Thai chicken lettuce wraps

These Thai chicken lettuce wraps deliver bright, fresh flavors with a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes wrapped in crisp butter lettuce leaves. The recipe comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings where everyone can customize their own wraps.

I first made these wraps when I wanted something light yet satisfying after a long day. Now the whole family asks for them on repeat especially in warmer months.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: lean and tender for a healthy protein base, look for fresh or high-quality frozen
• Butter lettuce: soft yet sturdy leaves that hold filling without tearing, select small heads that have crisp, bright green leaves
• Carrots: add crunch and subtle sweetness, go for organic if available to ensure crispness
• Green onions: bring fresh, mild onion flavor, choose firm stalks with vibrant green tops
• Garlic: essential aromatic that deepens overall flavor, use fresh cloves for best taste
• Soy sauce: adds umami saltiness, low sodium is best for controlling salt level
• Fish sauce: key for authentic Thai depth and saltiness, use sparingly for balance
• Honey: balances savory with gentle sweetness, raw or unprocessed adds subtle complexity
• Lime juice: provides the perfect tangy brightness, fresh squeezed if possible for peak freshness
• Chili flakes: bring heat and subtle smokiness, adjust amount based on your spice tolerance

Instructions

Sauté the Chicken:

Heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat in a nonstick skillet. Add finely chopped chicken breast and cook for about 7 to 8 minutes until fully cooked and slightly golden. This step seals in juices and builds the savory foundation for the wraps. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Prepare the Aromatics:

Add minced garlic and half the green onions to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for a minute or two until fragrant but not browned to infuse the chicken with fresh, pungent flavor.

Make the Sauce:

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, fish sauce, honey, lime juice, and chili flakes. Taste and adjust sweetness or heat to your preference to create a bright, balanced sauce.

Combine and Toss:

Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken mixture and stir well. Allow to cook together for another 2 minutes so the chicken absorbs the flavors.

Prepare the Wraps:

Wash and dry butter lettuce leaves thoroughly. Lay them out on a serving platter along with shredded carrots and remaining sliced green onions.

Assemble and Serve:

Let everyone spoon chicken mixture into lettuce cups topped with shredded carrots and extra green onions if desired. Enjoy while fresh for the best crunch and flavor contrast.

These wraps won me over with the tangy lime and honey sauce that brightens every bite. My favorite part is the crisp butter lettuce that adds the perfect vehicle to carry all the fresh ingredients. One memorable family dinner was when we made these together, and the kids loved building their own wraps—such a fun interactive meal for everyone.

Storage Tips

Keep leftover chicken mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store lettuce leaves separately in a damp paper towel inside a sealed plastic bag to maintain crispness. Assemble freshly to prevent sogginess.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find fish sauce, add extra soy sauce and a small dash of Worcestershire sauce for similar depth. Romaine lettuce can substitute butter lettuce but expect a firmer texture. Agave nectar or maple syrup can replace honey for a vegan-friendly version.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these wraps alongside a light cucumber salad or simple jasmine rice to round out the meal. For a party, offer a variety of toppings like crushed peanuts, fresh cilantro, or sliced red chili for guests to customize their wraps.

Enjoy these bright, customizable wraps warm for the best flavor and crunch. They make a quick, healthy meal for busy nights or casual gatherings.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ What type of chicken works best?

Chicken breast or thigh meat can be cooked and shredded to provide a juicy, tender texture that blends well with fresh vegetables.

→ How can I make the wraps more flavorful?

Enhance flavor by adding lime juice, fish sauce, chili flakes, or a touch of sugar to the sauce for a balanced savory-sweet taste.

→ Which lettuce is ideal for wrapping?

Butter lettuce leaves are preferred for their tender texture and natural cup shape, which hold fillings securely.

→ Can I prepare the components in advance?

Yes, the chicken, vegetables, and sauce can be prepped ahead and assembled just before serving to maintain freshness.

→ What side dishes complement this meal?

Serve alongside jasmine rice, fresh herbs, or a light cucumber salad to complement the bright and savory flavors.