If you’re craving something delightfully fresh that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for health, these Pesto Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A Quick & Healthy Recipe are exactly what you need. Picture juicy chicken, infused with herby pesto and nestled into crisp lettuce, with juicy tomatoes and creamy feta finishing every bite. It’s the kind of meal you want in your regular weeknight rotation: easy, energized, vibrant, and, honestly, super fun to assemble and devour. Whether you’re meal prepping for lunches or pulling together a speedy dinner, this recipe proves healthy eating can be outrageously tasty.

Pesto Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A Quick & Healthy Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this dish is all in its simplicity: each ingredient shines and brings something special to the party, whether it’s richness, crunch, juiciness, or tang. Choose the freshest produce and quality pesto, and you really can’t go wrong.

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: These provide lean protein and soak up the pesto marinade beautifully, becoming tender and flavorful.
Prepared Pesto: Whether you use your favorite store-bought variety or homemade, pesto delivers a punch of herby, cheesy, and nutty flavor that makes this dish sing.
Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps the pesto adhere to the chicken for even flavor distribution.
Garlic Powder: An easy way to layer in mild garlic flavor without needing to chop fresh cloves.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the overall wrap; don’t skimp!
Butter Lettuce or Romaine: The crisp, tender leaves serve as the perfect “boats” for your filling, adding crunch and freshness.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness and juiciness balance the richness of the chicken and pesto.
Red Onion: Paper-thin slices give a gentle bite and gorgeous color contrast.
Crumbled Feta Cheese (optional): Toss some on for a salty, creamy note; it’s delicious but can be left off for a dairy-free option.
Pine Nuts (optional): Toasted pine nuts mimic the pesto’s classic ingredient and add irresistible crunch.
Balsamic Glaze (optional): A drizzle on top creates a sweet-tangy finish that elevates every bite.

How to Make Pesto Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A Quick & Healthy Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Start by placing your chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a resealable bag, then gently pound them to an even thickness—around half an inch. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly, so you get juicy, tender slices every time. Plus, prepping the chicken this way helps it soak up the pesto marinade more efficiently.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl, whisk together the pesto, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Slide your chicken in and get it nicely coated on all sides. The marinade should cover each piece thoroughly because this is where the flavor magic happens. Cover with plastic wrap and let the chicken chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to two hours if you have the time. The longer, the better for that deep, herby flavor!

Step 3: Heat the Pan

Crank up a large skillet to medium-high, then add a touch of olive oil. You want the pan nice and hot before adding the chicken, so you get a beautiful sear that locks in all the flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Lay the marinated chicken breasts in your hot skillet. Let them cook for about five to seven minutes per side, until a golden crust forms and the inside reaches 165°F (74°C). Don’t rush this step; patience rewards you with juicy, perfectly cooked chicken.

Step 5: Rest the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for about five minutes. This may seem like a small detail, but resting locks in all those lovely juices, so your chicken will be moist and flavorful when sliced.

Step 6: Slice the Chicken

After the rest, slice your chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized cubes. This makes them easier to tuck into each lettuce cup and ensures you get the perfect chicken-to-veggie ratio in every wrap.

Step 7: Prepare the Lettuce Cups

Carefully separate the leaves from your head of lettuce, then give them a gentle wash and pat them dry. You want crisp, dry leaves for sturdy wraps that hold the filling well and don’t wilt under the warm chicken.

Step 8: Fill the Lettuce Cups

Now comes the fun part: piling your chicken pieces into each lettuce leaf. Don’t be shy—get in there and fill them generously for hearty, satisfying wraps.

Step 9: Add the Toppings

Scatter on your halved cherry tomatoes, paper-thin slices of red onion, and crumbled feta if using. For some extra pizzazz, toss on those toasted pine nuts too. These toppings don’t just add color—they bring texture, juiciness, and bursts of salty, nutty flavor.

Step 10: Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze (Optional)

If you’re a fan of that sweet-tangy pop, now’s the moment to drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the top. It ties everything together in a way that feels gourmet but is incredibly simple.

Step 11: Serve Immediately

All that’s left is to transfer your Pesto Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A Quick & Healthy Recipe to a platter and serve right away. They’re best enjoyed fresh, with the lettuce nice and crisp.

How to Serve Pesto Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A Quick & Healthy Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle some extra chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top for a gorgeous pop of green and fresh aroma. If you’re feeling a bit fancy, another small dusting of feta or a few extra pine nuts really drives home all those beautiful flavors.

Side Dishes

Pair your Pesto Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A Quick & Healthy Recipe with a light side salad—think arugula with lemon, or a quinoa and veggie bowl for something heartier. For a low-carb feast, serve with cucumber ribbons, roasted veggies, or even a small bowl of fresh fruit.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your wraps on a colorful platter and let everyone build their own. Or serve everything family-style for a fun, interactive lunch or dinner. You can even turn these into a stunning appetizer plate by making mini versions using smaller lettuce leaves—perfect party fare!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store all the components separately for best results. The cooked chicken can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Save the lettuce leaves wrapped in paper towels in a sealed bag or container to keep them crisp.

Freezing

The chicken component of your Pesto Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A Quick & Healthy Recipe freezes quite well! Store the cooked, cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Be sure to skip freezing the lettuce and fresh toppings, as they won’t hold up well.

Reheating

Gently reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or zap it in the microwave just until warmed through. Assemble your wraps with fresh lettuce and toppings just before serving for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut—just toss the shredded chicken with pesto and proceed as directed for easy, speedy assembly.

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Definitely. Simply choose a dairy-free pesto and skip the feta cheese. The wraps will still be bursting with flavor, especially with those juicy tomatoes and toasty pine nuts!

What kind of pesto works best in Pesto Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A Quick & Healthy Recipe?

You can use classic basil pesto, or mix things up with arugula or spinach pesto. Homemade always packs extra freshness, but store-bought works perfectly when you’re short on time.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Swap the chicken for chickpeas or white beans, toss with pesto, and proceed with the rest—it’s a delicious, plant-based alternative that’s just as satisfying.

Are there other toppings I can add?

For sure! Try thinly sliced cucumber, avocado slices, shredded carrots, or a sprinkle of toasted sunflower seeds. There are endless possibilities to make these wraps your own.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried Pesto Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A Quick & Healthy Recipe yet, I promise you’re in for a treat. They’re light, loaded with vibrant flavors, and never boring—perfect for quick lunches or a relaxed dinner. Give them a go and let them become a fresh, new favorite at your table.

Pesto Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A Quick & Healthy Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 13 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Pesto Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a quick and healthy meal option that is bursting with flavor. Tender marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze come together in a light and delicious dish.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a resealable plastic bag. Pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
Marinate the Chicken: Whisk together pesto, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts to the bowl and toss to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Heat the Pan: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil.
Cook the Chicken: Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Rest the Chicken: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Slice the Chicken: Slice chicken into strips or cubes.
Prepare the Lettuce Cups: Separate and wash lettuce leaves.
Fill the Lettuce Cups: Place chicken into lettuce cups.
Add the Toppings: Top with tomatoes, onion, feta cheese, and pine nuts.
Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze (Optional): Drizzle balsamic glaze over wraps.
Serve Immediately: Serve the lettuce wraps immediately.

Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-Frying
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 lettuce wrap
Calories: 280
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Pesto Chicken Lettuce Wraps, Healthy Recipe, Quick Meal, Pesto Chicken, Lettuce Wraps