Herbed Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Name: Herbed Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 head of butter lettuce, leaves separated; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 carrot, shredded; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Highlighted under: Everyday Simple Recipes

I absolutely love making Herbed Chicken Lettuce Wraps for a light yet satisfying meal. The combination of fresh herbs, tender chicken, and crisp lettuce makes for an incredibly flavorful dish. Every bite bursts with freshness, and I find it’s perfect as a quick lunch or a healthy dinner option. Plus, it's an easy recipe that can be whipped up in just a few minutes! I enjoy experimenting with different herbs, but my favorite is definitely basil for its aromatic punch.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T14:37:27.849Z

When I first tried Herbed Chicken Lettuce Wraps, I knew I had found a winner. The vibrant mix of fresh herbs lifts the simple chicken, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. What struck me was how using lettuce instead of traditional wraps made the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor. I often serve them at gatherings, and they’re always a hit!

One important tip I learned is to let the cooked chicken cool slightly before assembling the wraps. This helps to keep the lettuce crisp and prevents it from wilting. Pairing the wraps with a tangy dipping sauce elevates this dish even further!

Why You'll Love These Wraps
Fresh herbs enhance flavor without extra calories
Light and refreshing, perfect for warm days
Quick to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights

Choosing the Right Lettuce

When it comes to lettuce wraps, butter lettuce is a fantastic choice due to its tender leaves and mild flavor. The leaves are sturdy enough to hold the filling without tearing, yet soft to bite into. If butter lettuce isn't available, you can use Romaine or even iceberg lettuce, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor will slightly differ. Romaine offers a satisfying crunch, while iceberg is more watery, which can dilute the overall flavor of the wraps.

To make the most of your lettuce wraps, ensure the leaves are fresh and dry. Rinse them under cold water and gently pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Excess moisture can lead to soggy wraps, so this step is crucial. Plus, fresh leaves enhance the crispness of each bite, making your wraps even more enjoyable.

Herb Substitutions and Variations

While basil, parsley, and cilantro are the stars of this dish, don’t hesitate to experiment with other herbs! Dill or mint can bring a refreshing twist to the chicken mixture, especially if you enjoy those flavors. If you're looking for a stronger flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of dried oregano or a dash of freshly squeezed lemon juice to elevate the herbaceous notes.

If you want to make the dish vegan-friendly, simply substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas. Marinate the tofu in a mixture of olive oil, soy sauce, and your favorite herbs before sautéing for similar flavors. Chickpeas can be smashed slightly and mixed with the same herb mixture for a delightful texture.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

These Herbed Chicken Lettuce Wraps are perfect for meal prep! Prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days. When you're ready to assemble your wraps, simply reheat the chicken in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time.

As for the lettuce, it's best to wash and separate the leaves just before serving to maintain their crispness. If you're looking to take these wraps on the go, pack the chicken mixture, lettuce, and toppings separately, assembling them just before eating to enjoy that fresh crunch with each bite.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Herbed Chicken Lettuce Wraps

For the Chicken Mixture

1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Wraps

1 head of butter lettuce, leaves separated
1 avocado, sliced
1 carrot, shredded
1/4 cup chopped green onions

For the Dipping Sauce (optional)

2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil

These ingredients combine to create delicious wraps that are both satisfying and healthy!

Instructions

Instructions to Make Herbed Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Prepare the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, then add the diced chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked. Stir in the fresh herbs, salt, and pepper, and remove from heat.

Assemble the Wraps

Take a lettuce leaf and spoon some of the chicken mixture into the center. Top with avocado slices, shredded carrot, and chopped green onions.

Serve

Optional: Serve with a side of dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Enjoy your fresh Herbed Chicken Lettuce Wraps!

These instructions will guide you to a delicious and healthy meal in no time!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the fillings with your favorite toppings or add some sriracha for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

These wraps can be served as a light lunch or as an appetizer for a dinner party. To round out your meal, consider pairing the wraps with a side of rice or quinoa for additional sustenance. A simple cucumber salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette would also complement the fresh flavors of the wraps beautifully.

For a fun twist, you can also serve the wraps as a DIY platter. Provide a variety of toppings, such as pickled vegetables, sliced radishes, or even spicy sauces, allowing guests to customize their wraps to their liking. This interactive element can elevate your dining experience!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chicken mixture seems dry, adding a splash of chicken broth or a drizzle of olive oil while cooking can help retain moisture. Always ensure you're seasoning properly; under-seasoned chicken can lead to bland flavors. Taste as you cook, adjusting the salt and herbs to suit your palate.

Be cautious not to overcook your chicken, as it can become tough and dry. The perfect chicken should be cooked until just opaque and tender. Utilize a meat thermometer for accuracy; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for poultry. If your chicken seems tough, it might be worth checking the heat level and ensuring you’re cooking on medium heat to avoid sudden temperature spikes.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe is straightforward, making it suitable for everything from cozy dinners to larger gatherings. If doubling the recipe, increase the cooking time slightly to ensure heat distributes evenly through a larger batch of chicken. Just remember to cook in batches if your skillet is small; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and steaming instead of searing.

When preparing for a crowd, consider offering a variety of protein options—think shredded chicken, ground turkey, or even shrimp, alongside the original chicken mixture. This way, there’s something for everyone, and your guests can mix and match flavors, making the meal even more festive.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground chicken instead of diced?

Absolutely! Ground chicken will work well and cook quickly.

→ How long do these wraps last in the fridge?

It's best to eat them fresh, but the chicken mixture can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these wraps ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the chicken mixture in advance and assemble the wraps just before serving for the best texture.

→ Are there any other suitable lettuce types for wraps?

Yes, romaine or iceberg lettuce can also work well if you prefer a crunchier texture.