These Easy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a fun way to enjoy a tasty meal! With seasoned chicken, crunchy veggies, and fresh lettuce, each bite is a burst of flavor.
Wrapping the filling in lettuce is kind of like creating your own little taco. I love how light and healthy they feel, plus it’s a fun way to eat with your hands!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the show! If you want to lighten it up, ground turkey or even diced tofu works well for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Red bell pepper and shredded carrots add crunch and color. Feel free to swap in other veggies like cucumbers or zucchini for a fun twist!
Peanut Butter: This adds richness to the sauce. If you have a nut allergy, try sunflower seed butter or tahini as a substitute.
Lettuce: Butter lettuce is soft and perfect for wrapping. Romaine hearts are also sturdy. You could even use cabbage leaves if you’d like something crunchier.
Sriracha: Add some spice! If you’re sensitive to heat, use less or substitute with sweet chili sauce for a milder kick.
How Do I Make the Perfect Peanut Sauce?
The peanut sauce can really elevate your wraps. To make it perfect, start with smooth peanut butter for a creamy texture. If it’s too thick, gradually add water until you reach your desired consistency. This will help it coat the chicken and veggies without being soupy.
- Mix peanut butter, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, lime juice, sriracha, and honey in a bowl.
- Whisk until smooth, then add water 1 tablespoon at a time until it’s easy to drizzle.
Adjust spices and sweetness to fit your taste, and don’t hesitate to taste as you go!
Easy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 3 green onions, sliced (green and white parts separated)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 head butter lettuce or romaine hearts, 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 tsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust for heat preference)
- 1-2 tbsp water (to thin sauce as needed)
- 1 tsp honey or brown sugar (optional for sweetness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a quick 30-35 minute meal from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a flavorful lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure it browns evenly.
3. Add Vegetables:
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the diced red bell pepper and shredded carrots. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
4. Make the Peanut Sauce:
While the chicken mixture is cooking, prepare the peanut sauce. In a bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, lime juice, and sriracha. If it’s too thick, add water a tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust sweetness with honey or brown sugar if you like.
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the peanut sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly and let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to blend all the delightful flavors.
6. Finish with Fresh Ingredients:
Remove the skillet from heat. Gently fold in the chopped cilantro and chopped roasted peanuts, which will add a lovely crunch.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, spoon generous amounts of the chicken mixture into the prepared lettuce leaves. Garnish with extra chopped peanuts and sliced green onions for some extra flair. Wrap them up like tacos and enjoy the fresh, crunchy, and savory goodness!
These Easy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps are not only quick to make but are also a hit with family and friends! Enjoy this fresh and flavorful dish any time!
FAQ for Easy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you prefer a leaner option. Just cook it the same way you would the chicken, and it will turn out just as delicious!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can customize the filling with any veggies you like! Zucchini, shredded cabbage, or even water chestnuts can add a nice crunch. Just make sure to chop them finely so they fit well in the lettuce wraps.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The lettuce leaves best stay fresh if you store them separately. To reheat, warm the filling gently in a skillet until heated through, and then serve in fresh lettuce leaves!
Can I Make the Peanut Sauce in Advance?
Yes! The peanut sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir or whisk before serving as it may thicken in the fridge. You can add a little warm water if necessary to adjust the consistency.
