Mango Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe

Mango Chicken Lettuce Wraps are the epitome of fresh, vibrant flavor—imagine sweet mango mingling with savory chicken, all tucked into crisp lettuce leaves for a dish that’s as fun to eat as it is to make! These wraps prove that healthy doesn’t need to be boring: between the juicy burst of fruit, the tender chicken, and that delightful crunch, you’ll be hooked after just one bite. Whether you’re searching for a light lunch, an impressive party appetizer, or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe checks every box for delicious versatility.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of simple ingredients to create these stunning wraps, but each one pulls its weight in the final result. From the robust chicken to the zesty dressing and sweet mango, every element adds a pop of flavor, color, or texture. Here’s exactly what makes these Mango Chicken Lettuce Wraps shine:

• Chicken breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast cooks quickly and soaks up all the tangy flavors in the pan.
• Fresh mango: A ripe mango brings sweet contrast and a burst of juicy, golden color.
• Butter or romaine lettuce leaves: Use sturdy leaves for wrapping—crisp and mild, they let the fillings take the spotlight.
• Red bell pepper: Thinly sliced, it adds crunch and color, making the wraps extra special.
• Green onions: These add freshness and a gentle bite, brightening up every bite.
• Cilantro: Just a sprinkle brings the wraps to life with herby aroma and flavor—feel free to skip if you’re not a fan!
• Lime juice: A generous squeeze at the end adds zing and pulls all the flavors together.
• Soy sauce: For that umami base—use tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Garlic: Fresh, minced garlic gives the chicken savory depth.
• Olive oil or neutral oil: Used for sautéing, olive oil adds a hint of richness.
• Chili flakes or fresh chili (optional): Add heat to taste for a little spicy kick.

How to Make Mango Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by gathering and prepping your fresh ingredients. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces for fast, even cooking. Peel and dice the mango, slice the bell pepper thin, mince your garlic, and chop the green onions and cilantro. Having everything ready makes this recipe a breeze, and ensures the Mango Chicken Lettuce Wraps come together on a whim.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and stir until fragrant, then toss in the diced chicken. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Add the soy sauce, a squeeze of lime, and a pinch of chili flakes if you’re craving heat. Let everything bubble together for a minute so the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 3: Toss with Mango and Veggies

When the chicken is cooked, turn off the heat and toss in the diced mango, sliced bell pepper, green onions, and most of the cilantro (save a little for garnish). The residual heat will gently warm the mango and veggies without cooking them, keeping everything crisp, vibrant, and colorful for the final wraps.

Step 4: Assemble the Lettuce Wraps

Lay out your lettuce leaves on a platter. Spoon a generous scoop of the mango chicken mixture into each one—don’t forget a bit of everything in every wrap! This part is so satisfying and perfect for letting everyone build their own. Top each with a pinch of fresh cilantro and a little extra squeeze of lime if you like things tangy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Arrange your Mango Chicken Lettuce Wraps on a serving platter and dig in while everything’s still fresh and crisp. These wraps are best eaten with your hands, so gather your napkins and get ready to enjoy a messy, flavor-packed feast!

How to Serve Mango Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Garnishes

The right garnish elevates these wraps from tasty to unforgettable. Sprinkle the finished wraps with extra chopped cilantro, sliced green onion, or thinly sliced fresh chili for a burst of color and fresh flavor. For a special touch, add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for crunch—you’ll love the contrast with the soft mango and tender chicken.

Side Dishes

Mango Chicken Lettuce Wraps pair well with a handful of light, bright side dishes. Try a simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar and sesame oil, a bowl of steamed jasmine rice, or even some quick pickled vegetables for added tang. If you’re hosting a group, set out fresh spring rolls or an Asian-style noodle salad to keep things lively.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond the basics and turn your platter into a showstopper. Serve the wraps DIY-style, letting guests build their own at the table—just arrange lettuce leaves, filling, and garnishes on big, beautiful plates. Or, nestle each assembled wrap in a cupcake liner for easy serving at brunches or picnics. For an upscale look, stack them in a spiral on a round platter and finish with edible flowers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Mango Chicken Lettuce Wraps filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keep the lettuce leaves separate, wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a sealed bag, so they stay crisp.

Freezing

While fresh mango changes texture when frozen, you can freeze the cooked chicken mixture (without the mango) for up to two months. Just cool, portion, and freeze in airtight containers. Add freshly diced mango when you’re ready to eat for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

Gently reheat the chicken filling in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add the mango and fresh veggies after reheating to maintain their crispness and juicy sweetness, then assemble your wraps as usual.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking from scratch?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken makes these Mango Chicken Lettuce Wraps even faster to prepare. Just add it to the pan after sautéing the garlic and warm through with the seasonings before mixing in the mango and veggies.

What’s the best mango variety for wraps?

Honey (Ataulfo) or Tommy Atkins mangoes work wonderfully here because they’re sweet, less fibrous, and hold their shape well. Choose ripe but firm mangoes for the best bite.

Are these wraps gluten-free?

They certainly can be! Just use tamari or another gluten-free soy sauce in place of traditional soy sauce for fully gluten-free Mango Chicken Lettuce Wraps.

What lettuce works best for wraps?

Butter lettuce and romaine are favorites for their sturdy, cup-shaped leaves that hug the filling perfectly without breaking. Iceberg can work in a pinch, but it’s a bit more prone to tearing.

Can I add or substitute other veggies?

Make it your own! Julienned carrots, cucumber, or even a handful of shredded cabbage are delicious additions. Just keep the mix crunchy and colorful for maximum appeal.

Final Thoughts

It’s impossible not to smile while eating Mango Chicken Lettuce Wraps—the mix of sweet, savory, and crisp makes every bite exciting. Give this recipe a try the next time you want something deliciously different, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular star at your table!

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