Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Name: Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced; 1/2 cup green onions, chopped; 1/2 cup water chestnuts, diced; 1 head of butter or iceberg lettuce, leaves separated; Fresh cilantro and mint leaves, for garnish; Sriracha or your favorite sauce, for serving

Highlighted under: Vital & Delicious

I absolutely love making Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps for a quick and healthy meal option. They are not only light and refreshing, but also packed with flavor. The combination of ground chicken with fresh herbs and a savory sauce wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves makes for an irresistible dish. Plus, it’s perfect for hiding more vegetables in my diet. I can whip these up in just a few minutes, making them a go-to choice when I'm short on time but still want something delicious.

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-23T22:21:36.401Z

When I first discovered Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps, I was amazed by how something so simple could be bursting with flavor. The trick is in the marinated chicken—using soy sauce, ginger, and garlic truly elevates the dish. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures from the crunchy lettuce paired with the tender chicken.

My family loves them, and I often find myself experimenting by adding different veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. It’s a versatile dish! Just remember to serve them with your favorite dipping sauce on the side for an extra kick!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Fresh, vibrant flavors that brighten up any meal
Quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners
Healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional wraps

Choosing Your Lettuce

When it comes to lettuce for wraps, the choice of variety can significantly impact your eating experience. Butter lettuce, for instance, offers a soft, pliable texture that surrounds the filling without tearing, making it ideal for scooping. Iceberg lettuce, on the other hand, provides a satisfying crunch. For a more adventurous twist, consider using other greens like romaine or even collard greens, which impart unique flavors and textures while still holding the filling well.

Make sure to wash the lettuce leaves thoroughly and pat them dry before assembly. This can prevent a soggy wrap. As you separate the leaves, look for the larger, intact pieces for wrapping. If needed, trim the base of the lettuce stem slightly to create a smooth edge that’s easier to fold.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Adapting the ingredients in Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps is not only easy but encouraged! If you're not a fan of ground chicken, ground turkey or even tofu can serve as great substitutes. Just be mindful that different proteins may require slight adjustments in cooking time—turkey might take a couple of minutes longer to brown thoroughly than chicken.

For those looking to enhance the nutrition profile, consider adding finely shredded carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the chicken mixture. Not only will these vegetables increase fiber content, but they'll also add a delightful crunch. If you're avoiding soy, you can use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, keeping the dish flavorful while accommodating dietary preferences.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps are fantastic for meal prep. You can cook the chicken filling ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, just reheat the filling in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 3-5 minutes. This ensures your meal is quick to assemble, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

If you anticipate leftovers, consider storing the filling separate from the lettuce leaves. This prevents the lettuce from wilting and maintains its crispness. You can also freeze the filling for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving, allowing you to reap the benefits of your delicious meal even on busy days ahead.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling

1 pound ground chicken
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1/2 cup green onions, chopped
1/2 cup water chestnuts, diced

For Assembly

1 head of butter or iceberg lettuce, leaves separated
Fresh cilantro and mint leaves, for garnish
Sriracha or your favorite sauce, for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté until fragrant. Then, add the ground chicken and cook until browned. Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and water chestnuts, cooking until everything is heated through.

Assemble the Wraps

To serve, spoon the chicken mixture into the center of each lettuce leaf. Top with chopped green onions and fresh herbs. If you like a bit of heat, drizzle with Sriracha or another sauce of your choice.

Pro Tips

For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground chicken with mushrooms or tofu. The flavor remains rich and satisfying while keeping it plant-based.

Flavor Development Tips

To enhance the flavor of your chicken filling, it’s essential to sauté the garlic and ginger thoroughly before adding the chicken. This releases their aromatic oils, creating a strong base for your dish. Cook them until they are fragrant and just turning golden, which usually takes about 30 seconds to 1 minute. This short step adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile.

Don't overlook the role of water chestnuts in this recipe; they add a fantastic crunch that balances the softness of the ground chicken and the lettuce. If you can’t find water chestnuts, you can use chopped celery or jicama as alternatives, but remember to adjust your cooking time accordingly, as these ingredients might not require as long a sauté.

Serving Suggestions

When presenting your Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps, consider serving them with small bowls of dipping sauces such as Sriracha, sweet chili sauce, or a tangy homemade peanut sauce. This allows everyone to customize the flavor according to their preference, adding an interactive element to the meal.

For an extra touch, add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped peanuts on top right before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces a delightful crunch. Pair the dish with a side of steamed broccoli or a light Asian-style salad for a complete, healthful meal that feels both fresh and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I meal prep these wraps?

Absolutely! Cook the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the wraps when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for lettuce?

You can use rice paper wraps or even whole grain tortillas if you prefer a different type of wrap.

→ How spicy are these wraps?

The spice level is adjustable. Add more Sriracha for heat or use less if you prefer a milder flavor.

→ Can these wraps be frozen?

Yes, the chicken filling can be frozen. Just defrost and reheat it when you're ready to serve.