Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Name: Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 head of iceberg or butter lettuce, leaves separated; Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sliced almonds, lime wedges

Highlighted under: Fresh Lifestyle Meals

I absolutely love making Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps for a quick and refreshing meal. The crispness of the lettuce paired with the savory ground chicken creates a delightful texture and flavor contrast. These wraps are not only delicious but also healthy, making them perfect for any day of the week. With just a few simple ingredients and bright Asian flavors, it's a dish I know my family will enjoy. I'm excited to share this recipe that has become a staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-02-23T18:29:37.477Z

When I first tried making Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps at home, I was amazed at how easy and satisfying they were. Using ground chicken is not only a healthier alternative to beef, but it absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully. I recommend using a mix of hoisin sauce and soy sauce to give it that unmistakable Asian flair.

One specific tip I discovered is to sauté the garlic and ginger first to really bring out their flavors before adding the chicken. This simple step elevates the dish, making it fragrant and delicious. I've even added a splash of lime juice for an extra zing, and my family can't get enough!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh and crunchy lettuce provides the perfect vessel for savory filling
Highly customizable with your favorite veggies and sauces
Light yet satisfying, great for a healthy dinner or appetizer

      

Why Lettuce Makes the Best Wrap

Choosing the right lettuce for your wraps can elevate the dish significantly. I personally prefer iceberg lettuce for its sturdy structure, which keeps the filling intact, but butter lettuce creates a more tender bite. When washing and separating the leaves, be gentle to avoid tearing, as a whole leaf is ideal for holding the delicious chicken mixture. A crisp texture contrasts beautifully with the savory warmth of the filling, making each bite satisfying and refreshing.

If you're looking to add health benefits or flavor, consider experimenting with different leafy greens like collard greens or Swiss chard. These alternatives are nutritious and can provide a unique flavor profile. You may need to adjust how you prepare them—for instance, blanching collard greens briefly in boiling water makes them more pliable for wrapping.

Customizing Your Filling

One of the best aspects of ground chicken lettuce wraps is their versatility. Feel free to substitute the ground chicken with turkey, beef, or even plant-based meat alternatives to suit your dietary preferences. Each protein has its unique flavor and texture. If using a leaner meat like turkey, keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent dryness—check for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Incorporating additional vegetables not only enhances the nutritional profile but also adds layers of flavor. Consider grated carrots or shredded cabbage for crunch, or minced water chestnuts for a bit of sweetness. Just remember to sauté harder vegetables like carrots separately for a few minutes before adding them to the ground meat to ensure they soften adequately.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh and flavorful ingredients to create your Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps:

Ingredients

1 lb ground chicken
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
1 bell pepper, diced
2 green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 head of iceberg or butter lettuce, leaves separated
Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sliced almonds, lime wedges

Prepare these ingredients to easily assemble your wraps.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a fantastic meal:

Cook the Chicken

In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the ground chicken to the skillet, cooking until browned and fully cooked, about 5 minutes.

Add Vegetables and Sauces

Stir in the diced bell pepper and chopped green onions. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Pour in the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil, mixing well to combine. Let simmer for a minute.

Assemble the Wraps

Spoon the chicken mixture into lettuce leaves and top with optional garnishes like cilantro or sliced almonds. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your fresh and flavorful wraps!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, try adding shredded carrots or chopped peanuts as toppings. Also, experiment with different sauces to personalize the flavor to your liking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These ground chicken lettuce wraps can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prep. Cook the chicken filling and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, simply warm the filling in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 3-4 minutes. Fresh lettuce can be washed and separated in advance, too—just keep the leaves wrapped in a damp paper towel to maintain their crispness.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored separately to maintain the crispness of the lettuce. Avoid filling the leaves ahead of time, as sogginess can occur. Instead, store the filling in the fridge for easy assembly later. To enjoy them cold, just pull together the ingredients and fill the leaves right before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These lettuce wraps can shine as both a light dinner and a show-stopping appetizer when entertaining. For a complete meal, consider pairing them with a side of jasmine rice or a refreshing Asian-style slaw. The rice can absorb the savory flavors, offering a hearty complement to the light wraps.

For a fun twist, serve the wraps with an array of dipping sauces on the side. A spicy sriracha mayonnaise or a tangy sesame dipping sauce can enhance the overall flavor and add a bit of heat. I often like to mix soy sauce with a dash of lime juice and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a simple yet flavorful dip that pairs perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and offers a slightly different flavor while remaining lean.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the chicken mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the lettuce wraps separate to maintain crispness.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken mixture a day in advance. Just assemble the wraps right before serving for the best texture.

→ What can I serve on the side?

These wraps pair wonderfully with a fresh Asian slaw or a light cucumber salad to keep the meal refreshing.