Italian Lettuce Wraps from Carrabba's Italian Grill feature tender grilled chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella wrapped in crisp romaine lettuce leaves, offering a fresh and flavorful low-carb appetizer.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Tongs
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Spoon or spatula
- Serving platter/plate
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and chopped)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped or whole)
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese (cubed or shredded)
- 12 large romaine lettuce leaves
Ensure you use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender, juicy meat that grills evenly. Opt for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil to enhance flavor and moisture, draining and chopping them before mixing. Fresh basil leaves provide a vibrant herbal note, so use fresh rather than dried for the best taste. Choose fresh mozzarella for a creamy texture that complements the other ingredients without overpowering them. Your Italian Lettuce Wraps from Carrabba's Italian Grill copycat menu will shine when fresh, quality ingredients are combined carefully in crisp romaine lettuce leaves.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
- Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and juices run clear.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Chop grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chopped chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella cheese.
- Gently toss mixture with a spoon or spatula until well combined.
- Lay romaine lettuce leaves flat on a cutting board or platter.
- Spoon chicken mixture evenly into the center of each lettuce leaf.
- Fold or roll lettuce leaves around the filling to create wraps.
- Arrange wraps on a serving platter.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Italian Lettuce Wraps from Carrabba's Italian Grill combine grilled chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella in crisp romaine leaves for a fresh, low-carb dish. If fresh basil is unavailable, you can substitute it with dried basil or fresh spinach for a different but complementary flavor. Mozzarella can be replaced with feta or goat cheese to add a tangy twist to the wraps. If you don't have a grill or grill pan, baking the chicken in the oven at 375degF (190degC) for 20-25 minutes until cooked through is a practical alternative. Use kitchen tongs to gently fold the lettuce around the filling and serve immediately to maintain crispness.
Tips
Make sure to let your grilled chicken rest for at least 5 minutes before chopping to retain its juiciness and flavor. Use romaine lettuce leaves that are large and sturdy enough to hold the filling without tearing. When combining the chicken with sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella, gently toss to avoid bruising the delicate ingredients. Serve the wraps immediately to keep the lettuce crisp and the flavors fresh.
Nutritions
Italian Lettuce Wraps from Carrabba's Italian Grill provide a balanced mix of protein from 1 lb of grilled chicken breasts and healthy fats from the tablespoon of olive oil used in preparation. Sun-dried tomatoes contribute antioxidants and vitamins like vitamin C and K, while fresh basil adds essential nutrients and anti-inflammatory properties. Creamy mozzarella cheese supplies calcium and a moderate amount of fat, complementing the low-carb, fiber-rich base of crisp romaine lettuce leaves. You benefit from a fresh, flavorful appetizer that supports a nutritious, low-carb eating plan.
Storage
Store leftover Italian Lettuce Wraps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. Keep the grilled chicken mixture separate from the romaine lettuce leaves to prevent wilting, and combine them just before serving to preserve crispness. Your wraps will stay flavorful and enjoyable when stored this way.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, substitute grilled shrimp or turkey breast to change the protein profile while keeping the wraps light and flavorful. You can also add a spoonful of pesto or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra depth and tanginess. Roasting the sun-dried tomatoes briefly enhances their sweetness and texture, providing a richer taste experience. When assembling, try butter lettuce as a softer alternative to romaine, offering a tender leaf that holds fillings without overpowering Your palate.
Allergies
Italian Lettuce Wraps from Carrabba's Italian Grill contain common allergens such as dairy from fresh mozzarella cheese and potential oil residues from sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil. If you have allergies to dairy or specific oils like olive oil, it's important to check ingredient labels and inform your server about your dietary restrictions. Your safety depends on verifying all ingredients, as cross-contamination could occur during food preparation.
Why this recipe?
Italian Lettuce Wraps from Carrabba's Italian Grill combine fresh, crisp lettuce with savory, flavorful fillings like grilled chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a zesty balsamic glaze, creating a delightful balance of textures and tastes. This dish offers a lighter, gluten-free alternative that appeals to health-conscious diners without compromising on authentic Italian flavors. Making the copycat recipe at home allows you to recreate that perfect blend of fresh ingredients and robust seasonings while customizing the wrap to suit your personal dietary preferences. Your effort in crafting this popular menu item ensures a satisfying and nutritious meal experience that mirrors the restaurant's signature taste.