Name: Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Thai Chili Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground or finely chopped chicken breast or thighs; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp grated fresh ginger; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari; 3 tbsp Thai sweet chili sauce; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 2 green onions, sliced; 1/3 cup shredded carrots (optional); 1/4 cup chopped water chestnuts (optional); Butter lettuce or romaine leaves; Chopped cilantro or basil for garnish; Crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for topping (optional)

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These Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Thai Chili Sauce are a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors wrapped in crisp, refreshing lettuce leaves. Light yet incredibly satisfying, this dish makes an excellent appetizer, lunch, or low-carb dinner that’s packed with bold taste and fresh textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and easy these wraps are to prepare while still tasting like something I’d order at a restaurant. The chicken is juicy and full of flavor, and the Thai chili sauce adds a sweet-heat kick that takes things to another level. The crunchy lettuce keeps it light and clean, making it a go-to when I want something flavorful without feeling too heavy. Plus, it’s totally customizable with whatever toppings I like.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground or finely chopped chicken breast or thighs
Garlic, minced
Ginger, grated
Soy sauce or tamari
Thai sweet chili sauce
Rice vinegar
Sesame oil
Green onions, sliced
Shredded carrots (optional)
Water chestnuts, chopped (optional for crunch)
Butter lettuce or romaine leaves
Chopped cilantro or basil for garnish
Crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for topping (optional)

Directions

I heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
I add the ground chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
I stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and Thai chili sauce, letting everything simmer for a few minutes to soak up the flavors.
Once the mixture is cooked and slightly caramelized, I remove it from the heat and stir in green onions and optional water chestnuts or carrots.
I spoon the warm chicken filling into clean lettuce leaves, then top with chopped herbs, peanuts, or sesame seeds if I want an extra crunch.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings (8–10 wraps).
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap chicken for ground turkey or tofu for a different protein option.
For extra heat, I add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
I like using cabbage leaves for a sturdier wrap that holds more filling.
Adding diced mango or cucumber gives a sweet and refreshing twist.

Storage/Reheating

I store the chicken filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I reheat it in a skillet or microwave until hot. I always keep the lettuce separate and assemble the wraps just before eating to keep them crisp.

FAQs

What type of lettuce works best for wraps?

I like using butter lettuce because it’s soft and flexible, but romaine and iceberg also work well for their crunch and shape.

Can I make the chicken mixture ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep the filling a day or two in advance and just reheat it when I’m ready to serve.

Is Thai chili sauce spicy?

It’s mildly spicy with a sweet flavor. If I want more heat, I add extra chili flakes or hot sauce to the mix.

Can I make this recipe low sodium?

Absolutely. I use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari and adjust the seasoning to taste.

What side dishes go well with these wraps?

I like serving them with jasmine rice, cucumber salad, or steamed edamame for a complete meal.

Conclusion

These Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Thai Chili Sauce are one of my favorite quick and healthy meals. They’re packed with flavor, fun to eat, and easy to make with simple ingredients. Whether I’m serving them as a light dinner or an appetizer for guests, they always disappear fast.

Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Thai Chili Sauce