Cajun Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Name: Cajun Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup onion, diced; 1 head of iceberg or butter lettuce, leaves separated; 1/2 cup salsa; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

I love making Cajun Chicken Lettuce Wraps because they are the perfect balance of spice and freshness. They’re incredibly easy to prepare and can be enjoyed as a tasty lunch or a light dinner. The crispy lettuce acts as a great vessel for the flavorful chicken, while the herbs and spices give it a zesty kick. Whether I'm hosting friends or just craving something satisfying, these wraps never disappoint and are sure to impress anyone who tries them.

Created by

Emmas

Last updated on 2026-02-13T17:18:18.747Z

When I first experimented with Cajun spices in chicken wraps, I had no idea how well the flavors would meld together. I marinated the chicken to soak up all that zesty goodness, and when I grilled it, the aroma filled my kitchen and made my mouth water. It’s such a simple method but yields fantastic results, creating a perfectly spicy and juicy filling.

Serving the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves adds an element of freshness that cuts through the richness of the spices. This combination makes each bite refreshing and satisfying. Trust me, the first time you take a bite, you'll understand why these wraps have become a household favorite!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bursting with flavorful Cajun spices
Perfectly balanced with crisp, fresh lettuce
Quick and easy to prepare for weeknight dinners

      

Ingredient Highlights

The chicken breast is the star of this recipe, providing a lean source of protein that absorbs the Cajun seasoning beautifully. I recommend using fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture. If you want to save time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken; just be sure to adjust the cooking time to avoid drying it out when reheating.

Cajun seasoning is a key ingredient that brings a robust and spicy flavor profile to the dish. You can easily make your own blend by mixing paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and dried thyme. However, if you're short on time, a store-bought blend works perfectly, as it often contains a rich mix of spices that complement the chicken and vegetables.

Cooking Technique Tips

When marinating the chicken, allowing it to sit for at least 10 minutes is essential, but if you have the time, letting it marinate for an hour in the refrigerator will enhance the flavors even more. The acid from any added lime juice (if you choose to add some) can help tenderize the chicken, making it juicier during cooking.

As you cook the chicken, make sure your skillet is pre-heated to medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken sears properly, leading to a nice golden-brown crust while the inside remains tender. Use a non-stick skillet or add a bit more olive oil if you’re concerned about sticking, especially if you're using lean chicken.

Serving Suggestions

These Cajun Chicken Lettuce Wraps are incredibly versatile. If you're looking to add some crunch, consider topping them with sliced jalapeños or pickled red onions. Adding a dollop of guacamole can also enhance the dish with a creamy texture that balances the spiciness of the Cajun seasoning.

For a more substantial meal, pair these wraps with a side of quinoa or brown rice tossed with lime juice and cilantro. You can also serve the wraps with additional salsa on the side for dipping. I often prepare a double batch of the chicken filling and serve it over rice later in the week, making meal prep easy and delicious.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare the Cajun Chicken Lettuce Wraps:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup onion, diced
1 head of iceberg or butter lettuce, leaves separated
1/2 cup salsa
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Make sure your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Cajun Chicken Lettuce Wraps:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the diced chicken with Cajun seasoning and olive oil. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the diced bell peppers and onion into the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Assemble the Wraps

Spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture into the lettuce leaves. Top with salsa and sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy these wraps while they are fresh for the best taste!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding hot sauce to the chicken mixture or topping your wraps with sliced jalapeños.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and vegetable mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The lettuce wraps can be stored separately to keep them crisp. When reheating the mixture, use a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes; avoid the microwave, as it can make the chicken rubbery.

For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken filling without the vegetables. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and add fresh vegetables right before serving.

Dietary Modifications

For a gluten-free option, ensure that your Cajun seasoning is free of additives and cross-contamination. If you're following a low-carb or keto diet, swap out the lettuce for grilled zucchini boats, which provide a sturdy vessel while staying in line with your dietary needs.

Vegetarians can replace the chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas, adjusting the cooking time accordingly, as they only need to be heated through. Season them with Cajun spices for a similar flavor profile. This also adds a plant-based protein source, making the dish hearty and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of chicken?

Yes, you can use thighs or any preferred cut, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ What can I substitute for lettuce?

You can use cabbage leaves or even whole grain tortillas if you prefer.

→ How spicy are these wraps?

The spice level depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. You can choose a mild blend for less heat.

→ Can these wraps be made ahead of time?

The chicken mixture can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Assemble the wraps just before serving for freshness.