Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Share
These Chicken Lettuce Wraps feature tender, juicy diced chicken breast cooked with crisp water chestnuts and a savory sauce, all wrapped in fresh, crunchy lettuce leaves. They’re perfect for a healthy, flavorful meal or appetizer!
Yield
4 servings
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, finely diced into small pieces
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup water chestnuts, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup carrots, grated (optional for extra crunch)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Serving:
- 1 head butter lettuce or romaine lettuce (separated into leaves)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Extra green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
2. Cook the Filling
- Heat the olive oil or sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through.
- Add the diced onion, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped water chestnuts and carrots (if using). Cook for 2 more minutes.
3. Combine with Sauce
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken mixture and stir well to coat.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the chicken. Remove from heat and stir in the green onions.
4. Assemble the Lettuce Wraps
- Spoon a portion of the chicken mixture into the center of a lettuce leaf.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and additional green onions, if desired.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately with extra lettuce leaves on the side for wrapping. These wraps pair wonderfully with a light side like cucumber salad or steamed rice.
Tips for Success
- Lettuce Options: Butter lettuce or romaine works best for wrapping due to their sturdy yet soft leaves.
- Make Ahead: The chicken filling can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with finely diced tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based version.
These Chicken Lettuce Wraps are packed with bold flavors and fresh textures, making them a light yet satisfying meal.