These lettuce wraps are packed with bold, addictive flavors and take just minutes to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy water chestnuts, and a rich, umami sauce creates a satisfying bite every time. They’re a healthier takeout-style meal, naturally gluten-free (with the right sauce), and customizable to your preferences. Whether you’re hosting a party or making a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground chicken
Olive oil or sesame oil
Onion
Garlic
Fresh ginger
Hoisin sauce
Soy sauce
Rice vinegar
Sriracha (optional for heat)
Water chestnuts
Green onions
Butter or Bibb lettuce leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground chicken and cook, breaking it apart, until fully cooked and no longer pink.
Stir in hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha (if using). Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
Add chopped water chestnuts and green onions. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing flavors to combine.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
Spoon the chicken mixture into lettuce leaves and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Prep time is approximately 10 minutes, and cook time is about 15 minutes. Total time: around 25 minutes.
Variations
Use ground turkey, or tofu instead of chicken.
Add finely diced mushrooms or shredded carrots for extra texture and nutrition.
Make it spicy with extra sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes.
Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
Add a sprinkle of chopped peanuts or sesame seeds for crunch.
Storage/Reheating
Store the chicken filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. Keep lettuce leaves separate and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and crispness.
FAQs
What kind of lettuce works best?
Butter lettuce or Bibb lettuce are ideal due to their soft texture and cup-like shape. Romaine can also work in a pinch.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the ground chicken with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or finely chopped mushrooms.
Is hoisin sauce necessary?
Hoisin sauce provides a key flavor component. If you don’t have it, you can try a mix of soy sauce, peanut butter, and a bit of honey as a substitute.
Are these lettuce wraps spicy?
They can be if you add sriracha or chili garlic sauce, but you can easily make them mild by leaving out the spicy ingredients.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes, the filling can be made ahead and reheated when ready to serve. Just keep the lettuce fresh and unfilled until serving time.
What sides go well with lettuce wraps?
They pair well with steamed rice, Asian slaw, dumplings, or miso soup for a complete meal.
Can I freeze the filling?
Yes, the cooked chicken filling freezes well. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
How do I keep the lettuce wraps from falling apart?
Use whole, sturdy leaves and avoid overfilling. Holding the wraps like tacos helps keep the filling in place.
Can I use ground beef?
Yes, ground beef can be used, though it will change the flavor slightly. Lean beef works best.
How can I make the sauce more flavorful?
Add a splash of toasted sesame oil or a dash of fish sauce to enhance the umami flavor.
Conclusion
PF Chang’s Lettuce Wraps are a quick, flavorful, and healthy option when you’re craving Asian-inspired food. With a savory filling and fresh, crisp lettuce, they’re both satisfying and fun to eat. Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or appetizers, this easy recipe brings restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen.
PF Chang’s Lettuce Wraps are a quick, flavorful dish featuring savory ground chicken, crunchy water chestnuts, and a rich Asian-inspired sauce, served in crisp lettuce cups. Perfect as an appetizer or light meal, they’re healthy, satisfying, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil
1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 pound ground chicken
3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
1 (8 oz) can water chestnuts, drained and finely chopped
2 green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 head Butter or Bibb lettuce (for serving)
Instructions
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Stir in garlic and ginger; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground chicken and cook, breaking it apart, until no longer pink, about 5–6 minutes.
Stir in hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha (if using). Mix well to coat evenly.
Add chopped water chestnuts and green onions. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
Spoon the chicken mixture into individual lettuce leaves and serve immediately.
Notes
Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.Try ground turkey, beef, or tofu as substitutes for chicken.Add mushrooms or shredded carrots for extra texture.Top with chopped peanuts or sesame seeds for crunch.Keep lettuce separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
