If you have been craving a dish that is vibrant, fresh, and packed with irresistible flavors, you have got to try this Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe. It’s a delightful mix of tender ground chicken glazed with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, nestled in crisp butter lettuce leaves that add just the right touch of crunch and brightness. Every bite delivers a perfect harmony of textures and tastes, making it a healthy yet indulgent meal that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe has got you covered.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential to create the bold, balanced flavors and satisfying textures in this Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe. Each one plays a special role—from the tender ground chicken to the zesty ginger and the crunch of fresh veggies—guaranteeing a winning dish every time.
- Ground chicken (1 pound): The lean protein base that soaks up all the delicious teriyaki flavors beautifully.
- Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): Perfect for browning the chicken evenly without overpowering the other tastes.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Adds a subtle pungency that warms up the savory sauce.
- Fresh ginger, grated (1 tablespoon): Brings a zesty, fresh punch that lifts the dish with a hint of spice.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1/3 cup): The salty umami backbone of the teriyaki sauce, keeping it flavorful but balanced.
- Honey (2 tablespoons): Offers a natural sweetness that creates that classic teriyaki glaze.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Adds a touch of tang to brighten the mixture and balance the sweetness.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Infuses a toasty, nutty aroma that makes this recipe truly authentic.
- Cornstarch mixed with water (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water): This slurry thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- Shredded carrots (1/2 cup): Adds natural sweetness and an appealing crunch.
- Chopped green onions (1/4 cup): Lends freshness and a mild bite to cut through the rich flavors.
- Crushed pineapple (1/4 cup, optional): A tropical twist that introduces a juicy burst of sweetness.
- Sesame seeds (1 tablespoon): Sprinkled in for texture and that nutty finish.
- Butter lettuce leaves (8 large): The perfect wrap—soft, tender, and sturdy enough to hold the filling.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Chicken
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook it until it turns golden brown, breaking it up with your spatula so it cooks evenly. This creates the perfect base texture for the wraps—tender but with a bit of bite that soaks up the sauce wonderfully.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Once the chicken is cooked through, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Let them cook for about a minute until their amazing fragrances fill your kitchen. This step is crucial for layering those deep, vibrant flavors that make the teriyaki sauce stand out.
Step 3: Make and Add the Teriyaki Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour this lovely liquid over your chicken mixture and stir well, letting each morsel get coated in that savory-sweet glaze that’s the heart of this Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Mix the cornstarch and water until smooth to form a slurry, then stir it into the skillet. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes as the sauce thickens to a glossy texture that clings perfectly to the chicken and veggies. This step transforms the dish from a simple sauté to a luscious filling ready for wrapping.
Step 5: Mix in Veggies and Seeds
Finally, stir in the shredded carrots, chopped green onions, crushed pineapple if you’re using it, and sesame seeds. These add vibrant pops of color, layers of flavor, and delightful crunch that elevate the wraps beyond ordinary.
Step 6: Assemble the Wraps
Remove the skillet from the heat and spoon heaping amounts of the teriyaki chicken mixture into the butter lettuce leaves. This makes the perfect handheld bite full of fresh, sweet, and savory goodness that’s impossible not to enjoy immediately.
How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra sesame seeds or finely chopped green onions on top makes these wraps even more appealing visually and adds crunch and a fresh bite. For added zing, a drizzle of sriracha mayo or a wedge of lime works beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe with simple steamed jasmine rice or a cool cucumber salad. Both sides complement the rich flavors while keeping the meal light and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by serving the chicken mixture in a colorful platter along with lettuce leaves for guests to build their own wraps. Alternatively, use crunchy rice crackers or waffle-cut potato chips as fun dipping vehicles for the teriyaki chicken filling.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the lettuce leaves separate and fresh by wrapping them in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked teriyaki chicken filling in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Lettuce leaves do not freeze well, so plan to use fresh wraps when ready to serve.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken filling gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender and the sauce glossy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, pork, or even a plant-based alternative like tofu work well in this Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe. Just adjust the cooking times slightly based on your choice.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, this recipe is gluten-free and perfect for those watching their gluten intake.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely. Substitute ground chicken with crumbled tofu or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version that still delivers satisfying texture and flavor.
How can I add more crunch to these wraps?
Try topping the filling with chopped water chestnuts, sliced almonds, or roasted peanuts for an extra layer of crunch that’s simply irresistible.
What’s the best lettuce to use?
Butter lettuce is ideal for this recipe because its large, sturdy, yet tender leaves cradle the filling perfectly without tearing. Romaine or iceberg can also be used but may not be as tender.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe enough—it’s one of those dishes you come back to again and again because it’s fast, flavorful, and absolutely crowd-pleasing. Give it a try the next time you want something fresh, healthy, and full of personality. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
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Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a flavorful and healthy Asian-inspired main course featuring ground chicken simmered in a savory homemade teriyaki sauce with fresh ginger, garlic, and a touch of sweetness. Served in crisp butter lettuce leaves, they make a light, delicious meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup crushed pineapple (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 8 large butter lettuce leaves
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks to ensure even cooking.
- Add aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant, enhancing the flavor of the chicken mixture.
- Prepare and add sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour this teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken and stir well to combine.
- Thicken the sauce: Mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry; stir this into the skillet and cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken evenly.
- Add vegetables and seeds: Incorporate shredded carrots, chopped green onions, optional crushed pineapple, and sesame seeds into the skillet. Stir until everything is thoroughly mixed and heated through.
- Assemble wraps and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Spoon the teriyaki chicken mixture into the butter lettuce leaves, creating individual wraps. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For added crunch, top with chopped water chestnuts or sliced almonds.
- You can substitute ground turkey or tofu for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Serve with lime wedges for an extra fresh zest if desired.
