Mediterranean Chicken Lettuce Cups

Mediterranean Chicken Lettuce Cups

Mia

Transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with these vibrant, protein-packed lettuce cups that deliver all the bold flavors of Greek cuisine without the calories. Each crisp butter lettuce leaf cradles perfectly seasoned grilled chicken breast infused with aromatic oregano, bright lemon, and pungent garlic—a classic flavor trio that has defined Mediterranean cooking for centuries.

What makes these lettuce cups truly special is their masterful balance of textures and tastes. The tender, juicy chicken provides substantial protein to keep you satisfied, while the cool, crunchy cucumber adds refreshing contrast. The crowning glory is a light tzatziki drizzle made with Greek yogurt, creating that signature tangy creaminess without the heavy calories of traditional versions. Every bite offers a harmonious blend of zesty citrus, herbaceous notes, and cooling cucumber that feels indulgent while staying perfectly aligned with your wellness goals.

Ideal for meal prep or a quick lunch, these cups come together in under 30 minutes and deliver the satisfying experience of restaurant-quality Greek food right in your own kitchen. The butter lettuce acts as nature's perfect vessel—sturdy enough to hold the filling yet delicate and refreshing. This is Optavia-friendly eating at its finest: lean protein, abundant fresh vegetables, and bold Mediterranean flavors that prove healthy eating never has to be boring.

Nutrition

27 minutes
None servings
245 calories
Fat 3.50g
Carbs 9.00g
Protein 42.00g

Ingredients

5 ozboneless, skinless chicken breast, trimmed of visible fat
1/2 tspdried oregano
1/4 tspgarlic powder
1 tbspfresh lemon juice
1/4 tspsalt
1/8 tspblack pepper, freshly ground
4 largebutter lettuce leaves, washed and dried
1/2 cupcucumber, diced
2 tbspplain non-fat Greek yogurt
1/2 tspfresh dill, chopped
1/2 clovegarlic, minced
1/4 tsplemon zest (optional)

Equipment

Cutting board
measuring spoons
measuring cups
paper towels
chef's knife
meat thermometer
microplane or zester
small mixing bowls
grill pan or non-stick skillet

Instructions

1

Pat the chicken breast dry with paper towels and place on a cutting board.

1 min
2

In a small bowl, combine oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create the seasoning blend.

1 min
3

Rub the chicken breast with half of the lemon juice, then sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over both sides of the chicken, pressing gently to adhere.

1 min
4

Heat a grill pan or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until hot, about 2 minutes.

2 min
5
6 min

Place the seasoned chicken breast on the hot grill pan and cook without moving for 5-6 minutes until golden grill marks appear and the bottom is nicely seared.

6
6 min

Flip the chicken breasts and cook for an additional 6-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is cooked through.

7

Remove the chicken from heat and transfer to a clean cutting board. Let rest for 3-4 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.

4 min
8

While the chicken rests, prepare the tzatziki by combining Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped dill, remaining lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using) in a small bowl. Stir until well combined.

2 min
9

Dice the rested chicken breast into bite-sized cubes, approximately 1/2-inch pieces.

2 min
10

Arrange the butter lettuce leaves on a serving plate, creating a base for the filling.

1 min
11

Divide the diced chicken evenly among the lettuce cups, placing it in the center of each leaf.

1 min
12

Top each lettuce cup with diced cucumber, distributing evenly.

1 min
13

Drizzle the tzatziki sauce over each lettuce cup, using approximately 1/2 tablespoon per cup.

14

Serve immediately and enjoy with your hands, folding the lettuce around the filling like a taco.

Frequently Asked Questions