Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a simple and tasty recipe you can make at home. They are light, fresh, and full of flavor. Each wrap is made with ground chicken cooked with garlic, ginger, and Asian sauces. The filling is warm and savory, while the lettuce leaves are cool and crisp. Together, they create a perfect balance of taste and texture.
This recipe is quick and easy. The chicken cooks in less than 20 minutes. You can put the wraps together in just a few seconds. They are great for a fast dinner, a healthy lunch, or even as a fun party starter.
You can also adjust the recipe to fit your needs. Make it gluten-free with tamari, vegetarian with tofu or mushrooms, or spicier with chili sauce. Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps are healthy, flexible, and always delicious.
Why Choose Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps
A Healthier Alternative
Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps are naturally low in carbs since crisp lettuce leaves replace traditional bread or tortillas. This makes them a lighter choice without sacrificing satisfaction.
Packed with Flavor
Unlike many “healthy” meals that taste bland, these wraps burst with garlic, ginger, soy, and hoisin. Every bite offers a balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.
Quick and Convenient
You can prepare the filling in under 20 minutes and assemble wraps in seconds. It’s the kind of recipe that works on busy weeknights or as a last-minute appetizer.
Versatile for Any Occasion
These wraps are perfect as a family dinner, a fun party starter, or even a light lunch. Guests can build their own wraps, making the meal interactive and customizable.
Adaptable to All Diets
From gluten-free swaps (using tamari) to vegetarian variations (using mushrooms or tofu), this dish adjusts easily to fit dietary needs.
Why Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps Stand Out
Flavor Balance
The contrast of warm, seasoned chicken against cool, crunchy lettuce delivers a balanced bite every time.
Nutrition Value
Ground chicken keeps the dish lean while vegetables and lettuce add fiber and freshness.
Quick Preparation
From stove to table in 30 minutes, this meal fits even the busiest schedule.
Adaptability
With simple swaps, it can be made gluten-free, vegetarian, low-carb, or spiced to personal taste.
Key Terms Explained
Butter Lettuce
Tender, cup-shaped leaves that naturally hold fillings without tearing.
Hoisin Sauce
A thick, sweet-savory condiment made from fermented soybeans, garlic, and spices.
Tamari
A gluten-free soy sauce alternative with a smooth, umami-rich flavor.
San Choy Bow
A Chinese dish of minced meat wrapped in lettuce, often seen as the original version of this recipe.
Mise en Place
The practice of prepping and arranging ingredients before cooking for smoother workflow.
Ingredients for Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose | Substitutions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ground chicken | 1 lb | Lean protein, absorbs sauces | Ground turkey, or tofu |
| Butter lettuce leaves | 1 head | Soft, cup-like wraps | Iceberg for crunch, romaine for sturdiness |
| Garlic cloves | 3, minced | Aromatic depth | Garlic powder (½ tsp) |
| Fresh ginger | 1 tbsp, grated | Warm spice, freshness | ½ tsp ground ginger |
| Scallions | 2, sliced | Onion flavor, garnish | Chives |
| Onion | 1 small, diced | Sweetness and body | Shallots |
| Water chestnuts | ½ cup, diced | Crunchy texture | Bell pepper or celery |
| Soy sauce | 3 tbsp | Salty umami flavor | Tamari or coconut aminos |
| Hoisin sauce | 1 tbsp | Sweet and savory richness | Oyster sauce + honey |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tbsp | Tangy balance | Lime juice |
| Sesame oil | 1 tsp | Nutty finish | Peanut oil |
| Sriracha or chili paste | 1 tsp | Optional heat | Chili flakes |
| Cilantro | 2 tbsp, chopped | Fresh garnish | Thai basil or mint |
| Sesame seeds | 1 tbsp, toasted | Crunch topping | Crushed peanuts |
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1 Prepare the Lettuce
-
Separate lettuce leaves gently to avoid tearing.
-
Wash in cold water and dry thoroughly.
-
Store in the fridge with a damp towel until ready to serve.
Step 2 Prep Aromatics and Vegetables
-
Mince garlic, grate fresh ginger, and dice onion.
-
Slice scallions, keeping green and white parts separate.
-
Dice water chestnuts or bell pepper for crunch.
Step 3 Cook the Chicken Filling
-
Heat oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
-
Stir-fry garlic, ginger, and scallion whites for 30–60 seconds.
-
Add ground chicken and diced onion. Cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart until no pink remains.
Step 4 Add Sauces and Vegetables
-
Stir in water chestnuts or bell pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
-
Reduce heat to medium. Add soy sauce, hoisin, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sriracha.
-
Mix well and let flavors blend for 2–3 minutes.
Step 5 Finish the Filling
-
Taste and adjust seasoning with extra soy, hoisin, or vinegar.
-
Remove from heat and stir in scallion greens.
Step 6 Assemble the Wraps
-
Spoon filling into lettuce leaves.
-
Garnish with cilantro, sesame seeds, or crushed peanuts.
-
Serve with lime wedges or dipping sauces.
Pro Tips for Perfect Lettuce Wraps
● Dry lettuce completely to avoid soggy wraps.
● Use high heat when stir-frying aromatics for maximum fragrance.
● Break chicken into small crumbles for even sauce absorption.
● Balance sauces carefully: soy for salt, hoisin for sweet, vinegar for tang.
● Add garnishes just before serving for fresh flavor.
Recipe Variations
Gluten Free
Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, and use gluten-free hoisin.
Low Carb
Skip hoisin, add more vegetables, and use extra lettuce for bulk.
Vegetarian
Use tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms instead of chicken.
Spicy Thai Style
Add Thai basil, peanuts, and chili garlic sauce.
Korean Inspired
Swap in gochujang for sriracha and serve with kimchi.
Serving Ideas
Side Dishes
-
Steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice
-
Asian slaw with sesame dressing
-
Pickled vegetables for tang
Party Pairings
-
Dumplings or spring rolls
-
Dipping sauces such as peanut sauce or soy sauce
-
Cold noodle salad for balance
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigeration
Keep filling in a sealed container for up to 4 days. Store lettuce separately.
Freezing
Freeze filling for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge. Lettuce cannot be frozen.
Reheating
Reheat filling in a skillet for 5 minutes or microwave until hot. Add a splash of soy or vinegar to refresh flavor.
Nutrition Information (per serving, 4 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~280 | Light yet satisfying |
| Protein | ~24 g | Builds energy and strength |
| Carbohydrates | ~12 g | Mainly from sauces and vegetables |
| Fiber | ~3 g | Aids digestion |
| Fat | ~14 g | Keeps dish filling |
| Saturated Fat | ~3 g | Within a healthy range |
| Sodium | ~780 mg | From soy and hoisin |
| Sugar | ~5 g | Balanced sweetness |
Details Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Servings: 4
Calories: ~280 per serving
Yield: 4 servings
Frequently Asked Questions
What lettuce works best
Butter lettuce for tenderness, iceberg for crunch, and romaine for sturdiness.
Can I prepare ahead
Yes, make the filling up to 2 days in advance. Reheat and serve with fresh lettuce.
How do I make it vegetarian
Swap chicken with tofu, tempeh, or minced mushrooms.
Are they healthy
Yes, they’re low-carb, high-protein, and customizable. Use low-sodium soy for reduced sodium.
Can it be a main dish
Absolutely—add rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Ingredients
Method
- Wash and separate lettuce leaves. Dry thoroughly and refrigerate until serving.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic, ginger, and white scallion parts. Cook for 30–60 seconds.
- Add ground chicken and onion. Break apart with a spoon, cooking for 5–7 minutes until no longer pink.
- Stir in water chestnuts or bell pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Add soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sriracha (if using). Stir and cook for 2–3 minutes until flavors combine.
- Remove from heat, stir in scallion greens.
- Spoon filling into lettuce leaves, garnish with cilantro, sesame seeds, or peanuts. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Butter lettuce is best for wrapping, but iceberg adds crunch.
- Adjust sauces: more hoisin for sweet, more soy for salty, extra vinegar for brightness.
- Vegetarian option: swap chicken with tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms.
- Store filling separately from lettuce to prevent sogginess.
Nutrition Info (per serving, based on 4 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~280 |
| Protein | ~24 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~12 g |
| Fiber | ~3 g |
| Fat | ~14 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~3 g |
| Sodium | ~780 mg |
| Sugar | ~5 g |
Conclusion
These Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps prove that healthy food can also be bold and delicious. The mix of savory ground chicken, garlic, ginger, and sauces wrapped in crisp lettuce makes every bite fresh and satisfying. This recipe is quick to prepare, light on carbs, and full of flavor, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or party appetizers.
What makes these wraps special is how easy they are to adapt. You can swap chicken for tofu or mushrooms, use tamari for a gluten-free option, or add extra spice to fit your taste. With just a few simple ingredients and 25 minutes, you can create a dish that feels restaurant-quality but is homemade. Try these wraps once, and they will quickly become a regular favorite in your kitchen.
