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If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s bursting with vibrant flavors and perfect for a quick, healthy meal, look no further than this Spicy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe. It’s a delightful harmony of tender chicken, zesty lime, and spicy chili sauce all nestled within crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing crunch. This recipe is not only satisfying but also wonderfully light, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner when you want something flavorful without feeling weighed down.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Spicy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to bring a specific burst of flavor, texture, or color that makes the wraps irresistibly delicious and visually appealing.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that absorbs all the bold flavors perfectly.
- 3-4 cloves fresh garlic, minced: Adds a pungent aroma and depth to the dish.
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated: Gives a subtle warmth and zing to balance the spice.
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced: Offers sweetness and a pop of vibrant color.
- 2-3 green onions, finely chopped: Brightens the flavor with mild onion notes.
- 8 large butter or iceberg lettuce leaves: Crisp, refreshing wraps that hold all the savory goodness.
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce: Brings umami and saltiness without overpowering.
- 2 tbsp chili sauce (adjust to taste): The spicy kick that wakes up your palate.
- Juice of 1 lime: Adds brightness and a citrusy tang.
- 1 tsp sugar (brown sugar recommended): Balances out the heat and acidity with a touch of sweetness.
How to Make Spicy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by dicing the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces. This ensures each mouthful will be bursting with flavor while cooking evenly and quickly, making your wraps tender and juicy.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the diced chicken. Let them cook until golden brown, which usually takes about 7 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally so the pieces brown evenly and develop that delightful caramelized exterior.
Step 3: Build the Aromatics
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger directly to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté these until fragrant, about one minute, to infuse the chicken with those classic Thai flavors that make this recipe so memorable.
Step 4: Add Fresh Veggies
Next, toss in the diced red bell pepper and chopped green onions. Sauté everything together for another minute to soften the pepper slightly while keeping its brightness and crunch intact — these veggies bring both texture and a burst of color that make the wraps a feast for the eyes.
Step 5: Mix the Sauce and Combine
Whisk together the soy sauce, chili sauce, lime juice, and sugar in a bowl. Pour this vibrant sauce over the chicken and veggies in the skillet. Stir everything to coat the ingredients evenly, making sure each bite will be packed with that perfect balance of heat, tang, and sweetness.
Step 6: Assemble the Wraps
Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool slightly. Spoon generous portions into the crisp lettuce leaves, carefully wrapping each one before serving immediately. This final step lets you enjoy the contrast of warm, spicy chicken against the refreshing crunch of the lettuce.
How to Serve Spicy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your wraps can elevate the experience even more. I love topping mine with fresh cilantro, chopped peanuts, or sliced red chilies for an extra layer of texture and freshness. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds also adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
While these wraps feel like a full meal on their own, pairing them with simple sides like jasmine rice or a light cucumber salad can round out the experience. The cool crunch of the salad contrasts nicely with the spicy filling, making for a harmonious and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving these wraps at a gathering, arrange the lettuce leaves on a large platter with the chicken mixture in a bowl beside them. This way, everyone can customize their own wraps — it’s interactive, fun, and keeps the lettuce crisp right until the last bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the lettuce leaves separate and fresh in another container or wrapped in damp paper towels to prevent wilting.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken mixture for up to two months. Just make sure it is cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken mixture gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid reheating in the microwave directly inside the lettuce, as it will turn soggy. Always assemble the wraps after reheating for the freshest bite.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of diced chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works well and saves prep time. Just cook it thoroughly, breaking it up as it cooks, and then proceed with the recipe as usual.
How spicy is this Spicy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe?
The level of spice depends on how much chili sauce you use. The recipe suggests two tablespoons, but feel free to adjust according to your tolerance—add more for a fiery kick, or less for a mild touch.
What type of lettuce is best for wrapping?
Butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce leaves are your best bet. Both are sturdy enough to hold the filling and provide a crisp, refreshing bite that complements the savory chicken.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with tofu or finely chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Pan-fry until golden for a delicious plant-based wrap.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
This Spicy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe is incredibly quick, coming together in about 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes when I want something that feels special but comes together effortlessly. The explosion of flavors, textures, and vibrant colors will make you look forward to mealtime. Give it a try, and I promise it will soon be among your favorites too!
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Print
Spicy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Spicy Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Tender chicken breast is sautéed with aromatic garlic and ginger, tossed with crisp bell peppers and green onions, then coated in a tangy, spicy sauce made from soy, chili, lime, and brown sugar. Served in fresh, crunchy lettuce leaves, this recipe delivers a refreshing and healthy bite bursting with authentic Thai-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
Vegetables
- 3–4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 2–3 green onions, finely chopped
- 8 large butter or iceberg lettuce leaves
Sauces and Seasonings
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp chili sauce (adjust to taste)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp oil for cooking
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Dice the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pieces turn golden brown and are cooked through, about 7 to 10 minutes.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for about 1 minute until the mixture becomes fragrant but the garlic does not brown.
- Add vegetables: Stir in the diced red bell pepper and chopped green onions. Cook for an additional minute to slightly soften the peppers while maintaining their crunch.
- Combine sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, chili sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar. Pour this sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture, tossing thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Spoon the spicy chicken mixture into fresh butter or iceberg lettuce leaves, creating individual wraps, and serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of chili sauce depending on your preferred spice level.
- Use butter lettuce for a softer wrap or iceberg lettuce for extra crunch.
- This dish can be served with steamed jasmine rice for a more filling meal.
- For an extra burst of flavor, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or crushed peanuts.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days but are best enjoyed fresh.
