Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe

Looking for a fresh, flavorful meal that’s both healthy and satisfying? These Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps are the perfect solution! Juicy chicken is coated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, then wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a light yet delicious meal that’s ready in no time. 🍗🥬🍶

These lettuce wraps are packed with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. The teriyaki chicken is sweet, savory, and slightly tangy, providing a satisfying filling for the cool, crisp lettuce. These wraps make for a great low-carb meal option, and they’re easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or toppings. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a fun appetizer!

Why You’ll Love These Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps

These wraps are a lighter alternative to traditional wraps or sandwiches but still pack a punch when it comes to flavor. The homemade teriyaki sauce is quick to prepare and adds a delicious sweet-savory glaze to the tender chicken. Plus, the crisp lettuce makes it a fresh and satisfying option for a low-carb or gluten-free meal.

Main Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Each ingredient in this recipe works together to create a balanced, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner:

• Chicken Breast (1 pound, diced): Lean and protein-packed, chicken breast is the perfect base for this dish.
  • You can substitute with ground chicken, turkey, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Romaine or Butter Lettuce (8 large leaves): These crisp lettuce leaves serve as the perfect wrap for the teriyaki chicken, providing a refreshing crunch.
• Carrots (½ cup, shredded): Adds sweetness and a bit of crunch to the wraps.
  • You can also add cucumbers, bell peppers, or any of your favorite vegetables for extra texture.
• Green Onions (¼ cup, sliced): Adds a mild onion flavor and freshness to the wraps.

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• Soy Sauce (¼ cup, low-sodium): Provides the savory base for the teriyaki sauce.
  • Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
• Honey (2 tablespoons): Adds natural sweetness to balance the salty soy sauce.
  • Maple syrup can be used as a vegan alternative.
• Rice Vinegar (1 tablespoon): Adds a tangy element that enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds depth and savory notes to the sauce.
• Ginger (1 teaspoon, freshly grated): Fresh ginger gives the sauce a warm, slightly spicy kick.
• Cornstarch (1 teaspoon): Helps thicken the sauce to create a nice glaze on the chicken.
  • Arrowroot powder can be used as a substitute.
• Water (¼ cup): Helps dissolve the cornstarch and balance the sauce.

Benefits of Ingredients

• Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, perfect for keeping you full and energized.
• Lettuce is low in calories but high in fiber and water content, making these wraps a refreshing and healthy option.

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
   • Cooking the chicken until golden ensures a flavorful base for the wraps.
2. Make the Teriyaki Sauce: In the same skillet, combine the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, cornstarch, and water. Whisk everything together until smooth. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and becomes glossy, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Be careful not to overcook the sauce, as it can become too thick. It should coat the back of a spoon when ready.
3. Coat the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the teriyaki sauce until the chicken is fully coated and heated through. Remove from heat.
   • The chicken should be evenly coated in the thickened teriyaki sauce, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.
4. Assemble the Lettuce Wraps: Lay out the lettuce leaves and spoon the teriyaki chicken mixture into each leaf. Top with shredded carrots, green onions, and any other desired toppings, such as sesame seeds or sliced cucumbers.
   • You can customize these wraps with your favorite veggies or even add a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for extra crunch.
5. Serve: Serve the wraps immediately as a light meal or appetizer. Enjoy the fresh, crisp texture of the lettuce paired with the savory, sweet teriyaki chicken.
   • These wraps are best enjoyed fresh but can also be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps

• Use Fresh Ginger: Freshly grated ginger adds a lot of flavor to the teriyaki sauce, so it’s worth using fresh rather than powdered.
• Make the Sauce Ahead: You can make the teriyaki sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat and toss with the chicken when ready to serve.
• Customize Your Wraps: Add your favorite toppings like shredded cabbage, bell peppers, or avocado for extra texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Can I make this recipe with ground chicken?
Yes! Ground chicken works just as well in this recipe. Simply cook the ground chicken in the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks, and then toss it in the teriyaki sauce.

What can I serve with these lettuce wraps?
These wraps make a great light meal on their own, but you can serve them with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a more filling meal.

Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with turkey, beef, tofu, or even shrimp for a different take on this recipe.

How do I store leftovers?
Store the cooked teriyaki chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the lettuce wraps just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.

Are these wraps gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce and make sure your other ingredients, such as the lettuce and vegetables, are gluten-free.