If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances savory, crunchy, and a touch of spicy, you have to try this Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe. It’s a lively, fresh, and wholesome meal that brings together tender chicken pieces coated in a flavorful sauce with the satisfying crunch of cashews, all wrapped in crisp, green lettuce leaves. This recipe is quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve friends and family, delivering layers of flavor and texture in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple yet essential, the ingredients in this recipe create a delicious harmony of flavors and textures. Each component contributes a unique element, from the tender chicken base to the bright freshness of green onions and lettuce, making this dish truly special.
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into small pieces for even cooking and easy wrapping.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance the natural flavor of the chicken.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or stock: Adds moisture and creates the base of the savory sauce.
- 2 Tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: Provides depth and umami without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger: Adds a hint of warmth and zest to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce: Sweet and slightly tangy, it adds a rich complexity to the taste.
- 1 Tablespoon rice vinegar: Brings a subtle acidity that balances the sweeter elements.
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch: For thickening the sauce to a luscious glaze.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil or canola oil: Sesame oil adds a nutty undertone, canola oil is a neutral substitute.
- 1 – 2 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce, to taste: Adds the perfect spicy kick; adjust based on your heat preference.
- 3/4 cup unsalted cashews: Crunchy texture and subtle buttery flavor complement the tender chicken.
- 1 head green leafy lettuce (romaine, bib, or butter): Crisp and fresh, perfect to hold your savory filling.
- 5 green onions, chopped, divided: Adds color and a bright onion flavor, both inside and as garnish.
How to Make Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by cutting your boneless skinless chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces. Then season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple seasoning forms the flavorful foundation for the entire dish and ensures every bite is perfectly seasoned.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the low-sodium chicken broth, soy sauce, freshly grated ginger, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Whisk this mixture until smooth. This sauce will bring a brilliant blend of sweet, tangy, and umami flavors, while the cornstarch gives it a silky, thickened texture that clings beautifully to the chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat sesame oil (or canola oil) in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook it until it’s no longer pink and starts to get golden, roughly about 5 minutes. Adding garlic at this stage lets it release its aroma and gently infuses the chicken without burning. Stir frequently so each piece is evenly cooked and flavorful.
Step 4: Add the Sauce and Final Ingredients
Turn the heat down to low and pour in the prepared sauce mixture. Stir constantly as the sauce thickens and beautifully coats the chicken pieces. Now it’s time to add the Sriracha hot sauce; start with one teaspoon and add more if you like it spicy. Toss in the crunchy unsalted cashews and most of the chopped green onions to add freshness and texture. Give everything one last stir to blend the flavors.
Step 5: Assemble the Wraps
Wash and separate your lettuce leaves so they’re ready to hold the delicious chicken mixture. Spoon generous portions of the saucy chicken and cashew filling into each leaf and top with the remaining fresh green onions. These make an ideal, hand-held meal that is both fun and satisfying.
How to Serve Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe, consider sprinkling some toasted sesame seeds or fresh cilantro leaves on top. A squeeze of lime adds a vibrant zing that brightens every bite, making the dish even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
Pair these wraps with a light and refreshing cucumber salad or a simple bowl of steamed jasmine rice. The cool crispness of the salad or fluffy rice perfectly complements the savory wrap without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or casual get-together, serve the chicken mixture in a large bowl alongside a platter of pre-separated lettuce cups. Let guests build their own wraps for a fun and interactive experience. Alternatively, try using colorful butter lettuce or mini collard greens for a twist on presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the lettuce leaves separate and assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess and maintain crispness.
Freezing
You can freeze the chicken and sauce mixture by placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It’s best enjoyed within 2 months for optimal freshness. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid microwaving wrapped in lettuce to preserve the texture. Once hot, assemble fresh wraps to enjoy that delightful crunch with every bite.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nut instead of cashews?
Absolutely! While cashews give a great buttery crunch, you can swap in almonds, peanuts, or even walnuts depending on your preference or what you have on hand.
What kinds of lettuce work best for this recipe?
Crisp, sturdy lettuce varieties like romaine, butter lettuce, or bibb lettuce hold the filling well without tearing, making them ideal for lettuce wraps.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock to create a satisfying vegetarian version.
How spicy is the dish with Sriracha added?
The heat level depends on your taste and how much Sriracha you include. Starting with one teaspoon provides a mild kick, but you can increase it for more spice.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Definitely. Mixing the sauce ingredients ahead of time helps streamline cooking. Just give it a quick stir before adding it to the skillet to re-incorporate the cornstarch if it has settled.
Final Thoughts
This Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe is a fantastic blend of flavors and textures that always impresses. It’s quick to put together, fresh, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re cooking a family dinner or planning a casual get-together, I promise this dish will become a favorite you go back to time and time again. Give it a try—you’ll love the burst of flavor and satisfying crunch in every delicious bite!
Print
Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a delicious and quick Asian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a flavorful hoisin and soy sauce blend, combined with crunchy cashews and fresh green onions, all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or stock
- 2 Tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 1 Tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 – 2 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce, to taste
Other Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil or substitute canola oil
- 3/4 cup unsalted cashews
- 1 head green leafy lettuce (romaine, bib, or butter), leaves separated
- 5 green onions, chopped, divided
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season the small pieces of chicken breast evenly with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance their flavor before cooking.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the chicken broth, low-sodium soy sauce, freshly grated ginger, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Stir well until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and the sauce mixture is smooth.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the sesame or canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook briefly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and pour the prepared sauce mixture into the skillet with the chicken. Stir continuously as the sauce thickens, coating the chicken evenly. Add Sriracha hot sauce to taste depending on your preferred spice level. Mix in the unsalted cashews and most of the chopped green onions, reserving some for garnish.
- Serve: Spoon the chicken and cashew mixture into individual lettuce cups. Garnish each wrap with the remaining chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use green leafy lettuce like romaine, bibb, or butter lettuce for sturdy cups that hold the filling well.
- Adjust the Sriracha amount to control the spice level according to your preference.
- Can substitute cashews with chopped peanuts or almonds if preferred.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce alternatives.
- These wraps are best served fresh but can be stored separately and combined before eating to maintain crispiness.
