Name: Chinese Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 10 mushrooms, chopped small; 1 bunch green onions, diced; 1 bunch cilantro, leaves only, chopped; 8 oz chestnuts, chopped small; 1 pound chicken breast; 2 tbsp canola oil; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 1/2 cup hoisin sauce; 1 tbsp Sriracha; Lettuce for serving (butter or romaine work best)

Chinese Chicken Lettuce Wraps are one of those delightful dishes that bring the perfect blend of flavor and crunch right to your dinner table. These wraps are versatile, healthy, and absolutely delicious, making them a favorite for both casual family dinners and entertaining guests. The combination of tender chicken, savory sauces, and fresh vegetables wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves creates a satisfying meal that is sure to impress. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for your next gathering, these wraps are a great choice.

Top Reasons to Make Chinese Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Healthy and Low-Carb: Lettuce wraps are a fantastic alternative to traditional wraps, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful meal without the carbs.
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable: You can easily modify the filling with your favorite ingredients or leftovers.
Flavorful: The combination of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and Sriracha creates a deliciously savory and slightly spicy flavor profile.
Great for Meal Prep: These wraps are easy to prepare in advance, making them a smart choice for meal prepping.

Ingredients at a Glance

10 mushrooms, chopped small
1 bunch green onions, diced
1 bunch cilantro, leaves only, chopped
8 oz chestnuts, chopped small
1 pound chicken breast
2 tbsp canola oil
3 tbsp soy sauce
1/2 cup hoisin sauce
1 tbsp Sriracha
Lettuce for serving (butter or romaine work best)

Equipment & Tools

Frying Pan or Wok: For cooking the chicken and vegetables.
Chopping Knife: A good knife makes chopping the ingredients easy and efficient.
Cutting Board: For prepping your ingredients safely.
Serving Platter: To present your lettuce wraps beautifully.

The Method for Chinese Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by finely chopping the chicken breast into small pieces. This will help it cook quickly and evenly. Next, chop the mushrooms, green onions, and chestnuts. Set these ingredients aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a frying pan or wok, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped chicken and cook until it is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked through, add the chopped mushrooms, green onions, and chestnuts to the pan. Stir to combine and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.

Step 4: Add the Sauces

Pour in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and Sriracha. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble the Wraps

Remove the pan from the heat. To serve, take a piece of lettuce and spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture into the center. Top with fresh cilantro leaves for added flavor.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Wrap the lettuce around the filling, and enjoy your Chinese Chicken Lettuce Wraps fresh and warm!

Season-by-Season Upgrades

Spring: Add some shredded carrots for extra crunch and color.
Summer: Incorporate diced cucumbers for a refreshing twist.
Fall: Consider adding diced apples or pears for a hint of sweetness.
Winter: Mix in some chopped kale or spinach for added nutrition.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

Ensure the chicken is chopped small enough to cook evenly and fit nicely in the lettuce.
Don’t overcook the vegetables; they should remain slightly crisp for texture.
Adjust the level of Sriracha to your preferred spice level—start with less if you’re unsure!
Choose the right lettuce; sturdy varieties like butter or romaine hold the filling well.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

These Chinese Chicken Lettuce Wraps are perfect for meal prep. You can make the filling ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To serve, simply reheat the filling and prepare the lettuce wraps fresh. The lettuce itself can be washed and prepped in advance as well, making assembly quick and easy. Avoid storing the filled wraps as the lettuce can become soggy over time.

Ask the Chef

Can I use ground chicken instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works wonderfully and can save you some chopping time. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly until no pink remains.

What type of lettuce is best for wraps?

Butter lettuce or romaine lettuce are ideal choices as they have a nice cup shape and are sturdy enough to hold the filling without tearing.

Can I make these wraps vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with tofu or additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply substitute soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari sauce and ensure that your hoisin sauce is also gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free versions.

Make It Tonight

Now that you have the perfect recipe for Chinese Chicken Lettuce Wraps, there’s no reason to wait! Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a meal that’s not only scrumptious but also a feast for the eyes. These wraps are sure to become a regular fixture at your dining table, providing a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite. So why not make it tonight? Your taste buds will thank you!