Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Name: Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch piece of ginger, grated; 1/2 cup water chestnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup green onions, sliced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 head butter lettuce, leaves separated; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Rushed & Ready

I absolutely love making Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps for a light and flavorful meal. The combination of fresh lettuce and seasoned ground chicken creates a delightful texture that’s both satisfying and refreshing. We often prepare this dish when we want something healthy yet indulgent. The best part? It's versatile, allowing me to customize the flavors with various toppings and dips. This dish is perfect for gatherings or simply as a delicious dinner option that doesn't leave me feeling heavy.

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:48:47.725Z

When I first made Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps, I was surprised at how easy it was to create a dish that felt gourmet. The ground chicken absorbs the flavors so well, which makes every bite incredibly tasty. I found that a mix of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and some fresh ginger really elevates the dish, giving it a nice savory kick that pairs wonderfully with the crisp lettuce.

Another key tip I discovered is to choose the right lettuce. While butter lettuce is my go-to, I've also experimented with romaine, which adds a nice crunch. The freshness of the lettuce and the savory filling really complement each other, making these wraps a favorite at dinner gatherings.

Why You'll Love These Wraps
Light and refreshing, perfect for warm evenings
Quick preparation that fits into a busy lifestyle
Packed with flavor and protein, keeping you satisfied
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings

Choosing the Right Lettuce

When preparing Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps, the choice of lettuce is crucial for structure and flavor. Butter lettuce is ideal due to its soft, pliable leaves that create a perfect pocket for the chicken filling. The mild taste of butter lettuce complements the savory flavors of the chicken without overpowering them. If you can't find butter lettuce, Romaine can be a suitable alternative, just be sure to select smaller leaves to keep the wraps manageable.

To make wrapping easier, consider using leaves that are similar in size. Look for leaves that are not torn and have a good cup-like shape to hold the filling. If the leaves are too thick or rigid, they may crack when rolled. To remedy this, you can involve a quick blanching step—dip the leaves in boiling water for about 10 seconds, which softens them while maintaining their crispness.

Flavor Combinations and Customizations

The beauty of Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps lies in their versatility. While the recipe provides a wonderful balance of flavors, feel free to experiment with additional ingredients. For instance, you can incorporate shredded carrots for an extra crunch and a hint of sweetness or add some diced bell peppers for color and fresh taste. Another idea is to sprinkle chopped cilantro or fresh mint leaves just before serving, which adds a vibrant, aromatic touch.

If you prefer a spicier kick, consider mixing in some diced chilies or a dash of chili sauce when cooking the ground chicken. Alternatively, swapping out soy sauce for tamari can make this dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor. Chopped peanuts or cashews can also be sprinkled over the wraps for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the chicken well.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare the Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps:

Ingredients

1 lb ground chicken
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
1/2 cup water chestnuts, chopped
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 head butter lettuce, leaves separated
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add additional toppings like peanuts, cilantro, or sriracha for a kick!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps:

Sauté the Chicken

In a medium skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground chicken, garlic, and ginger. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Other Ingredients

Stir in the water chestnuts, green onions, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and rice vinegar. Mix well and cook for an additional 5 minutes until everything is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Wraps

To serve, spoon the chicken mixture into the center of each lettuce leaf. Roll the leaves around the filling and enjoy!

These wraps are best served fresh but can also be stored in the fridge for a quick meal later.

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding chopped bell peppers or shredded carrots to the mixture.

Make-Ahead Tips

For busy weeknights, you can prepare the filling ahead of time. After cooking, let the chicken mixture cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, which should take about 5 minutes. This approach not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together even more.

If you're planning a gathering, consider assembling the wraps ahead of time. You can layer the cooked filling in a serving dish and arrange the lettuce leaves next to it. This setup encourages guests to create their custom wraps, making it a fun and interactive dining experience. Just be sure to keep the lettuce refrigerated to maintain its crispness.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover filling can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Be mindful not to overcook, as the chicken may become tough. If you have leftover lettuce leaves, they may wilt; it's best to store them separately and use them shortly after cooking for the best texture.

If you want to prepare larger batches, consider freezing the filling. Place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag and it can last for up to two months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat using the skillet method for a quick meal. Just be prepared that the texture of water chestnuts may slightly change after freezing, but they'll still provide a satisfying crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, beef, or even tofu work well in this recipe.

→ How can I make the wraps spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the chicken filling for some heat.

→ Can I prep these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Just assemble the wraps before serving.

→ What can I serve with the wraps?

These wraps are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a side of rice or a simple cucumber salad.