is this recipe considered a quick meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and easy lunch because it uses fast-cooking ingredients and simple steps.
Can I use fresh cabbage instead of coleslaw mix?
Absolutely, you can use about 8 ounces of shredded fresh green or red cabbage.
When should I add the chow mein noodles?
Add them just before assembling the wraps to ensure they stay as crispy as possible.
Can I store leftovers of the chicken mixture?
Yes, store the chicken and cabbage mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How should I reheat the leftovers?
Reheat the filling in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave before rolling into fresh tortillas.
Are these wraps spicy?
This recipe is savory and sweet. If you prefer spice, you can add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
What size should the chicken pieces be?
The chicken should be cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and ease of eating.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
You can, but flour tortillas are generally more flexible and easier to roll for a burrito-style wrap.
What makes the sauce 'Asian' in style?
The combination of hoisin sauce and soy sauce provides the classic umami and sweet profile characteristic of many Asian-inspired dishes.
How much hoisin sauce is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of hoisin sauce.
How much soy sauce is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of soy sauce.
What is the role of the brown sugar?
The light brown sugar balances the saltiness of the soy sauce and the richness of the hoisin with a touch of sweetness.
Do I need oil to cook the chicken?
The recipe suggests using non-stick cooking spray, but you can use a small amount of vegetable oil if preferred.
Can I make these wraps gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari), gluten-free hoisin, and certified gluten-free wraps or large lettuce leaves.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
Based on the ingredient quantities, it typically yields 5 large wraps.