Cool, crisp, and bursting with Caesar flavor—these fresh chicken Caesar salad lettuce wraps are a light, protein-packed meal perfect for lunch or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and light: Low in carbs and gluten-free, ideal for Whole30 and paleo-style eating.
- Bold Caesar flavor: Creamy homemade Caesar dressing gives it a rich, authentic taste.
- Great for meal prep: Easy to assemble ahead of time—just wrap and go.
- No cooking needed: Especially convenient with pre-cooked or leftover chicken.
- Crispy and satisfying: The iceberg lettuce delivers crunch with every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 head iceberg lettuce, outer leaves carefully removed and kept whole
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, sliced or shredded
- 1/2 cup gluten-free croutons, crushed slightly
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Wax paper, for wrapping
For the Caesar dressing (Whole30-compliant):
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (Whole30 approved)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon anchovy paste
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, anchovy paste, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until creamy and well blended.
- Prepare the lettuce: Rinse and gently separate the large outer iceberg leaves. Pat them dry thoroughly.
- Build the base: On a sheet of wax paper, arrange 2–3 overlapping lettuce leaves in the center.
- Add the fillings: Layer sliced chicken, crushed gluten-free croutons, grated Parmesan, and a drizzle of Caesar dressing on top.
- Wrap it up: Fold the sides of the lettuce inward and roll from the bottom up to form a wrap. Use the wax paper to help shape and secure the roll.
- Serve: Cut in half for easier eating, or enjoy whole. Repeat for remaining wraps.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 2
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 0 minutes
- Total time: 15 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 290 kcal per serving
Variations
- Dairy-free: Omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
- Add more veggies: Include thinly sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, or shredded carrots.
- Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the dressing.
- Protein swap: Use grilled shrimp, tofu, or turkey instead of chicken.
- Wrap alternative: Use romaine hearts or collard greens if iceberg isn’t available.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Wraps can be stored in the fridge, tightly wrapped in wax paper or foil, for up to 24 hours.
- Reheating: Not necessary; these wraps are meant to be enjoyed cold.
- Make-ahead tip: Store components separately and assemble just before eating for best texture.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing?
Yes, just make sure it aligns with your dietary needs if you’re following Whole30 or gluten-free guidelines.
What lettuce works best for wraps?
Iceberg is crisp and sturdy, but romaine or butter lettuce are also good options.
How do I keep the wraps from falling apart?
Use overlapping leaves to create a strong base, and wrap tightly using wax paper or foil for support.
Can I add bacon?
Absolutely! Crumbled bacon adds an extra layer of savory crunch.
Is this salad wrap keto-friendly?
Yes, if you skip or minimize the croutons, it fits into a keto lifestyle.
How do I keep the lettuce crisp in storage?
Keep lettuce leaves dry and store separately from the dressing and fillings until ready to assemble.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Definitely! It’s a time-saver and adds great flavor.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes. Prepare ingredients ahead of time and store separately. Assemble fresh for best results.
How can I make it vegetarian?
Substitute the chicken with grilled tofu, chickpeas, or hard-boiled eggs.
Can I freeze these wraps?
No, lettuce does not freeze well and will lose its texture.
Conclusion
These Fresh Chicken Caesar Salad Lettuce Wraps are a tasty, nutritious, and super convenient way to enjoy your favorite salad in handheld form. With creamy Caesar dressing, protein-packed chicken, and a satisfying crunch, they offer all the flavor of a classic Caesar—minus the carbs. Perfect for busy weekdays, meal prep, or a fresh take on lunch, this is a wrap you’ll come back to again and again.
More Fresh & Flavorful Chicken Recipes to Try
If you enjoyed these Fresh Chicken Caesar Salad Lettuce Wraps, you’ll love exploring more light yet satisfying chicken recipes! Wrap up a quick dinner with the hearty Chicken Shawarma in a Loaf Pan or stick to the classics with this comforting Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken. For wrap-lovers, the Chicken Caesar Salad Pizza Wrap brings a fun twist. Need something creamier? Dive into our Creamy Boursin Garlic Herb Chicken. And for a zesty change, don’t miss the No-Fuss Chicken Fajitas—they’re packed with flavor and come together in minutes!
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Fresh Chicken Caesar Salad Lettuce Wraps
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Chicken Caesar Salad Lettuce Wraps with gluten-free croutons and Whole30 dressing—low-carb, crunchy, perfect for a quick lunch or meal prep.
Ingredients
-
1 head iceberg lettuce, outer leaves whole
-
2 cooked chicken breasts, sliced or shredded
-
1/2 cup gluten-free croutons, slightly crushed
-
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
Wax paper, for wrapping
For the Caesar dressing (Whole30-compliant):
-
1/2 cup Whole30-compliant mayonnaise
-
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
-
2 teaspoons lemon juice
-
1 teaspoon anchovy paste
-
1 garlic clove, finely minced
-
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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In a small bowl, whisk together all Caesar dressing ingredients until smooth. Set aside.
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Carefully peel large outer iceberg lettuce leaves. Pat dry.
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On a piece of wax paper, layer 2–3 overlapping lettuce leaves.
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Add chicken, crushed croutons, Parmesan, and drizzle with dressing.
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Fold lettuce sides in, roll tightly, and wrap with wax paper. Slice if desired.
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Repeat and serve fresh.
Notes
- Can substitute anchovy paste with Worcestershire sauce (if not Whole30).
- Skip cheese and croutons for a fully paleo version.
- Great for lunchboxes—wrap tightly in wax paper to hold shape.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American