These Easy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps are fun and full of flavor! Made with seasoned chicken, fresh veggies, and tasty sauces, they’re perfect for a light meal or snack.
Rolling the wraps is like a mini crafting project, and who doesn’t love that? I usually make a few extra because they disappear fast — trust me, you won’t want to stop at one! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the dish, but you can swap it out for ground turkey, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Each brings a unique flavor and texture.
Vegetables: Red bell pepper adds sweetness, while carrots bring crunch. Feel free to substitute with chopped mushrooms or zucchini if you’re looking for something different or seasonal!
Lettuce: Butter lettuce is great for wraps due to its sturdy yet soft leaves. If you can’t find it, your next best choices are iceberg or romaine, which also hold fillings well.
Sauces: Hoisin sauce is key for that sweet and tangy flavor. If you don’t have it, try using a bit of soy sauce and brown sugar mixed together as a substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground chicken can be simple, but it requires attention. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by heating the skillet to medium-high. This allows the chicken to brown nicely.
- Add your minced garlic first for flavor, being careful not to burn it.
- When adding the ground chicken, break it up with a spatula, spreading it evenly. This helps cook it uniformly.
- Cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F if you want extra assurance!
Feel free to adjust spices or sauces to match your taste preferences. Enjoy crafting these wraps; they are a delight in every bite!
Easy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Ingredients List:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 cup shredded carrot
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 head butter lettuce or bibb lettuce, leaves separated and washed
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional, for heat)
- 2-3 tbsp water (to thin sauce as needed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and another 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes from start to enjoy these delightful wraps!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, lime juice, honey, and sriracha (if you like it spicy). Add water to achieve a drizzle-able consistency, then set it aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the ground chicken, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until no longer pink and browned well.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Stir in the diced red bell pepper and shredded carrots. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the veggies soften slightly but still have a nice crunch.
4. Mix in Garnishes:
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in roughly half of the chopped peanuts, green onions, and cilantro. This adds a burst of flavor!
5. Assemble the Wraps:
To serve, spoon the chicken mixture evenly onto the lettuce leaves. Drizzle generously with the prepared peanut sauce to enhance the flavor.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Top each wrap with the remaining peanuts, green onions, and cilantro for an added crunch and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy wrapping these delicious bites as finger food!
These fresh and flavorful Thai chicken lettuce wraps make for a delightful meal that’s both healthy and quick to prepare. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
FAQ for Easy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Tofu Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner meat option. For a vegetarian option, crumbled tofu or tempeh works wonderfully, just make sure to sauté it until golden for the best texture.
How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make the wraps gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your hoisin sauce is gluten-free as well. Most peanut butter is naturally gluten-free, but it’s always good to check the label!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the peanut sauce ahead of time! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Stir well before using, as it may thicken; you can add a bit of water to adjust the consistency.
What Should I Do With Any Leftover Chicken Filling?
If you have leftover filling, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or microwave and serve it over rice or in a salad for a quick meal!
