If you’re on the hunt for a light yet satisfying meal that bursts with classic flavors, look no further than this BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe. It brilliantly captures the beloved taste trio of bacon, lettuce, and tomato, combined with tender chicken and a zesty dressing, all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves. This recipe brings a refreshing twist to the traditional BLT, making it perfect for lunch, a quick dinner, or even a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Prepare to fall in love with the vibrant textures and harmonious flavors that make these wraps your new go-to!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to making this dish sing. Each component plays a vital role—from the crispy bacon adding irresistible crunch and smokiness, to the juicy cherry tomatoes delivering bright bursts of color and tang, complemented perfectly by creamy dressing and crisp lettuce.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced: The hearty protein that holds these wraps together with a tender texture.
- 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds irresistible smoky crunch that defines the BLT flavor.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Brings natural sweetness and vibrant color to the mix.
- 1/2 cup celery, diced: Offers a refreshing crunch and a subtle earthiness.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: Gives a mild sharpness and depth of flavor.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Creates a creamy, luscious dressing that binds the ingredients perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick that brightens the salad.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Provides a zesty lift to balance the richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- 12 large lettuce leaves (such as romaine or butter lettuce): Serve as crisp, refreshing wraps that make the salad handheld and fun.
- Fresh herbs (optional for garnish): Adds a burst of freshness and beautiful presentation.
How to Make BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by crisping up your bacon in a skillet over medium heat. The sizzling aroma is irresistible and signals just how delicious your wraps will be. Once cooked to a golden crisp, remove and let the bacon rest on paper towels to drain excess grease. After cooling, crumble it into perfect little bites that will infuse every forkful with smoky goodness.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a large bowl, add the diced cooked chicken. Using pre-cooked chicken saves time and ensures the salad stays light and quick to assemble. The chicken’s tender texture provides the hearty foundation this salad needs to stand out among lighter fare.
Step 3: Mix in Fresh Veggies
Add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced celery, and finely chopped red onion to your bowl with the chicken. These vegetables bring so much more than just color—they contribute crunch, juiciness, and a subtle sweetness with each bite. They make the salad lively and irresistible.
Step 4: Whip Up the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until the dressing feels smooth and creamy. This simple but zingy dressing is the secret to tying all the flavors together beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Gently fold everything to ensure each bite is bursting with creamy, tangy goodness. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the texture balanced and inviting.
Step 6: Fold in the Bacon
Last but definitely not least, add your crumbled bacon to the salad. Fold it in gently so that the smoky crunch distributes evenly throughout. This is the moment your BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe truly comes alive.
Step 7: Prepare the Lettuce Leaves
Carefully wash and dry large lettuce leaves, such as romaine or butter lettuce, until completely crisp. Lay them flat on a serving platter, ready to cradle the flavorful filling. The lettuce acts as a refreshing, low-carb vessel that adds a vibrant green pop and satisfying crunch.
Step 8: Assemble the Wraps
Spoon a generous portion of the chicken salad mixture into each lettuce leaf. The combination of creamy filling and crisp lettuce creates a fantastic balance in every handheld wrap. Don’t be shy—pile them high!
Step 9: Garnish if Desired
Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and extra freshness. This final touch elevates presentation and flavor, making your wraps feel just a little more special.
Step 10: Serve Immediately
Enjoy your BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps right away for the best texture and flavor. The crisp lettuce paired with the filling’s creamy, smoky, and tangy notes makes for an absolutely delightful meal.
How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like fresh herbs, a light drizzle of extra lemon juice, or even thin slices of avocado can really enhance your wraps. These small touches brighten the dish visually and add layers of subtle flavor that feel fresh and inviting.
Side Dishes
Pairing your BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps with light and crisp sides like a cucumber salad, sweet potato fries, or a simple fruit salad will complement the meal perfectly without overpowering the main star. Think balance and freshness to create a meal that feels complete but not heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or casual gathering, serve the wraps deconstructed on a platter—lettuce leaves on one side, chicken salad in a bowl, and bacon crumbles alongside—letting guests build their own. Alternatively, use endive or butter lettuce cups for smaller bites that make for elegant finger foods. Presentation can add an extra dash of fun and sophistication.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover chicken salad mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the lettuce leaves separate and fresh in a plastic bag or wrapped in paper towels to maintain their crispness until you’re ready to enjoy more wraps.
Freezing
Because of the lettuce leaves and fresh veggies, freezing the assembled wraps is not recommended. However, you can freeze the plain chicken salad mixture without lettuce for up to two months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and freshen it with some extra lemon juice before serving.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken salad mixture gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, but avoid overheating to keep the texture pleasant. Assemble with fresh lettuce leaves just before serving for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken in the BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe?
Absolutely! Turkey is a great substitute if you want to switch things up or cater to different tastes. Just make sure it’s cooked and diced similarly to chicken for the best texture.
What type of lettuce works best for these wraps?
Romaine and butter lettuce are ideal due to their size, crispness, and shape, which make them perfect for holding the salad without tearing. Iceberg can also be used if you prefer an extra crunchy bite.
Is the dressing dairy-free?
Yes, the dressing is dairy-free since it relies on mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice for creaminess and tang, making it suitable for most dietary needs.
Can I make the chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken salad up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. Just keep the lettuce leaves chilled separately until ready to serve for maximum freshness.
How spicy is this BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe?
This recipe is mild and family-friendly. If you like a little extra heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the salad or dressing.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly delightful about combining familiar flavors into such a fresh and satisfying meal. This BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe is not only quick and easy but offers incredible flavor and texture with every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, these wraps are certain to become a beloved staple. Give this recipe a try—you’re going to love how effortlessly delicious it is!
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BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 lettuce wraps
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
These BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps combine succulent cooked chicken, crispy bacon, fresh cherry tomatoes, celery, and red onion, all tossed in a creamy Dijon mustard and lemon dressing. Wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves, this recipe offers a flavorful, low-carb alternative to traditional sandwiches, perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
Dressing
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Bacon & Wraps
- 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 12 large lettuce leaves (such as romaine or butter lettuce)
- Fresh herbs (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
- Prepare Chicken and Vegetables: In a large bowl, add the diced cooked chicken. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced celery, and finely chopped red onion.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until smooth and well blended.
- Combine Salad: Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Add Bacon: Fold the crumbled, crispy bacon into the salad mixture, distributing it thoroughly.
- Prepare Lettuce Leaves: Wash and dry the lettuce leaves carefully, laying them flat on a serving platter to create the wrap base.
- Assemble Wraps: Spoon a generous amount of the chicken salad mixture onto each lettuce leaf, creating easy-to-eat wraps.
- Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle fresh herbs over the top of each wrap for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve: Enjoy the wraps immediately to maintain the crisp texture of the lettuce and the freshness of the salad.
Notes
- You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- For added spice, mix in a dash of hot sauce with the dressing.
- Use turkey bacon if you prefer a leaner option.
- These wraps are best consumed immediately to prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or chives enhance the flavor but are optional.
