If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant, and satisfying meal that feels both light and packed with flavor, the Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish combines creamy avocado with tender shredded chicken, zesty lemon, and crunchy veggies all wrapped up in crisp lettuce leaves for a healthy, low-carb meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack. The balance of creamy and crunchy textures, along with the bright, tangy notes from mustard and lemon, make this recipe a true crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough for a busy day but special enough to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a balance of flavors and textures that make the wraps so irresistible, providing creaminess, crunch, acidity, and freshness all in one bite.
- Cooked chicken breast (2 cups shredded): The protein-packed base that keeps the wraps hearty and filling.
- Ripe avocado (1, mashed): Adds creamy smoothness and healthy fats that elevate the salad’s texture.
- Greek yogurt or mayo (1/4 cup): Greek yogurt brings tang and lightness, while mayo gives a richer, creamier feel.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Offers a subtle tang and depth that brightens the entire dish.
- Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Essential for a fresh, zesty kick that balances richness.
- Red onion (1/4 cup finely chopped): Adds subtle sharpness and crunch to every bite.
- Celery (1/4 cup chopped): Provides crunchy texture and mild peppery notes.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): A little warmth and aromatic depth without overpowering the salad.
- Salt and pepper: To taste—these enhance all the natural flavors beautifully.
- Large lettuce leaves (8, romaine or butter lettuce): Crisp and sturdy, perfect for wrapping the creamy chicken salad.
How to Make Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Step 1: Combine the creamy base
In a large bowl, start by mixing together the shredded chicken, mashed avocado, Greek yogurt (or mayo), Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice. This creates a velvety, flavorful base that brings the salad together with just the right amount of creaminess and tang.
Step 2: Add crunchy veggies and seasonings
Next, fold in the finely chopped red onion and celery alongside the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. These ingredients contribute crucial texture and mild bursts of flavor that keep every bite interesting and vibrant.
Step 3: Prepare the lettuce leaves
Gently separate the lettuce leaves so they stay intact and lay them flat on a plate or cutting board. Choosing crisp lettuce like romaine or butter lettuce ensures that the wraps will hold their shape and provide a refreshing crunch.
Step 4: Assemble the wraps
Spoon a generous amount of the chicken salad mixture into the center of each leaf. Be careful not to overfill to keep wrapping simple and mess-free. The creamy salad contrasts beautifully with the crisp lettuce, making every bite a delightful experience.
Step 5: Wrap and serve immediately
Fold the sides of the lettuce leaves over the filling and roll them up gently. These wraps are best enjoyed fresh to maintain the lettuce’s crispness and the salad’s vibrant flavor.
How to Serve Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe, consider garnishing with freshly chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley for a pop of green and extra fragrance. A sprinkle of chili flakes can add a gentle heat if you love a bit of spice, while a few thin slices of radish lend additional crunch and color.
Side Dishes
These wraps pair wonderfully with light, complementary sides. Think of a crisp cucumber salad, a tangy coleslaw, or even some roasted sweet potato wedges for a wholesome and satisfying meal. Keep the sides fresh and vibrant to maintain the recipe’s light and healthy spirit.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the salad deconstructed in a large bowl with a platter of lettuce leaves on the side, letting everyone build their own wraps. Another delightful idea is to cut the wraps in half diagonally and secure them with toothpicks, making them perfect finger foods for parties or casual lunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the chicken salad mixture separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the lettuce leaves fresh and crisp by wrapping them in a damp paper towel inside a sealed plastic bag or container.
Freezing
This particular Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing can change the texture of avocado and lettuce. It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled wraps or the salad mixture because the creamy avocado tends to become grainy after thawing.
Reheating
Since the salad is served cold or at room temperature, reheating is unnecessary. If you prefer, slightly warm the shredded chicken before mixing it with the other ingredients, but once combined, the salad should remain cool and refreshing.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time without sacrificing flavor. Just make sure to shred it finely for the best texture.
What if I don’t have Greek yogurt? Can I use something else?
Yes, you can swap Greek yogurt with mayonnaise for a richer taste or even use sour cream for a tangy twist. Each option lends a slightly different flavor profile, so feel free to choose based on your preference.
Which type of lettuce works best for these wraps?
Romaine and butter lettuce are both excellent choices because they have sturdy leaves that hold the filling well and a fresh crunch. Iceberg lettuce can also work but might be a little less flexible.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe dairy-free, simply use mayonnaise instead of Greek yogurt and double-check that your mayo is dairy-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally free of dairy.
Can I add other vegetables or nuts to the salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the salad by adding diced bell peppers, chopped apples for sweetness, or toasted nuts like pecans or almonds for extra crunch and flavor complexity.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe that makes it one of those meals you’ll come back to again and again. It’s fresh, healthy, and bursting with flavor while being incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re feeding family, entertaining friends, or just treating yourself, these wraps deliver satisfaction without fuss. Give this recipe a try today and experience how simple ingredients come together to create something truly delicious and wholesome!
Print
Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps are a fresh, healthy, and quick meal option perfect for a light lunch or snack. Combining tender shredded chicken with creamy avocado and Greek yogurt, flavored with Dijon mustard and fresh lemon juice, and crunchy veggies, all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves, they offer a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional sandwiches.
Ingredients
Chicken Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or mayo for a richer taste)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Wrap
- 8 large lettuce leaves (romaine or butter lettuce works best)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken salad: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, mashed avocado, Greek yogurt or mayo, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Add vegetables and seasonings: Stir in the finely chopped red onion, chopped celery, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to distribute flavors.
- Prepare lettuce leaves: Gently separate the lettuce leaves, being careful not to tear them, and lay each leaf flat on a clean surface or plate.
- Assemble wraps: Spoon an even amount of the chicken salad mixture into the center of each lettuce leaf.
- Wrap and secure: Fold the sides of the lettuce leaves over the filling and wrap them to form neat parcels suitable for eating by hand.
- Serve immediately: For the freshest taste and best texture, serve the lettuce wraps right away.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, substitute Greek yogurt with mayonnaise.
- Use crisp lettuce varieties like romaine or butter lettuce for easier wrapping.
- Chicken can be substituted with cooked turkey or rotisserie chicken.
- Adjust garlic powder and mustard to your taste preference.
- These wraps are best eaten fresh to avoid sogginess from the avocado and lemon juice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
