Experience a burst of fresh flavors and satisfying textures with these incredible Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps. This recipe delivers a delicious, healthy meal in just 30 minutes, featuring perfectly seasoned chicken, crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, crunchy peanuts, and an irresistible sweet and savory peanut sauce.

Craving more light and flavorful wrap ideas? Don’t miss these other fantastic lettuce wrap recipes: Vegetarian Lettuce Wraps, Taco Lettuce Wraps, and Beef Lettuce Wraps. Each one is simple to prepare and packed with delightful tastes.

Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A Flavorful and Healthy Meal Solution

If you’re searching for a meal that’s both incredibly tasty and remarkably quick to prepare, look no further than these Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps. This dish truly hits all the right notes: it’s light yet satisfying, healthy, and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. What makes it truly special is the captivating interplay of textures – from the refreshing crunch of the lettuce and vegetables to the tender, seasoned chicken and the delightful crispness of roasted peanuts, all harmoniously brought together by a luscious, smooth peanut sauce. It’s a culinary adventure in every bite!

These wraps are designed for convenience, making them an ideal choice for a busy weeknight dinner. The process is straightforward: tender chicken breasts are seasoned and quickly cooked, a handful of fresh vegetables are sliced, and the star of the show – the sweet and tangy peanut sauce – comes together in minutes with the help of a blender. No complicated steps, no lengthy cooking times, just pure deliciousness ready to serve in about 30 minutes. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

Crafting the Irresistible Peanut Sauce

Let’s talk about the peanut sauce – it’s more than just a condiment; it’s the heart of these Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps. While it leans towards a sweeter profile and might be considered more of a peanut dressing than a traditional Asian sauce, its flavor is absolutely addictive. We’ve intentionally crafted it with a delightful sweetness to perfectly balance the crisp, raw vegetables and savory chicken. The result is an indulgent, rich, and subtly tangy sauce that enhances every component of the dish without overpowering it.

The beauty of this peanut sauce lies in its adaptability. While we adore the recipe as written, you have complete control to tailor it to your personal taste. If you prefer less sweetness, simply reduce the amount of honey you add. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider increasing the cayenne pepper, stirring in some red pepper flakes, or even adding a dash of your favorite chili sauce. This versatility ensures that your Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps are always exactly how you like them.

Preparing this incredible sauce couldn’t be easier. All it takes is tossing the ingredients into a reliable blender and letting it work its magic. In a matter of seconds, you’ll have a perfectly smooth, creamy, and flavorful sauce ready to elevate your wraps (and possibly many other dishes!). Its rich consistency and vibrant taste make it a fantastic dipping sauce for spring rolls, a dressing for salads, or even a glaze for grilled meats.

Perfectly Cooked Chicken for Your Wraps

The chicken is a star component of these lettuce wraps, and cooking it just right ensures maximum flavor and tenderness. Here are some essential tips to achieve perfectly seasoned and cooked chicken every time:

Grilling Your Chicken Breasts

• Prepare the Chicken Evenly: For quicker and more uniform cooking, start by slicing larger boneless, skinless chicken breasts in half horizontally, or pound them to an even thickness. This also ensures they’re the ideal size for dicing once cooked, fitting perfectly into your Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps.
• Generous Grill Grate Oiling: To achieve a beautiful sear and prevent sticking, generously oil your grill grates. A simple trick is to roll up a few paper towels, saturate them with a high-smoke-point oil like canola or vegetable oil, and then, using tongs, rub the oiled towels across the heated grates just before placing the chicken.
• Let it Rest: After grilling, transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board, tent it loosely with foil, and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in exceptionally tender and moist chicken. Skipping this can lead to dry chicken.
• Handle Turmeric with Care: Turmeric provides a fantastic color and subtle flavor, but be aware of its potent staining power! It can easily dye your hands, cutting boards, and countertops a bright yellow-orange. Use caution and clean surfaces immediately to avoid permanent stains.

Alternative Chicken Cooking Methods

Don’t have a grill or prefer another cooking method? No problem! These Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps are incredibly versatile:

• Sautéed Chicken: If grilling isn’t an option, sautéing is an excellent alternative. Simply cut your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces before cooking. Toss them with all the seasonings mentioned in the recipe. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the seasoned chicken. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The exact cooking time will vary depending on the size of your chicken pieces. Once cooked, let it cool slightly before dicing into even smaller pieces.
• Rotisserie Chicken: For the ultimate shortcut, warmed, diced rotisserie chicken works wonderfully. While grilled chicken offers a distinct texture and seasoning profile that we personally prefer, using rotisserie chicken still results in a deliciously speedy meal. It’s a fantastic option when time is of the essence and you need dinner on the table in a flash. Just ensure it’s warmed through and diced appropriately.

The Fresh and Crisp Veggies: Essential for Texture and Flavor

The array of fresh, crunchy vegetables is what gives these Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps their delightful texture and nutritional punch. Choosing the right kind and preparing them properly makes all the difference:

• Lettuce (The Wrapper): The foundation of your wrap! We highly recommend using Butter (Boston) lettuce. Its large, flexible leaves have a beautiful shape, a mild flavor, and just the right amount of crispness without being too rigid, allowing it to roll up perfectly like a natural tortilla. When selecting lettuce, prioritize varieties with large, pliable leaves. Romaine, for example, often has a thick, stiff rib that can crack when bent. Iceberg lettuce is a decent alternative with its round, flexible leaves, but butter lettuce remains our top choice for its superior texture and subtle taste. While cabbage can also be used, its firmer texture usually requires blanching first to make it pliable enough for wrapping, and it offers a different flavor profile.
• Carrots: These add a lovely sweetness and vibrant color. If you’re short on time, a bag of pre-cut matchstick carrots is a convenient option. However, for superior flavor and an even crisper bite, we love julienning whole carrots ourselves. It takes just a few extra minutes but is well worth the effort.
• Cucumbers: Crucial for that refreshing crunch! Opt for Persian or English cucumbers. These varieties are known for their thin skins, minimal seeds, and exceptionally crisp texture, which is paramount in these wraps. Regular garden cucumbers tend to be softer and more watery, which can detract from the overall experience.
• Red Bell Pepper: A pop of color and sweet, mild flavor. Any sweet bell pepper—red, orange, or yellow—will work beautifully. Feel free to adjust the quantity or even swap it for extra carrots or cucumber if you prefer.
• Other Vegetable Ideas: Get creative with your vegetable medley! Consider adding very thinly sliced red cabbage for extra color and crunch, finely shredded kale (or a convenient kale slaw mix), or even broccoli slaw for a unique twist. The goal is a variety of fresh, crisp elements.

Elevate Your Wraps with Perfect Toppings

The right toppings can transform your Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps from delicious to absolutely unforgettable. These simple additions pack in even more flavor, texture, and freshness, making each bite an exciting experience. Here are our top “must-have” additions, along with some other ideas for customization:

• Chopped Peanuts or Cashews: A generous sprinkle of roasted and salted nuts is non-negotiable! We prefer them roasted and salted as they provide a perfect savory crunch that complements the sweet sauce and crisp veggies, eliminating the need for extra salt.
• Fresh Cilantro: The vibrant, herbaceous notes of fresh cilantro are essential. Chop it right before serving to maximize its aromatic punch, or simply add a few whole sprigs on top for an elegant presentation and burst of freshness.
• Fresh Lime Wedges: Serving these wraps with lime wedges on the side allows everyone to add a personalized squeeze of bright, zesty lime juice just before eating. This intentional separation ensures the lime’s acidity cuts through the richness of the sauce and brightens all the flavors, offering a wonderful fresh contrast that can be adjusted to individual preference.
• Optional Toppings for Extra Flair:
  • Sriracha or Chili Garlic Sauce: For those who love an extra kick, a drizzle of sriracha or chili garlic sauce can add a fantastic layer of heat.
  • Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds (white or black) adds a subtle nutty flavor and a beautiful visual appeal.
  • Green Onions/Scallions: Thinly sliced green onions provide a mild oniony bite and a fresh green garnish.
  • Crunchy Fried Onions: For an indulgent crunch and savory depth, consider a few crispy fried onions.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps are fantastic for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy healthy, flavorful meals throughout the week. The key to maintaining freshness and texture is to store the components separately:

• Chicken: Cook and dice the chicken as directed. Once completely cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can gently reheat the chicken in a skillet or microwave just before assembling your wraps.
• Veggies: Prepare all your matchstick vegetables and store them in a separate airtight container in the fridge. They will stay crisp for 3-4 days.
• Peanut Sauce: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If it thickens too much, you can thin it out with a tiny bit of water or lime juice before serving.
• Lettuce Leaves: Wash and thoroughly dry the lettuce leaves, then store them with a paper towel in a sealed bag or container in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. They are best used within 2-3 days for optimal crispness.
• Assembly: For the best experience, assemble your Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps fresh just before eating. This prevents the lettuce from becoming soggy and keeps all the textures distinct and appealing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these wraps vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily substitute the chicken with pan-fried tofu, tempeh, or even chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian version. Ensure your plant-based protein is well-seasoned.

How can I make the peanut sauce less sweet or spicier?

To reduce sweetness, start with less honey and add more to taste. For increased heat, add extra cayenne pepper, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce to the blender.

What’s the best lettuce to use?

Butter (Boston) lettuce is highly recommended for its flexibility and crispness, making it ideal for wrapping. Iceberg lettuce is also a good alternative if butter lettuce isn’t available.

Can I use different vegetables?

Yes, the recipe is very flexible! Feel free to incorporate other crisp vegetables like thinly sliced red cabbage, bell peppers of different colors, or even bean sprouts for added crunch.

Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps

By Chelsea Lords

Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a quick, nutritious low-carb meal! Packed with seasoned chicken, crisp veggies, fresh herbs, crunchy peanuts, and a sweet peanut sauce, they’re ready in just 30 minutes.

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 12 lettuce wraps (3 to 4 servings)

Equipment

• Small blender

Ingredients

For the Lettuce Wraps

• 3/4 of 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 13 ounces)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 12 large Boston lettuce leaves or butter lettuce leaves
• 1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced into matchsticks (1 cup)
• 1-1/4 cup matchstick carrots (julienned)
• 1-1/4 cup matchstick Persian cucumber (julienned), or English cucumber (2 to 3 Persian cucumbers or 1 English)
• 2 to 3 tablespoons chopped peanuts
• Fresh lime juice for topping
• Fresh cilantro for topping

For the Peanut Sauce/Dressing

• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons water
• 1-1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1-1/2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, depending on your preference for heat)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a small, powerful blender, combine creamy peanut butter, honey, olive oil, water, rice vinegar, soy sauce, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate while you prepare the remaining components.
2. Prepare the Chicken: If chicken breasts are thick, remove any excess fat and slice them horizontally in half to create thinner cutlets. Pound the chicken pieces to a uniform thickness using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy frying pan. Pat both sides of the chicken dry with paper towels. Drizzle 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil onto one side of the chicken and rub it in. Sprinkle with half of the salt, pepper, turmeric, and cumin. Gently press the spices into the chicken. Flip the chicken, drizzle with the remaining olive oil, and season with the rest of the spices.
3. Cook the Chicken: Preheat an indoor or outdoor grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F). Generously oil the grill grates (refer to tip on oiling grates in the “Perfectly Cooked Chicken” section above). Place the seasoned chicken on the preheated grill and cook for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown, cooked through, and registers an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the grill, cover it loosely with foil, and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Once slightly cooled, dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. (For sautéing chicken instead, please see the “Alternative Chicken Cooking Methods” section above for detailed instructions.)
4. Prepare the Veggies: While the chicken is cooking, prepare your vegetables. Thinly slice the red bell pepper into matchstick-sized pieces. If not using pre-cut, julienne your carrots into matchsticks. Cut the Persian or English cucumber(s) into matchstick pieces. If your chopped peanuts are unsalted, you may add a small pinch of salt to the prepared vegetables for enhanced flavor. Finely chop the peanuts for topping.
5. Assemble and Serve: Wash and thoroughly dry the 12 Boston or butter lettuce leaves. Arrange them on serving plates. Divide the diced cooked chicken evenly among the lettuce cups. Top with the prepared matchstick vegetables and chopped peanuts. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing. Drizzle a generous amount of the prepared peanut sauce over each wrap immediately before enjoying.

Recipe Notes

• Adjusting Sweetness and Spice: The peanut sauce, as written, has a delightful sweetness that complements the fresh vegetables. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, begin by adding less honey and taste as you go. To increase the spice level, feel free to add more cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of chili sauce to your preference.
• Oiling Grill Grates: For best results and to prevent sticking, generously oil your grill grates before cooking the chicken. A simple method is to roll up a few paper towels, drench them in canola or vegetable oil, and use tongs to rub them along the hot grill grates.
• Storage: Store any leftover cooked chicken, prepared vegetables, and peanut sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For optimal freshness and texture, reheat the chicken gently and assemble fresh wraps just before serving.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

• Serving: 1 wrap
• Calories: 138 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg
• Sodium: 189 mg
• Potassium: 294 mg
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Vitamin A: 4063 IU
• Vitamin C: 23 mg
• Calcium: 22 mg
• Iron: 1 mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation only.