Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps

If you’re looking for a light and fresh dish that’s bursting with flavor, you’ve come to the right place! These Thai chicken lettuce wraps are a family favorite at my house. They make a perfect appetizer for gatherings or a quick dinner on busy weeknights. What I love most is how customizable they are, allowing everyone to create their own little wrap just the way they like it!

Not only are these wraps delicious, but they are also healthy and packed with vibrant ingredients. You can whip them up in no time, making them an easy go-to recipe for any occasion. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love building their own wraps! It’s a fun way to get everyone involved in dinner.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, these wraps are a nutritious option.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the filling ahead of time and assemble the wraps when you’re ready to eat!
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of ginger, garlic, and Thai chili sauce creates a mouthwatering experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be happy to know that this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to create your delicious Thai chicken lettuce wraps:

For the Filling

• 1 Tablespoon sesame oil
• ¼ cup onion (diced, I used yellow. White onion works too.)
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 tablespoon fresh minced ginger (or ginger paste)
• 10 oz ground chicken
• ¼ cup Tamari (low sodium) (or soy sauce, coconut aminos)
• 2 Tablespoons Thai sweet red chili sauce (we love Trader Joe’s)
• juice of 1 lime
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup (or honey, agave)
• ⅓ cup cashews (chopped – raw or roasted/salted)
• ¼ cup scallions (chopped)
• ¼ cup cilantro (fresh, chopped)
• ¼-½ cup carrots (shredded)

For Assembly

• Sesame seeds for topping
• 1 head butter lettuce – leaves removed (rinsed and dried – see notes)

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! Whether you want to switch things up or cater to dietary preferences, here are some fun variations you can try:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or tofu for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Mix in bell peppers or zucchini for extra crunch.
• Make it spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes if you like some heat!
• Try different sauces: Experiment with peanut sauce or hoisin sauce for a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Step 1: Make the Garlic-Ginger Pan Sauce

Start by heating your pan over medium-high heat and adding the sesame oil. Once it’s hot and shimmering, toss in the onions. Sautéing them until they turn brown and translucent brings out their natural sweetness. After about 2-3 minutes, add the minced garlic and ginger. Let those cook together for about 2 minutes; this step really builds an aromatic base for your filling.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Now it’s time to add the ground chicken to your pan! Break it up with a wooden spoon as you toss it in the pan sauce. Season lightly with salt and pepper; this helps enhance all those lovely flavors as it cooks. Allow it to cook until golden brown—about 3-4 minutes—ensuring there’s no pink left behind.

Step 3: Make the Thai Chili Sauce

While your chicken is cooking, whisk together the Tamari, Thai sweet red chili sauce, lime juice, and maple syrup in a small bowl. This sauce will infuse your chicken mixture with a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once your chicken is cooked through, sprinkle those chopped cashews over everything in the pan then pour in your prepared sauce. Toss everything together so that all those delicious flavors meld beautifully. Lower the heat to low and let it simmer for another couple of minutes. Finally, remove from heat and stir in your shredded carrots, chopped scallions, and cilantro—these fresh herbs add brightness!

Step 5: Assemble Your Lettuce Wraps

Now comes the fun part! Take one of those soft butter lettuce leaves and fill it generously with your tasty chicken mixture. Drizzle some of that leftover pan sauce over top and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Keep assembling until you’ve made all your wraps!

And just like that, you have created delightful Thai chicken lettuce wraps! Perfectly fresh and full of flavor—enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps

These wraps are not only delicious but also easy to customize! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Thai chicken lettuce wraps turn out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and herbs will elevate the flavor of your wraps. The freshness makes a significant difference in taste and aroma, giving you that authentic Thai experience.

• Choose the right lettuce: Butter lettuce is perfect for these wraps because of its tender texture and ability to hold fillings well. It creates a delightful crunch while also being pliable enough to wrap around the filling without tearing.

• Adjust the spice level: If you enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to add chopped fresh chili or a dash of Sriracha into the chicken mixture. This allows you to tailor the spiciness according to your taste preferences.

• Prep ahead: You can prepare the chicken mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or entertaining guests!

• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to add other diced vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini into the chicken mix. This not only enhances nutrition but also adds vibrant colors and textures to your wraps.

How to Serve Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Serving your Thai chicken lettuce wraps beautifully can enhance the dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal at home, these ideas will make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped peanuts: Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top for an extra crunch and nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
• Lime wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side so guests can squeeze fresh lime juice over their wraps for an added zesty kick.
• Fresh herbs: A few sprigs of cilantro or mint placed on the serving platter not only look pretty but also add a burst of freshness when eaten.

Side Dishes

• Thai Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad combines cucumbers, vinegar, sugar, and chili flakes, making it a perfect balance of sweet and tangy that pairs wonderfully with your savory wraps.
• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice serves as a great base alongside your wraps. Its subtle fragrance complements the bold flavors of the chicken filling.
• Vegetable Spring Rolls: Light and crispy spring rolls filled with fresh veggies provide a delightful contrast to the warm chicken wraps. Serve them with a sweet chili dipping sauce for an extra treat!
• Edamame Beans: These lightly salted green soybeans are packed with protein and make for a simple yet satisfying side that everyone loves.

Enjoy crafting this vibrant dish! Your family and friends are sure to be impressed by both its presentation and flavor. Happy wrapping!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Thai chicken lettuce wraps are perfect for meal prep! They can be made in advance and stored for quick, flavorful meals throughout the week. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover chicken mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Store the lettuce leaves separately to maintain their crispness.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken mixture to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• To reheat the chicken mixture, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
• Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the chicken rubbery.
• Serve with fresh lettuce leaves once warmed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delicious Thai chicken lettuce wraps.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken in Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will taste just as delicious in this recipe. Just follow the same cooking instructions.

How do I make Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps gluten-free?

To ensure your Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps are gluten-free, simply use Tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. This will keep your wraps flavorful without any gluten!

What can I substitute for cashews in Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps?

If you’re looking for nut-free options, you can substitute sunflower seeds or omit them altogether. You’ll still have a tasty filling!

How spicy are Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps?

The spiciness largely depends on the type and amount of Thai sweet red chili sauce you use. Feel free to adjust based on your heat preference!

Can I add other vegetables to my Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps?

Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, cucumbers, or even zucchini for extra crunch and nutrition. The more colorful, the better!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Thai chicken lettuce wraps as much as I do! They’re not only bursting with flavor but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun appetizer for friends, these wraps are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your version of this dish—I’d love to hear how they turned out for you!