Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Asian-inspired ground chicken with water chestnuts and ginger-garlic-soy in romaine cups.
For 6 servings
2 steps. 12 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- b.Add garlic and ginger, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- c.Stir in red bell pepper and cook for 2 minutes.
- d.Add ground chicken and cook for 6 minutes, breaking it into small crumbles until browned.
TIPEnsure the pan is fully preheated before adding the chicken to achieve a better sear and more flavor. - 2
Step 2
- a.Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
- b.Cook for 1 minute until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken.
- c.Spoon the chicken mixture into individual romaine lettuce leaves.
- d.Garnish with sliced scallions and sesame seeds before serving.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the crispiest lettuce cups, use iceberg or butter lettuce and chill the leaves in ice water before serving.
- 2Finely chopping the mushrooms and water chestnuts is key to achieving the classic texture. A food processor can make this step quicker.
- 3Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken. This ensures it browns properly rather than steaming.
- 4The filling can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
- 5For extra crunch, top the wraps with crispy fried rice noodles or chopped roasted peanuts.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Substitute the ground chicken with ground turkey, ground pork, or finely crumbled firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
Add More VeggiesAdd More Veggies
Incorporate finely shredded carrots, diced red bell peppers, or shelled edamame along with the mushrooms for added color and nutrients.
Spicy VersionSpicy Version
Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
Nut FreeNut-Free
For a nut-free garnish, use toasted sesame seeds or crispy fried onions instead of peanuts.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Lean Protein
Ground chicken provides a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Low-Carbohydrate Meal
By using lettuce leaves instead of traditional tortillas or bread, this dish is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for low-carb, keto, or diabetic-friendly diets.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
The inclusion of mushrooms, onions, garlic, and ginger provides a variety of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health and immunity.
Promotes Hydration
Both iceberg lettuce and water chestnuts have a high water content, which can contribute to your daily hydration needs.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of three wraps contains approximately 380-450 calories, making it a relatively light and healthy meal option. The exact count depends on the leanness of the chicken and specific brands of sauces used.