These easy avocado chicken salad lettuce wraps are fresh and tasty! Made with creamy avocado, shredded chicken, and crisp lettuce, they are perfect for a light meal.
I love how quick they are to prepare! Just mix everything in a bowl, scoop it into the lettuce, and you’re ready to munch. It’s like a little hug for your taste buds! 🥑🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer using rotisserie chicken for convenience. It’s cooked and easy to shred. If you don’t have it, leftover chicken works perfectly too. For a vegetarian option, consider using chickpeas or tofu!
Avocado: A ripe avocado adds creaminess. If it’s not available, you could substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist, although it won’t be as creamy.
Red Onion: Red onion gives a nice crunch and flavor. If it’s too strong for you, try green onions or finely chopped sweet onions instead.
Mayonnaise: I enjoy using regular mayo for richness, but you could use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a lighter or plant-based option.
Lettuce: Romaine is perfect for its sturdiness. However, butter lettuce or even collard greens can be used for a different flavor and texture!
How Do You Prevent Avocado from Browning?
To keep your avocado fresh and green, the key is using lemon juice. Its acidity stops the browning process. If you are mixing a big batch to enjoy later, add lemon juice right after cutting the avocado. Also, try pressing a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the avocado to limit air exposure.
What’s the Best Way to Mix Ingredients Without Mushing Up the Avocado?
When mixing, use a gentle folding motion with a spatula or spoon. This way, you’ll combine everything while keeping the avocado chunks intact. If you mix too hard, they can turn to mush. Just take your time, and you’ll have a beautiful salad!
How to Make Easy Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (to prevent avocado from browning)
- 1/4 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Romaine lettuce leaves (as many as needed for wraps)
Time Needed
Preparing these delicious avocado chicken salad lettuce wraps will take about 15 minutes! It’s a quick and simple recipe, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, start by combining the shredded chicken, diced avocado, chopped red onion, and chopped celery. These ingredients create a tasty base for your salad.
2. Add the Dressing:
Next, add the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if you like) to the mixing bowl. The mayonnaise and lemon juice will help bind everything together and give it a nice creamy texture.
3. Combine Gently:
Now, gently mix all the ingredients together. Use a spatula or a large spoon to combine them carefully so that the avocado stays chunky and delicious—no need for mushy avocado here!
4. Prepare the Lettuce Wraps:
Take the romaine lettuce leaves and wash them under running water. Pat them dry with a paper towel. These leaves will serve as your wraps, so make sure they are nice and crisp.
5. Assemble the Wraps:
Using a spoon, scoop the chicken and avocado salad mixture into each lettuce leaf. Fill them generously but avoid overstuffing to keep them easy to hold!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange the finished lettuce wraps on a serving plate. You can serve them immediately for a fresh, healthy meal. Enjoy your light, creamy, and flavorful chicken salad wraps!
FAQ for Easy Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Fresh Chicken?
Absolutely! Canned chicken is a great time-saver. Just drain, rinse, and shred it before adding it to the salad. It’s perfect for a quick meal!
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftover avocado chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the avocado may brown slightly, so try to consume it sooner for the best flavor and freshness.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Just substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative like vegan mayo or plain Greek yogurt. You can also add a dash of mustard for extra flavor!
What Can I Serve with These Lettuce Wraps?
These wraps are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with fresh veggies, a fruit salad, or a light soup for a complete meal. Enjoy your healthy spread!