If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal, you’re in the right place! These savory chicken lettuce wraps with Thai chili sauce are packed with bold flavors, easy to make, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this beginner-friendly guide will walk you through every step to create the most delicious lettuce wraps.
Savory Chicken Lettuce Wraps With Thai Chili Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 Ib ground chicken
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- ½ cup carrots, shredded
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp Honey or maple syrup
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup Thai chili sauce
- 1 head of butter lettuce or romaine leaves
Optional Toppings:
- chopped green onions
- crushed peanuts or cashews
- sesame seeds for topping
- lime wedges for garnish
Why Choose Savory Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Thai Chili Sauce
Lettuce wraps are a fantastic alternative to traditional wraps or sandwiches. They are light, refreshing, and full of texture. Juicy chicken, crisp lettuce, and spicy-sweet Thai chili sauce combine to create an explosion of flavors in every bite.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can make it as spicy, sweet, or savory as you like. Plus, it’s a great low-carb option for those looking to eat healthier.
Preparing the Chicken Filling
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s start cooking!
- Heat the Oil: Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and grated ginger to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Veggies: Toss in the diced red bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Season the Mixture: Stir in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Once the chicken filling is ready, set it aside while we prepare the Thai chili sauce.
Making the Thai Chili Sauce
The Thai chili sauce is what takes these lettuce wraps to the next level. Here’s how to make it:
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the Thai chili sauce, rice vinegar, honey, lime juice, and Sriracha (if using).
- Adjust to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or spiciness as needed. If you prefer it sweeter, add a bit more honey. For more heat, add extra Sriracha.
This sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used as a dipping sauce or drizzled over the wraps.
Assembling the Lettuce Wraps
- Prepare the Lettuce Leaves: Wash the lettuce leaves thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel. Choose leaves that are sturdy and cup-shaped to hold the filling.
- Stuff the Leaves: Stuff the center of each lettuce leaf with a generous amount of chicken.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle chopped cilantro and sliced green onions over the filling.
- Drizzle with Sauce: Drizzle the Thai chili sauce over the top or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Serve with Lime Wedges: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for Perfect Lettuce Wraps
Here are some tips to ensure your savory chicken lettuce wraps with Thai chili sauce turn out perfectly:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and herbs make a huge difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overfill the Wraps: Keep the filling manageable so the wraps are easy to eat.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the spiciness of the Thai chili sauce to suit your taste.
- Serve Immediately: Lettuce wraps are best enjoyed fresh, as the leaves can wilt over time.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Store Separately: Keep the chicken filling, lettuce leaves, and sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.
- Reheat Gently: Reheat the chicken filling in a skillet over low heat or the microwave. Avoid overheating, as it can dry out the chicken.
- Assemble Fresh: Assemble the wraps just before eating to keep the lettuce crisp.
Conclusion: A Dish Worth Making Again and Again
Savory chicken lettuce wraps with Thai chili sauce are a fantastic dish that’s both healthy and flavorful. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a light lunch, or even as an appetizer for a party.
With this beginner-friendly guide, you’ll be able to whip up this delicious meal in no time.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and start cooking! Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family—they’ll be asking for the recipe in no time.
Nutrition
Total Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 45mg | Sodium: 630mg | Total Carbohydrate: 8g | Dietary Fiber: 3g | Total Sugars: 5g | Protein: 20g | Vitamin A: 978IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 17mg | Iron: 2mg | Potassium: 365mg
FAQ
What type of lettuce is best for lettuce wraps?
The best lettuce for a lettuce wrap is one that is crisp and sturdy enough to hold the filling without tearing. Butter lettuce or Bibb lettuce are both popular choices. Iceberg lettuce is also commonly used because it is crisp and has a naturally cup-like shape.
Are chicken lettuce wraps healthy?
Yes, chicken lettuce wraps can be a healthy option to eat. They are typically low in carbohydrates and calories, making them suitable for a low-carb diet.
What to eat with chicken lettuce wraps?
- Taiwanese Cucumber Salad.
- Cold Sesame Noodles.
- Spicy Cauliflower Stir-Fry.
- Sichuan Smashed Cucumber Salad.
What type of lettuce is best for wraps?
Butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce are ideal because of their sturdy, cup-shaped leaves.
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works great as a chicken substitute. It’s just as delicious and lean.