Introduction
Honey Dijon Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Hummus offer a refreshing and healthy twist to traditional wraps. These flavorful wraps combine tender chicken, a delicious honey Dijon dressing, and creamy hummus, all wrapped up in crisp lettuce leaves. Ideal for a light lunch or a quick weeknight dinner, they are a great way to enjoy a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken breasts – 1 pound, diced
Honey – 2 tablespoons
Dijon mustard – 2 tablespoons
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon
Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
Lettuce leaves (such as butter or romaine) – 8 large leaves
Hummus – 1 cup
Fresh herbs (optional, such as parsley or cilantro) – for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
These Honey Dijon Chicken Lettuce Wraps are not only easy to prepare but also a delightful way to enjoy a healthier option for lunch or dinner. Enjoy the crispness of the lettuce combined with the sweetness of honey and the tang of Dijon mustard for a uniquely satisfying meal.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Cut the chicken into small cubes.
Step 2: Marinate
In a bowl, mix together honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Step 4: Prepare Lettuce Wraps
While the chicken is cooking, rinse and dry the lettuce leaves. Choose your desired size of leaves – larger leaves work great for wraps.
Step 5: Assemble Wraps
Once the chicken is cooked, allow it to cool slightly. Place a portion of the chicken onto each lettuce leaf. Add a dollop of hummus on top.
Step 6: Add Toppings
You can also add various toppings such as diced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or chopped tomatoes to enhance the flavor and texture.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the lettuce wraps immediately as a fresh and healthy meal or snack.
Notes
Note 1: Marinating Time
Marinating the chicken for a longer period, such as up to 1 hour, can enhance the flavor even more.
Note 2: Alternative Proteins
Feel free to substitute the chicken with other proteins like tofu or shrimp if preferred.
Note 3: Hummus Variations
You can use different flavors of hummus, such as roasted red pepper or garlic, to vary the taste of the wraps.
Note 4: Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken and toppings separately from the lettuce leaves in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Cook techniques
Grilling
Grilling is a cooking technique that involves cooking food over direct heat, which gives the chicken a juicy texture and smoky flavor. It is effective for preparing the chicken in this recipe, ensuring a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender.
Marinating
Marinating involves soaking the chicken in a mixture of ingredients, such as honey and Dijon mustard, to infuse it with flavor and to tenderize the meat. A good marinade can enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Assembling
Assembling the lettuce wraps is a straightforward process that involves layering the grilled chicken, hummus, and fresh vegetables inside a lettuce leaf. This method keeps the wraps light and fresh while providing a satisfying crunch.
Chopping
Chopping fresh vegetables into bite-sized pieces is an essential technique for this recipe. It allows for easy assembly and ensures that each bite contains a balanced mix of flavors and textures.
FAQ
Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Yes, you can use turkey, tofu, or even grilled vegetables as a substitute for chicken in this recipe.
What type of lettuce is best for wraps?
Butter lettuce or romaine lettuce is ideal for wraps due to its sturdy leaves and ability to hold fillings without tearing.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
It is recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for maximum flavor, you can marinate it for a few hours or overnight.
Can I make these wraps ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and chop the vegetables ahead of time. However, it’s best to assemble the wraps just before serving to maintain the freshness of the lettuce.
What can I serve with these wraps?
These wraps pair well with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of fruit for a refreshing meal.
Conclusion
These honey Dijon chicken lettuce wraps with hummus make for a fresh, healthy, and satisfying meal option. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors from the honey Dijon dressing paired with the creamy hummus creates a delightful experience. Enjoy these wraps as a light lunch or dinner, and feel free to customize them to suit your taste!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Chickpea Lettuce Wraps
Swap the chicken for roasted spicy chickpeas for a vegetarian option packed with protein.
Grilled Shrimp Lettuce Wraps
Use grilled shrimp instead of chicken and add a zesty lime dressing for a seafood twist.
Turkey and Avocado Lettuce Wraps
Substitute chicken with ground turkey and layer with ripe avocado for a rich and savory flavor.
Vegetable Hummus Lettuce Wraps
Fill the wraps with assorted vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and carrots with hummus for a refreshing snack.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowls
Transform the ingredients into a wholesome bowl with quinoa or brown rice, topped with extra veggies and a lemon-garlic dressing.
Thai Peanut Chicken Wraps
Try using a Thai peanut sauce instead of honey Dijon for an Asian-inspired flavor profile.