Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a delicious, healthier take on traditional lettuce wraps. With ground chicken cooked in a savory garlic-ginger sauce, topped with fresh cilantro, scallions, and cashews, these wraps are bursting with flavor. The sweet red chili sauce and lime juice add a refreshing zest that will keep you coming back for more. Plus, they’re quick to prepare, making them ideal for a busy weeknight or casual gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 10 oz ground chicken
- 1/4 cup Tamari (low sodium) or soy sauce, or coconut aminos
- 2 tablespoons Thai sweet red chili sauce
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup, honey, or agave
- 1/3 cup chopped cashews (raw or roasted)
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4-1/2 cup shredded carrots
- Sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
- 1 head butter lettuce (leaves removed, rinsed, and dried)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Then, add garlic and ginger and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add ground chicken, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned.
- In a separate bowl, combine soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and maple syrup. Stir well.
- Add the sauce mixture to the chicken, then stir in chopped cashews. Reduce heat to low and cook for 2 more minutes.
- Remove the pan from heat. Stir in shredded carrots, scallions, and cilantro.
- To assemble, place a spoonful of the chicken mixture into a lettuce leaf and top with sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Use ground turkey or beef for a different protein option.
- For a spicier version, add more Thai chili sauce or some chopped fresh chilies.
- Swap cashews for peanuts for an additional crunchy texture.
- Make it vegetarian by replacing the chicken with tofu or a plant-based protein.
Storage/Reheating
The filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet. The lettuce should be used fresh, as it wilts easily and doesn’t store well.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of lettuce?
Yes, you can use any large leaf lettuce, such as Romaine, but butter lettuce has a tender, slightly sweet flavor that works best.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, using Tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce will make the recipe gluten-free.
How can I make these wraps spicier?
Add extra chili sauce or incorporate some sliced fresh jalapeños or Thai bird chilies.
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works great as a substitute for chicken in this recipe.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the wraps when you’re ready to serve.
Can I add more vegetables to the wraps?
Absolutely! You can add ingredients like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added crunch and flavor.
What type of cashews should I use?
You can use either raw or roasted salted cashews, depending on your preference.
Can I freeze the filling for later use?
Yes, the filling can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before using in the lettuce wraps.
How do I prevent the lettuce from wilting?
Keep the lettuce leaves dry and store them in a cool place until ready to serve. Don’t assemble the wraps until you’re ready to eat.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, use a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh and substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave for a vegan version.
Conclusion
These Thai chicken lettuce wraps are a healthy, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and full of fresh ingredients. With savory chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a sweet-spicy sauce, they’re the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a light lunch, dinner, or appetizer, this recipe delivers on taste and satisfaction!
Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a flavorful, healthy, and quick meal option. Ground chicken cooked with soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, and fresh vegetables, all wrapped in buttery lettuce leaves, create a savory and slightly sweet bite that’s light yet filling. Perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or as an appetizer, these wraps are a delicious blend of textures and tastes that will satisfy your cravings in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- ¼ cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh minced ginger
- 10 oz ground chicken
- ¼ cup Tamari (low sodium), soy sauce, or coconut aminos
- 2 tbsp Thai sweet red chili sauce
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tsp maple syrup or honey
- ⅓ cup chopped cashews (raw or roasted/salted)
- ¼ cup chopped scallions
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ¼–½ cup shredded carrots
- Sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
- 1 head butter lettuce, leaves separated, rinsed, and dried
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan Sauce: Heat sesame oil in a pan. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Add ground chicken to the pan, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine Tamari (or soy sauce), chili sauce, lime juice, and maple syrup (or honey). Mix well.
- Combine: Add the sauce to the chicken mixture. Toss in the chopped cashews and cook on low heat for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in shredded carrots, scallions, and fresh cilantro.
- Assemble: Spoon the chicken mixture into the butter lettuce leaves and top with sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Gluten-Free Option: Use Tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.
- Make It Vegan: Swap ground chicken for tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian or vegan version.
- Increase the Heat: Add more chili sauce or fresh sliced chilies to the mixture for a spicier kick.
- Nut Variations: Use peanuts or almonds if you prefer a different crunch or flavor.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add bell peppers, water chestnuts, or zucchini to the filling for more crunch and nutrition.
