The Magic of Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Chicken Lettuce Wraps are my go-to for a quick and satisfying meal. These Chicken Lettuce Wraps come together in just 15 minutes, making them perfect for those busy weeknights. I love how these wraps mix crunchy vegetables with savory ground chicken, all nestled in crisp iceberg lettuce. The Chicken Lettuce Wraps recipe is a delightful reminder that simple ingredients can create something truly delicious and satisfying.
Preparing the Filling
The preparation of Chicken Lettuce Wraps starts with the basics. I heat up vegetable oil in a large nonstick pan and cook the ground chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Then, I add the diced water chestnuts, bamboo shoots, julienned carrots, and shredded Napa cabbage. The mix simmers together, allowing the flavors to meld. The addition of teriyaki sauce brings everything together, creating a savory glaze that coats each ingredient perfectly.
The Final Touch
As the mixture cooks, the anticipation of the final product builds. Once everything is well combined and the sauce has simmered, I stir in fresh green onions and cilantro for a burst of freshness. The filling is now ready to be spooned into the crispy iceberg lettuce cups. It’s always a joy to see how vibrant and inviting the finished wraps look, with their colorful mix of veggies and tender chicken.
Serving and Enjoying
Serving up these Chicken Lettuce Wraps is always a hit. Each bite is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, from the crisp lettuce to the savory filling. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or just enjoying a simple weeknight meal, these wraps are sure to please. They’re not only quick and easy but also a healthy option that feels indulgent and satisfying.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Chicken Lettuce Wraps
- Ingredient Freshness: Use fresh vegetables and ground chicken for the best texture and flavor. Fresh Napa cabbage and crisp iceberg lettuce will make a big difference in the final dish.
- Meat Alternatives: If using ground turkey or tofu, adjust cooking times as turkey may take slightly longer to cook, and tofu will need to be sautéed until golden and crispy.
- Crisp Lettuce: For the best lettuce cups, separate the lettuce leaves carefully and use only the sturdy outer leaves. This will give you a better wrap that holds together well.
- Sauce Choice: If you prefer a less sweet or lower sodium option, you can use low-sodium teriyaki sauce or substitute with a homemade sauce made from soy sauce, honey, and garlic.
- Add Texture: For extra crunch and flavor, sprinkle with chopped peanuts or cashews just before serving. This also adds a delightful contrast to the tender filling.
Chicken Lettuce Wraps
4
wraps5
minutes10
minutes350
kcal15
minutesDive into these delightful Chicken Lettuce Wraps, ready in just 15 minutes! Perfect for a quick, healthy meal, these wraps are packed with flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Inspired by the simplicity of everyday cooking, this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to whip up something delicious and nutritious in no time.
Ingredients
- Ground Chicken
1 lb ground chicken
1 cup water chestnuts, diced
1 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
2 medium carrots, julienned
4 cups Napa cabbage, finely shredded
4 green onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- For the Sauce
1 packet teriyaki stir fry sauce
2 tbsp vegetable oil
- For Serving
1 head iceberg lettuce, leaves separated into cups
Directions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook for about 5 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
- Stir in the diced water chestnuts, sliced bamboo shoots, julienned carrots, and shredded Napa cabbage. Cook for an additional 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Pour in the teriyaki stir fry sauce and mix well to coat all ingredients evenly. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add the sliced green onions and chopped cilantro to the pan. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Spoon the mixture into the prepared iceberg lettuce cups. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- nonstick pan
- mixing bowls
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Potassium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Vitamin A: 120IU
- Vitamin C: 80mg
- Calcium: 10mg
- Iron: 15mg
FAQ- Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it before serving and spoon it into the lettuce cups.
Can I freeze the filling?
Absolutely. The filling can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and using.
What can I use if I don’t have Napa cabbage?
If Napa cabbage isn’t available, you can use regular cabbage or even finely shredded bok choy as a substitute.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the ground chicken with crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Just ensure you cook it until well browned for the best texture.
What should I do if the lettuce cups tear or are too small?
If the lettuce cups are tearing or too small, try using larger or sturdier leaves from the outer part of the lettuce head. You can also use Romaine lettuce for a larger, more robust wrap.
