Easy Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
What is the best recipe for a healthy dinner? What are some good chicken lettuce wraps Is it one of those dishes that hits all the right notes? incredibly flavorful, surprisingly easy to make, and a lifesaver on those busy weeknights. When the thought of cooking something complicated makes you want to order takeout. Think of it as the lighter, fresher cousin of your favorite stir-fry, but instead of rice or pasta. When you cradle all that deliciousness in crisp, cool lettuce cups, you’re clinging it all to your stomach. My family devours these – and I feel good about feeding them something healthy-ish! What are some easy chicken lettuce wraps?
What are chicken lettuce wraps?
What are chicken lettuce wraps? What are some good variations on ground chicken? ) is stir-fried with vegetables and a savory sauce, and then served in crisp lettuce cups. Think of it as a deconstructed stir fry. Is lettuce gluten free? What is a low What is the name of a chicken sandwich wrapped in crisp lettuce? What are some of the best foods to eat? I like to think of them as little bowls of happiness. Can you make them with tofu?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons to adore this Easy Chicken Lettuce Wraps recipe!
First, let’s talk flavor. The combination of the savory chicken, the crunchy vegetables, and that slightly sweet and tangy sauce is just *chef’s kiss*. It’s like a party in your mouth!
Second, the simplicity is a huge win. Seriously, it comes together in under 30 minutes. This is one of those recipes that’s so simple you could make it after a long day at work or with kids underfoot.
Third, budget-friendly! Ground chicken is generally pretty affordable, and the other ingredients are pantry staples or easily accessible at any grocery store. It’s great for a budget-friendly meal.
Fourth, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt the vegetables, the sauce, and even the protein to suit your taste. Don’t have water chestnuts? No problem, use bell peppers! Want it spicier? Add a dash of chili garlic sauce! I’ve even used ground turkey instead of chicken when that’s what I had on hand, and it was still delicious.
What I love most about this is how it makes me feel good about what I’m eating. It feels lighter and healthier than a typical takeout meal, but it still delivers that satisfying savory flavor that I crave. It’s my go-to recipe when I want something delicious without feeling guilty. It’s become one of my favorite things to make and I know I’ll continue making these Easy Chicken Lettuce Wraps in the future!
How do I make chicken lettuce wraps?
Quick Overview
How do I make easy chicken lettuce wraps? First, you’ll cook ground chicken with aromatics like ginger and garlic. What’s a good recipe to make your favorite veggies smothered in delicious sauce? What is the best way to serve lettuce in a lettuce cup? What are some quick and easy meals to make on a weeknight? How delicious is this recipe?
Ingredients
For the Chicken Mixture:
- I prefer lean ground chicken for this recipe.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing chicken and vegetables.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds a foundational savory flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Aromatic and essential for depth of flavor. Use fresh!
- 1 inch ginger, grated: Adds a warm, spicy note.
- 1/2 cup water chestnuts, drained and chopped: Adds a delightful crunch.
- 1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, chopped: Adds an earthy, umami flavor (optional but highly recommended!
- For a fresh, mild onion flavor. 1/4 cup chopped green onions.
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Use low-sodium to control the saltiness.
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce: This is the key to that signature lettuce wrap flavor.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds a tangy brightness to balance the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: For a nutty, aromatic touch.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the savory elements.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat.
For Serving:
- 1 head of butter lettuce or romaine lettuce, leaves separated: Look for crisp, sturdy leaves that will hold the filling well.
- What are some optional toppings for this recipe? Sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, sriracha, extra green
What are the steps to
Step 1: Prepare the Lettuce
Carefully separate the lettuce leaves from the head, wash them thoroughly, and pat them dry with a fork. What is the best way to make lettuce cups crisp and refreshing? I like to store them in the fridge while I prepare the rest of the ingredients so they stay nice and cold.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
How do you heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat? Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. I always drain any excess grease. I never like greasy lettuce wraps!
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the skillet. Cook for 15 minutes. Remove from heat. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the onion is softened and fragrant. Then, add the water chestnuts and shiitake mushrooms (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and salt. Set aside. Red pepper flakes (if using). Make sure the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 5: Combine Everything
What is the best way to serve the chicken and vegetable mixture in a skillet? Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly. Everything is heated through. Stir in the chopped green onions.
Step 6: Assemble the Lettuce Wraps
How do you spoon the chicken mixture into lettuce cups? Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, and extra green onions, if desired.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
What are some easy chicken lettuce wraps? What is the best way to enjoy lettuce fresh?
What should I serve it with?
What should I serve with my Easy Chicken Lettuce Wrap? How can I make it a complete meal? What are some ideas, organized by occasion?
For a light lunch:What is a simple side salad with olive oil and vinaigrette? The acidity of the vinaigrette cuts through the richness of lettuce wraps. Is miso soup good for you?
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For a casual dinner:Is edamame a good source of protein? What are some good side dishes to serve with spring rolls? Are lettuce wraps filling?
For a Party Appetizer:Arrange the lettuce wraps on a platter and serve with small bowls of toppings like sesame seeds, cucumber, and tomato. What are some good substitutes for sriracha and sweet chili sauce? How do I customize my guests’ wraps?
For a Cozy Night In:All you need is lettuce wraps! They’re satisfying enough on their own, especially if you load them with toppings. I often make a big batch and enjoy them while watching movies. My family loves it!
Growing up we often had our lettuce wraps with egg rolls on the side. This dish is a staple for parties. They have always been the first to go!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Easy Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Want to take your Easy Chicken Lettuce Wraps to the next level? Here are some of my top tips, gathered from years of making this recipe:
Chicken Prep: Use lean ground chicken to avoid excess grease. Make sure to break it up well while cooking so you don’t end up with large clumps. I sometimes use a meat chopper to make this easier.
Vegetable Variations: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables! Bell peppers, carrots, celery, and bamboo shoots all work well. Just make sure to chop them into small, bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
Sauce Adjustments: Taste the sauce before adding it to the chicken mixture and adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more sugar or honey. For a spicier sauce, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of chili garlic sauce. Sometimes I even add some PB2 for extra nutty flavor!
Lettuce Selection: Butter lettuce and romaine lettuce are both great choices for lettuce wraps. Butter lettuce is softer and more delicate, while romaine lettuce is crisper and more sturdy. Choose whichever you prefer.
Topping Options: The toppings are where you can really get creative! Sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, sriracha, green onions, cilantro, and even a drizzle of peanut sauce are all delicious options. I’ve even seen some people add crispy fried noodles for extra crunch!
Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture and assemble the lettuce wraps.
I learned the hard way that using too much sauce can make the lettuce wraps soggy, so be sure to drain any excess sauce before spooning the chicken mixture into the lettuce cups. Nobody likes soggy lettuce wraps!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your Easy Chicken Lettuce Wraps:
Storing the Chicken Mixture: Store the chicken mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing.
Storing the Lettuce: Store the lettuce leaves separately in a plastic bag or container lined with paper towels. This will help keep them crisp and prevent them from getting soggy.
Reheating the Chicken Mixture: You can reheat the chicken mixture in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. If using the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. If using a skillet, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the mixture from drying out.
Assembling Leftover Lettuce Wraps: When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the chicken mixture and assemble the lettuce wraps with fresh lettuce leaves. Avoid assembling the lettuce wraps ahead of time, as the lettuce will get soggy.
I don’t recommend freezing the chicken mixture, as the texture can change and become watery when thawed. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or within a few days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to recipe for Easy Chicken Lettuce Wraps! I truly believe that this is a recipe worth trying. These are quick, easy, delicious, and a total crowd-pleaser. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight meal, a party appetizer, or even a light lunch. The flavors are amazing, the ingredients are simple, and the recipe is incredibly versatile. What’s not to love? If you love this recipe, you should try our egg roll recipe too!
I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and let me know what you think. And if you have any questions or variations, feel free to share them in the comments as well. Happy cooking!
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Easy Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 0.5 cup onion diced
- 0.5 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce low sodium
- 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp ginger freshly grated
- 1 tbsp sriracha or to taste
- 1 can water chestnuts 8 oz, drained and diced
- 1 head butter lettuce leaves separated
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes. Make sure to crumble the chicken as it cooks.
- Stir in garlic, onion, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, ginger, and sriracha. Cook and stir until onions have become translucent, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in water chestnuts and scallions until tender, about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Spoon several tablespoons of the chicken mixture into the center of a lettuce leaf, taco-style.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
