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 sriracha; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced; 1/2 cup bell peppers, finely chopped; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 head of romaine or iceberg lettuce, leaves separated; Chopped peanuts (optional); Chopped cilantro (optional)

Highlighted under: FlashCook Meals Fast & Simple

I love how effortless and vibrant these Spicy Chicken Lettuce Wraps are! With just a few ingredients, I can whip up a dish that's packed with flavor and a satisfying crunch. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for gatherings, they always leave everyone wanting more. The blend of savory chicken, fresh vegetables, and spicy sauce creates a delightful balance that truly excites the taste buds. Plus, these wraps are a fantastic way to sneak in some greens while enjoying a tasty meal.

Created by

Marco

Last updated on 2026-01-13T11:33:32.603Z

When I first experimented with these Spicy Chicken Lettuce Wraps, I was surprised by how quick and satisfying they were to make. The key is to use fresh ingredients, which really elevate the flavors and textures. I like to add a dash of sesame oil for an extra layer of depth that complements the heat from the spices.

What I found most rewarding is how adaptable this recipe is. Feel free to swap in your favorite proteins or add different veggies based on what you have at home. The vibrant crunch of the lettuce elevates the entire dish, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with flavor and heat that you'll crave
Fresh and crunchy lettuce is the perfect wrap
Quick and easy to make for busy weeknights

      

Mastering the Chicken Filling

The ground chicken is the star of this recipe, providing a tender and juicy base for your wraps. When cooking, ensure your skillet is preheated over medium heat to achieve an even brownness. Stir the meat frequently to avoid any sticking or burning, aiming for a golden color that indicates it’s fully cooked—about 5-7 minutes should do it. Use a spatula to break up larger pieces for a more uniform filling, which allows for better flavor distribution and a pleasing texture.

Adding the soy sauce, sriracha, and hoisin sauce during the last few minutes of cooking not only infuses the chicken with a deeply savory profile but also reduces the risk of burning the sugars in the sauces. This method allows the sauces to caramelize slightly, enhancing the flavor without creating a dry filling. Yellow and red bell peppers not only add sweetness and crunch but also infuse the dish with vibrant color, making your platters sang with both flavor and visual appeal.

Perfecting Your Lettuce Wraps

Choosing the right lettuce is crucial for creating the perfect wrap. Romaine or iceberg work well because they are sturdy enough to hold the filling without tearing. After washing, ensure leaves are patted dry to prevent excess moisture that can cause sogginess. I recommend picking medium to large-sized leaves, as they provide ample space for filling and ease of handling while eating. You can also slightly trim the bottom of the leaves for easier folding.

To elevate the flavors and textures, consider garnishing your wraps with more than just green onions. Adding chopped peanuts gives a satisfying crunch, while fresh cilantro adds a punch of herbal brightness. If you're feeling adventurous, a splash of lime juice before serving can give a refreshing zing that contrasts beautifully with the spiciness of the filling. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also visually entice your guests, making the dish even more appealing.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling

1 lb ground chicken
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1/2 cup bell peppers, finely chopped
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

1 head of romaine or iceberg lettuce, leaves separated
Chopped peanuts (optional)
Chopped cilantro (optional)

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground chicken. Stir occasionally to break it apart and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Flavor

Stir in soy sauce, sriracha, hoisin sauce, garlic, ginger, and bell peppers. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the peppers soften and everything is well combined.

Prepare the Lettuce Wraps

While the chicken cooks, prepare your lettuce leaves by washing and drying them thoroughly. Arrange on a serving platter.

Serve

Spoon the spicy chicken filling into each lettuce leaf. Top with green onions, chopped peanuts, and cilantro if desired. Enjoy immediately!

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can add more sriracha or some chopped chilies into the mix. Don’t hesitate to adjust the ingredients based on your preferred taste and spice level.

Tips on Storage

If you have leftover chicken filling, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This makes for a quick meal or snack later in the week; just reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. If you want to keep the lettuce fresh, store leaves unwashed and wrapped in a damp paper towel in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness. When ready to serve, just rinse and pat dry for optimal crunch.

For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken filling. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag, pressing out as much air as possible. It can last up to three months frozen; when ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet. This makes meal prep a breeze, enabling you to enjoy homemade wraps without starting from scratch.

Variations You Can Try

For a different flavor profile, try using ground turkey or even plant-based ground meat to make this dish lighter or more vegetarian-friendly. Just remember plant-based proteins may require different cooking times—check the package instructions to ensure it’s cooked and heated properly. Additionally, feel free to explore a variety of chopped vegetables, such as zucchini or water chestnuts, to add more crunch and nutritional value.

If you lean towards heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or Fresno chilis into your filling. These will enhance the spiciness while providing another layer of texture. Alternatively, you could switch out the sriracha for a sweet chili sauce for a milder, sweeter version, perfect for kids or those wary of spice. These simple swaps ensure that this recipe can adapt to fit any palette or dietary need.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, beef, or even tofu works wonderfully in this recipe.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein like lentils or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian wrap.

→ Can I prepare these wraps in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a few hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the wraps when ready to serve.

→ What side dishes pair well with these wraps?

These wraps go great with a light salad, steamed rice, or even a side of spicy kimchi.