Chicken Lettuce Wraps

When I think of a quick and satisfying meal, Chicken Lettuce Wraps always comes to mind. They’re perfect for those busy weeknights or when I want to impress friends with something both delicious and healthy. Just imagine the crunch of the fresh lettuce paired with the savory filling of ground chicken, mushrooms, and a blend of spices! The first time I made these, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to whip them up. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but doesn’t weigh you down.

Gathering around the table with loved ones to fill our own lettuce wraps is such a fun and interactive experience. Everyone can customize their own with extra toppings like green onions and hoisin sauce. It’s like a little culinary adventure in each bite! Plus, the vibrant colors of the ingredients remind me that cooking can be just as much about the visuals as it is about the flavors. Throughout the years, this dish has become a staple in my home. I’ve even made them for gatherings, and they never fail to impress!

Ingredients for Chicken Lettuce Wraps

For these delicious Chicken Lettuce Wraps, you’ll need a combination of savory sauces and fresh vegetables. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The star of the show is undoubtedly the ground chicken, which absorbs all the wonderful seasonings. Fresh lettuce adds a crispness that makes each bite refreshing. Let’s take a closer look at the components that make this dish shine!

• ½ cup hoisin sauce: A sweet and savory sauce that adds depth to the filling.
• ¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce plus 1 tablespoon: Brings a salty umami flavor that enhances the dish.
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Adds a tangy brightness.
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil: Delivers a nutty aroma.
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil: Used to brown the chicken.
• 2 pounds ground chicken breast: The main protein that makes the dish hearty.
• 1 small bunch green onions, thinly sliced: Provides a fresh crunch.
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger: Adds a warm spice note.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons): Enhances the overall flavor.
• 8 ounces baby bella cremini mushrooms, finely chopped: Adds umami and texture.
• 1 ½ cups grated carrots (from about 3 large carrots): Offers sweetness and color.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Provides a hint of heat.
• 2 (8-ounce) cans water chestnuts, drained and finely chopped: Contributes crunch.
• 2 heads butter lettuce: The perfect wrap for our filling.

How to Prepare Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s dive into preparing your Chicken Lettuce Wraps. The process is simple and quick, allowing you to enjoy this healthy meal in no time. Follow these detailed steps to create a dish that’s sure to impress!

1. Start by lightly coating a large slow cooker (at least 5-quarts) with nonstick spray. This will help prevent the filling from sticking as it cooks.
2. In a small bowl, combine the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir well and set this flavorful mixture aside for later.
3. Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. It’s important to get the oil hot enough to brown the chicken properly.
4. Add the ground chicken to the skillet. As it cooks, break the meat into small pieces using a spatula or wooden spoon. You’ll want to cook it until it’s no longer pink, which should take about 4 to 6 minutes.
5. Once the chicken is browned, stir in the white and light green parts of the green onions, ginger, and garlic. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to allow those flavors to meld.
6. Transfer the cooked chicken mixture into the slow cooker. This step is crucial for ensuring that the flavors develop as it cooks.
7. Now, stir in the finely chopped mushrooms, grated carrots, red pepper flakes, and the sauce mixture you set aside earlier. Combine everything thoroughly.
8. Cover the slow cooker and set to cook on LOW for 2 to 3 hours. This low and slow method helps the chicken become ultra-tender and the mixture thickens beautifully. Avoid cooking on HIGH to prevent the chicken from becoming tough.
9. As the cooking time nears completion, stir in the drained and finely chopped water chestnuts and the remaining green parts of the green onions. This will add a fresh crunch right before serving.
10. To serve, gently separate the leaves of the butter lettuce. Spoon the delicious chicken filling into each leaf, creating your own wraps. Enjoy these hot for the best experience!

Substitutions and Tips

If you’re looking to make your Chicken Lettuce Wraps even more special, here are some tips and substitutions to consider. They can help you adjust the recipe based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Storage: Leftover filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Always keep your lettuce separate to maintain its crunch.
• Freezing: You can freeze the leftover filling in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
• Pairing: Serve these wraps with a side of steamed rice or a fresh vegetable stir-fry for a complete meal.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground chicken with a plant-based protein like crumbled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
• Spice Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference. Omit them entirely if you prefer a milder dish.
• Custom Fillings: Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. You could even add quinoa for more texture.

Great Combinations for Chicken Lettuce Wraps

When it comes to serving Chicken Lettuce Wraps, there are endless possibilities. Here are some great combinations and occasions to enjoy this dish:

• Perfect for Lunch: These wraps make an excellent choice for a quick and satisfying lunch. Just pack the filling and lettuce separately for a fresh meal.
• Healthy Dinner Option: A wonderful light dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor; these wraps are perfect for a healthy weeknight meal.
• Occasions: Great for casual gatherings or game nights, as guests can fill their own lettuce leaves!
• Side Dishes: Pair with a side of steamed rice or a fresh salad for a more filling meal.
• Seasonal Pairing: Enjoy in spring when fresh lettuce is at its best, but these can be made year-round with available ingredients!
• Storage Tips: Store any leftover filling in the refrigerator for up to four days, and always keep the lettuce separate for the best crunch.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a delightful dish that balances flavor and freshness perfectly. Their versatility makes it easy to cater to different tastes, and they’re a hit for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the hands-on experience of wrapping your own delicious fillings. It’s a fun way to gather around the table, and I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do!

Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Craving something light yet satisfying? These Chicken Lettuce Wraps are your answer! Packed with flavor and made with fresh ingredients, they’re a perfect easy weeknight dinner. Delight in the crunch of lettuce wrapped around savory chicken filling, and watch your family devour them!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Servings: 8 cups

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 270

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ½ cup hoisin sauce
• ¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce plus 1 tablespoon
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 pounds ground chicken breast
• 1 small bunch green onions thinly sliced, white/light green and dark green parts divided
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic minced (about 2 teaspoons)
• 8 ounces baby bella cremini mushrooms finely chopped
• 1 ½ cups grated carrots from about 3 large carrots
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes reduce to 1/4 teaspoon or omit if sensitive to spice
• 2 (8-ounce) cans water chestnuts drained and finely chopped
• 2 heads butter lettuce

Equipment

• Skillet
• Grater
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon
• Slow Cooker

Method

 

1. Lightly coat a 5-quart or larger slow cooker with nonstick spray. In a small bowl, stir together the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high. Add the ground chicken and brown the meat, breaking it into small pieces. Continue cooking until no longer pink, about 4 to 6 minutes. Stir in the white and light green parts of the green onions, ginger, and garlic. Cook 30 additional seconds.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker. Stir in the chopped mushrooms, carrots, red pepper flakes, and sauce. Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 3 hours until the mixture is thickened and the chicken is ultra tender.
4. Stir in the water chestnuts and green parts of the green onions before serving. To serve, separate the butter lettuce leaves and fill with the chicken mixture. Enjoy hot.

Notes

• Tip 1: Make on the stovetop by preparing the recipe through step 2 in a large skillet or Dutch oven, adding the chopped mushrooms, carrots, red pepper flakes, and sauce, cooking until tender.
• Tip 2: Store leftover filling in an airtight container for up to 4 days; keep lettuce separate to maintain crunch.
• Tip 3: Rewarm filling in a skillet or microwave before filling lettuce cups just before serving.
• Tip 4: Freeze leftover filling in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Tip 5: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and can be customized with additional toppings.

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Meet Fiona Lewis

I love cooking with the seasons and keeping things rustic and real. I believe the best meals are the ones shared with friends and family. I had so much fun creating this recipe, and I can't wait to hear what you think of it!