Herbed Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Name: Herbed Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 large lettuce leaves (butter or romaine); 1 carrot, julienned; 1 cucumber, julienned; Optional: fresh herbs for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Recipes

When I first created these Herbed Chicken Lettuce Wraps, I knew I wanted something fresh and vibrant. The combination of tender chicken and aromatic herbs wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves is a delightful way to enjoy a light meal or snack. I was inspired by the idea of making healthy eating a flavorful experience. Each bite is a burst of flavor, and the crunch of the lettuce adds a satisfying texture that enhances the taste of the dish. It's truly a recipe that makes you feel good inside!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:25:28.281Z

Trying out these Herbed Chicken Lettuce Wraps was a delightful culinary adventure! I experimented with fresh herbs from my garden, which elevated the flavor of the chicken. Using a mix of basil, cilantro, and mint brought about a freshness that transformed ordinary chicken into something special. I found that marinating the chicken with the herbs and a touch of lime juice really allows those flavors to meld beautifully.

While wrapping the chicken in lettuce, I discovered that using a leaf of butter lettuce offered the perfect amount of sturdiness and tenderness. It was just the right vehicle to hold all that delicious filling. Pairing these wraps with a light dipping sauce made them an irresistible treat I can't wait to share!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with fresh flavors from herbs and spices
Light and refreshing, perfect for any meal
Quick preparation makes it ideal for weeknight dinners

Flavor Profiles of Fresh Herbs

The choice of fresh herbs in the chicken filling not only elevates the flavor profile but also brings aromatic elements that make each bite enjoyable. Basil adds a slightly sweet note, while cilantro introduces a bright, citrusy flavor. Mint contributes a refreshing coolness, creating a layered complexity in the dish. If you don't have fresh herbs on hand, dried versions can work in a pinch; however, I recommend using half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

When mixing the herbs, be sure to chop them finely to release their essential oils, which contributes to the overall fragrance and taste. A common misstep is to leave the herbs too large, which can create an uneven flavor distribution. Aim for a beautiful, vibrant combination that can be easily folded into the chicken without overwhelming each bite.

Lettuce as the Perfect Vehicle

Choosing the right type of lettuce is crucial for the best wraps. Butter lettuce provides a soft, flexible texture that’s easy to fold, while romaine offers a sturdier vessel. If you’re stacking a lot of filling, opt for romaine. Make sure to wash and thoroughly dry the lettuce leaves to keep them crisp. Excess moisture can lead to sogginess, particularly if you prepare the wraps ahead of time.

For a fun twist, consider mixing different types of greens such as kale or collard greens. Blanching collard greens for just a couple of minutes can make them pliable and perfect for wrapping. Just keep in mind that collard greens have a stronger flavor that might alter the dish's taste, so balance it accordingly with the right amount of chicken filling.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling

1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Wraps

8 large lettuce leaves (butter or romaine)
1 carrot, julienned
1 cucumber, julienned
Optional: fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, olive oil, lime juice, basil, cilantro, mint, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Assemble the Wraps

Take a lettuce leaf and place a generous scoop of the chicken mixture in the center. Top with julienned carrots and cucumbers, adding any extra herbs if desired.

Wrap and Enjoy

Fold the sides of the lettuce leaf over the filling and enjoy your wrap immediately. Serve with a dipping sauce if you prefer.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or add some spicy elements like chopped jalapeños for an extra kick!

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Herbed Chicken Lettuce Wraps can easily be made ahead of time. You can prepare the chicken filling a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just be aware that the herbs may lose some potency, so consider adding a few fresh herbs right before serving for an extra punch of flavor.

If you're planning to eat leftovers, it’s best to store the filling separately from the lettuce leaves. This will help maintain the crispness of the lettuce, preventing it from wilting. The chicken filling can last about 3 days in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply assemble the wraps, and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

These wraps are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your meal by pairing them with a light dipping sauce. A simple soy sauce mixed with a hint of sesame oil or a peanut sauce complements the flavors beautifully. To make a quick dipping sauce, whisk together soy sauce, a drizzle of honey, and a splash of lime juice for added tang.

For a heartier meal, serve the wraps alongside a quinoa salad or a fresh fruit platter. The sweetness from the fruits can balance the savory herb chicken, creating a well-rounded dining experience. Adding nuts or seeds to your side dishes can also enhance the textural appeal of the overall meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of protein?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or even tofu can be a great substitute.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or a variety of sautéed vegetables.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these wraps?

A simple peanut sauce or sweet chili sauce works wonderfully.

→ Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Yes, the chicken filling can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator for quick assembly.