Quick Bites · High Protein
Chipotle Citrus Turkey Lettuce Cups (38g Protein)
These Chipotle Citrus Turkey Lettuce Cups provide 38 grams of protein and 408 calories per serving. Lean ground turkey simmers in a smoky, tangy chipotle-orange-lime sauce. This mixture is then spooned into crisp lettuce cups and finished with creamy avocado, sharp red onion, and salty cotija cheese.
Nutrition per serving
- Protein
- 38 g
- Calories
- 408
- Carbs
- 18 g
- Fat
- 25 g
Nutritional values are estimates based on standard ingredient data and may vary by brand or preparation method. This information is for general reference only and is not a substitute for professional dietary advice. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 8 ounces Lean ground turkey
- 1/2 Yellow onion — diced
- 2 cloves Garlic — minced
- 1 tbsp Chipotle in adobo — minced
- 1/4 cup Orange juice
- 1 tbsp Lime juice
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp Dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- 1 head Butter lettuce — leaves separated
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro — chopped
- 1/2 Avocado — diced
- 1/4 Red onion — thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Cotija cheese — crumbled
Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add diced yellow onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, ground cumin, and dried oregano; cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Stir in the minced chipotle in adobo, orange juice, and lime juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and the flavors to meld. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- While the turkey mixture simmers, separate the butter lettuce leaves and arrange them on serving plates.
- Spoon the hot chipotle citrus turkey mixture into the prepared lettuce cups.
- Garnish each lettuce cup generously with chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled cotija cheese. Serve immediately.
Why This Works
Ground turkey provides lean, versatile protein that absorbs the chipotle-citrus marinade beautifully. Cooking the meat with aromatics builds deep flavor without added calories. Lettuce cups replace carb-heavy tortillas while adding satisfying crunch. The citrus not only brightens the dish but helps tenderize the protein during cooking. (USDA #171506). delivering 29g protein per 100g.
Plating Tips
For an appealing presentation, choose the largest, most intact lettuce leaves for your cups. Arrange them artfully on a platter or individual plates before filling. A colorful sprinkle of cilantro, red onion, and avocado creates a beautiful contrast against the rich turkey filling.
Make-Ahead Magic
The chipotle citrus turkey filling can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. Prepare your garnishes (chop cilantro, dice avocado, slice red onion) just before assembly for optimal freshness.
Flavor Swaps & Add-Ins
Feel free to customize your lettuce cups! For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the spices. A spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream can add a creamy tang, or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for more heat. Consider adding finely diced bell peppers or corn to the turkey mixture for added vegetables and texture.
Sources Research-Backed
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze chipotle turkey filling?
Yes. Freeze cooled filling in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Prepare fresh toppings when serving.
Are chipotle turkey lettuce cups keto?
Yes. 17g net carbs per serving, mostly from tomatoes and onion. Skip the avocado topping if further reducing carbs. The lettuce cups replace tortillas, keeping this meal low-carb friendly.
How do I reduce the spice level?
Use 1 teaspoon chipotle instead of 1 tablespoon for mild heat. Remove seeds from chipotle peppers before mincing. The citrus and cotija cheese already temper the heat. Add sour cream to cool it down.
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes. Ground chicken has similar protein (20g per 100g) and works identically. The meat may be slightly drier. Add 1 extra tablespoon orange juice to compensate. Cooking time stays the same.
