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Chinese Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Chinese Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing dish that brings back happy family memories. Fresh, zesty, and fun to eat, they're a delicious weeknight hero that tastes like a treat from a fancy restaurant.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Weeknight
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground chicken or boneless, skinless chicken breast I usually opt for ground chicken for ease, but dicing up some chicken breast works beautifully too if you prefer a chunkier texture!
  • 1 head Butterhead, Green Leaf, or Romaine lettuce leaves separated; The crispier the better! Butterhead is my personal favorite for its cup-like shape.
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables finely diced (carrots and bell peppers); Get creative here! These add a lovely crunch and pop of color.
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter Creamy or crunchy, your call! This is what gives our wraps that irresistible savory richness.
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce The backbone of our savory sauce. Low sodium works great too!
  • 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce For that perfect little kick. Adjust to your spice preference!
  • 2 tbsp oil peanut, olive, or avocado oil; Peanut oil really brings out the Asian flavors, but use what you have on hand.
  • 2 cloves garlic minced; Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic base.
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger minced; Adds a wonderfully zesty, warm note that's classic in Asian cuisine.
  • 2 green onions thinly sliced; For a mild oniony freshness and a pop of green.
  • fresh cilantro for garnish; Totally optional, but it adds a bright, herby finish.
  • crushed peanuts for garnish; A fantastic crunch and a nod to the peanut sauce!
  • lime wedges for serving; A squeeze of fresh lime brightens everything up.

Equipment

  • Small Bowl
  • Large skillet
  • Wok
  • Salad Spinner

Method
 

  1. Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, and Sriracha sauce until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  2. Step 2: Heat your favorite large skillet or a wok over medium-high heat. Add oil, then toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the ground chicken, breaking it into small, even pieces as it cooks. Stir and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is completely cooked through and has a lovely golden-brown tint.
  3. Step 3: Once the chicken is cooked, lower the heat to medium. Add the finely diced mixed vegetables. Stir them in and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until slightly tender but still with a nice crunch.
  4. Step 4: Pour the prepared peanut sauce all over the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything really well to ensure every bit is coated. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
  5. Step 5: Spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture into crisp lettuce leaves. Sprinkle with thinly sliced green onions, fresh cilantro (if desired), and crushed peanuts for crunch. Serve immediately with fresh lime wedges on the side for squeezing.

Notes

Substitutions & Additions: Ground turkey, ground pork, or finely chopped firm tofu can be used in place of chicken. Add other finely diced vegetables like water chestnuts, bamboo shoots, mushrooms, or shredded cabbage. For a nut-free option, swap peanut butter for almond butter or sunbutter. Adjust Sriracha for spice preference, or add 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
Tips for Success: Ensure lettuce leaves are well-washed and thoroughly dried to prevent sogginess. Avoid overcooking vegetables; they should retain a slight crunch. Dice vegetables finely for quick cooking and uniform texture. Always taste the sauce and adjust seasonings before combining. The chicken and vegetable mixture can be cooked ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days; reheat gently before serving.
Storage: Store the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, separate from the lettuce leaves. Store clean, dry lettuce leaves in a sealed bag or container with a paper towel. Reheat the filling gently before assembling fresh wraps.