|

Healthy Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe: Light, Flavorful, and Easy to Make

Hours

Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a deliciously healthy, low-carb meal that’s bursting with flavor. They’re quick to make, light, and offer a fresh twist on traditional wraps, making them a perfect option for a quick dinner, appetizer, or even a fun meal for meal prepping. The combination of savory chicken, aromatic vegetables, and a tangy, slightly sweet sauce wrapped in crispy lettuce leaves is both satisfying and refreshing.

Whether you’re following a low-carb or gluten-free diet, or simply looking for something light and healthy, these Chicken Lettuce Wraps will hit the spot. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore how easy it is to make this flavorful dish at home.

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Chicken Lettuce Wraps:

  • A large skillet or wok for cooking the chicken
  • A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
  • A small bowl for mixing the sauce
  • A sharp knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables
  • A serving platter for the wraps

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Chicken Lettuce Wraps:

For the chicken filling:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground chicken breast (or thighs for more flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil
  • 1/2 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup grated carrots (optional, for added texture)
  • 1/2 cup water chestnuts, finely chopped (optional, for crunch)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free option)
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the wraps:

  • 1 head of iceberg lettuce or butter lettuce (use large leaves for wrapping)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Chicken Lettuce Wraps?

Step 1: Prepare the chicken filling

Heat the olive oil or sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked. Use a spoon to break up the chicken into small crumbles as it cooks.

Step 2: Add the vegetables and aromatics

Add the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, and grated carrots to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. If you’re using water chestnuts, add them at this stage for added crunch.

Step 3: Make the sauce

In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger. Mix well and pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything together, making sure the chicken mixture is evenly coated with the sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Assemble the wraps

Carefully separate the large leaves of lettuce, being sure to keep them intact for wrapping. You can use butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce, whichever you prefer. Arrange the lettuce leaves on a platter, and spoon the chicken mixture into the center of each leaf.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

Top the wraps with freshly chopped cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately while the filling is still warm, and enjoy the light, flavorful wraps!

Variations

  • Add spices: If you like a little heat, you can add some red pepper flakes, chili paste, or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
  • Use shrimp or turkey: Substitute ground chicken with ground turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
  • Add more veggies: Try adding more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or snap peas to increase the crunch and nutrition of the wraps.
  • Make it spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of spicy chili oil to give the wraps a kick.

Cooking Note

Chicken Lettuce Wraps are best enjoyed fresh, but the filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the filling on the stove before serving. You can also make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Lettuce Wraps are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with:

  • A side of steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a more filling meal
  • A light salad, such as cucumber or Asian-style slaw
  • A refreshing drink like iced tea, lemonade, or coconut water

Helpful Tips

  • Use fresh lettuce leaves: To ensure that the lettuce wraps hold up well, use fresh, crisp leaves of lettuce. You can also trim the stem of the lettuce leaves to make them easier to wrap.
  • Avoid overfilling the wraps: Don’t overstuff the lettuce leaves with the filling, as it may cause them to tear. Just a spoonful or two is usually enough.
  • Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or vinegar depending on your taste preferences. If you like it sweeter, add more hoisin sauce; if you prefer more tang, increase the vinegar.

Tips for the Best Chicken Lettuce Wraps

  • Make it ahead: Prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes for a quick and easy meal when you’re short on time.
  • Serve with dipping sauce: For extra flavor, serve the wraps with a side of soy sauce or peanut sauce for dipping.
  • Use the right lettuce: Use large, sturdy leaves of lettuce like butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce to hold the filling without tearing. These leaves are also perfectly shaped for wrapping.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

10 minutes

Total Time:

20 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 23g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 4g

FAQs

1. Can I use a different protein?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, beef, shrimp, or tofu in place of chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. Can I make Chicken Lettuce Wraps ahead of time?
The filling can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The lettuce wraps should be assembled just before serving to ensure the leaves stay crisp.

3. Can I make these wraps spicy?
Yes, add sriracha sauce, chili paste, or red pepper flakes to the filling or sauce to add heat to the wraps.

Conclusion

Chicken Lettuce Wraps are an incredibly tasty, healthy, and low-carb meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of savory chicken, fresh vegetables, and the crunch of lettuce creates a satisfying dish that’s light yet filling. With endless variations, you can easily adjust this recipe to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile dish that’s sure to become a regular part of your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or as an appetizer, Chicken Lettuce Wraps are sure to please everyone at the table!

Similar Posts