How to Make BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps That Are Crisp, Flavorful, and Easy to Prep

BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps

Introduction

If you’re on the hunt for a fun, flavour-packed lunch or snack, look no further than BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps. These handheld delights combine classic BLT flavours—crisp bacon, juicy tomato, and crunchy lettuce—with shredded chicken in a salad-style filling wrapped in cool lettuce cups. They’re portable, colorful, and perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or simply spicing up your week.

Why BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps?

If you’re craving a wrap that’s crunchy, savory, and fresh—without the heaviness of bread—BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps are the answer. Blending timeless BLT ingredients into a bold chicken salad filling offers several irresistible perks:

  • Bold flavor: smoky bacon, ripe tomatoes, zesty dressing—without overpowering.
  • Handheld convenience: less messy than full sandwiches, better for on-the-go meals.
  • Customizable base: swap proteins, adjust seasoning, switch up lettuce.

the Epicurious guide to BLT lettuce wraps to help you build a wrap that stands out!

Key Ingredients & Variations

Before we jump into assembly, let’s highlight the core ingredients and smart variations that elevate your wraps:

  • Chicken (rotisserie, shredded): base of the salad mixture.
  • Tomatoes (diced): choose firm, ripe, and juicy varieties.
  • Lettuce (butter, romaine, iceberg): crisp, sturdy cups for wrapping.

Optional Boosters & Swaps

  • Onions (red or green onion), herbs (parsley, chives) for fresh notes
  • Avocado: creamy contrast (keep added just before serving to avoid browning)
  • Cheese (optional): a sprinkle of cheddar, pepper jack, or feta
  • Greek yogurt, sour cream, or mayo: adjust for creaminess and tang
  • Seasoning twists: garlic powder, smoked paprika, Dijon mustard
BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps served in crisp butter lettuce

Step-by-Step Prep & Assembly

Here’s how to put your wraps together so each bite is consistent and crisp:

  1. Prep the chicken
    • Shred leftover rotisserie chicken or poach chicken breasts, then chop or shred.
  2. Dice vegetables
    • Rinse tomatoes and lettuce—dry lettuce well to keep cups crisp.
  3. Mix the salad
    • In a bowl, combine chicken, bacon, tomatoes, optional add-ins (onion, herbs, avocado).
    • Add your binder: mayo, yogurt, etc. Reserve a little for garnish.
    • Season with black pepper, garlic powder, or smoked paprika.
  4. Assemble lettuce cups
    • Carefully lay out lettuce leaves. Spoon the chicken salad into the center.
    • Garnish with extra bacon bits, tomato, avocado slice.
  5. Serve immediately or chill
    • Serve on a platter or pack into a lunch container with lid. Enjoy!

Best Lettuce for Wrapping

Not all lettuce is created equal when it comes to wraps. Here’s how to choose the right leaves:

  • Butter lettuce (Boston/bibb): soft yet sturdy with elegant cup shape
  • Romaine hearts: crunchy, firm, holds hefty fillings
  • Iceberg cores: ultra-crunchy, mini “taco” cups once separated
  • Green leaf or red leaf: pretty and roll well, but can be floppy

Tip: rinse and let air-dry or pat dry with paper towels to ensure no excess moisture.

Flavor Enhancements & Dressings

Making your BLT Chicken Salad pop comes down to the choices you make with dressings and seasonings:

  • Light herbal vinaigrette: olive oil + lemon juice, Dijon, your favorite herbs
  • Creamy ranch-style dressing: blend mayo, yogurt, garlic powder, parsley, dill
  • Dijon-mayo or garlic aioli: a tangy upgrade over plain mayo
  • Spice lifts: smoked paprika for smokiness, cayenne for heat, fresh lemon zest for brightness

Mix your salad to-level throughout—reserve a small portion of dressing to drizzle over the completed wraps for an appetizing sheen.

Crunch & Texture Boosters

If you want to maximize crunch, try adding:

  • Celery (finely diced) for light celery-framed crisp
  • Pickles or relish – sweet, briny pop of flavor
  • Green apple (small cubes) – adds crunch and a hint of sweetness
  • Crumbled cheese – feta, cotija, or shredded cheddar
  • Toasted nuts or seeds – sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chopped pecans
  • Crispy wonton strips or tortilla strips as a topping
BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps served in crisp butter lettuce

These blend beautifully with the signature BLT elements for layered mouth-pleasing textures.

Meal Prep & Make-Ahead Tips

Want BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps ready when you are? Here’s how to prepare components ahead:

  • Chicken salad: store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
  • Cooked bacon: keep it crisp by storing separately in a paper-bag-lined container.
  • Pre-washed lettuce: layer between paper towels in a sealed bag or container.
  • Assembly: prepare wraps right before eating to keep lettuce crisp.

For portable lunches, bring the ingredients in separate containers, assemble at lunchtime for freshness.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

Here are creative ways to serve or pair your wraps:

  • On a platter at picnics or potlucks—with lime wedges and fresh herbs
  • Accompanied by chips, crudité, or salsa for dipping
  • For brunch, pair with savory biscuits or mini sliders
  • Wrap burrito-style in large romaine or iceberg leaves for an easy-on-the-go option

You can also deconstruct the wrap in a bowl and turn it into a casual “BLT Chicken Bowl”—just sub avocado slices and bacon bits for texture.

FAQ

Can I make these ahead for meal prep?

Absolutely! Prepare the chicken salad and bacon separately and store in airtight containers. Keep lettuce leaves washed and dry in a sealed bag with paper towels. Assemble just before eating.

Is it okay to eat these cold?

Yes—serving cold ensures crisp lettuce and firm bacon. Keep the salad chilled until serving for best flavor and texture.

How long does the chicken salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly, the salad can last 3–4 days. Keep bacon crumbled separately and lettuce in crisping conditions.

What lettuce type is best?

Butter lettuce cups offer elegance and curbside convenience. Romaine hearts work for crunch. Iceberg provides strong crunch but lacks cup shape unless used carefully.

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, canned chicken works in a pinch—but for best flavor and texture, shredded fresh rotisserie or poached chicken is preferred.

Tips & Troubleshooting

  • Extra creamy texture: stir in a spoonful of cream cheese, Greek yogurt or sour cream.
  • Added smokiness: a light dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika ups the flavor ante.
  • Food coloring note: if using bright red tomatoes, tinting a few lettuce edges green with parsley makes the presentation pop.
  • Kid-friendly version: omit onion/pickles and chop all ingredients finely; use smaller leaves as “mini wraps”.

Conclusion

BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps offer everything you crave in a handheld bite, juicy tomatoes, savory chicken, and cool, crunchy lettuce. They’re endlessly versatile, quick to assemble, and perfect for everything from casual lunches to impressive party platters.

Whether you’re prepping them for a weekday meal or serving them at your next gathering, these wraps deliver bold flavor and easy customization every time. Use the tips, variations, and wrapping tricks shared above to make them your own.

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How to Make BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps That Are Crisp, Flavorful, and Easy to Prep


  • Author: Velma
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps combine everything you love about a classic BLT sandwich, lettuce, and tomato, with a creamy, savory chicken salad. Instead of bread, the filling is tucked inside fresh, crisp lettuce leaves, making this recipe light, refreshing, and totally satisfying. It’s perfect for lunch, a picnic, or a quick no-fuss dinner.


Ingredients

Scale

For the chicken salad:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped chives or fresh parsley for garnish

For the wraps:

  • 1 head butter lettuce, iceberg, or romaine
  • Optional toppings: avocado slices, extra bacon bits, hot sauce

Instructions

  • Make the dressing:
    • In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  • Mix the salad:
    • Add the cooked chicken, tomatoes, red onion, and herbs to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
  • Assemble the wraps:
    • Wash and dry the lettuce leaves. Spoon chicken salad into each leaf and serve immediately. Add optional toppings as desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Mains
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3 lettuce wraps
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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