Last Updated on December 23, 2024 by Arif Chowdhury
Are you searching for a delightful way to enjoy a healthy meal that’s both satisfying and good for your waistline?
Enter the Green Goddess Chicken Wraps! This vibrant dish features shredded chicken, creamy avocado, and a zesty herb dressing all wrapped in fresh collard greens.
Not only is it bursting with flavor, but it’s also a fantastic option for those looking to shed a few pounds without sacrificing taste.
Let’s dive into the details of this nutritious and delicious recipe!
Why Choose Collard Greens?
Before we get into the recipe, let’s talk about collard greens. These leafy greens are a superstar in the world of healthy eating. They’re low in calories—just about 33 calories per cup when cooked—and packed with nutrients.
Collard greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, making them an excellent addition to your diet. Plus, they contain fiber, which is crucial for digestion and can help keep you feeling full longer.
According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, a diet high in leafy greens can lead to better weight management.
Incorporating greens like collards can help you control your appetite and enhance your overall health.
Nutritional Benefits of the Ingredients
Shredded Chicken
Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance and repair. A 3-ounce serving of cooked chicken breast contains about 26 grams of protein and only 140 calories.
High-protein diets have been shown to boost metabolism and promote weight loss, making shredded chicken an ideal choice for this wrap.
Avocado
Avocados are often touted as a superfood, and for good reason! They are packed with healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
One medium avocado has about 250 calories but is also rich in fiber and nutrients, contributing to satiety and overall health.
Studies suggest that people who include avocados in their diets tend to weigh less and have a lower risk of metabolic syndrome.
Herb Dressing
A light herb dressing enhances the flavors of our wraps without adding too many calories. Using fresh herbs not only adds taste but also provides additional vitamins and antioxidants.
Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can support digestive health.
Green Goddess Chicken Wraps Recipe
Now, let’s get into the star of the show: the recipe! This dish is not only simple to prepare but also allows for some creativity.
You can adjust the ingredients based on your preferences, making it a versatile option for any meal.
Ingredients
For the Wraps:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
- 1 medium avocado, mashed
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 large collard green leaves (stems trimmed)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup diced cucumber
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
For the Green Goddess Dressing:
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup fresh parsley
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- In a blender or food processor, combine the Greek yogurt, parsley, cilantro, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste, and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Chicken Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mashed avocado, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Gently fold in the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
Step 3: Prepare the Collard Greens
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Blanch the collard green leaves for 30 seconds to soften them, then transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and pat dry.
- Trim the thick stem at the bottom of each collard leaf to make wrapping easier.
Step 4: Assemble the Wraps
- Lay a collard green leaf on a flat surface. Spoon a portion of the chicken mixture onto the center of the leaf.
- Drizzle with the Green Goddess dressing, then fold the sides of the leaf over the filling and roll it up tightly, starting from the bottom.
- Repeat with the remaining collard leaves and filling.
Step 5: Serve
- Slice each wrap in half and serve with extra Green Goddess dressing on the side for dipping.
- Enjoy your nutritious and satisfying meal!
Tips for Making the Best Wraps
- Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to the chicken filling for added crunch and nutrition.
- Meal Prep: These wraps can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to avoid sogginess.
- Experiment with Herbs: Try adding different herbs to the dressing or filling, such as dill or basil, to switch up the flavor profile.
The Health Benefits of Eating Wraps
Wraps can be a great way to incorporate a variety of nutritious ingredients into one meal. They are not only easy to make but also portable, making them a fantastic option for lunches or snacks on the go.
By choosing a healthy wrap base like collard greens, you can significantly reduce calories and increase your vegetable intake.
Portion Control
One of the best aspects of wraps is that you can easily control portion sizes. Each collard green wrap can be filled to your liking, which helps with mindful eating practices.
This is especially beneficial for those trying to lose weight, as studies show that portion control is key to maintaining a healthy diet and achieving weight loss goals.
Conclusion
Incorporating Green Goddess Chicken Wraps into your meal rotation is an enjoyable way to embrace healthier eating habits.
With each bite, you’ll savor the flavors of tender chicken, creamy avocado, and zesty herbs, all wrapped in a nutritious collard green. It’s a simple, delicious, and satisfying option that aligns perfectly with your weight loss journey.
So gather your ingredients, whip up this delightful recipe, and treat yourself to a healthful meal that doesn’t compromise on taste!