Delicious and Healthy Asian Chicken Wraps for Type 2 Diabetics

Healthy Eating for Diabetics
January 30, 2025
Many of you living with type 2 diabetes have been asking us for yummy asian recipes. The good news is that having type 2 diabetes doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or variety in your meals, so we’re excited to share this recipe for Asian Chicken Wraps—a perfect combination of taste, nutrition, and simplicity. At GoCoco, we understand the importance of creating dishes that are not only satisfying but also support healthy blood sugar levels. These wraps are crafted with diabetes-friendly ingredients, from lean protein to fresh, fiber-packed veggies, all wrapped up in a lettuce leaf. Whether you’re planning a quick lunch or a weeknight dinner, this dish is designed to help you enjoy your food while staying on track with your health goals.

Benefits of this Asian Chicken Wrap Recipe for Type 2 Diabetes

When creating meals for Type 2 diabetes, every ingredient matters. These Asian Chicken Wraps are not only delicious but also crafted to help you feel satiated with healthy ingredients. Here’s how this recipe supports your health:

  1. Low-Glycemic Ingredientssome text
    • By swapping traditional wraps for crisp lettuce leaves, this dish eliminates keeps the glycemic load low. Ingredients like cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers are also naturally low on the glycemic index, making them ideal for blood sugar control.
  2. Protein-Packed for Satietysome text
    • Lean chicken is a fantastic source of protein, helping you stay full longer and preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar.
  3. Rich in Fiber and Nutrientssome text
    • The fresh vegetables in this recipe are loaded with fiber, which slows down the absorption of sugars and promotes steady energy levels.
  4. Low in Calories, Big on Flavorsome text
    • Maintaining a healthy weight is a crucial part of managing Type 2 diabetes. These wraps are low in calories yet bursting with flavor, thanks to a balance of savory spices and fresh herbs.
  5. Quick and Easy to Preparesome text
    • Simplicity is key when sticking to a healthy eating plan. This recipe takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy days.

By combining these benefits, these wraps prove that healthy eating can be simple, tasty, and effective in managing diabetes.

Cooking Tips

✅ Wash and dry lettuce leaves thoroughly to keep them crisp.
✅ Cook chicken until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F or 74°C).
✅ Assemble wraps fresh to avoid soggy lettuce.

Asian Chicken Wraps Recipe

These Asian Chicken Wraps are quick to make, packed with flavor, and tailored for a diabetes-friendly lifestyle. Let’s get cooking!

Chicken Wrap Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 1 lb (450 g) lean chicken breast or thighs, diced
  • 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a lower sodium option)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp sesame oil (optional for added flavor)

For the Wraps:

  • 8 large lettuce leaves (iceberg, romaine, or butterhead work well)
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumbers
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced red bell peppers
  • 2 tbsp chopped green onions (for garnish)
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

For the Sauce (Optional):

  • 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
  • 1 tsp sriracha or chili paste (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp lime juice

Smart Shopping Tips for a Diabetes-Friendly Recipe

✅ Use whole grain tortillas
✅ Use fresh, non-starchy vegetables like carrots, cucumbers and bell peppers.
✅ Choose low-sodium soy sauce and check for “no added sugar” or “sugar-free” options for sauces

Pro Tip: Using fresh, whole ingredients not only enhances flavor but also ensures you're avoiding hidden sugar additives that could affect blood sugar.

Instructions: how to make Asian Chicken Wraps for diabetics type 2

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil.
  2. Add the diced chicken to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes while preparing other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

  1. Wash and dry the lettuce leaves carefully to keep them intact.
  2. Slice the cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers into thin strips for easy assembly.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Wraps

  1. Lay a lettuce leaf flat on a clean surface.
  2. Add a small portion of cooked chicken to the center.
  3. Top with sliced veggies and drizzle with the optional sauce for extra flavor.
  4. Roll or fold the lettuce leaf to create a wrap. Use a toothpick if needed to secure.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  • Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Nutritional Breakdown Table

Nutrient                                                                Amount per Wrap                                                                     

Carbohydrates                                          ~6 g (Net: ~4 g)

Protein                                                       ~14 g

Fat                                                              ~3 g

Fiber                                                          ~2 g

Sodium                                                      ~250 mg

Tips for Customizing Your Asian Chicken Wraps

These wraps are versatile, so you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs without compromising their diabetes-friendly benefits. Here are some ideas:

1. Spice It Up

  • Add a kick of heat with chili flakes, sriracha, or a touch of wasabi. Just be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overpowering the other flavors.

2. Boost Healthy Fats

  • Incorporate sliced avocado or a drizzle of olive oil for an extra dose of heart-healthy fats, which can also help improve satiety.

3. Go Vegetarian

  • Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Marinate and cook them the same way to maintain that savory, umami flavor.

4. Try Different Wraps

  • While lettuce leaves keep it low-carb, you can experiment with cabbage leaves or even low-carb tortillas if you’re looking for variety.

5. Play with Garnishes

  • Fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, or Thai basil can elevate the wraps’ flavor profile. Sprinkle a few on top before serving.

6. Pair with a Side Dish

  • Serve these wraps with a simple cucumber salad or a small portion of cauliflower rice to make it a complete meal.

7. Meal Prep Friendly

  • Cook the chicken and chop the veggies ahead of time. Store everything in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Assemble the wraps fresh for each meal to keep the lettuce crisp.

These tips ensure your Asian Wraps stay exciting and adaptable to your preferences while keeping blood sugar management in focus.

Portion Control tips

✅ Wrap count: Stick to 2-3 wraps per meal. Each wrap contains about 120 calories, making it easy to track.
✅ Side Pairings: Add a light, low-carb side dish like a cucumber salad or a handful of steamed edamame for a more filling meal.
✅ Know Your Carbs: Each wrap has ~6g of total carbs (~4g net carbs). If pairing with other dishes, ensure the overall meal stays within your target carb range.

Tip: Use the GoCoCo Food Tracker App to log your meal and see how it fits into your daily nutrition goals!

Wrapping up the wraps : Ready to Take Control of Your Diabetes with Flavorful Meals?

At GoCoco, we believe that managing diabetes doesn’t have to be a struggle—or boring. These Asian Chicken Wraps are a delicious example of how healthy eating can be simple, satisfying, and tailored to your unique needs.

But why stop there? With the GoCoco Diabetes Food Tracker App, you can seamlessly track your meals and discover more recipes like this one to support your health journey.

Download the GoCoco App now and start making every meal a step toward better health!

FAQs

Can I use a different protein for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and works well with other proteins like tofu, shrimp, or even lean beef. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure your protein is fully cooked.
Are lettuce wraps filling enough?
Yes! Thanks to the combination of lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and optional healthy fats like avocado, these wraps are surprisingly satisfying while staying low in carbs.
Can I prepare these wraps in advance?
You can prep the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the wraps fresh before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.

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