Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a perfect balance of fresh, crunchy lettuce and savory, seasoned chicken. The tender chicken is sautéed with garlic, ginger, and a splash of soy sauce, and wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves.

Why You’ll Love These Chicken Lettuce Wraps

These wraps are everything you crave: savory, crunchy, and satisfying. By using tender ground chicken as the base, paired with a savory sauce and crispy lettuce leaves, each bite is bursting with flavor. The addition of fresh vegetables and herbs gives it that extra pop, while keeping it healthy and light. It’s also a perfect appetizer for gatherings or a light dinner on busy weeknights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these chicken lettuce wraps, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Ground Chicken: Lean ground chicken is the star of the show. It’s versatile, mild, and soaks up all the savory flavors.
• Lettuce: Crisp iceberg or butter lettuce works wonderfully as the wrap base. You can also opt for Romaine for an extra crunch.
• Onion: A finely chopped onion adds a mild sweetness and extra texture to the dish.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the umami flavor of the chicken.
• Soy Sauce: For that salty, savory flavor. Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative.
• Rice Vinegar: Adds a bit of tanginess to balance out the richness of the chicken.
• Ginger: Fresh ginger gives a zesty kick, elevating the overall flavor.
• Sesame Oil: A little sesame oil imparts a nutty flavor to the chicken mixture.
• Water Chestnuts: Chopped water chestnuts bring a satisfying crunch.
• Carrots: Shredded carrots add both color and crunch.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions add freshness and a slight bite.
• Hoison Sauce: For added sweetness and complexity in flavor (optional).

Tips & Tricks

• Sauté the Chicken Well: Make sure to cook the ground chicken until it’s nicely browned. This ensures the texture is perfect and you get a rich, caramelized flavor.
• Use Ice-Cold Lettuce: For the crispest wraps, rinse your lettuce leaves, and place them in the fridge to chill for a few hours before serving.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling for more texture and flavor. You can also swap ground chicken with ground turkey, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
• Make it Spicy: Add a little sriracha sauce or chopped chilies for a spicy kick. This will balance beautifully with the sweetness of the hoisin sauce if you’re using it.
• Use Fresh Herbs: A handful of fresh cilantro or basil added just before serving will give the wraps a delightful, aromatic flavor.

Variations of Chicken Lettuce Wraps

While the classic chicken lettuce wrap is delicious on its own, you can easily make adjustments based on your dietary preferences and tastes.

• Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with crumbled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.
• Low-Carb/ Keto: Skip the hoisin sauce and use a low-carb substitute like a sugar-free teriyaki sauce.
• Asian Style: Add a little chili paste, and sesame seeds, and top with fresh cilantro for a more authentic Asian twist.
• Mexican-Inspired: Add cumin, chili powder, and lime juice to the chicken, then serve with shredded cheese and sour cream in the wraps.

How to Serve Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Chicken lettuce wraps can be served in many different ways:

• Appetizer: Serve the wraps with a side of dipping sauce like sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or peanut dipping sauce. They make a perfect appetizer for a party or a light snack.
• Main Dish: For a fuller meal, pair the wraps with a side of steamed rice, quinoa, or a crunchy slaw.
• For Meal Prep: These wraps are great for meal prepping. Make a big batch of the chicken mixture and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply assemble the wraps with fresh lettuce.

How to Store Chicken Lettuce Wraps

If you have leftovers, you can store the filling separately from the lettuce wraps. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Filling: Store the chicken mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Lettuce: The lettuce should be stored in a separate container, wrapped in paper towels, to prevent wilting. It can last up to 2 days in the fridge.
• Freezing: The chicken filling can also be frozen. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stovetop.

Recipe FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes! Ground turkey, beef, or pork can be substituted for chicken. You can also use ground shrimp for a seafood version.

2. What is the best lettuce for wraps? Iceberg and butter lettuce are the most popular choices due to their crisp texture and wide, sturdy leaves. Romaine also works well for wraps.

3. How do I keep the lettuce from wilting? To keep the lettuce fresh and crisp, rinse the leaves, dry them thoroughly, and chill them in the fridge before serving.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Simply assemble the wraps when you’re ready to serve.

5. Are chicken lettuce wraps healthy? Absolutely! Chicken lettuce wraps are a great low-carb, keto-friendly meal. They’re high in protein, low in fat, and packed with vegetables.

6. How can I add more flavor to the wraps? You can add a variety of toppings to elevate the flavor. Try adding fresh herbs, avocado slices, or a drizzle of spicy mayo. Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds also adds a nice texture.

Chicken lettuce wraps are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s simple to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a quick lunch, or a light dinner, they are a perfect addition to your meal rotation. With endless variations and flavor combinations, you’ll never get bored of these delicious wraps!

Other delicious chicken recipes to try:

• Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
• Chicken Lasagna
• Chicken Kabob