These Easy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps are fresh and tasty! Ground chicken is mixed with crunchy veggies and Thai flavors, all wrapped up in crisp lettuce leaves for a fun meal.
I love how light and colorful these wraps are! They make the perfect appetizer or a quick lunch. Plus, who doesn’t love eating with their hands? Just don’t spill the filling! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main protein in the wraps. You can substitute it with ground turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Both options will work well with the flavors of the dish!
Bell Pepper: Red bell peppers add sweetness and crunch. If you’re out of red bell peppers, use yellow or orange ones for a similar taste. You could also use diced zucchini or mushrooms for a different kind of veggie.
Hoisin Sauce: This sauce gives the wrap its distinct flavor. If you can’t find it, you can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts soy sauce and peanut butter with a little bit of honey or sugar.
Butter Lettuce: This type of lettuce is soft and great for wrapping. Romaine or even cabbage leaves can be used if you want a sturdier wrap.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Cooked Properly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll get it right every time. Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat. This ensures the chicken browns nicely.
- Make sure to break the chicken apart as it cooks to ensure even cooking.
- Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Don’t rush it—let it brown a bit for added flavor!
These tips will help you create perfectly cooked chicken for your wraps every time!
Easy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 3 green onions, sliced (separate white and green parts)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
- 1 head butter lettuce or Bibb lettuce, leaves separated and washed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, so you can have these tasty wraps ready in just around 25 minutes! It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook it until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula while it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the green onions to the skillet with the chicken. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until everything is fragrant.
3. Mix in the Veggies:
Now, stir in the diced red bell pepper and shredded carrots. Continue to cook for about 3-4 minutes, just until the veggies are slightly tender but still crisp. This keeps the wraps fresh and crunchy!
4. Create the Flavorful Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha (if you’re using it). Pour this sauce over the chicken and veggies in the skillet. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
5. Finish with Fresh Herbs:
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped cilantro and the green parts of the green onions to add a fresh flavor.
6. Assemble the Wraps:
To serve, spoon the flavorful chicken mixture into the washed lettuce leaves. Sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top and, if you like, drizzle with extra hoisin sauce or peanut sauce for added flavor.
7. Enjoy Your Creation:
Fold the lettuce leaf around the filling, and enjoy these fresh, flavorful Thai chicken lettuce wraps! They make a light meal or a fun appetizer.
This dish is perfect for a light, healthy meal or appetizer and offers a great balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors with a nice crunch from fresh veggies and peanuts. Happy eating!
FAQ for Easy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will keep the dish light and healthy. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly until browned and no longer pink, similar to how you would with ground chicken.
What Vegetables Can I Add or Substitute?
You can customize your wraps with various vegetables! Instead of red bell pepper and carrots, try adding diced zucchini, shredded cabbage, or even water chestnuts for extra crunch. Just make sure any veggies you use are cut small enough to fit easily in the lettuce leaves.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the lettuce leaves separate so they stay crisp. When ready to eat, simply reheat the chicken mixture in a skillet or microwave, and then assemble your wraps fresh!
Can I Make These Wraps Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the wraps right before serving to keep the lettuce fresh and crunchy.
