Gluten-Free Pesto Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Fresh, no-cook lettuce wraps filled with pre-cooked chicken mixed with pesto mayo, cucumber, and tomatoes. Creamy, herbaceous, and light—perfect for quick lunches, meal prep, or light dinners. The pesto-mayo base creates richness while the crisp vegetables and tender chicken keep it fresh and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Combine chicken strips, mayonnaise, and pesto in a bowl
- 2
Mix until well combined, then fold in cucumbers and tomatoes
- 3
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed
- 4
Divide mixture evenly among lettuce leaves and serve
Tips
Use quality pesto with visible basil and pine nuts for best flavor. Homemade works excellently and stores longer than jarred.
Chop vegetables just before assembly to keep them crisp and prevent the filling from becoming watery.
Good to Know
Keep filling in airtight container up to 3 days. Assemble wraps just before eating to prevent lettuce from wilting.
Prepare filling through step 2 up to 1 day ahead. Store lettuce leaves separately and wrap when ready to serve.
Serve immediately at room temperature or chilled. Pair with sparkling water, unsweetened iced tea, or light salad.
Common Mistakes
Chop vegetables too early to avoid excess moisture bleeding into filling
Use room-temperature lettuce leaves to avoid cracking when wrapping
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Vegan Options
General Alternatives
sturdier hold for filling
FAQ
Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
Yes, prepare the filling up to 1 day in advance in an airtight container. Keep lettuce leaves separate and unwrapped until serving to prevent sogginess.
What if I don't have fresh pesto?
Use store-bought jarred pesto or substitute with dried basil mixed into mayo. Add minced garlic and pine nuts if available for closer flavor match.
How long do these keep in the fridge?
Unfilled, the mixture keeps 3 days refrigerated. Assembled wraps are best eaten immediately, though they'll hold about 1 hour before lettuce softens.