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Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a fresh, flavorful weeknight dinner that’s both healthy and addictive, then you’re going to adore this Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe. I absolutely love sharing this one because it’s fast, easy, and the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table ask for seconds. Trust me, once you try these wraps, you’ll find they quickly become one of your go-to recipes!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight.
  • Bursting with Flavor: That savory-sweet sauce balances perfectly with crunchy veggies and tender chicken.
  • Healthy & Light: Served on crisp lettuce, it’s low-carb and gluten-free but never boring.
  • Family Favorite: I discovered this trick when feeding picky eaters, and my family goes crazy for it every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe combines simple pantry staples with fresh veggies, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. When shopping, look for fresh, crisp lettuce leaves and quality sauces to elevate the dish.

Flat lay of ground chicken in a small mound, a few fresh whole brown onions, a small pile of minced garlic cloves, diced red bell pepper pieces, diced water chestnuts in a white ceramic bowl, small white bowls containing golden peanut oil, dark soy sauce, thick hoisin sauce, amber sesame oil, pale rice vinegar, light brown creamy peanut butter, glossy honey, vibrant red sweet chili sauce, a tiny white bowl with crushed peanuts, neatly sliced green onions, crisp green lettuce leaves arranged in a fan shape, all placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps, healthy lettuce wraps, easy chicken lettuce wraps, flavorful Asian chicken dish, quick weeknight dinner
  • Ground chicken: Lean and tender, it cooks quickly and soaks up the sauce beautifully.
  • Peanut oil: Its high smoke point is perfect for sautéing without burning.
  • Onion: Finely diced to add sweetness and depth without overpowering.
  • Minced garlic: Brings that irresistible aroma and kick.
  • Red or green bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and a hint of sweetness.
  • Water chestnuts: For crunch—trust me, you don’t want to skip these.
  • Soy sauce: The salty umami base that ties everything together.
  • Hoisin sauce: Adds a sweet, tangy complexity to the mix.
  • Sesame oil: Used sparingly for its nutty fragrance.
  • Rice vinegar: A touch of acidity to brighten the flavors.
  • Peanut butter: Creamy and rich, it balances the spice and saltiness.
  • Honey: Just enough natural sweetness to round out the sauce.
  • Sweet chili sauce: For a gentle heat that warms the palate.
  • Garlic powder & powdered ginger: Boost the savory notes smoothly.
  • Peanuts (crushed): For added texture and a little extra nutty taste.
  • Sliced green onions: Fresh and mild, perfect garnish topping.
  • Lettuce (or your favorite Asian salad): Crisp leaves make the ideal wrap that’s light and fresh.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love how versatile this Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe is. Over time, I’ve played around with different twists to suit what I have on hand or specific cravings, and you should definitely feel free to do the same!

  • Protein swap: Using ground turkey or even finely chopped shrimp works wonderfully if you want to mix it up.
  • Veggie boost: Try adding shredded carrots, mushrooms, or chopped watercress for an extra fresh bite.
  • Heat level: If you like it spicy, add more sweet chili sauce or a few dashes of Sriracha; I often do this for that extra zing.
  • Nut-free option: Substitute the peanut butter and crushed peanuts with sunflower seed butter and seeds if allergies are a concern.

How to Make Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe

Step 1: Whisk Up That Incredible Sauce

This sauce is the heart and soul of the recipe, so don’t skip on whisking it well! I like to mix together soy sauce, hoisin, sesame oil, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, sweet chili sauce, garlic powder, and powdered ginger until it’s smooth. If your peanut butter is on the firmer side, just pop the sauce mix in the microwave for about 30 to 60 seconds—it’ll melt everything together perfectly.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken and Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons of peanut oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground chicken, diced onion, and minced garlic. Stir frequently, breaking up the chicken with your spatula, until the meat is brown and the onions turn translucent. This usually takes between 5 to 10 minutes. Patience here develops the flavor base you’ll love.

Step 3: Toss in the Crunchy Veggies

Add the finely diced bell peppers and water chestnuts to the pan. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes or until the peppers soften slightly but still retain crunch. This contrast of textures is exactly what makes the wraps so satisfying.

Step 4: Combine, Simmer, and Serve

Pour your whisked sauce over the chicken and veggies. Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer together just long enough for the sauce to coat the ingredients evenly and heat through—about 3 to 5 minutes. Then it’s time to scoop your delicious filling into crisp lettuce leaves or pile it atop an Asian-inspired salad. Garnish with crushed peanuts and sliced green onions for that authentic finish.

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Pro Tips for Making Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe

  • Use Fresh Lettuce Leaves: I always pick Boston or butter lettuce for their sturdy, yet tender leaves that hold the fillings without tearing.
  • Don’t Overcook the Peppers: They should stay slightly crisp to add texture contrast—cook just until slightly softened.
  • Balance Your Sauce Sweetness: Honey and hoisin bring sweetness, so taste before adding more to avoid overpowering the savory elements.
  • Serve Immediately: Lettuce leaves can wilt if filled too early, so assemble right before serving for the freshest bite.

How to Serve Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe

Three lettuce wraps are placed side by side on a long white plate on a white marbled surface. Each wrap has a base layer of bright green lettuce leaves that are smooth and slightly curled at the edges. On top, there is a thick layer of light brown cooked meat mixed with small diced red and white vegetables and green herbs. The wraps are sprinkled with chopped peanuts, adding a light beige color and a rough texture on top. In the background, there is a black skillet with more of the cooked meat mixture and a small bowl with scattered chopped peanuts. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps, healthy lettuce wraps, easy chicken lettuce wraps, flavorful Asian chicken dish, quick weeknight dinner

Garnishes

I love topping my wraps with crushed peanuts and chopped green onions—they bring crunch and a pop of color. Sometimes, I add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a few fresh cilantro leaves for an herbal brightness that lifts the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

To keep things light, I’ll often serve these wraps with steamed jasmine rice or simple garlic noodles. For a veggie boost, a side of cucumber salad or quick-pickled radishes offers a refreshing contrast that’s just amazing alongside the savory wraps.

Creative Ways to Present

When entertaining, I set up a DIY lettuce wrap bar with all the fillings, garnishes, and extra sauces so everyone can build their own wraps. It’s interactive and adds some fun to the table. You can also arrange the filling in pretty bowls surrounded by colorful lettuce leaves for a gorgeous family-style spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The filling keeps well, but the lettuce should always be fresh and stored separately to avoid sogginess. When you’re ready to eat, just warm the filling gently and grab some fresh leaves.

Freezing

I’ve frozen the chicken filling on occasion, and it holds up surprisingly well. Just cool it completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat leftover filling, I use a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm everything evenly without drying it out. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the veggies’ texture intact. Fresh lettuce always makes this feel like a new meal.

FAQs

  1. Can I use other types of lettuce for these wraps?

    Absolutely! While I recommend Boston or butter lettuce for sturdiness and shape, you can also use romaine leaves or even iceberg if you prefer a crunchier bite. Just make sure the leaves are large enough and flexible enough to hold the filling.

  2. Is it okay to substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or beef?

    Yes! Ground turkey works great as a lean alternative, and while beef adds a different flavor profile, it can still be delicious. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and consider the fat content to avoid dryness.

  3. How spicy is this Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe?

    The recipe has a mild heat level, thanks to the sweet chili sauce. If you prefer fiery wraps, you can easily increase the chili sauce or add fresh chili flakes or Sriracha to amp up the spice.

  4. Can I prepare the filling ahead of time for a party?

    Yes! You can make the filling a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just reheat gently before serving, and keep the lettuce leaves chilled separately. This makes hosting super easy and stress-free.

Final Thoughts

This Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe has become such a staple in my kitchen because it’s an effortless, tasty way to bring everyone together around the table. I love how it balances simple ingredients with bold flavors and satisfying textures, all wrapped up in fresh, crisp lettuce. If you try it (and I hope you do!), I’m sure it’ll become as beloved in your home as it is in mine. Nothing beats sharing this fun, fresh meal with friends or family and watching them delight in every bite.

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Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 117 reviews
  • Author: Lauren
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings (6 lettuce wraps)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps recipe is a quick, easy, and healthy dinner option that bursts with vibrant flavors. Ground chicken is sautéed with fresh veggies and water chestnuts, then coated in a savory-sweet hoisin and peanut sauce. Served in crisp lettuce leaves, these wraps are gluten and dairy-free, making them a perfect choice for a light yet satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Protein & Vegetables

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • ½ onion, finely diced
  • ½ Tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 cup red or green pepper, finely diced
  • 8 ounces water chestnuts, drained and finely diced

Oils & Sauces

  • 1 Tablespoon peanut oil (plus 2 Tablespoons for cooking)
  • 3 Tablespoons soy sauce
  • 3 Tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 1 Tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 Tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons sweet chili sauce

Other Ingredients

  • 1 Tablespoon peanut butter
  • 1 Tablespoon honey
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon powdered ginger
  • ¼ cup peanuts, crushed
  • ¼ cup sliced green onions
  • Lettuce leaves (for serving)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, sweet chili sauce, garlic powder, and powdered ginger. If the peanut butter is firm, microwave the mixture for 30-60 seconds to melt it and ensure the sauce is well combined.
  2. Cook the chicken and aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of peanut oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground chicken, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and the onions become translucent, about 5 to 10 minutes.
  3. Add vegetables: Stir in the diced peppers and water chestnuts. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes or until the peppers soften slightly, maintaining a tender crunch.
  4. Combine with sauce and simmer: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring gently until the chicken and veggies are evenly coated and heated through.
  5. Serve: Spoon the savory chicken mixture into fresh lettuce leaves, garnish with crushed peanuts and sliced green onions. Optionally, serve over your favorite Asian salad, noodles, or rice for a more substantial meal.

Notes

  • This dish is naturally gluten and dairy-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Using a firmer peanut butter may require warming to blend smoothly into the sauce.
  • Feel free to substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or tofu for variation.
  • Lettuce types like butter lettuce or iceberg provide the best crisp texture for wraps.
  • The recipe yields approximately 6 servings, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 lettuce wrap
  • Calories: 209.1 kcal
  • Sugar: 8.6 g
  • Sodium: 675 mg
  • Fat: 9.2 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 30 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14.3 g
  • Fiber: 1.4 g
  • Protein: 18.7 g
  • Cholesterol: 43.6 mg

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