Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Name: Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 1 cup bell pepper, diced; 1 cup carrots, grated; 1/2 cup water chestnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup green onions, sliced; 1 head of butter or romaine lettuce; Chili sauce or sriracha, for drizzling

Highlighted under: Rushed & Ready

I love making Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps for a fresh and flavorful meal that feels light yet satisfying. These wraps are perfect for those busy weeknights when I want something quick but still packed with nutrients. The combination of seasoned ground chicken with crisp lettuce leaves creates a delightful contrast in textures, and the dipping sauce adds just the right amount of zing. It's a dish the whole family enjoys, and it's so easy to customize with different vegetables. Let's make this healthy and delicious dish together!

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:53:36.987Z

When I first tried Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps at a local restaurant, I was hooked! The savory, seasoned chicken paired with crunchy lettuce was a revelation. I decided to recreate this dish at home, experimenting with flavors until I got it just right. Trust me, using fresh and high-quality ingredients makes all the difference in achieving that authentic taste.

One tip I can share is to sauté the vegetables before adding the chicken for extra depth of flavor. You can play with the ingredients to make it your own. I’ve added water chestnuts for crunch and green onions for brightness, and it has never disappointed!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh, crisp textures with savory filling
Full of vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients
Quick preparation makes it perfect for weeknight dinners

Ingredient Insights

The choice of ground chicken in this recipe not only keeps the dish lean but also allows the flavors of the sauces and spices to shine through. Ground chicken typically has a milder taste compared to other meats, which is why the addition of soy sauce and hoisin sauce is crucial; they infuse the chicken with savory depth. If you'd like to switch things up, turkey or even ground pork can be excellent substitutes, each adding their unique flavor profiles.

Incorporating fresh vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and water chestnuts not only enhances the taste but also contributes important nutrients and textures. The bell peppers add a subtle sweetness while the water chestnuts provide a delightful crunch. When choosing carrots, opt for younger, sweeter varieties for the best flavor. For a spicy kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes during cooking.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Cooking the ground chicken over medium heat is essential to achieving a properly browned texture. Take care not to rush this process; cooking too quickly at high heat can lead to a dry, overcooked result. For best results, break up the meat with a spatula as it cooks to promote even browning, and leave it undisturbed for brief intervals to develop those coveted golden edges.

When adding the vegetables, stir frequently but avoid overcooking. You want them to remain slightly crisp, so time them in the skillet for about 5-7 minutes. A good visual cue is that the bell peppers should soften but still retain their vibrant color, while the carrots should be tender but not mushy. This balance of textures is key for a satisfying bite in each wrap.

Ingredients

Prepare these ingredients for a delightful dish.

For the Chicken Filling

1 lb ground chicken
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
1 cup bell pepper, diced
1 cup carrots, grated
1/2 cup water chestnuts, chopped
1/4 cup green onions, sliced

For Serving

1 head of butter or romaine lettuce
Chili sauce or sriracha, for drizzling

Gather all these ingredients to create a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your wraps.

Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground chicken and cook until browned. Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, garlic, and ginger. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until fragrant.

Add Vegetables

Mix in the diced bell pepper, grated carrots, chopped water chestnuts, and sliced green onions. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender.

Assemble the Wraps

Spoon a generous portion of the chicken mixture onto each lettuce leaf. Drizzle with chili sauce or sriracha as desired.

Serve

Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh and healthy Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps!

Enjoy making and sharing these delicious wraps!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding sesame oil to the skillet or using a combination of meat like pork and chicken to enhance the taste.

Customization and Variations

One of the best aspects of Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or green beans based on your preference or what's in season. Adding finely chopped nuts, like cashews or peanuts, can also enhance the flavor and add an extra crunch. For a heavier meal, serve the wraps over a bed of rice instead of lettuce.

If you're preparing for a vegetarian or vegan option, substitute the ground chicken with finely chopped mushrooms or tempeh. Using a combination of these can deliver a satisfying texture while absorbing the full flavor of your sauces. Additionally, switch out the soy sauce for tamari to keep it gluten-free or use coconut aminos for a lower-sodium alternative.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These lettuce wraps are best enjoyed fresh, but you can certainly prepare components in advance to save time during the busy week. The chicken filling can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on low heat, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.

If you're looking to freeze the filling, store it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it up on the stovetop. Just remember to prepare fresh lettuce leaves as needed, as they can wilt and lose their crispness if stored for too long.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will still provide a similar texture and taste.

→ Are these wraps gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce, you can enjoy these wraps gluten-free.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add mushrooms, zucchini, or shredded cabbage for extra texture and flavor.

→ Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Absolutely! The filling can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.