These easy Thai chicken lettuce wraps are a fun and tasty meal! Stuff fresh lettuce leaves with cooked chicken, crunchy veggies, and a zesty peanut sauce.
They’re like little flavor packets you can munch on anytime! I love to make them for a quick dinner or healthy snack—they’re light, refreshing, and oh-so-yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main protein. You can swap it for ground turkey, beef, or even plant-based meat for a lighter or meat-free option.
Red Bell Pepper: They add sweetness and crunch. If red isn’t available, use yellow or green bell peppers, or even diced zucchini or shredded cabbage for a different taste.
Hoisin Sauce: This gives a rich, sweet flavor. If you’re out, a mix of soy sauce, honey, and a bit of peanut butter can work as a substitute.
Sriracha: For heat, adjust to your liking. You can substitute with a milder sauce or exclude it if you prefer no spice. Try adding a dash of black pepper instead.
Butter Lettuce or Romaine Leaves: These provide a nice wrap. Any leafy greens like Swiss chard or collard greens can work! They offer a unique twist.
How Do I Cook Chicken So It’s Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking ground chicken correctly ensures it’s juicy and packed with flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the oil first! This helps the chicken cook evenly.
- Break the chicken into small pieces as it cooks. This prevents clumping and allows it to brown nicely.
- Don’t rush! Cook it until it’s no longer pink, around 5-7 minutes. If overcooked, it can become dry.
- Adding aromatics like garlic and ginger quickly after will infuse flavor into the meat. Just a minute or two will do!
Follow these steps for great texture and taste in your wraps!
Easy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, chopped (separate white and green parts)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or Thai chili sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 8-12 large butter lettuce or romaine leaves (washed and dried)
- Optional: Lime wedges for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare from start to finish. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a delicious and fresh meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook it while breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Aromatics:
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the white parts of the chopped green onions, along with the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until you can smell the lovely aromas!
3. Mix in Veggies:
Add the diced red bell pepper and shredded carrots to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened but still have a nice crunch.
4. Incorporate the Sauces:
Pour in the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha, stirring everything together. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently, to ensure the sauce is well incorporated and heated through.
5. Finish the Mixture:
Remove the skillet from heat. Mix in the chopped cilantro and half of the chopped peanuts to add extra flavor and texture.
6. Prepare to Serve:
Using a spoon, fill the lettuce leaves with the chicken mixture. Be generous! Garnish the wraps with the remaining peanuts and the green parts of the green onions for that extra crunch and color.
7. Enjoy!
If you like a bit of heat, drizzle a little extra sriracha or peanut sauce on top. Serve the wraps with lime wedges on the side for a zesty touch! Enjoy these fresh, flavorful Thai chicken lettuce wraps as a light meal or appetizer!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner protein option. It will still provide a delicious flavor. Just follow the same cooking instructions!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can keep the wrapped lettuce leaves separate to maintain their crispness until you’re ready to eat.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! You can increase the amount of sriracha or add some red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture during cooking. For a twist, try topping the wraps with sliced jalapeños!
How to Prepare Ahead of Time?
You can cook the chicken filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it on the stovetop before spooning it into the lettuce leaves for a quick meal!
