If you’re searching for a fresh, flavorful meal that feels both light and satisfying, these Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps (Light, Easy & Delicious) Recipe are an absolute game-changer. They perfectly blend tender, savory chicken coated in a glossy teriyaki sauce, bright crunchy vegetables, and crisp lettuce leaves that add the perfect refreshing crunch. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a vibrant appetizer to impress friends, this recipe brings together simple ingredients with bold, irresistible flavors you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe comes down to a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in delivering taste, texture, and color. From the tender ground chicken to the vibrant shredded carrots, everything blends seamlessly to create a dish that’s exciting and wholesome.
- 1 pound ground chicken or finely chopped chicken breast: The lean protein base that cooks quickly and absorbs all the teriyaki flavors beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a perfect sear and a subtle fruity note that enriches the chicken.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Adds an aromatic depth that pairs wonderfully with ginger.
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger: Brings a warm, zesty hint to brighten the whole dish.
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce: The salty-umami backbone of the teriyaki glaze, balancing all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup: Natural sweetness that mellows out the savory soy and adds a glossy finish.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Brings a mild tang to lift the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: A nutty oil that adds richness and an authentic Asian-inspired aroma.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water: The secret to that luscious, thickened teriyaki sauce.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Adds freshness, crunch, and vibrant color.
- ½ cup chopped water chestnuts (optional): For an extra satisfying crunch that complements the softness of the chicken.
- 2 green onions (sliced): Bright and mild onion flavor while adding a beautiful fresh green pop.
- Butter lettuce or romaine leaves: Crisp, sturdy wraps that hold all the filling perfectly.
- Sesame seeds and extra green onions for garnish (optional): For a finishing touch of texture and visual appeal.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps (Light, Easy & Delicious) Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add your ground chicken and cook until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it simmers. This takes about 5 to 6 minutes and makes sure every bite is juicy and evenly cooked.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Once the chicken is browned, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook them for about a minute, just until their fragrant aromas start to fill your kitchen, creating the perfect flavor base for your teriyaki sauce.
Step 3: Mix and Pour the Sauce
Whisk together the soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a small bowl. Pour this luscious sauce right into the skillet, coating the chicken evenly for that signature teriyaki shine and flavor burst.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Thicken Sauce
Toss in shredded carrots, chopped water chestnuts if you’re using them, and sliced green onions. Then stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening just enough to cling to every ingredient without being sticky.
Step 5: Prepare to Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and get your butter lettuce or romaine leaves ready. Spoon the chicken mixture into each leaf, and if you like, sprinkle with sesame seeds and extra green onions for that extra pop of flavor and crunch.
How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps (Light, Easy & Delicious) Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these wraps, fresh garnishes are a must. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds delicate crunch and nuttiness, while extra green onions bring freshness and brightness. You can also add a few sprigs of fresh cilantro or a light drizzle of Sriracha if you like some heat.
Side Dishes
These wraps make a perfect light meal on their own but pairing them with simple sides can round things out beautifully. Steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice adds a gentle fluffiness, while a crisp Asian cucumber salad brings a cooling contrast to the warm, saucy chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these wraps as a platter at a gathering allowing everyone to assemble their own. You can also transform the filling into a flavorful rice bowl topped with avocado slices and pickled vegetables. The versatility is part of what makes this Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps (Light, Easy & Delicious) Recipe so special and easy to enjoy anytime.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, simply transfer the chicken filling into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep the lettuce leaves separate to prevent them from wilting, so you can assemble fresh wraps when ready.
Freezing
This filling freezes wonderfully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When thawed, it retains its flavor and texture perfectly, making it a convenient meal prep option for busy weeks.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of water can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Then, build your wraps fresh for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken and works just as well in this recipe, keeping the dish lean and light without sacrificing flavor.
Are these wraps gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free soy sauce, these Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps (Light, Easy & Delicious) Recipe can easily fit into a gluten-free diet.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Definitely! Swap the chicken for crumbled tofu or finely chopped mushrooms, and use a plant-based sweetener and tamari instead of soy sauce to enjoy a vegan version.
How spicy is this recipe?
This dish is mild and perfect for all palates, but you can always add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a spicy kick.
What type of lettuce works best for wraps?
Butter lettuce and romaine leaves are ideal choices because they are sturdy enough to hold the filling but tender enough to bite into easily.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps (Light, Easy & Delicious) Recipe. It’s fresh, packed with flavor, and comes together in almost no time at all. Whether you’re feeding the family or entertaining friends, these wraps bring a delightful mix of textures and tastes that everyone will rave about. Give this recipe a try — your taste buds will thank you!
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Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps (Light, Easy & Delicious) 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 light, easy, and delicious meal option featuring ground chicken cooked in a flavorful homemade teriyaki sauce, served fresh in crisp lettuce leaves. Perfect for a quick Asian-inspired dinner or healthy lunch, this recipe balances savory, sweet, and tangy notes with fresh veggies and a satisfying protein punch.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 1 pound ground chicken or finely chopped chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup chopped water chestnuts (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
To Serve
- Butter lettuce or romaine leaves for wrapping
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Extra green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken and cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spatula, about 5–6 minutes.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated fresh ginger and cook for 1 minute until fragrant to enhance the flavor.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together low-sodium soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, and sesame oil to create the teriyaki sauce.
- Combine Sauce and Chicken: Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the browned chicken and stir well to coat all the meat evenly.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in shredded carrots, chopped water chestnuts (if using), and sliced green onions into the skillet.
- Thicken the Sauce: Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet and cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly and the mixture is heated through.
- Assemble Wraps: Remove the skillet from heat. Spoon the teriyaki chicken mixture into individual butter lettuce or romaine leaves.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and extra green onions if desired. Serve immediately for best freshness and texture.
Notes
- These wraps are great for meal prep. Store the filling separately in an airtight container and assemble just before eating to keep lettuce crisp.
- Swap ground chicken with ground turkey or tofu for a protein variation that suits your preference.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce to keep the recipe gluten-free.
- Adjust sweetness or saltiness by modifying the amount of honey or soy sauce according to taste.
