Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Thai Chili Sauce are the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors packed into crisp, refreshing lettuce leaves. This easy and quick dish is a lighter take on traditional Thai flavors and makes an ideal appetizer or a wholesome low-carb main course. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or cooking a simple weeknight meal for the family, these Thai chicken lettuce wraps are bound to be a hit. They come together in just 15 minutes, making them a go-to recipe for busy days when you still want something nutritious and delicious.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Thai Chili Sauce
These Thai chicken lettuce wraps are a total game-changer for your meal rotation. They’re light yet filling, bursting with Thai-inspired flavors, and incredibly customizable. The combination of ginger, garlic, lime juice, and chili sauce delivers a mouthwatering punch, while the crisp lettuce adds a refreshing crunch. Plus, they’re low in carbs and high in protein, perfect for those wanting a healthier meal without sacrificing taste. Best of all, they’re fast and easy to prepare, requiring just one pan and simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ¼ cup onion, diced (yellow or white)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh minced ginger or ginger paste
- 10 oz ground chicken
- ¼ cup Tamari (low sodium) or soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 2 tablespoons Thai sweet red chili sauce
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup, honey, or agave
- ⅓ cup cashews, chopped (raw or roasted/salted)
- ¼ cup scallions, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ¼–½ cup carrots, shredded
- Sesame seeds, for topping
- 1 head butter lettuce (leaves removed, rinsed, and dried)
Step-by-Step: How to Make Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Thai Chili Sauce
- Sauté aromatics: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft and slightly browned. Add garlic and ginger, stir, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the chicken: Add ground chicken to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula while it cooks. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and lightly golden.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together Tamari or soy sauce, Thai sweet red chili sauce, lime juice, and maple syrup or honey.
- Combine: Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the pan. Add chopped cashews and stir everything together. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2 more minutes.
- Add fresh ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in shredded carrots, chopped scallions, and cilantro.
- Assemble the wraps: Spoon the chicken mixture into each butter lettuce leaf. Finish with a drizzle of the remaining sauce from the pan and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve right away.
Helpful Tips
- Use ground turkey or tofu as a substitute for ground chicken.
- Rinse and dry your lettuce leaves ahead of time to save prep time.
- Toast the cashews beforehand for extra crunch and flavor.
- Adjust the spice level by adding a dash of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Double the recipe for meal prep or larger gatherings.
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein alternatives: Try ground turkey, beef, shrimp, or even tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist.
- Nut-free alternative: Substitute with sunflower seeds or omit the nuts entirely.
- Lettuce swap: Romaine or iceberg lettuce works if butter lettuce isn’t available.
- Lower sugar option: Leave out the maple syrup or honey and add more lime juice or a splash of rice vinegar instead.
- Add-ins: Sliced bell peppers, cucumber ribbons, or shredded cabbage add more crunch and nutrients.
Storage Instructions
Place any leftover chicken filling in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep the lettuce leaves separate to avoid wilting. For best results, assemble the wraps just before eating so the lettuce stays crisp.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving (2 wraps):
- Calories: 158
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
Note: Nutritional content can vary based on the exact amount of filling and specific ingredients used.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with a side of Thai cucumber salad for a cooling contrast.
- Serve with jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a more filling meal.
- Add a small bowl of peanut dipping sauce for extra richness.
- Top with fresh herbs like Thai basil or mint for a bright, fragrant finish.
- Great as a party appetizer or a light, refreshing lunch.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Thai Chili Sauce
Can I make Thai chicken lettuce wraps ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken filling in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat and assemble with fresh lettuce.
What lettuce is best for wraps?
Butter lettuce is ideal because of its soft, pliable leaves, but romaine and iceberg also work well.
Can I make these wraps vegetarian?
Absolutely. Use crumbled tofu, tempeh, or even finely chopped mushrooms as a delicious meat-free alternative.
How can I make it spicier?
Add more Thai chili sauce, crushed red pepper, or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
Do they keep well for meal prep?
Yes! Just store the chicken filling and lettuce separately and assemble when you’re ready to eat.
Final Thoughts
Thank you so much for stopping by and trying out this Thai chicken lettuce wraps recipe! It’s one of my favorite quick meals that brings big flavor without a lot of fuss. The balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors wrapped in fresh, crisp lettuce is so satisfying. Whether it’s a light lunch, an exciting appetizer, or a healthy dinner, I hope this dish adds a touch of Thai-inspired flavor and joy to your mealtime. Happy cooking, and thanks for being a part of this food-loving community!
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Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Thai Chili Sauce
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings (about 2 wraps each) 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Thai Chili Sauce are quick, flavor-packed, and perfect for light dinners or party appetizers. Made in just 15 minutes with fresh ingredients and bold Thai flavors. Try this easy, healthy recipe today!
Ingredients
1 tablespoon sesame oil
¼ cup onion, diced (yellow or white)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh minced ginger or ginger paste
10 oz ground chicken
¼ cup Tamari (low sodium), soy sauce, or coconut aminos
2 tablespoons Thai sweet red chili sauce
Juice of 1 lime
1 teaspoon maple syrup, honey, or agave
⅓ cup cashews, chopped (raw or roasted/salted)
¼ cup scallions, chopped
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
¼–½ cup carrots, shredded
Sesame seeds, for topping
1 head butter lettuce (leaves removed, rinsed, and dried)
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft and slightly browned. Add garlic and ginger, stir, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the chicken: Add ground chicken to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula while it cooks. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and lightly golden.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together Tamari or soy sauce, Thai sweet red chili sauce, lime juice, and maple syrup or honey.
- Combine: Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the pan. Add chopped cashews and stir everything together. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2 more minutes.
- Add fresh ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in shredded carrots, chopped scallions, and cilantro.
- Assemble the wraps: Spoon the chicken mixture into each butter lettuce leaf. Finish with a drizzle of the remaining sauce from the pan and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve right away.
Notes
For nut-free: Use sunflower seeds or skip nuts.
For a spicier wrap, add red pepper flakes or sriracha.
Butter lettuce is best, but romaine or iceberg can be used.
Store filling and lettuce separately; assemble just before eating.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approx. 2 wraps
- Calories: 158
- Sugar: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 14g