Spicy Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Name: Spicy Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 tablespoon minced ginger; 2 teaspoons sriracha (adjust for spice preference); 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 carrot, shredded; 2 green onions, sliced; 1 head of butter lettuce or romaine lettuce; Fresh cilantro leaves (optional); Lime wedges (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Spicy Chicken Lettuce Wraps for a quick, flavorful meal! The fresh crunch of lettuce combined with the zesty, spicy chicken filling is utterly enjoyable. Whether we're hosting friends or just enjoying a cozy family dinner, these wraps always steal the show. The best part is how simple they are to prepare, with each bite bursting with flavor. You can customize the spices to suit your taste, making it a versatile dish that I can easily adapt for any occasion.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-13T14:51:31.019Z

When I first tried making Spicy Chicken Lettuce Wraps at home, I was amazed at how quickly they came together and how satisfying they were. The combination of spices I used really made the chicken pop, and the texture of the lettuce as a wrap was a delightful surprise. I highly recommend browning the chicken well to infuse it with flavor before pairing it with fresh vegetables.

Over time, I’ve experimented with different fillings and sauces, and I must say, adding a splash of lime juice right before serving elevates the dish beautifully. It's a fun way to get creative in the kitchen and please everyone at the table!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh, crunchy lettuce offers the perfect vessel for the spicy filling.
A simple and quick recipe that packs a punch in flavor.
Perfect for gatherings or a lighter meal option on busy nights.

      

Essential Ingredient Insights

The ground chicken is the star of this dish, providing a tender texture that readily absorbs the flavors of the garlic, ginger, and sauces. For a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or even diced firm tofu for a vegetarian version. Just remember to adjust cooking times as tofu may need a little more sautéing to achieve a similar texture.

Sriracha delivers both heat and flavor, so depending on your spice tolerance, you can either increase or reduce the amount. Alternatively, chili garlic sauce or a homemade spicy sauce can be used. For a milder wrap, consider using a sweet chili sauce which still adds nice flavor without overwhelming heat.

Helpful Cooking Tips

When cooking the chicken, make sure to use a large enough skillet to ensure even browning. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook in batches. The chicken should be cooked until it's no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes, but keep an eye for a golden color on the edges for a deeper flavor.

To save time during meal prep, chop the vegetables ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken mixture can also be made in advance and reheated when ready to serve, making this a great option for weeknight dinners or quick lunches.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your spicy chicken lettuce wraps:

For the Chicken Filling

1 lb ground chicken
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger
2 teaspoons sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
1 bell pepper, diced
1 carrot, shredded
2 green onions, sliced

For Serving

1 head of butter lettuce or romaine lettuce
Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
Lime wedges (optional)

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the steps of making these delicious wraps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Spicy Chicken Lettuce Wraps:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sesame oil and ground chicken. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Add Vegetables and Sauce

Stir in the garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sriracha. Add the bell pepper and carrot. Cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are just tender.

Assemble the Wraps

Spoon the chicken mixture into the lettuce leaves. Top with green onions and cilantro if desired. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for extra flavor.

Enjoy your spicy chicken lettuce wraps fresh, and feel free to customize the ingredients to your liking!

Pro Tips

For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground chicken with textured vegetable protein (TVP) or finely chopped mushrooms. Always taste your filling and adjust the spiciness as needed!

Serving Suggestions

These Spicy Chicken Lettuce Wraps are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them by adding a sprinkle of roasted peanuts or cashews for a crunchy texture. Sliced jalapeños can also add an extra kick if you're feeling adventurous.

Consider pairing your wraps with a dipping sauce, like a quick mix of soy sauce, lime juice, and a hint of sesame oil for added flavor. This balance of fresh and savory will enhance the overall experience.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the chicken filling separately from the lettuce. This helps maintain the lettuce's crisp texture. The chicken mixture can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, which takes about 5 minutes.

For longer storage, the chicken mixture can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat for an easy meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of lettuce?

Absolutely! You can use romaine, iceberg, or even cabbage for a different texture.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply swap the ground chicken for a plant-based alternative like crumbled tofu or mushrooms.

→ What can I serve with these wraps?

These wraps pair wonderfully with a side of rice or a fresh cucumber salad.

→ Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Yes! You can make the filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving.