Name: Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon sesame oil; ¼ cup onion (diced); 2 cloves of garlic; 1 tablespoon fresh minced ginger; 10 oz ground chicken; ¼ cup Tamari (low sodium); 2 Tablespoon Thai sweet red chili sauce; Juice of 1 lime; 1 teaspoon maple syrup; ⅓ cup cashews (chopped); ¼ cup scallions (chopped); ¼ cup cilantro (fresh, chopped); ¼-½ cup carrots (shredded); Sesame seeds for topping; 1 head butter lettuce (leaves removed)

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If you’re looking for a quick and tasty dish that brings everyone together, these Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps are just the ticket! They’re perfect as a light meal or a fun appetizer for gatherings with friends and family. You’ll love how easy it is to whip them up—it’s like bringing the vibrant flavors of Thailand right into your kitchen!

What makes this recipe special is not just its wonderful flavors but also its versatility. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight dinner or hosting a laid-back weekend party, these wraps are sure to impress. Plus, they make a great way to sneak in some veggies while still being packed with protein.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: In just 15 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready. Perfect for those hectic days!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy wrapping their own lettuce leaves. It’s interactive and so much fun!
Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand or switch up the proteins—this recipe adapts to your pantry.
Fresh Flavors: The combination of ginger, lime, and fresh herbs makes each bite burst with flavor.
Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies, these wraps are a guilt-free choice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps is easy because all the ingredients are simple and wholesome. Here’s what you need to gather:

For the Filling

1 Tablespoon sesame oil
¼ cup onion (diced; I used yellow, but white 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 Tablespoon 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 Assembling

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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily tailor it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

Swap the protein: Feel free to use ground turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
Add more veggies: Try adding bell peppers or zucchini to the filling for extra crunch and nutrition.
Make it spicy: If you like heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of Sriracha to the filling.
Use different herbs: Experiment with mint or basil instead of cilantro for a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Step 1: Make the Garlic-Ginger Pan Sauce

Start by heating up your pan over medium-high heat and adding sesame oil. Once it’s hot, toss in the diced onions. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they’re golden brown and translucent. Then add in minced garlic and ginger. This step is key because sautéing releases their fragrant oils, creating a delicious base for your chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Next, add the ground chicken into your pan. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it apart while mixing it with that beautiful pan sauce. Season lightly with salt and pepper as it cooks—this will give your chicken extra flavor! Cook until there’s no pink left and it starts turning golden brown, which takes about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Thai Chili Sauce

While your chicken cooks, grab a small bowl and combine Tamari, Thai sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and maple syrup. Stir until well mixed. This sauce adds sweetness and tanginess that perfectly complements the savory chicken.

Step 4: Add the Sauce to the Chicken

Once your chicken is cooked through, sprinkle chopped cashews over it in the pan. Then pour in that delightful sauce mixture you made earlier. Toss everything together gently; reduce heat to low so all those flavors meld beautifully together for another 2 minutes.

Step 5: Assemble the Lettuce Wraps

Now comes my favorite part—assembling! Take one butter lettuce leaf at a time and add a generous spoonful of your flavorful chicken mixture inside. Drizzle some extra pan sauce on top and finish with sesame seeds for an added crunch. Repeat until all leaves are filled!

These Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps are not just delicious—they’re also an experience everyone loves diving into! Enjoy every bite with friends or family; they really bring people together around the table!

Pro Tips for Making Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps

These wraps are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, and with a few simple tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables elevate the taste of your wraps significantly. Fresh cilantro and lime juice not only add flavor but also brightness to the dish.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less chili sauce in the chicken mixture. You can always add more later or serve some on the side for those who like it hot!
Choose the Right Lettuce: Butter lettuce is perfect for these wraps due to its soft leaves that hold up well while still being easy to bite into. Romaine can be a good alternative if butter lettuce isn’t available.
Prep Ahead: You can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. This makes assembly quick and easy when you’re ready to eat!
Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to customize your filling! Add diced bell peppers or water chestnuts for extra crunch or swap out cashews for peanuts if you prefer.

How to Serve Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Presenting your Thai chicken lettuce wraps beautifully can enhance the dining experience, whether it’s for a casual dinner at home or a gathering with friends. Here are some serving suggestions that will impress your guests!

Garnishes

Chopped Peanuts: Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top of each wrap for added texture and a nutty flavor.
Sliced Avocado: A few slices of creamy avocado not only add richness but also make the dish visually appealing.
Fresh Lime Wedges: Serving lime wedges alongside allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their wraps, enhancing the overall flavor.

Side Dishes

Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar complements the savory flavors of the wraps and adds a nice crunch.
Quinoa Pilaf: This fluffy grain dish seasoned with herbs can provide a hearty side that balances out the lightness of the lettuce wraps.
Vegetable Spring Rolls: Lightly fried or fresh spring rolls filled with veggies make for an excellent appetizer that pairs well with the Thai theme.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: A small portion of fragrant jasmine rice serves as a comforting base if you want something more filling alongside your wraps.

By following these tips and serving suggestions, you’re sure to create an unforgettable dining experience with your Thai chicken lettuce wraps! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful lunch.

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover chicken mixture in an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep lettuce leaves separately to maintain their crispness.

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. To use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken mixture in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
Serve with fresh lettuce leaves and any desired toppings.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps:

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

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will still provide delicious flavor. Just follow the same cooking instructions.

How do I make Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps spicier?

If you prefer some heat, consider adding chopped fresh chili peppers or a dash of sriracha sauce to the chicken mixture while cooking.

Can I prepare Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps in advance?

Yes! You can make the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Assemble with fresh lettuce right before serving for the best texture.

What other vegetables can I add to my Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps?

Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or even bean sprouts for extra crunch and nutrition!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find these Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps as enjoyable to make as they are to eat! They bring a burst of flavor and freshness that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or an impressive appetizer for guests. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite toppings and ingredients. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try this recipe!

Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Category: Dinner/Appetizer
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Thai

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant and healthy flavors of Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps! This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with family and friends. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal that balances protein-packed ground chicken with fresh veggies and aromatic herbs. These wraps are not only fun to assemble but also allow everyone to customize their own, making them a hit for all ages. Plus, they are an excellent way to sneak in extra nutrients while keeping things light and satisfying. Enjoy the burst of flavor from ginger, lime, and sweet chili sauce wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves—perfect for a guilt-free treat!

Ingredients

Scale

1 Tablespoon sesame oil
¼ cup onion (diced)
2 cloves of garlic
1 tablespoon fresh minced ginger
10 oz ground chicken
¼ cup Tamari (low sodium)
2 Tablespoon Thai sweet red chili sauce
Juice of 1 lime
1 teaspoon maple syrup
⅓ cup cashews (chopped)
¼ cup scallions (chopped)
¼ cup cilantro (fresh, chopped)
¼–½ cup carrots (shredded)
Sesame seeds for topping
1 head butter lettuce (leaves removed)

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Instructions

Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sauté diced onions until golden brown.
Add minced garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant.
Incorporate ground chicken, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season lightly with salt and pepper until no longer pink.
In a bowl, mix tamari, Thai sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and maple syrup. Stir well.
Once chicken is cooked, add chopped cashews and pour in the sauce mixture. Stir to combine and let heat through for 2 minutes.
Assemble by spooning the chicken mixture into butter lettuce leaves; top with sesame seeds.