These Healthy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps are fresh, crunchy, and packed with tasty flavors! Made with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a zesty sauce, they’re fun to eat and good for you!
Honestly, I love how they make me feel like a chef. Wrapping the filling in lettuce feels fancy, and they disappear quickly at parties! Serve with a smile—they’re a hit every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the dish! If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey works well. For a vegetarian version, try finely chopped mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives.
Peanut Butter: Natural peanut butter gives a creamy texture and flavor. If you’re allergic, use sun butter or almond butter as a substitute to keep the taste delicious.
Low Sodium Soy Sauce: It’s great for reducing sodium intake. If needed, use coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative, which has a sweeter flavor profile.
Lettuce: Butter lettuce is nice for wraps but any large leaf lettuce, like romaine or even collard greens, can be a sturdy option as well.
How Do You Achieve the Best Flavor in Your Chicken Filling?
The key to a flavorful chicken filling lies in proper seasoning and cooking! Start by sautéing garlic and ginger in oil to release their natural oils. This forms a fragrant base for the dish.
- Cook the chicken thoroughly until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers and carrots just until they’re tender to keep the crunch.
- Combine your sauce and let it simmer with the chicken for deeper flavor—this makes the filling even better!
Healthy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons peanut butter (natural, unsweetened)
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional, for heat)
- 1-2 tablespoons warm water (to thin)
For Serving:
- 1 head butter lettuce or bibb lettuce, leaves separated and rinsed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, for a total of approximately 25 minutes. It’s a quick and healthy option for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive or coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding any ingredients for the best cooking results.
2. Sauté Garlic and Ginger:
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan, sautéing them for about 30 seconds until they’re fragrant. This will create a delicious aroma that sets the foundation for your dish.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Stir until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, which should take about 6–8 minutes.
4. Add Vegetables:
Next, stir in the finely diced red bell pepper and shredded carrots. Cook the mixture for another 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still have a little crunch.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
While the chicken and vegetables are cooking, grab a small bowl and combine the sauce ingredients: peanut butter, low sodium soy sauce, lime juice, honey or maple syrup, sriracha (if you like it spicy), and warm water. Whisk everything together until smooth.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Now, pour the sauce over the chicken mixture in the skillet. Stir it thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated. Cook it for another minute until everything is warm.
7. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Remove the skillet from heat and mix in half of the sliced green onions and chopped cilantro. This adds a fresh flavor to your filling.
8. Serve the Wraps:
When you’re ready to eat, spoon a generous amount of the delicious chicken filling into each lettuce leaf. It’s like a little package of flavor!
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
Top each wrap with the remaining green onions, cilantro, and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for added crunch. Fold the lettuce over the filling and enjoy immediately!
These wraps are not just tasty but also nutritious, making them perfect for a light lunch or quick dinner option!
FAQ for Healthy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and offers a leaner option without compromising flavor. Just follow the same cooking instructions for the best results!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian-Friendly?
To make it vegetarian, you can substitute the ground chicken with finely chopped mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative. These will provide a nice texture and absorb the flavors well!
What Should I Do with Leftover Filling?
Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave and use it again in lettuce wraps or even over rice or quinoa!
Can I Meal Prep These Wraps?
Definitely! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it separately from the lettuce leaves. Assemble them just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp!
