If you’re craving something fresh, flavorful, and downright fun to eat, this Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe is a total game-changer. Imagine juicy ground chicken seasoned with garlic and ginger, tossed with colorful shredded veggies, and all wrapped up in crisp lettuce leaves for that perfect crunch. The sweet chili sauce combined with a hint of peanut butter brings a luscious balance of sweet, savory, and a gentle kick that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, an impressive appetizer, or a satisfying dinner, this recipe feels like a warm hug on a plate and is super easy to pull together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe is in its simplicity and the vibrant flavor punch each ingredient delivers. Every component plays an essential role, from the tender, juicy chicken to the crisp veggies and the aromatic herbs that bring everything to life.
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and aromatics, adds a subtle fruitiness and helps everything cook evenly.
- 1 pound ground chicken: The protein star of this dish, absorbent and mild, it soaks up the delicious sauce perfectly.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a warm, irresistible aroma and bold bite.
- 1/2 sweet onion, chopped: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Gives a subtle heat and complexity.
- 1 cup carrot, shredded: Contributes a pleasant crunch and vibrant orange color.
- 1/2 cup finely shredded cabbage: Adds texture and lightness that complement the savory chicken.
- 3 green onions, chopped: Offers fresh, mild onion notes and a pop of green.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Brings a burst of herbal brightness essential to this Thai-inspired dish.
- 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce: The sweet-savory backbone with a gentle kick of heat.
- 1 Tablespoon chunky peanut butter: Adds creamy richness and nutty depth to the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated ginger: Delivers a lively, zesty warmth that wakes up the palate.
- 2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce: Provides umami and saltiness that tie everything together.
- Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste: Customize the heat level with a sprinkle or two.
- Boston Bibb lettuce or romaine lettuce leaves: Crisp, cool vessels to hold the flavorful filling and create delightful wraps.
How to Make Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Cook everything together, breaking the chicken up with a spatula until it’s fully cooked and just starting to brown ever so slightly. This creates a fragrant base bursting with flavor that will carry the entire dish.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Next, toss in the shredded carrots, finely shredded cabbage, and chopped green onions. Sauté them with the chicken just until the vegetables become tender but still retain a bit of their crunch, which is crucial for texture contrast in your wraps.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
While the veggies are cooking, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, freshly grated ginger, chunky peanut butter, low-sodium soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This luscious sauce combines sweetness, nuttiness, and spice to perfectly complement the savory chicken and fresh veggies. Stir in the chopped cilantro for that unmistakable herbaceous lift.
Step 4: Combine Sauce with Chicken Mixture
Pour the sauce into the skillet over the cooked chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly, allowing the sauce to warm through and gently thicken, soaking into every bite. This step transforms the filling into the star of your Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe.
Step 5: Assemble the Wraps
Finally, spoon the flavorful chicken mixture into crisp Boston Bibb or romaine lettuce leaves. The cool, crunchy lettuce balances the rich, tangy filling, giving you fresh bites packed with texture and layers of flavor. Now you’re ready to dig in and enjoy!
How to Serve Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling some extra chopped cilantro, crushed peanuts, or thinly sliced red chili peppers on top can elevate your wraps with pops of color and texture. A squeeze of fresh lime adds a bright citrus note that plays so well with the sweet-spicy sauce.
Side Dishes
Pair these wraps with a light cucumber salad, steamed jasmine rice, or even a simple bowl of miso soup for a more substantial meal. Sticky rice or coconut rice are other fantastic companions, soaking up any extra sauce with delightful flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or casual gathering, arrange the chicken mixture in a pretty serving bowl alongside a platter of washed and separated lettuce leaves for guests to assemble themselves. You could also stuff the filling into crunchy endive leaves or mini taco shells for a fun twist. Wrapping the filling in rice paper rolls creates a Thai-inspired fusion that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer the chicken and vegetable filling into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinner leftovers.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked filling in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Be sure to label it with the date, and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Lettuce leaves do not freeze well, so always keep these fresh.
Reheating
Reheat the filling gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave until warm. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating without drying it out. Once hot, spoon into fresh lettuce leaves and enjoy.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken in this Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will provide a similar mild flavor and texture. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and adjust seasoning as needed.
What type of lettuce works best for these wraps?
Boston Bibb and romaine lettuce leaves are ideal because of their sturdy yet tender nature. They hold the filling well and deliver that refreshing crunch essential to these wraps.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe has a mild to medium heat level that’s easily adjustable by adding more or less crushed red pepper flakes. The sweet chili sauce balances the spice with sweetness, so it’s approachable for most palates.
Can I make this Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap ground chicken for diced tofu or tempeh, and substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option. The sauce and veggies stay just as delicious.
How do I keep the lettuce leaves from wilting?
Keep the lettuce chilled until just before serving and assemble the wraps right before eating. This ensures the leaves stay crisp and fresh for the best texture experience.
Final Thoughts
This Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe is a fresh, fun, and flavorful way to enjoy a light meal that never feels like a sacrifice for your taste buds. It’s quick to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for sharing with friends or family anytime you want a dinner that’s both healthy and utterly satisfying. I can’t wait for you to try it and add your own personal twist to this vibrant dish!
Print
Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a light and flavorful appetizer or main dish perfect for a quick meal. Ground chicken is sautéed with garlic and onions, then combined with fresh shredded vegetables and tossed in a deliciously tangy and slightly spicy peanut and sweet chili sauce. Served in crisp lettuce leaves, these wraps are refreshing, healthy, and easy to make in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein & Vegetables
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 sweet onion, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup carrot, shredded
- 1/2 cup finely shredded cabbage
- 3 green onions, chopped
- Boston Bib lettuce or romaine lettuce leaves, for serving
Sauce & Garnish
- 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 Tablespoon chunky peanut butter
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce
- Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Filling: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken, minced garlic, chopped sweet onion, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the shredded carrot, finely shredded cabbage, and chopped green onions into the cooked chicken mixture. Continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the sweet chili sauce, chunky peanut butter, freshly grated ginger, low-sodium soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste. Mix well until smooth. Add the chopped cilantro to the sauce and stir to combine.
- Assemble Wraps: Spoon the warm chicken and vegetable mixture into the center of individual Boston Bib or romaine lettuce leaves. Drizzle with the prepared sauce or toss the chicken mixture with the sauce before spooning. Serve the lettuce wraps immediately for a fresh and crunchy bite.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or tofu for a different protein option.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- For added texture, garnish with chopped peanuts or cashews.
- Serve with lime wedges for an extra citrusy brightness.
- Store leftovers separately: keep the chicken mixture refrigerated and assemble wraps just before serving to maintain crispness.
