Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps
These Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken coated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, served in crisp lettuce leaves. The combination of sweet and savory teriyaki flavors with crunchy vegetables makes this dish a delicious low-carb, high-protein meal. Perfect for a light dinner, meal prep, or a fun appetizer!
Ingredients
(Serves 4-6)
For the Teriyaki Chicken
1 lb (450g) ground chicken (or diced chicken breast/thighs)
1 tbsp sesame oil
½ small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
½ cup (120ml) teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
2 green onions, sliced
1 tbsp sesame seeds, for garnish
For the Homemade Teriyaki Sauce (optional)
¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp mirin (optional, for authentic flavor)
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water (for thickening)
For Serving
1 head butter lettuce, iceberg, or romaine (leaves separated and washed)
½ cup shredded carrots
½ cup diced cucumber (optional, for freshness)
¼ cup crushed peanuts or cashews (for crunch, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Teriyaki Sauce (If Using Homemade)
1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and mirin.
2. Bring to a simmer and add the cornstarch slurry.
3. Stir continuously until thickened (1-2 minutes), then remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
4. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
6. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it apart, until fully cooked (5-7 minutes).
7. Pour in teriyaki sauce and stir to coat the chicken. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
8. Remove from heat and stir in green onions.
Step 3: Assemble the Wraps
9. Spoon the teriyaki chicken mixture into individual lettuce leaves.
10. Top with shredded carrots, diced cucumber, sesame seeds, and crushed peanuts.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
11. Serve immediately as a wrap or with a side of steamed rice for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information
(Per 2 lettuce wraps, without additional toppings)
Calories: ~250 kcal
Protein: ~25g
Carbohydrates: ~10g
Fiber: ~2g
Fats: ~12g
Sodium: ~600mg (depends on soy sauce brand)
Notes & Tips
Make It Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Make It Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with crumbled tofu or lentils.
Make It Spicy: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Storage: Store chicken filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Question Answers
1. Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?
Yes! Just adjust the amount based on sweetness and saltiness.
2. What’s the best lettuce for wraps?
Butter lettuce, romaine, and iceberg work well.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, cook the chicken ahead and store separately. Assemble wraps fresh for best texture.
4. What can I serve with these wraps?
Steamed rice, miso soup, or a light Asian slaw make great side dishes.
5. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well as chicken.
Time Required
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 20-25 minutes
These Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps are quick, flavorful, and perfect for a fresh, satisfying meal. Enjoy!