Maple Glazed Chicken and Pecan Lettuce Wraps make good use of that sweet-and-savory combination that works especially well with chicken.
The maple syrup gives the glaze a mild sweetness, while Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce keep it from becoming too sweet.
Apple adds a little freshness and softens just enough in the skillet while still keeping some texture. Chopped pecans give each wrap a bit of crunch, which is a nice contrast to the tender chicken and soft butter lettuce.
This is also a practical 30-minute dinner. Everything for the filling cooks in one large skillet, and the glaze is quick to make in a small bowl.
Since the chicken is cut into small pieces before cooking, it cooks fast and is easy to divide among the lettuce leaves.
Each serving includes three wraps and provides 38 grams of protein, making this a filling option for lunch or dinner without needing much on the side.
Why You’ll Love This Maple Glazed Chicken and Pecan Lettuce Wraps
Ready in 30 Minutes
The chicken cooks quickly because it’s cut into small pieces, and the entire meal is finished in about half an hour.
High in Protein
Each serving provides 38 grams of protein, making these lettuce wraps substantial enough for a main meal.
Sweet and Savory
Maple syrup adds sweetness while Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce balance the glaze with tangy and savory flavor.
Good Texture
Tender chicken, slightly softened apple, crunchy pecans, and crisp butter lettuce keep each bite from feeling one-note.
Minimal Cleanup
A large skillet handles nearly all of the cooking. A small bowl and whisk are useful for mixing the glaze before it goes into the pan.
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken Thighs
Boneless skinless chicken thighs can replace the chicken breasts. They may need an extra minute or two of cooking depending on the size of the pieces.
Pear
A firm pear can replace the apple. Choose one that isn’t overly ripe so it keeps some texture while cooking.
Walnuts
Chopped walnuts can be used instead of pecans. They have a slightly stronger flavor but still add plenty of crunch.
Romaine Lettuce
Large romaine leaves can replace butter lettuce if needed. They will be crisper and a little sturdier.
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RECOMMENDED TOOL FOR THIS RECIPE
Cutting Board with Insert Prep Mats
The color-coded prep mats make it easy to keep meat, vegetables, and other ingredients separate while chopping.
Maple Glazed Chicken and Pecan Lettuce Wraps
Recipes are written with one action per step for accessibility. Short lines. Fewer rereads. A calmer kitchen on mobile or desktop.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into small bite-size pieces
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup yellow onion finely diced
- 1 medium apple cored and diced
- ⅓ cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 12 large butter lettuce leaves
Instructions
- Season the chicken with the salt and black pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
- Transfer the chicken to a plate.
- Add the onion and apple to the skillet. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened.
- Add the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and cinnamon to a small bowl. Whisk until well combined.
- Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour the maple mixture over the chicken.
- Add the chopped pecans. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is coated and the glaze has slightly thickened.
- Divide the chicken mixture evenly among the butter lettuce leaves.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Tips and Tricks
Keep the chicken pieces small – Smaller bite-size pieces cook quickly and fit neatly inside the lettuce leaves. Use a crisp apple – A firm apple holds its shape better during the short cooking time and gives the filling more texture. Watch the glaze closely – Maple syrup can thicken quickly once it hits the hot skillet. Remove the skillet from the heat once the glaze lightly coats the chicken. Keep the lettuce dry – Pat the lettuce leaves dry after washing so the filling doesn’t slide around or become watery.Storing and Reheating
Store separately – Refrigerate the chicken filling in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the lettuce leaves in a separate container so they stay crisp. Reheat in a skillet – Warm the chicken mixture in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Reheat in the microwave – Microwave individual portions in short intervals until warm, then spoon the filling into fresh lettuce leaves.Nutrition
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