Description
Thai Chili Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Ingredients:
1 pound ground chicken
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup carrots, shredded
1 cup bell peppers, diced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 head of butter or iceberg lettuce
Thai chili sauce for serving
Fresh herbs (like cilantro or mint) for garnish
Instructions:
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat, sautéing onion and garlic for 2 minutes.
Add ground chicken and cook until browned.
Stir in carrots and bell peppers, cooking for 3-4 minutes.
Mix soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar in a bowl, then pour over the chicken mixture.
Spoon into lettuce leaves, drizzle with Thai chili sauce, and garnish with fresh herbs.
A flavorful way to enjoy chicken, perfect for low-carb or gluten-free diets.
Who else loves a good lettuce wrap?
#LettuceWrapDelight
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Thai Chili Chicken Lettuce Wraps every time. First, prepare all ingredients: finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, shred the carrots, and dice the bell peppers. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar to create the sauce. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing for 2 minutes until fragrant and softened. Add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully browned and no pink remains. Stir in the carrots and bell peppers, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until they just begin to soften but remain crisp. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat everything evenly. Remove from heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the warm chicken mixture immediately with a platter of separated, washed lettuce leaves. Butter lettuce is ideal for its cup-like shape, but iceberg offers a great crunch. Provide small bowls of extra Thai chili sauce, lime wedges, and a generous plate of fresh herbs like cilantro and mint. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of jasmine rice or rice noodles for those not following a low-carb diet. These wraps also make excellent party appetizers; set up a DIY wrapping station so guests can build their own.
How-to Summary
In summary, this dish involves sautéing aromatics, browning ground chicken, adding crisp vegetables, and coating everything in a savory-sweet sauce of soy, fish sauce, lime, and sugar. The mixture is then spooned into fresh lettuce leaves and garnished with herbs and chili sauce for a fresh, hands-on meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Yes, ground turkey, pork, or even crumbled firm tofu are excellent substitutes for the ground chicken.
How do I store leftovers? Store the chicken mixture and lettuce leaves separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat only the chicken mixture.
Is there a substitute for fish sauce? For a vegetarian version, you can use soy sauce or tamari, though the flavor profile will be slightly different. A dash of vegan Worcestershire sauce can also add complexity.
How can I make this spicier? Add 1-2 minced fresh Thai chilies or serrano peppers when sautéing the garlic and onion. You can also increase the amount of chili sauce used for drizzling.
My lettuce leaves keep tearing. Any tips? Carefully peel leaves from the head, and if they are too small or fragile, use two overlapping leaves per wrap. Chilling the lettuce head beforehand can also make leaves more crisp and easier to handle.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the vegetables; they should retain some crunch for texture. Do not skip the step of mixing the sauce ingredients separately before adding to the skillet—this ensures even distribution of flavors. Be cautious with salt, as soy and fish sauce are already salty; taste before adding any extra. Finally, ensure your lettuce leaves are completely dry after washing to prevent the wraps from becoming soggy.
Conclusion
These Thai Chili Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a testament to how simple ingredients can create an explosion of flavor. They are a versatile, healthy, and interactive meal perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining. By following the detailed guide and tips provided, you can master this dish and enjoy a delicious, low-carb option that doesn’t compromise on taste. It’s a flavorful way to enjoy chicken that everyone will love.
