Introduction
The concept of lettuce wraps traces back to Asian cuisine, particularly Korean ssam and Chinese san choy bow, but this modern fusion version embraces California's fresh, health-conscious culinary style. The combination of chicken and avocado reflects the influence of contemporary wellness culture, which gained momentum in the early 2000s as people sought alternatives to traditional sandwich wraps. This refreshing interpretation has become a staple in many health-focused restaurants and home kitchens, perfectly embodying the farm-to-table philosophy with its emphasis on fresh, whole ingredients and clean eating.
Ingredients
• 2 large heads Boston or butter lettuce, leaves separated and washed
• 1.5 pounds ground chicken breast
• 2 ripe Hass avocados, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 limes, juiced (about 1/4 cup juice)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Step 1:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to create the sauce.
Step 2:
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground chicken and cook for 8-10 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until no pink remains.
Step 3:
Pour half the sauce over the cooking chicken and stir to combine. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 4:
While the chicken cooks, wash and dry lettuce leaves, and slice the avocados.
Step 5:
Remove chicken from heat and stir in chopped cilantro and mint.
Q: Can I make the chicken mixture ahead of time?
A: Yes, the chicken mixture can be made up to 3 days ahead and reheated when ready to serve.
Q: How do I prevent the lettuce wraps from falling apart?
A: Double up the lettuce leaves for extra stability and don't overfill.
Q: What's the best way to keep avocados from browning?
A: Slice avocados just before serving, or if needed earlier, toss with a bit of lime juice.
• Ground turkey can be substituted for chicken.
• Iceberg or romaine lettuce can replace Boston lettuce, though they will be less pliable.
• For dairy-free and gluten-free (check soy sauce labels).
• Avocados should be ripe but firm for best slicing.
• Fresh herbs are strongly recommended over dried for optimal flavor.
• Tamari can be used instead of soy sauce for gluten-free option.
To serve, place a lettuce leaf on a plate, add a portion of the chicken mixture, top with avocado slices, and drizzle with remaining sauce. Serve immediately.
Store chicken mixture and lettuce leaves separately. Chicken will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Prepare avocados fresh before serving.
Prepare the sauce and slice avocados while the chicken is cooking to maximize efficiency.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken to ensure proper browning
- Pat lettuce leaves completely dry to prevent soggy wraps
- Slice avocados just before serving to prevent browning
For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with crumbled firm tofu or tempeh. For extra crunch, add chopped water chestnuts or shredded carrots.
Serve with chilled green tea or light Asian beer. Consider Asian cucumber salad as a side dish.
Year-round, particularly refreshing in spring and summer
Contains soy (soy sauce). Check for gluten in soy sauce if celiac. Recipe is dairy-free, egg-free, and nut-free.
