We love these simple chicken lettuce wraps for an easy weeknight dinner! So easy with only 10 minutes of prep and about 10 minutes of cooking time! And just as importantly, so delicious! Serve as your main dish or as an appetizer!
Easy Chicken Lettuce Wrap Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 1b chicken chopped very small
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 onion diced
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp ginger, fresh grated
- 1 can whole water chestnuts (8 oz) drained and diced
- 2 green onions diced
- 1 carrot, into strips (optional) slice very thin - adds a little extra crunch and color!
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup cilantro (optional)
- 1 head iceberg lettuce
Instructions
- Heat sesame in oil in large saucepan over medium high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned (3-5 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Stir in garlic, onion, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar and ginger. Cook until onions are translucent (1-2 minutes)
- Stir in water chestnuts and green onions (and carrots & cilantro if you like!) about 1-2 minutes
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Serve with lettuce leaves and enjoy!!
Fun Facts About Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Chicken lettuce wraps are lots of fun. Here are some interesting facts you may not know.
Lettuce Varieties:
Various types of lettuce can be used to wrap the chicken mixture, with iceberg and butter lettuce being popular choices due to their sturdy leaves that can hold the filling.
Versatile Fillings:
While chicken is a common filling, the concept of lettuce wraps is versatile. You can experiment with different proteins like tofu, shrimp, or pork, and add various vegetables, herbs, and sauces to create unique flavor profiles.
Texture Contrast:
The combination of the tender chicken filling and the crisp lettuce leaves provides a delightful contrast in texture, making each bite satisfying and enjoyable.
Interactive Dining:
These wraps are often served family-style, encouraging an interactive dining experience where everyone assembles their own wraps according to their preferences.
Low Carb and Gluten-Free:
Chicken lettuce wraps are naturally low in carbohydrates and are a great gluten-free option for individuals looking to avoid gluten-containing grains.
Popular Appetizer:
These appetizers are commonly found in Asian restaurants and have gained popularity in many other cuisines due to their light and flavorful nature.
Healthier Option:
Using lettuce leaves as a wrap instead of traditional bread or tortillas reduces the calorie and carbohydrate content of the dish, making it a healthier choice for those watching their intake of these nutrients.
Balanced Flavors:
Chicken lettuce wraps often feature a combination of sweet, savory, salty, and umami flavors, achieved through the use of ingredients like hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh herbs.
Customizable Ingredients:
You can get creative with the ingredients you include in your chicken lettuce wraps. Additions like chopped peanuts, water chestnuts, jicama, or even fruits like mango can add an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Meal Prep Friendly:
You can easily prep Chicken lettuce Wraps ahead of time by cooking the chicken mixture and washing the lettuce leaves. This makes them a convenient option for quick and healthy meals during the week.
Global Influence:
While the concept of lettuce wraps may have Asian origins, similar dishes can be found in various cultures. For instance, in Mediterranean cuisine, grape leaves are often used to wrap fillings like rice and meat.
The fun of these wonderful appetizers comes not only from their delicious taste but also from the creativity you can bring to the recipe. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique twist on this classic dish!
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