Easy Tender Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken Lettuce Wraps
A quick and healthy slow cooker recipe featuring tender pulled chicken served in crisp lettuce wraps, perfect for busy weeknights and customizable with various toppings and sauces.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1 head butter lettuce or iceberg, leaves separated and washed
- Optional toppings: diced cucumber, shredded carrot, fresh cilantro or mint leaves, toasted sesame seeds, thinly sliced scallions
Instructions
- Slice 1 medium yellow onion thinly and mince 3 garlic cloves. Place 2 pounds of boneless chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker.
- Pour in 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, and 1 tablespoon rice vinegar over the chicken. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes if desired. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and easily shreddable.
- Use two forks or tongs to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it with the juices and onions. If the mixture is too watery, cook uncovered on high for another 15-20 minutes to reduce liquid.
- While the chicken finishes cooking, gently separate and wash lettuce leaves. Pat dry completely.
- Spoon the warm pulled chicken into the lettuce leaves and top with your choice of diced cucumber, shredded carrot, fresh herbs, toasted sesame seeds, and scallions.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
Use chicken thighs for juicier meat. Thinly slice onions for better flavor integration. Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid frequently to maintain consistent heat. Add extra broth if chicken seems dry. For vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup and soy sauce with coconut aminos. Serve lettuce leaves dry and chilled to prevent sogginess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe (a
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5
- Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 35
Keywords: slow cooker, pulled chicken, lettuce wraps, healthy meals, easy dinner, low carb, gluten free option, dairy free, weeknight meal