A Wholesome Delight
Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps, my favorite quick lunch, never fail to impress with their fresh, vibrant flavors. When I first discovered Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps, I was looking for something easy yet nutritious for a busy day. As I chopped the crisp celery and juicy grapes, the simple yet delightful Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps began to take shape. The recipe blends shredded chicken with crunchy veggies and a creamy Greek yogurt dressing, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and light. The Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps have become a staple in my kitchen for their ease and taste.
A Symphony of Fresh Ingredients
For the Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps, the blend of ingredients is key to its refreshing taste. I start by seasoning chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then cook them until they’re perfectly tender. While the chicken cools, I chop celery, red onion, and apples, then mix them with grapes and dried cranberries. Tossing these ingredients together with almonds adds a delightful crunch. The creamy Greek yogurt dressing, made with just a bit of mayonnaise and lemon juice, ties everything together beautifully. Every bite of Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps is a burst of flavor and texture, thanks to this careful preparation.
The Art of Wrapping and Serving
When it comes time to assemble the Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps, the crisp lettuce leaves play a crucial role. I use Boston Bib lettuce for its tender, cup-like shape, perfect for holding the flavorful chicken salad. Spoon the mixture onto each leaf, and you have a wrap that’s both visually appealing and delicious. I love garnishing the wraps with a sprinkle of chopped almonds for extra crunch and a wedge of lemon for a fresh touch. The wraps are not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing for variations like adding herbs or extra veggies.
A Go-To Recipe for Busy Days
Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps are my go-to recipe when I need something quick and wholesome. With just a bit of prep time, you can have a meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. Whether for a light lunch, a quick dinner, or even as an appetizer, these wraps fit the bill perfectly. The combination of shredded chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy dressing makes each bite a delight. The simplicity of Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps is what makes them so appealing—I know that every time I prepare them, I’m serving up a dish that’s both nutritious and tasty.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps
- Shredding Chicken: For a more flavorful chicken, consider marinating it in a bit of olive oil, garlic powder, and herbs before cooking. This will infuse the meat with extra taste.
- Texture Tips: To keep the salad crisp, add the dressing just before serving. This prevents the salad from becoming soggy.
- Dressing Consistency: If you prefer a thicker dressing, reduce the amount of lemon juice or add a bit more Greek yogurt. For a thinner dressing, increase the lemon juice or add a splash of water.
- Lettuce Preparation: Make sure the lettuce leaves are thoroughly washed and dried. Excess moisture can cause the wraps to become soggy.
- Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with adding fresh herbs such as dill or parsley for an extra burst of flavor. A pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper can also add a subtle kick.
- Nutritional Variations: If you’re watching your calorie intake, you can use a reduced-fat mayonnaise or skip it altogether for a lighter version.
Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps
4
wraps15
minutes7
minutes148
kcal22
minutesDive into these delightful Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps, perfect for a light lunch or healthy dinner! Packed with shredded chicken, crisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy celery, and a creamy Greek yogurt dressing, this dish is both nutritious and delicious. Inspired by the simplicity of home cooking, these wraps are a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome meal without the fuss.
Ingredients
- Chicken and Seasoning
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salad Mix
1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
1/2 cup grapes (red or green), halved
1/2 cup apple, finely diced
1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/4 cup almonds, roughly chopped
- Dressing
1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tsp lemon juice
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Serving
1 head Boston Bib lettuce or romaine heart leaves
- Alternative Ingredients:
Chicken: Substitute with turkey breast or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Greek Yogurt: Use dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
Almonds: Replace with sunflower seeds for nut allergies.
Mayonnaise: Use avocado mayo for a healthier fat option.
Directions
- Cooking Chicken – Heat olive oil in a nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked through. Let it cool slightly before shredding or chopping into bite-sized pieces.
- Preparing Salad Mix – In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with celery, red onion, grapes, apple, dried cranberries, and almonds. Toss well to mix all ingredients evenly.
- Making Dressing – In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and lemon juice until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combining Ingredients – Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
- Serving – Wash and dry the lettuce leaves thoroughly. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken salad onto each lettuce leaf and serve immediately.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- nonstick pan
- Mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 148kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 75mg
- Potassium: 268mg
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Vitamin A: 565IU
- Vitamin C: 2.2mg
- Calcium: 26mg
- Iron: 0.5mg
FAQs- Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great substitute for cooked chicken breasts. Just shred the meat and skip the seasoning step. It will add a delicious smoky flavor to your wraps.
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt if I have a dairy allergy?
You can use dairy-free yogurt or a combination of avocado and lemon juice as a substitute. Both options will give you a creamy texture without the dairy.
How long can I store the chicken salad in the fridge?
The chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to assemble the wraps just before serving to keep the lettuce fresh.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken salad mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just assemble the wraps with lettuce leaves right before serving to ensure they remain crisp.
What other vegetables can I add to the salad mix?
You can add a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or shredded carrots for extra crunch and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the dressing quantity if you add a lot of additional ingredients.
