These Chicken Lettuce Wraps are an explosion of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors that come together in a crunchy lettuce shell. The mix of ground chicken, soy sauce, hoisin, and fresh ginger creates an irresistible filling that pairs perfectly with the crisp, refreshing lettuce leaves.
Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this dish is not only delicious but also healthy and customizable. You can add more vegetables to the filling, like shredded carrots or bell peppers, or adjust the level of heat with more or fewer red pepper flakes. This recipe is an easy, flavorful way to enjoy a lighter meal without sacrificing taste!
Full Recipe:
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1 lb ground chicken
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1 tablespoon sesame oil
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
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1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
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1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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1/4 cup water chestnuts, finely chopped
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1/4 cup green onions, chopped
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1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
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1 tablespoon sesame seeds
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1 head of butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce leaves
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Heat sesame oil and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
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Stir in chopped onion, garlic, and grated ginger. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
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Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has slightly thickened.
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Stir in water chestnuts and green onions. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Spoon the chicken mixture into lettuce leaves, top with cilantro and sesame seeds, and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why Choose Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps?
If you’re a fan of quick and easy meals, these ground chicken lettuce wraps should be at the top of your list. They are not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients. Ground chicken is a lean protein, which makes it an excellent choice for those who are watching their calorie intake or looking to eat cleaner. The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with a few bursts of umami and spice, makes these wraps a perfect option for anyone craving a flavorful meal without a lot of prep time.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can make them as mild or spicy as you prefer, and they can easily be customized to suit dietary restrictions. Whether you’re following a gluten-free, low-carb, or dairy-free diet, this recipe can be modified to fit your needs. The wraps are also customizable in terms of texture and flavor. Adding water chestnuts provides a delightful crunch, while the cashews bring a nutty richness that elevates the dish.
How to Make the Perfect Chicken Lettuce Wraps
The process of making ground chicken lettuce wraps is straightforward, and it requires minimal cooking equipment. The key to a successful chicken wrap is ensuring the chicken is cooked properly and seasoned perfectly. Start by sautéing onions in butter to bring out their sweetness, then brown the ground chicken in the same skillet. Season the chicken with a combination of ingredients like fish sauce, apple cider vinegar, chili sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, and ground ginger. These ingredients work together to create a savory, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce that coats the chicken.
The addition of green onions, water chestnuts, and cashews adds layers of flavor and texture. The water chestnuts provide a refreshing crunch, while the cashews add a touch of nuttiness that pairs wonderfully with the chicken. Once the filling is cooked and seasoned to perfection, simply spoon it into fresh lettuce leaves, garnish with more green onions and sesame seeds, and your dish is ready to serve!
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
These chicken lettuce wraps are perfect for meal prep. If you have leftovers, store the chicken filling and lettuce leaves separately in airtight containers. The chicken mixture can be kept in the fridge for up to three days. This makes it a great option for busy individuals who want to have a healthy, pre-portioned meal ready to go. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the chicken mixture in a skillet and assemble the wraps with fresh lettuce.
If you prefer to prep the entire dish, you can also store the assembled wraps, though they may lose a bit of their crunch once stored. For the best texture, it’s recommended to store the chicken filling separately from the lettuce leaves.
How to Customize Your Chicken Lettuce Wraps
One of the best features of these wraps is how easily they can be adapted. If you’re not a fan of ground chicken, you can easily swap it out for ground turkey, pork, or even beef. For those looking to make a plant-based version, consider using plant-based “meat” crumbles for a vegetarian or vegan option. The seasonings and toppings remain the same, so you can enjoy the same great taste no matter which protein you choose.
The vegetables in the wrap can also be modified. While water chestnuts and green onions provide a nice texture and flavor, you can experiment with other veggies like shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even mushrooms to add more color and taste to your dish. The sky’s the limit when it comes to customizing your chicken lettuce wraps, so feel free to get creative!
Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
While these chicken lettuce wraps make a satisfying meal on their own, they pair wonderfully with light side dishes to create a complete meal. For a refreshing contrast, serve them alongside an Asian cucumber salad, which offers a cool, tangy crunch that complements the savory wraps. Baked avocado fries or roasted vegetables are also great side options to add richness and texture.
You can also serve these wraps as an appetizer for a party. Their bite-sized nature and delicious filling make them a crowd-pleaser. Add a few dipping sauces on the side, such as a spicy peanut sauce or sweet chili sauce, to give your guests even more flavor options.
Health Benefits of Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Ground chicken lettuce wraps are a health-conscious choice that won’t leave you feeling heavy. Since the wraps are made with lean chicken, they are low in fat and calories while still providing a healthy amount of protein. The use of lettuce instead of tortillas or other high-carb wraps reduces the carbohydrate content, making this dish ideal for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
Additionally, the ingredients in these wraps—such as garlic, ginger, and chili sauce—are known for their health benefits. Garlic has been linked to immune-boosting properties, while ginger aids in digestion and has anti-inflammatory effects. The combination of these ingredients makes these wraps not only delicious but also a nourishing option for anyone looking to support their health.
Why You’ll Love Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps
These wraps are not only delicious but also quick to prepare. In just 30 minutes, you can have a satisfying, low-carb meal that’s bursting with flavor. The versatility of the recipe means it can easily be tailored to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these chicken lettuce wraps are sure to impress.
The light yet flavorful filling, combined with the crispness of the lettuce, creates the perfect balance of textures. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, with minimal cleanup required. You’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so good!
Conclusion
Ground chicken lettuce wraps are the perfect combination of flavor, ease, and health. With their light and savory filling, crunchy texture, and endless customization options, they’re a dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re enjoying them as a quick weeknight dinner or serving them to guests, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. So, gather your ingredients, grab some lettuce, and get ready to enjoy a delicious, nutritious meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare.