Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Chicken Lettuce Wraps

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Chicken lettuce wraps are a light, healthy, and delicious meal packed with flavor. These wraps feature tender ground chicken, crisp lettuce, and a tasty sauce. They are great for a quick lunch, dinner, or appetizer. If you want a low-carb meal or something fresh and tasty, try this recipe.

Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare.

  • Perfect for a low-carb or keto-friendly meal.

  • Packed with bold flavors and crunchy textures.

  • Customizable with different sauces and toppings.

Ingredients List

For the Chicken Filling

  • 1 lb ground chicken (or finely diced chicken breast)

  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

  • ½ cup shredded carrots

  • ½ cup chopped mushrooms (optional)

  • ¼ cup chopped water chestnuts

  • 2 green onions, chopped

For the Sauce

  • ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce

  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar

  • 1 teaspoon Sriracha (optional for spice)

For Assembling

  • 1 head of butter lettuce or romaine lettuce

  • ¼ cup chopped peanuts or cashews

  • Sesame seeds for garnish

  • Extra green onions for topping

Timing

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 10 minutes

  • Total Time: 25 minutes

  • Servings: 4

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and Sriracha.

  2. Set aside to let the flavors blend while you cook the chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Mixture

  1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  2. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened.

  3. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

  4. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully cooked.

  5. Mix in the carrots, mushrooms, and water chestnuts. Cook for 3 more minutes.

  6. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir well. Simmer for 2 minutes until everything is coated.

  7. Remove from heat and mix in chopped green onions.

Step 3: Assemble the Wraps

  1. Separate the lettuce leaves and wash them thoroughly. Pat them dry with a paper towel.

  2. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture into each lettuce leaf.

  3. Garnish with chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, and extra green onions.

  4. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken Lettuce Wraps

  • Use fresh lettuce – Butter lettuce works best because it’s soft and flexible. Romaine or iceberg also work well for a crunchier bite.

  • Don’t overfill the wraps – Too much filling can make them hard to eat. Keep it balanced.

  • Make the sauce ahead of time – Letting the sauce sit for a bit before using it enhances the flavor.

  • Add extra crunch – Water chestnuts or chopped peanuts add a great texture.

You Can Try These Different Variations

1. Spicy Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Add extra Sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.

2. Thai-Inspired Wraps

Use peanut sauce instead of hoisin sauce for a Thai-style flavor.

3. Teriyaki Chicken Wraps

Replace the sauce with a homemade or store-bought teriyaki sauce for a sweeter twist.

4. Vegetarian Lettuce Wraps

Swap out the chicken for tofu, mushrooms, or chickpeas to make a plant-based version.

5. Ground Turkey or Beef Option

If you don’t have chicken, try using ground turkey or lean ground beef instead.

What to Serve with Chicken Lettuce Wraps

  • Steamed Rice: Serve on the side or mix into the filling for a heartier meal.

  • Egg Rolls: A crunchy side dish that pairs well with the wraps.

  • Miso Soup: A light and healthy soup to complement the meal.

  • Asian Slaw: A fresh and tangy slaw for added crunch.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover chicken filling in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Freeze: Keep in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

  • Reheat: Warm the filling in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave before serving.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 280

  • Protein: 25g

  • Carbohydrates: 14g

  • Fat: 12g

  • Fiber: 3g

  • Sodium: 600mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make chicken lettuce wraps ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the chicken filling in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat and serve when ready.

2. What’s the best type of lettuce to use?

Butter lettuce is the best choice because it’s soft and flexible. Romaine and iceberg lettuce are also great options.

3. Can I freeze the chicken filling?

Yes! The cooked chicken mixture can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

4. Are chicken lettuce wraps healthy?

Absolutely! They are high in protein, low in carbs, and packed with nutrients from fresh ingredients.

5. Can I use store-bought sauces?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use pre-made hoisin sauce or teriyaki sauce instead of making the sauce from scratch.

Conclusion

Chicken lettuce wraps are a simple, delicious, and healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it with different variations and enjoy the fresh, bold flavors in every bite.