20-Minute Chicken Lettuce Wraps

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

These 20-Minute Chicken Lettuce Wraps are the perfect combination of quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful. Inspired by the famous restaurant-style wraps, this homemade version is loaded with juicy ground chicken, fresh aromatics, and a savory-sweet sauce that clings to every bite. Served in crisp lettuce leaves, they offer the best contrast of tender, saucy filling and cool crunch in one satisfying, low-carb package.

What makes this dish a weeknight hero is its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples and fresh veggies, you can whip up a protein-packed meal in no time. It’s one of those recipes that feels indulgent while staying light and clean. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or just need something fast and fresh, these wraps are guaranteed to impress.

---

Why You’ll Love These 20-Minute Chicken Lettuce Wraps

• Ready in 20 minutes – From pan to plate in less time than takeout.
• Packed with flavor – Thanks to garlic, ginger, soy, and chili paste.
• Healthy and low-carb – Served in lettuce cups, it’s a light yet filling meal.
• Great for meal prep – The filling reheats beautifully.
• Customizable – Add your favorite veggies, spice level, or even try ground turkey or tofu.

---

What Kind of Lettuce Should I Use?

For wraps that hold up and offer that perfect crunch, butter lettuce or romaine hearts are ideal. Butter lettuce has a delicate texture and rounded shape that cradles the filling nicely, while romaine offers a slightly firmer bite. Avoid iceberg, as it tends to break easily. If you’re looking for extra nutrition, baby kale or collard greens are sturdy and healthy substitutes.

---

Ingredients for the 20-Minute Chicken Lettuce Wraps

These simple ingredients work together to create a bold, savory, slightly spicy filling wrapped in crisp lettuce.

• Ground chicken – Lean, protein-packed, and quick to cook.
• Garlic – Minced fresh garlic adds deep aromatic flavor.
• Fresh ginger – Adds warmth and depth to the dish.
• Green onions – Bring freshness and a light bite.
• Soy sauce – Salty and umami-rich for base flavor.
• Hoisin sauce – Sweet and savory, giving a signature restaurant-style taste.
• Rice vinegar – Adds brightness and balance.
• Sesame oil – Toasted sesame oil enhances the flavor with a nutty finish.
• Chili garlic sauce – Brings a mild heat and kick.
• Water chestnuts – For crunch and contrast.
• Romaine or butter lettuce leaves – Crisp and sturdy for holding the filling.

---

How To Make the 20-Minute Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add ground chicken to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until fully browned and cooked through.

Step 3: Add Flavor

Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and chili garlic sauce. Mix well to coat all the chicken evenly.

Step 4: Add Crunch

Toss in chopped water chestnuts and sliced green onions. Cook for another 2 minutes to warm through.

Step 5: Assemble

Spoon the hot filling into clean, dry lettuce leaves. Garnish with extra green onions or a drizzle of chili sauce if desired.

---

How to Serve and Store 20-Minute Chicken Lettuce Wraps

This recipe serves about 4 people, offering 2 to 3 lettuce wraps per person depending on the size of your leaves. Serve immediately after assembling so the lettuce stays crisp and the filling hot.

Leftover filling can be stored separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet or microwave and spoon it into fresh lettuce leaves for a second round of wraps. It’s also delicious served over rice or tucked into wraps or sandwiches.

---

What to Serve With 20-Minute Chicken Lettuce Wraps?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

A light, fluffy side that turns the wraps into a heartier meal.

Cucumber Salad

Cool, crisp, and lightly dressed for contrast.

Miso Soup

Warm and comforting with a mild umami flavor.

Asian Slaw

Crunchy slaw with a sesame-soy vinaigrette adds texture and brightness.

Edamame with Sea Salt

Protein-packed and perfect for nibbling alongside.

Spring Rolls

Fresh veggie rolls dipped in peanut sauce round out the spread.

Pickled Veggies

Quick-pickled carrots or daikon bring a tangy crunch.

Mango Slices

A touch of tropical sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory filling.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a lean, flavorful substitute and works great in this recipe.

What lettuce holds up best?
Butter lettuce and romaine hearts are ideal. They’re sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart.

Is this recipe spicy?
The chili garlic sauce adds mild heat, but you can adjust it to your preference or omit it for a milder version.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the filling and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and assemble when you’re ready to serve.

Are these lettuce wraps gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce, and check that your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.

---

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner or meal prep board so you can come back to it any time.
Let me know how you liked it! Did you go spicy or keep it mild? Add any unique toppings?

I love seeing your versions and tweaks. Let’s keep the cooking inspiration going!

Find more fresh and fast meal ideas on my Pinterest: Life With Livia Pinterest

---

Conclusion

These 20-Minute Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a weeknight lifesaver. They’re fast, full of bold flavors, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re cutting carbs, feeding a crowd, or just want something delicious and easy, this recipe delivers every time. Make it once and it’ll quickly earn a permanent spot in your weekly meal rotation.

---

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?