Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Teriyaki chicken lettuce wraps are the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and fresh, offering a light yet satisfying meal or snack that’s easy to make and full of flavor. This dish takes the bold flavors of teriyaki sauce—sweet soy, garlic, ginger, and a touch of tang—and combines them with tender, juicy chicken for a protein-packed filling. Crisp lettuce leaves act as the perfect low-carb, gluten-free alternative to traditional wraps or tortillas, giving every bite a refreshing crunch. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner, a fun appetizer for guests, or a meal-prep option that works all week long, these wraps check every box.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and light: This dish is low in carbs, rich in protein, and loaded with fresh vegetables, making it a wholesome option for any diet.
• Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Customizable: Adapt the filling with different proteins, vegetables, or sauces to suit your taste and dietary needs.
• Kid-friendly: Fun to assemble and eat, these wraps are a hit with picky eaters!
• Great for meal prep: Prepare the filling ahead of time for an easy meal solution during the week.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving size: 3 lettuce wraps

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 220
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 23g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 8g

Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Chicken Filling

• Chicken: 1 pound ground chicken or finely diced chicken breast
• Vegetables: ½ cup diced onion, 1 cup diced bell peppers, ½ cup grated carrots, 2 garlic cloves (minced), and 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• Teriyaki sauce: ⅓ cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (for thickening)

For the Wraps

• Lettuce leaves: 12 large leaves of butter lettuce, iceberg, or romaine
• Garnishes: 2 tablespoons chopped green onions, 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, and ½ cup shredded red cabbage for added crunch

Optional Add-ins

• Crushed peanuts or cashews for texture
• Sriracha or chili flakes for heat
• Cooked quinoa or rice if you prefer a heartier wrap

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Wash and dry the lettuce leaves thoroughly, being careful not to tear them. Set them aside on a platter.
2. Dice the onions, bell peppers, and grate the carrots. Mince the garlic and ginger. Prepare the garnishes (green onions, sesame seeds, shredded cabbage) and set them aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add a drizzle of sesame oil or neutral cooking oil.
2. Add the ground chicken (or diced chicken breast) to the pan, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook for 5–7 minutes or until the chicken is browned and fully cooked.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

1. Add the diced onions, bell peppers, grated carrots, garlic, and ginger to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly while still retaining a bit of crunch.

Step 4: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Mix the cornstarch with water in a separate bowl to create a slurry.
2. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly. Slowly add the cornstarch slurry, cooking for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken mixture.

Step 5: Assemble the Wraps

1. Spoon the teriyaki chicken filling into the center of each lettuce leaf. Top with garnishes such as green onions, sesame seeds, and shredded cabbage.
2. Serve immediately with optional sides or dipping sauces, such as additional teriyaki sauce, sriracha, or sweet chili sauce.

Ingredient Background

Chicken

Lean, protein-rich, and versatile, chicken serves as the ideal base for this recipe. Ground chicken absorbs flavors beautifully, but diced chicken breast or thighs work just as well if you prefer a chunkier texture.

Lettuce Leaves

Butter lettuce is the most popular choice for wraps due to its soft, pliable texture and mildly sweet flavor. Iceberg lettuce provides extra crunch, while romaine offers a sturdier option for heartier fillings.

Teriyaki Sauce

The star of this dish, teriyaki sauce, is a harmonious blend of salty soy sauce, sweet honey, tangy rice vinegar, and aromatic sesame oil. Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent, ensuring the sauce clings perfectly to the chicken and vegetables.

Vegetables

The vibrant mix of bell peppers, carrots, and onions adds color, crunch, and essential nutrients to the dish. Ginger and garlic provide depth and warmth, enhancing the umami flavors of the teriyaki sauce.

Technique Tips

• Even cooking: Dice vegetables and chicken into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking and a balanced bite.
• Don’t overcook the vegetables: Keep the vegetables slightly crisp to maintain texture and freshness.
• Thicken the sauce properly: Always mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry before adding it to the sauce. This prevents clumps and ensures a smooth consistency.
• Layering flavors: Cook the garlic and ginger with the chicken for maximum flavor infusion, but avoid burning them as it can create bitterness.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Rice Bowls: Serve the teriyaki chicken filling over a bed of steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a more filling meal.
2. Spring Rolls: Wrap the filling in rice paper with thinly sliced cucumbers and carrots for a portable snack.
3. Appetizer Cups: Use mini lettuce leaves or endive boats for bite-sized appetizers at parties.

Additional Tips for Success

• Keep lettuce crisp: Chill the lettuce leaves in the refrigerator before serving to maintain their crunch and freshness.
• Make it spicier: Add a splash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the teriyaki mixture for a spicy kick.
• Double the sauce: If you love saucy wraps, double the teriyaki sauce recipe and serve some on the side for dipping.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian: Replace chicken with diced tofu or tempeh and use a vegetarian teriyaki sauce.
2. Beef Teriyaki Wraps: Swap chicken for lean ground beef or thinly sliced steak for a richer flavor.
3. Seafood Twist: Use cooked shrimp or flaked salmon instead of chicken for a seafood-inspired variation.
4. Pineapple Teriyaki: Add diced pineapple to the filling for a tropical touch and extra sweetness.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration

Store the teriyaki chicken filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the lettuce leaves separate to prevent wilting. Reheat the filling on the stovetop or in the microwave before assembling.

Freezing

Freeze the cooked teriyaki chicken filling in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Low-sodium sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt content while retaining flavor.
• No added sugar: Replace honey with a natural sugar-free alternative, such as stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
• Boost fiber: Add finely chopped broccoli or edamame to the filling for extra fiber and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Family dinners: Serve teriyaki chicken lettuce wraps alongside a simple Asian-inspired salad and miso soup for a complete meal.
• Appetizer platters: Arrange the wraps on a large platter with colorful garnishes, dipping sauces, and crispy wonton strips for texture.
• Lunch boxes: Pack the filling and lettuce separately for an easy and fresh on-the-go meal.

Special Equipment

• Large skillet or wok: Ideal for evenly cooking the chicken and vegetables.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth, lump-free teriyaki sauce.
• Cutting board and sharp knife: Essential for finely chopping vegetables and chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?
A: Yes, store-bought teriyaki sauce is a great time-saver. Just check the label for added sugars or preservatives if you’re aiming for a healthier option.

Q: Can I substitute the lettuce leaves?
A: Absolutely! Try cabbage leaves, collard greens, or even tortillas if you’re not concerned about carbs.

Q: How do I make this gluten-free?
A: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, the filling can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Assemble the wraps just before serving for maximum freshness.

Q: Can I add rice or noodles to the wraps?
A: Definitely! Adding a small amount of cooked rice or noodles to the wraps can make them more filling.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, so no adjustments are necessary.

Q: How do I prevent the wraps from becoming soggy?
A: Serve the filling hot and the lettuce chilled, and avoid overloading the wraps with sauce to keep them crisp.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works well. Simply heat it with the vegetables and teriyaki sauce for a quick shortcut.

Conclusion

Teriyaki chicken lettuce wraps are a flavorful, healthy, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their sweet and savory teriyaki filling, crisp lettuce base, and customizable toppings, these wraps are a hit with everyone from kids to adults. Whether you’re whipping them up for a quick dinner, prepping them for the week, or serving them as an appetizer at a gathering, these wraps are guaranteed to impress. Follow this simple recipe, get creative with your add-ins, and enjoy a dish that’s as delicious as it is nutritious!

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