Healthy Chicken Lettuce Wraps

There's something wonderfully refreshing about a meal that feels both indulgent and light at the same time. These Healthy Easy Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps capture that perfect balance—tender chicken mixed with crisp vegetables, wrapped in cool, buttery lettuce leaves. They're the kind of dish that makes you feel good while you're eating it, knowing you're nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients without sacrificing flavor. Whether you're looking for a quick weekday lunch, a fresh appetizer for guests, or a lighter alternative to traditional sandwiches, these wraps deliver on every front.

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What makes these lettuce wraps truly special is the creamy dressing that brings everything together. The combination of Greek yogurt and a touch of mayonnaise creates a luxurious texture that's lighter than traditional chicken salad, while the fresh lemon juice and Dijon mustard add brightness and tang. Every bite offers a satisfying crunch from the celery and bell pepper, complemented by the mild sweetness of red onion. It's a recipe that proves healthy eating doesn't have to be boring—it can be colorful, flavorful, and completely satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (about 2 medium breasts)
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 8-10 large butter lettuce leaves (or romaine)
• 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (light or regular)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped walnuts (optional)
• 1/4 cup seedless grapes, halved (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Combine the chicken and vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, celery, red bell pepper, and red onion.

Step 2: Prepare the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Mix the salad

Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir gently until well combined.

Step 4: Add optional ingredients

Fold in parsley, nuts, or grapes if desired.

Step 5: Assemble the wraps

Spoon the chicken salad evenly into the lettuce leaves and fold to wrap.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately, or chill the chicken salad for 30 minutes for best flavor.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

The key to perfect chicken salad lettuce wraps is getting the texture just right. Make sure to finely chop your vegetables so they distribute evenly throughout the salad and are easy to wrap. If you're cooking the chicken specifically for this recipe, poaching or roasting with a bit of seasoning will give you tender, flavorful meat. Let the chicken cool completely before mixing with the dressing to prevent it from becoming soggy. When selecting lettuce, look for large, sturdy leaves without tears—butter lettuce offers a delicate, sweet flavor, while romaine provides extra crunch and structure.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to different dietary needs and flavor preferences. For a dairy-free version, simply use all mayonnaise or substitute with a plant-based yogurt alternative. If you want to add more texture and sweetness, fold in diced apple or halved grapes. For extra crunch, try adding cucumber, shredded carrots, or water chestnuts. The optional nuts provide healthy fats and a satisfying bite—almonds offer a mild flavor while walnuts bring a slightly earthy richness. Fresh herbs like dill, tarragon, or cilantro can replace or complement the parsley for different flavor profiles. You can even turn this into a curry chicken salad by adding a teaspoon of curry powder to the dressing.

Serviervorschläge

These lettuce wraps are versatile enough to serve in multiple ways. For a casual lunch, arrange them on individual plates with extra lemon wedges and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for color and a subtle smoky flavor. They make elegant appetizers for gatherings when arranged on a platter—guests can pick them up and enjoy them in just a few bites. If you're meal prepping, store the chicken salad separately from the lettuce leaves in airtight containers, then assemble just before eating to keep everything crisp. The wraps pair beautifully with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, or serve alongside fresh fruit, vegetable sticks with hummus, or a simple cucumber salad for a complete, refreshing meal.

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With only 220 calories per serving and 26 grams of protein, these Healthy Easy Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps prove that nutritious meals can be both satisfying and delicious. They're a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients coming together in harmony. Whether you're enjoying them on a sunny afternoon, packing them for a work lunch, or serving them at your next gathering, these wraps offer a refreshing alternative to heavier meals. The best part? They're so easy to make that you'll find yourself turning to this recipe again and again, each time perhaps with a slightly different twist based on what you have on hand or what flavors you're craving.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What type of lettuce works best?

Butter lettuce or romaine leaves are ideal for wrapping as they are sturdy yet tender, providing a crisp texture.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, the chicken and dressing mixture can be made ahead and chilled for up to 24 hours for enhanced flavors.

→ Are there common substitutions for the dressing?

For a dairy-free option, replace Greek yogurt with extra mayonnaise or a plant-based alternative.

→ How to add extra crunch to the filling?

Incorporate diced apples or cucumbers, or toss in sliced almonds or walnuts for a satisfying crunch.

→ What pairs well with these wraps?

They complement a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light sparkling beverage for balanced flavors.