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Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Lettuce Wrap

Cilantro lime grilled chicken lettuce wraps recipe with fresh avocado and vegetables
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A meal prep superstar featuring chicken marinated in a zesty cilantro lime blend, grilled to juicy perfection, and served in crisp lettuce cups. This recipe is a vibrant, low-carb option perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners. The bright, fresh flavors are deeply satisfying and feel like a secret weapon for busy days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1/3 cup fresh lime juice (about 3-4 limes)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 cup packed fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large head of butter lettuce, romaine, or iceberg
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • Optional: crumbled queso fresco, Greek yogurt, extra lime wedges

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, honey, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
  2. Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring it is fully coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
  3. While chicken marinates, heat a grill, grill pan, or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface.
  4. Wash and separate lettuce leaves. Slice avocado, halve tomatoes, and thinly slice red onion. Set aside for assembly.
  5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard used marinade.
  6. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F and exterior has grill marks.
  7. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate, tent with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes.
  8. Slice the rested chicken against the grain into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
  9. To assemble, place chicken slices into a sturdy lettuce leaf. Top with avocado, tomatoes, red onion, and any optional toppings. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, do not skip the marinating time. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Choose sturdy, cup-shaped lettuce leaves like butter lettuce. Leftover chicken stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For a Whole30/Paleo version, omit the honey from the marinade.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.stacksipsnack.com/cilantro-lime-grilled-chicken-lettuce-wrap/