If you’ve been hunting for a fresh, flavorful, and healthy lunch or snack idea, you have to try this delightful Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe. It brilliantly combines creamy avocado and tender chicken with crunchy veggies, all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb, satisfying bite. Whether you’re feeding yourself or a crowd, these wraps are easy to whip up and bursting with vibrant colors and tastes that make every mouthful a little celebration. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients that work beautifully together to create a creamy, tangy, and crisp flavor experience. Each component plays its part, from the wholesome protein to the bright crunch and the luscious, buttery avocado.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced: The heart of the dish providing tender, satisfying protein.
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted: Adds a creamy texture and healthy fats that make the salad rich without heaviness.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced: Gives a sharp, pungent kick and lovely color contrast.
- 1/4 cup celery, finely diced: Adds refreshing crunch and a subtle earthy note.
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise): A creamy binder that keeps everything moist and flavorful; use mayo for a richer taste.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the salad with a zesty tang and prevents avocado browning.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Introduces a slight tang and depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that highlight and balance all the flavors.
- 8 large lettuce leaves (butter lettuce, romaine, or iceberg): Crisp, sturdy vessels perfect for wrapping the filling.
- Optional fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, or chives): These provide a pop of color and a fresh herbal note if you want to elevate your wraps even more.
How to Make Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Chicken and Veggies
Start by placing the cooked chicken, diced red onion, and celery into a large mixing bowl. This forms the crunchy, protein-packed base of your salad with just the right bite.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Avocado Mixture
In a separate small bowl, mash your ripe avocado until smooth or leave it a little chunky if you prefer more texture. This creamy element will make your salad delightfully luscious and rich.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients with the Chicken
Add the mashed avocado, Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for a richer flavor), fresh lemon juice, and Dijon mustard to the bowl with the chicken and veggies. These ingredients blend together to create a fresh, tangy dressing that coats every bite.
Step 4: Stir and Season
Give everything a good stir until the salad is well combined. Now is the time to season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re feeling fancy, toss in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives—they add brightness and an extra layer of flavor.
Step 5: Prepare the Lettuce Wraps
Carefully separate the lettuce leaves and rinse them under cold water. Lay them out on a clean towel or use paper towels to gently pat them dry. Crisp, dry leaves are key to making wraps that won’t get soggy or tear easily.
Step 6: Assemble the Wraps
Spoon a generous amount of the chicken salad mixture into the center of each lettuce leaf. Don’t be shy! The filling is the star here, and you want each bite to be packed with flavor and texture.
Step 7: Wrap it Up
Fold the sides of the lettuce leaves around the filling. You can fold it simply like a taco or roll it tightly like a burrito to make it neat and easy to hold. Either way, the crunchy lettuce holding all the creamy goodness is insanely satisfying.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the wraps on a serving plate and, if you like, sprinkle some extra fresh herbs on top for a pop of green and a burst of freshness. These wraps are best served immediately to enjoy their full crispness and flavor.
How to Serve Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives as a finishing touch really amps up the presentation and flavor. You can also sprinkle a little paprika or crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a slight kick.
Side Dishes
These wraps pair beautifully with crunchy veggie sticks such as carrots and cucumber, a bright fresh salad, or even a bowl of chilled soup for a complete, light meal. They’re perfect for hot days when you want something cool and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the filling in a big bowl for a casual picnic where everyone can build their own wraps, or use endive leaves for a smaller, elegant appetizer. Another fun idea is to cut the wraps in half and secure them with colorful toothpicks for game-day snacking or party platters.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover chicken salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the lettuce separate to avoid sogginess. When ready to eat, simply spoon the salad into fresh leaves.
Freezing
This recipe does not freeze well because of the creamy avocado and fresh lettuce. It’s best to prepare fresh or store leftovers in the fridge for a short time rather than freezing.
Reheating
Since this dish is served cold and fresh, reheating is not recommended. Instead, enjoy the leftovers chilled or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves time. Just shred or dice it and you’re good to go.
What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
No worries. Mayonnaise works perfectly and provides a richer taste. If you want something lighter, you can also try sour cream or even a little olive oil for moisture.
Can I make these wraps vegan or vegetarian?
You can easily swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu and replace the Greek yogurt with a vegan alternative. The avocado keeps things creamy and delicious!
How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
The fresh lemon juice in the recipe helps slow down browning significantly. Store leftovers in an airtight container with a bit of extra lemon juice and use plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface for best results.
What’s the best lettuce to use for these wraps?
Butter lettuce is a favorite because its large, soft, and sturdy leaves make wrapping easy. Romaine and iceberg also work well if you prefer a crisper bite.
Final Thoughts
Making this Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe is one of those simple pleasures that feels indulgent and wholesome all at once. With fresh ingredients and minimal fuss, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy lunch without weighing yourself down. I hope you whip up a batch soon and find yourself coming back again and again. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
These Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps are a fresh and healthy meal option, combining tender cooked chicken breast with creamy avocado, crisp celery, and tangy Greek yogurt, all wrapped in crunchy lettuce leaves. Perfect for a light lunch or a quick dinner, these wraps are easy to prepare, naturally gluten-free, and provide a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional sandwiches.
Ingredients
Chicken Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (about 2 medium chicken breasts)
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or use mayonnaise for a richer taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Wraps and Garnish
- 8 large lettuce leaves (butter lettuce, romaine, or iceberg)
- Optional: Fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, or chives) for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken breast, finely diced red onion, and celery, mixing them thoroughly to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Mash the Avocado: In a separate small bowl, mash the ripe avocado until smooth or leave it slightly chunky if you prefer a bit of texture in your salad.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the mashed avocado, Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise if you choose), fresh lemon juice, and Dijon mustard to the chicken mixture.
- Mix and Season: Stir all the ingredients together until well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or chives now for extra flavor and visual appeal if desired.
- Prepare the Lettuce: Carefully separate the lettuce leaves, wash them thoroughly under cold water, and pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure the wraps aren’t soggy.
- Assemble Wraps: Spoon a generous amount of the chicken salad mixture into the center of each lettuce leaf.
- Form the Wraps: Fold the sides of the lettuce leaf around the filling to create a wrap. Alternatively, roll the leaf like a burrito for easy handling and eating.
- Serve: Arrange the avocado chicken salad wraps on a serving plate. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately. They pair wonderfully with a side of fresh veggies or a light salad.
Notes
- You can substitute mayonnaise for Greek yogurt if you want a richer, creamier texture.
- Use other types of lettuce like iceberg or romaine if butter lettuce is not available.
- For added crunch, consider stirring in chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds.
- This recipe is best served fresh as the avocado may oxidize and turn brown if left too long.
- Leftovers can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; keep lettuce separate until ready to assemble.
