If you’re looking to brighten up your dinner routine with a burst of flavor and freshness, this Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe is your new best friend. It combines tender, savory chicken glazed in a luscious homemade teriyaki sauce with crisp, crunchy lettuce leaves that make every bite light yet satisfying. The perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and a hint of spice makes this dish irresistibly delicious and wonderfully easy to whip up any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a long list to make this Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe shine. Each ingredient plays a special role — from the juicy chicken providing protein, to the colorful veggies adding texture and freshness, and the sauce bringing that signature teriyaki punch.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, diced: The protein-packed star that soaks up all the flavorful sauce.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: For perfectly sautéing the chicken and veggies without sticking.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a sweet and savory foundation.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant punch that brightens everything.
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper: Brings freshness and a pop of color.
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots: Adds sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce: The salty, savory base of the teriyaki glaze.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Balances soy sauce with natural sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds a mild tang that lifts the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce: Brings a depth of flavor with subtle sweetness and spice.
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger: Gives a warm, zesty aroma that’s quintessentially Asian-inspired.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For just the right touch of heat if you like a little kick.
- 8 to 10 large butter or romaine lettuce leaves: Crisp, cool vessels for wrapping your savory chicken mixture.
- 2 green onions, sliced: Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor as garnish.
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds: For a nutty crunch that finishes the dish beautifully.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating your vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and let it cook undisturbed for about 5 to 6 minutes so it gets a nice golden-brown sear. Stir occasionally to cook all sides evenly until the chicken is cooked through. Once perfectly browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This step ensures the chicken stays juicy and flavorful for your lettuce wraps.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in your diced onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, and shredded carrots. Sauté these veggies for 3 to 4 minutes until they’re tender but still have a lovely snap to them. Using the same pan means you’re building layers of flavor without any extra fuss or dishes.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
While the veggies cook, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, fresh ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes if using in a small bowl. This sauce mixture is the heart of the Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe—a perfect balance of sweet, salty, tangy, and spicy notes that will coat every bite.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the teriyaki sauce mixture on top and cook everything together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Stir frequently as the sauce thickens and beautifully glazes the chicken and vegetables. Once thick and shiny, take the pan off the heat to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant.
Step 5: Assemble the Wraps
Now for the fun part! Carefully spoon the teriyaki chicken and vegetable mixture into big, sturdy leaves of butter or romaine lettuce. The cool crunch of the lettuce perfectly complements the warm, savory filling. Top with sliced green onions and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Your Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe is ready to delight your taste buds.
How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is what takes these wraps to the next level. Freshly sliced green onions add a zesty bite, while toasted sesame seeds bring a lovely nutty crunch. If you want to get adventurous, sprinkle some finely chopped cilantro or crushed peanuts to add fresh herbal notes or extra texture that complements the teriyaki glaze.
Side Dishes
These wraps shine on their own but pairing them with simple sides can make your meal even more exciting. Try steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. A crunchy Asian slaw with cabbage and carrots adds refreshing contrast, or serve with miso soup for a cozy touch. Whatever you choose, the wraps remain the star of the show.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking outside the lettuce leaf? Try serving this mixture on crispy wonton cups for a party-friendly bite or spoon it over rice noodles for a quick bowl meal. You could also build mini sliders using small rounds of grilled pineapple as buns for a tropical twist. These ideas keep the core Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe fresh and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep your lettuce leaves separate and fresh by wrapping them lightly in paper towels inside a plastic bag, so they don’t get soggy overnight.
Freezing
This chicken mixture freezes well, making it a great meal prep option. Cool the cooked filling completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.
Reheating
To reheat your leftovers, warm the chicken filling in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid microwaving in the lettuce wraps, as the leaves will wilt. Instead, assemble fresh wraps just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of lettuce for the wraps?
Absolutely! While butter and romaine lettuce works best because they are sturdy and flexible, you can also try iceberg or green leaf lettuce. Just make sure the leaves are large enough to hold the filling and strong enough not to tear easily.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe?
Yes! You can swap the chicken for diced firm tofu or tempeh, sautéing it until golden before following the same sauce and vegetable steps. Mushrooms also make a great substitute for adding a meaty texture with rich umami flavor.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I make it milder?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle heat, but they are optional. If you prefer no spice, simply omit them. You can always add a little bit of sriracha or chili sauce at the table if you want a kick on the side.
What type of hoisin sauce should I use?
Look for traditional hoisin sauce in the Asian foods aisle of your grocery store. It’s a sweet and tangy condiment made from soybeans, garlic, vinegar, and spices. Avoid low-quality or overly salty versions to keep the balance in your sauce perfect.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time for a party?
Yes, the chicken and veggie mixture can be made a day in advance. Keep it chilled and reheat gently before serving. Assemble the wraps just before guests arrive so the lettuce stays crisp and fresh for a crowd-pleasing presentation.
Final Thoughts
This Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe is one of those delightful dishes that feels indulgent but is surprisingly healthy and quick to pull together. The perfect marriage of savory chicken, crisp veggies, and fresh lettuce makes it a meal you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes a household favorite that everyone asks for.
Print
Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps offer a delicious, healthy twist on a classic Asian dish, featuring tender diced chicken cooked in a flavorful homemade teriyaki sauce, served fresh in crisp lettuce leaves. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, these wraps are low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with vibrant vegetables and savory-sweet flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
Teriyaki Sauce
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
To Serve
- 8 to 10 large butter or romaine lettuce leaves
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Using the same skillet, sauté the diced onion, minced garlic, diced bell pepper, and shredded carrots for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and fragrant.
- Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the low sodium soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, grated fresh ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) until well combined.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour the teriyaki sauce over it. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the chicken and vegetable mixture.
- Assemble the Wraps: Remove the skillet from heat. Spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture into large butter or romaine lettuce leaves. Garnish each wrap with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
- Serve: Serve the teriyaki chicken lettuce wraps immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add chopped water chestnuts or peanuts to the filling.
- Butter lettuce leaves work best for easy folding and wrapping.
- These wraps are perfect for a low-carb or gluten-free meal.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to control the spiciness level.
