You are looking for healthy avocado recipes, and this Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps recipe is perfect. These wraps are simple to make, incredibly fresh, and packed with flavor, making them ideal for a quick lunch or light dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Cooked Chicken Breast: Rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken works great. You can also use canned chicken for convenience.
- Avocado: Choose ripe but firm avocados.
- Mayonnaise: Use light mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt for a tangier, healthier option.
- Lettuce Leaves: Butter lettuce, romaine, or large iceberg lettuce leaves are all excellent choices for wrapping.
- Red Onion: Shallots or green onions can be used as a milder alternative.
- Celery: Adds a nice crunch.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 2 ripe avocados, pitted and diced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1/4 cup finely diced celery
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 head butter lettuce, romaine, or iceberg lettuce, leaves separated
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (assuming pre-cooked chicken)
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, knife, cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by shredding or dicing your cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Place the chicken in a large mixing bowl.
2. Mash the Avocado
Add the diced avocados to the bowl with the chicken. Gently mash the avocados with a fork, leaving some chunks for texture.
3. Combine Ingredients
Stir in the mayonnaise, diced red onion, diced celery, fresh lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything until well combined.
4. Taste and Adjust
Taste the chicken salad and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want a little more salt, pepper, or lime juice.
5. Assemble the Wraps
Spoon a generous amount of the avocado chicken salad into each lettuce leaf. Serve immediately for the best fresh flavor.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for extra flavor.
- Mix in a tablespoon of dijon mustard for a zesty kick.
- Include some chopped bell peppers for added crunch and color.
- Top with a dash of paprika or chili powder for a smoky note.
- Add a few cherry tomato halves for a pop of sweetness.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover avocado chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The avocado may brown slightly, but it will still be safe to eat. To minimize browning, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad before sealing the container.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and other vegetables ahead, but it’s best to mix in the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
What kind of lettuce works best for wraps?
Butter lettuce, romaine hearts, or large iceberg lettuce leaves are excellent because they are sturdy and flexible.
Is this a good option for a low-carb diet?
Absolutely! These Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps are a fantastic low-carb meal, packed with healthy fats and protein.
How can you prevent the avocado from browning?
Mixing in lime juice helps, and storing the salad in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly on top minimizes air exposure.
Can you use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise, offering a lighter and tangier flavor.
What other healthy avocado recipes are there?
Beyond these wraps, avocados are great in smoothies, guacamole, and sliced on toast or in salads.
