Tropical Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Introduction

Last weekend I grabbed a rotisserie chicken at the market and couldn’t resist pairing it with juicy mango and crisp peppers. These Tropical Chicken Lettuce Wraps came together in minutes, bringing a taste of the islands straight to my table. They’re bright, crunchy, and feel like a little summer vacation in every bite.

Why Make This Recipe

• Speedy Prep: Ready in 20 minutes flat, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh & Light: Butter lettuce leaves stuffed with chicken, fruit, and veggies—no heavy carbs.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can chop and toss ahead of time for easy assembly later.
• Kid-Approved: Sweet mango and crunchy nuts make these wraps fun to eat.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• 3 cups chopped cooked chicken (rotisserie, grilled, or baked)
• 1 cup diced mango (ripe and firm)
• ½ cup diced scallions (green onions)
• ½ cup finely diced red bell pepper
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup cilantro-lime dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• 12 small butter lettuce leaves
• ½ cup chopped macadamia nuts (optional, for crunch)

Tip: Swap macadamia nuts for chopped peanuts or cashews if you prefer.

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, mango, scallions, and bell pepper. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Drizzle cilantro-lime dressing over the mixture and toss gently until every piece is coated.
3. Spoon the chicken mixture into lettuce leaves, dividing evenly (about 2 to 3 tablespoons per leaf).
4. If you like extra crunch, sprinkle chopped macadamia nuts on top. Serve immediately.

How to Serve

Line the wraps on a large platter for entertaining or pass them around as individual bites. They’re perfect alongside grilled pineapple skewers or a simple cucumber salad.

How to Store

Store the filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep lettuce leaves separate and assemble just before serving to avoid sogginess.

Pro Tips from the Chef

• Chill the chicken and mango before tossing—they stay firmer in the dressing.
• Pat lettuce leaves dry so they don’t leak.
• For more flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the dressing.

Variations

• Swap mango for diced pineapple or papaya.
• Stir in a handful of shredded carrot or cucumber ribbons.
• Use romaine hearts instead of butter lettuce for a sturdier wrap.

FAQs

Can I make these vegan?
Yes—replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use a dairy-free dressing.

Is it okay to prep the night before?
Prep the chicken mixture ahead, but keep lettuce leaves separate until serving.

Can I serve these warm?
You can, but they’re at their best chilled or room temperature.

Conclusion

These Tropical Chicken Lettuce Wraps are the ultimate quick-fix for summer cravings. With sweet mango, tender chicken, and zesty dressing, they bring sunshine to any meal. Whip them up tonight and watch them disappear.