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The choice of meat can significantly impact the overall taste and texture of your dish. In this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the star of the show. Unlike chicken breasts, which can often dry out during cooking, chicken thighs are known for their rich flavor and moisture retention. The inherent juiciness of thighs makes them perfect for grilling, as they stay tender even when exposed to high heat. Additionally, their slightly higher fat content adds depth to the smoky barbecue flavor, ensuring that every bite is satisfying and delicious.

BBQ Chicken Lettuce Cups

Discover the delightful flavors of Smoky BBQ Chicken Lettuce Cups, a fresh and healthy twist on traditional meals. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers, these cups feature juicy grilled chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and crisp vegetables all wrapped in refreshing lettuce. Quick to prepare and visually appealing, they offer a satisfying alternative to sandwiches and tacos. Enjoy a burst of flavor and nutrition with every bite while keeping your meals light and exciting!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 head of butter lettuce or romaine lettuce (for creating cups)

½ cup diced red bell pepper

½ cup grated carrots

¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Lime wedges (for vibrant serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, making sure they are fully coated in the spice mixture.

    Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken thighs on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are fully cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. In the final couple of minutes of cooking, glaze the chicken with BBQ sauce, allowing it to caramelize slightly for enhanced flavor.

      Shred the Chicken: After grilling, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

        Assemble the Lettuce Cups: Gently separate the leaves from the head of lettuce—it’s best to choose the larger outer leaves for your cups. Arrange these lettuce leaves on a serving platter, creating a beautiful base for your filling.

          Fill the Cups: Take a generous spoonful of the shredded BBQ chicken and pile it into each lettuce cup. Top with freshly diced red bell pepper and grated carrots, adding a crisp texture and vibrant color to each bite.

            Garnish and Serve: Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh cilantro over each filled cup for a burst of flavor. Serve lime wedges on the side for added zing, allowing guests to squeeze fresh lime juice over their cups for an extra flavor kick.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                Presentation Tips: Serve the completed lettuce cups on a colorful platter with lime wedges arranged artistically around the edges. For added flair, consider garnishing with additional cilantro sprigs. Enjoy your delicious and vibrant Smoky BBQ Chicken Lettuce Cups!