Ground Chicken Taco Lettuce Wraps

Name: Ground Chicken Taco Lettuce Wraps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon taco seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 head of butter lettuce or romaine, leaves separated; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, diced; ½ cup shredded cheese (optional); Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional); Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Heartfelt Meals

I love a quick meal that’s both satisfying and healthy, and Ground Chicken Taco Lettuce Wraps deliver just that! These wraps are bursting with flavor and freshness, making them the perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend lunch. I appreciate how easily they come together; simply brown the chicken, mix in spices, and serve with crisp lettuce leaves. It's a fun, hands-on meal that the whole family can enjoy, and I always feel good serving it!

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-02-24T07:30:37.425Z

When I first made these Ground Chicken Taco Lettuce Wraps, I was amazed at how quickly they were ready. Cooking the ground chicken with a medley of spices fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma, and they always get rave reviews at the dinner table. The crisp lettuce serves as the perfect vessel, making each bite refreshing.

I love experimenting with toppings, too! Adding fresh avocado, diced tomatoes, or a squeeze of lime takes these wraps to the next level. They’re versatile, healthy, and always a hit at gatherings!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and vibrant alternative to traditional tacos
Health-conscious without compromising on flavor
Flexible toppings to suit every palate

Choosing the Right Lettuce

When it comes to making Ground Chicken Taco Lettuce Wraps, the choice of lettuce is crucial for texture and flavor. I love using butter lettuce because its soft leaves are pliable and have a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the savory filling. However, romaine is another excellent option; its sturdiness offers a satisfying crunch and helps hold more filling without tearing. If you're feeling adventurous, try using iceberg for a refreshing crunch or even collard greens for a robust wrap. Just ensure you rinse and dry the leaves thoroughly to prevent sogginess.

It's essential to prepare your lettuce just before serving. Keeping the leaves chilled in the refrigerator will help them stay crisp. If you find that your lettuce leaves are too small or delicate, cut larger leaves into sections to create more manageable pieces. A well-prepped wrap not only looks appealing but also makes the eating experience much more enjoyable.

Flavor Boosters and Variations

While the taco seasoning provides a strong flavor base, you can elevate your Ground Chicken Taco Lettuce Wraps by incorporating additional spices or fresh ingredients. For a zesty kick, consider adding lime juice or zest right before serving; this brightens the dish and enhances the overall flavor profile. You can also mix in finely chopped jalapeños or chipotle peppers if you prefer additional heat. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as these additions can intensify the overall taste.

Another way to customize the wraps is through the toppings. Beyond cherry tomatoes and avocado, think about adding pickled onions or a dollop of salsa for extra flavor. I enjoy experimenting with different types of cheese, such as crumbled queso fresco or a sharp cheddar, to change things up. All these variations not only keep the meal exciting but also allow each family member to personalize their wrap to their liking.

Ingredients for Ground Chicken Taco Lettuce Wraps

For the Filling

1 lb ground chicken
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Serving

1 head of butter lettuce or romaine, leaves separated
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, diced
½ cup shredded cheese (optional)
Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Preparation Instructions

Steps to Make Ground Chicken Taco Lettuce Wraps

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it's translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, then add the ground chicken, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked and browned, approximately 7-10 minutes.

Assemble the Wraps

Once the chicken is ready, remove it from heat. To serve, spoon the chicken mixture into the lettuce leaves. Top with cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, cheese, and any additional toppings you prefer.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

Try mixing in black beans or corn into the chicken mixture for additional texture and flavor. If you prefer, you can also use turkey or lean beef in place of ground chicken for a different twist.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to make these Ground Chicken Taco Lettuce Wraps ahead of time, you can prepare the filling in advance. The cooked ground chicken mixture stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This makes dinner a breeze on busy weeknights; all you need to do is reheat the filling on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through, usually about 2–3 minutes on medium heat.

When storing leftovers, keep the chicken filling separate from the lettuce leaves to prevent them from wilting. For a refreshing meal, pack your toppings in small containers to add just before serving. However, I recommend consuming the wraps within a couple of days for the best freshness and texture.

Common Cooking Mistakes

A common mistake when cooking ground chicken is overcooking it, which can lead to a dry texture. To avoid this, always monitor the cooking time closely; the chicken should be cooked until no pink remains and it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). To check for doneness, break apart the meat with a spatula to ensure there are no pink spots visible, and keep an eye out for the bright white color.

Another possible pitfall is misjudging the seasoning levels. Each brand of taco seasoning varies in intensity, so always start with a smaller amount and taste as you go. This way, you can adjust the seasoning to your preferred palate without overwhelming the dish. Remember to add salt gradually—you can always add more, but it’s harder to correct an overly salty mixture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these wraps ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Just assemble the wraps when you're ready to serve!

→ What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to add diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or a sprinkle of taco sauce for extra flavor!

→ Are these wraps gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure your taco seasoning is gluten-free, these wraps are a great gluten-free option.

→ Can I use a different type of lettuce?

Absolutely! While butter lettuce is great for wraps, you can also use iceberg or any leafy greens you prefer.