Ground Chicken Taco Lettuce Wraps

Name: Ground Chicken Taco Lettuce Wraps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 head of romaine lettuce, leaves separated; 1 avocado, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges for serving; Salsa for topping

Highlighted under: Quick Meal Studio

I absolutely love making these Ground Chicken Taco Lettuce Wraps for a quick and healthy dinner option. They are packed with flavor and require minimal prep, making them perfect for busy weeknights. The crunch of the lettuce wraps paired with the savory spiced chicken makes for a delightful contrast, and they’re fun to customize with your favorite toppings. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or just preparing a meal for myself, these wraps never fail to impress and satisfy.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-02-23T19:33:36.676Z

When I first tried making Ground Chicken Taco Lettuce Wraps, I was amazed at how quickly they came together. The recipe starts with browning ground chicken and adding spices, which creates a deliciously rich flavor. I found that using fresh lime juice right at the end brightens the dish and really enhances the overall taste. Plus, the crunch from the lettuce adds an unexpected twist!

I often turn to this recipe when I want something flavorful and satisfying yet guilt-free. It’s so versatile; you can change up the toppings based on your preferences. Don't skip the avocado and salsa—they add a lovely creaminess and freshness that rounds out the dish perfectly!

Why You Will Love These Wraps
Quick and easy to prepare for a busy weeknight meal
Fresh and crunchy texture that adds excitement to your dinner
Flavor-packed with customizable toppings to suit any palate

Cooking the Ground Chicken

When cooking the ground chicken, it's essential to keep the heat at medium. This allows the chicken to brown evenly without burning. As the chicken cooks, use a wooden spoon to break it apart into smaller pieces; this ensures even cooking and prevents clumping. You’ll know it's ready when it's no longer pink and has a slightly golden color, which typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes.

Incorporating aromatics like onions and garlic not only boosts the flavor but also develops a rich base for the taco seasoning. For optimal results, cook the onion until it's translucent and soft, which should take about 3 minutes. This technique enhances the depth of flavor, making your wraps truly satisfying.

Spices and Seasoning Techniques

The combination of chili powder, cumin, and paprika is what gives the chicken filling its signature taco flavor profile. Freshly ground spices can elevate the dish; if you have the option, using whole spices and grinding them just before cooking can create a more robust flavor. When adding the spices, ensure they are evenly distributed by stirring thoroughly, which will help prevent any overly spicy bites.

Taste the filling after you add the spices; this allows you to adjust salt and pepper based on your preference. If you’re looking for a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture. This customization can make your tacos unique to your palate.

Customization and Serving Suggestions

The beauty of these Ground Chicken Taco Lettuce Wraps lies in their versatility. Feel free to switch up the toppings based on seasonal ingredients or your favorite flavors. For a creamier texture, sour cream or Greek yogurt makes excellent alternatives to cheese. You could also explore different cheese types, such as pepper jack for a bit of spice or feta for a tangy kick.

To prep in advance, cook the chicken filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it easy to assemble the wraps whenever hunger strikes. When serving, pair these wraps with sides like black beans or corn salsa for a complete meal that truly impresses.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling

1 lb ground chicken
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Wraps

1 head of romaine lettuce, leaves separated
1 avocado, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges for serving
Salsa for topping

Instructions

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the ground chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Season the Filling

Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the chicken mixture. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the spices to meld into the chicken.

Prepare the Wraps

Take a lettuce leaf and spoon a generous amount of the chicken filling into the center. Top with diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cheese, and cilantro.

Serve and Enjoy

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and serve with salsa on the side for a zesty kick. Enjoy these wraps immediately while the chicken is warm!

Additional Tips

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture. You can also substitute the ground chicken with turkey or beef if you prefer.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re unable to find ground chicken, turkey is a fantastic substitute that offers a similar texture and taste. For a vegetarian option, try using crumbled tofu or chickpeas seasoned with the same spices. Each alternative will yield delicious results but note that cooking times may vary, especially for plant-based ingredients.

When selecting lettuce for the wraps, romaine is excellent due to its sturdy leaves that hold up well under the weight of the fillings. However, you can also use butter lettuce or even cabbage leaves for a different flavor profile and texture.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time on busy weeknights, consider cooking a larger batch of the chicken filling and freezing it. Cool the cooked mixture completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container, where it can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warm and freshly seasoned once thawed.

Preparing the toppings ahead of time can also streamline the assembly process. Chop vegetables and store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge. This way, you can quickly grab everything you need when it’s time to make your wraps, speeding up the dinner process.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your chicken mixture too dry, adding a small splash of chicken broth during cooking can help maintain moisture. Conversely, if it becomes too wet, you can increase the heat slightly to cook off excess liquid, ensuring the filling remains flavorful without being soggy.

For those who may be new to cooking ground meats, be cautious not to overcook the chicken, as it can become tough. Always remove it from the heat as soon as it’s no longer pink to achieve that perfect tender consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these wraps ahead of time?

While the chicken filling can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator, it's best to assemble the wraps fresh for the best texture.

→ What can I use instead of lettuce leaves?

You can use other greens like kale or collard greens, but romaine lettuce holds up best for wraps.

→ Are these wraps gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you check your seasoning labels, these Ground Chicken Taco Lettuce Wraps are naturally gluten-free.

→ Can I freeze the chicken filling?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked chicken filling for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.