If you’re seeking a weeknight dinner that’s bursting with sweet-savory flavor, crisp textures, and the kind of freshness that makes your taste buds dance, these Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps are ready to become your new obsession. Picture tender, saucy ground chicken tucked into butter lettuce leaves, topped with crunchy veggies and spicy sriracha—every bite is a celebration of color and zing. They’re lightning-fast to whip up, delightfully healthy, and have that finger-food fun factor. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner at home or looking for something a little different to wow friends, Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps deliver on all fronts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps lies in their simple, vibrant ingredients—each one brings something essential to the party, from juiciness and crunch to a hit of savory-sweet umami. Gather these staples, and you’ll have everything needed for a fresh, colorful meal that’s sure to impress!
- Ground chicken: The lean, tender canvas that soaks up all the incredible flavors of your teriyaki sauce.
- Olive oil: Gives a silky base for browning the chicken and melding the aromatics.
- Garlic (minced): For an irresistible aromatic punch that deepens the flavors.
- Fresh ginger (grated): Adds zingy warmth that brightens every bite—fresh is key!
- Red bell pepper (diced): Pops of vibrant color and sweetness that balance the savory notes.
- Shredded carrots: Bring earthy sweetness and plenty of crunch.
- Green onions (sliced): Sprinkle in fresh, mild bite and a touch of lovely green color.
- Teriyaki sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade for the flavor backbone of these wraps.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Boosts the umami and keeps the salt level in check.
- Rice vinegar: Brings balance and a soft tang that keeps the filling lively.
- Sesame oil: Toasty, nutty depth that lingers wonderfully on the palate.
- Butter lettuce or romaine leaves: The crisp, cool “wrap” that holds all your savory filling together.
- Optional toppings (sesame seeds, extra green onions, sriracha): Transform your wraps into masterpieces with a sprinkle or a drizzle—or both!
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Step 1: Brown the Ground Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the ground chicken. Use a spoon or spatula to break it up into small, bite-sized pieces. Let it cook for about 5 to 6 minutes until browned all over, making sure it’s fully cooked through. You want it a little caramelized for the best flavor, so don’t rush this first step!
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Veggies
Add your minced garlic and grated fresh ginger right into the skillet, tossing quickly to release their aroma. Immediately toss in diced red bell pepper and shredded carrots. Sauté the mixture for another 2 to 3 minutes—just until these veggies soften slightly but still keep their delightful crunch. This is where the kitchen starts to smell absolutely irresistible.
Step 3: Add the Sauces
Stir in the teriyaki sauce, low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a swirl of sesame oil. Mix everything thoroughly so the chicken and veggies are coated evenly. Let the mixture cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauces to bubble gently and thicken, wrapping each morsel in glossy, sticky-sweet flavor.
Step 4: Stir in Green Onions
Take the skillet off the heat and gently stir in the sliced green onions. Adding them at the end preserves their fresh, crisp flavor and beautiful color, giving your Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps a lively finishing touch.
Step 5: Assemble and Enjoy!
Spoon the hot, fragrant filling into your separated lettuce leaves—aim for generous scoops but don’t overstuff. Top each wrap with sesame seeds, extra green onions, or a little sriracha if you crave heat. These are best enjoyed right away while everything is warm and vibrant!
How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Garnishes
Garnishing Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps is where you can truly let your personality shine. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for a delicate crunch, scatter extra sliced green onions for fresh pops of flavor, or drizzle sriracha for a spicy kick that enlivens each bite. If you love a citrusy edge, offer lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their wraps just before eating.
Side Dishes
Pairing your Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps with a few simple sides brings balance to your meal. Think fluffy steamed jasmine or brown rice, a tangy Asian cucumber salad, or even crispy baked wonton chips for extra crunch. For a cozy touch, a bowl of miso soup sets a perfect mood, transforming these wraps into a satisfying, well-rounded feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can be just as fun as eating with Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps! Arrange the lettuce leaves on a large platter, pile the filling in a pretty bowl, and surround with a rainbow of topping options—let everyone build their own wraps. Or, assemble them yourself and serve on a rustic wooden board for that “passed hors d’oeuvres” vibe at parties. Tiny skewers or toothpicks keep them tidy and party-ready!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps filling will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Store the lettuce leaves separately to keep them nice and crisp—just wash, dry thoroughly, and wrap in a paper towel inside a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to eat again, you’ll have a super quick lunch or snack waiting for you.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, the chicken filling can be frozen (without the lettuce or garnishes). Cool the mixture completely, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and serving in fresh lettuce leaves—the filling stays flavorful and makes weeknight meals feel effortless.
Reheating
To reheat the filling, simply pop it into a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm throughout—or microwave it in short bursts, stirring often. This helps keep the texture nice and juicy. Avoid reheating the lettuce leaves; they’re best fresh and cool to contrast with the warm, savory filling.
FAQs
Can I make Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just pick a gluten-free teriyaki sauce and soy sauce (often labeled as tamari), and you’re all set for a totally gluten-free meal without sacrificing any flavor.
What’s the best lettuce to use?
Butter lettuce is my favorite for its tender, cup-shaped leaves that hug the filling perfectly, but romaine or even iceberg lettuce works great if you prefer extra crunch and sturdier wraps.
Can I substitute ground chicken with something else?
Yes, ground turkey makes a delicious swap, and for a vegetarian twist, crumbled extra-firm tofu or tempeh tastes amazing with the same sauce and veggies.
How can I make the filling spicier?
If you love heat, add a splash of sriracha or chopped fresh chili to the pan when you’re cooking the filling, or sprinkle chili flakes on top before serving. The sweet teriyaki glaze pairs so well with a touch of spice!
Are Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps good for meal prep?
Definitely! You can prep the filling ahead and store it in the fridge, and wash your lettuce in advance. Assemble just before eating for maximum crunch and freshness—perfect for easy lunches all week long.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine with something fresh, quick, and packed with flavor, Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps truly deliver. Every bite is full of juicy chicken, vegetables, and that irresistible teriyaki glaze, all wrapped up in crisp lettuce—what’s not to love? Give them a try, and don’t be surprised if they become a regular in your kitchen. Enjoy!
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Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a delicious and healthy Asian-inspired dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Flavorful ground chicken cooked in a savory teriyaki sauce, served in crisp lettuce leaves, and topped with sesame seeds and green onions.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- ½ cup diced red bell pepper
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup green onions, sliced
For the Sauce:
- ½ cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For Serving:
- 1 head butter lettuce or romaine, leaves separated
- Optional toppings: sesame seeds, extra green onions, sriracha
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add garlic, ginger, bell pepper, and carrots. Sauté for another 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add Sauce: Stir in teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, stir in green onions. Spoon chicken mixture into lettuce leaves, top with sesame seeds, green onions, or sriracha. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add chopped water chestnuts or cashews.
- You can use ground turkey or tofu as a substitute for chicken.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 lettuce wraps
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
