Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Instructions
4. Cooking Notes
5. Variations
6. Keto and Low-Carb Versions
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
8. Conclusion

If you’re craving a fresh, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion, look no further than Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps! These wraps are loaded with tender, juicy chicken cooked in a savory-sweet teriyaki sauce and wrapped in crisp, refreshing lettuce leaves. They’re perfect for a low-carb meal, a quick weeknight dinner, or even as an appetizer for a party.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can make these wraps in under 30 minutes! The combination of the savory chicken and the crunch of the lettuce makes for an irresistible bite, while the homemade teriyaki sauce adds that authentic Asian flavor you’ll love.

Let’s get started with this vibrant and mouthwatering recipe!

Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or sesame oil for added flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder (or 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger)
• 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought teriyaki sauce (see note for recipe)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon green onions (chopped, for garnish)

For the Lettuce Wraps:

• 1 head of butter lettuce, iceberg, or Romaine lettuce (leaves separated and washed)
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots (optional, for added crunch)
• 1/4 cup cucumber, thinly sliced (optional, for added freshness)
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional, for extra color and flavor)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves (optional, for a fresh, zesty garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. If using chicken breasts, make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

2. Make the Teriyaki Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, you can prepare your teriyaki sauce. If you’re using store-bought sauce, feel free to skip this step. For homemade sauce, combine the following ingredients in a small bowl:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken the sauce)

Whisk everything together and set aside. Once the chicken is cooked, pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and allow it to simmer for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld. If you’d like a thicker sauce, stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water and cook until it thickens to your liking.

3. Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, shred the chicken using two forks, pulling it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pan and toss it in the teriyaki sauce to coat it evenly.

4. Assemble the Lettuce Wraps

While the chicken is resting, prepare the lettuce leaves. Choose the most intact and large leaves, as they’ll be your “wraps.” Lay the leaves flat on a serving platter or plate.

Spoon a generous amount of the shredded teriyaki chicken mixture into each lettuce leaf. You can top the chicken with shredded carrots, cucumber slices, red bell pepper, and fresh cilantro for extra crunch and flavor. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a finishing touch.

5. Serve

Serve the wraps immediately! These Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps are best enjoyed fresh, while the lettuce is crisp and the chicken is warm.

6. Enjoy!

Dig in and enjoy the vibrant, savory, and healthy flavors of your homemade Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps!

Cooking Notes

• Chicken Thighs vs. Chicken Breasts: While both chicken thighs and breasts work well in this recipe, chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving, especially when cooking in a flavorful sauce like teriyaki. Chicken breasts are leaner and cook faster, but they may require a bit more attention to avoid drying out.
• Teriyaki Sauce: If you’re using store-bought teriyaki sauce, opt for a low-sodium version to avoid the dish becoming too salty. Alternatively, you can make a homemade teriyaki sauce to control the sweetness and salt content.
• Lettuce: Butter lettuce or Romaine lettuce works best for wraps because the leaves are sturdy but flexible. Iceberg lettuce is another option, but the leaves tend to be a bit more fragile. Choose large, unbroken leaves for easy wrapping.
• Vegetables: The vegetables in this recipe are optional, but they add a lovely freshness and texture to the wraps. You can also add thinly sliced avocado for a creamy addition.

Variations

• Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps: If you like a little heat, add a tablespoon of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the teriyaki sauce for a spicy kick. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of the wraps before serving.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or even a medley of sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian or vegan option. The teriyaki sauce pairs wonderfully with these plant-based alternatives.
• Grilled Chicken: For a smoky flavor, you can grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it. Simply season the chicken with the same spices and cook it on the grill for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked, then slice or shred it and toss with the teriyaki sauce.
• Additional Veggies: Add more colorful vegetables like shredded cabbage, edamame, or snap peas to your wraps for extra crunch and nutrition.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps are naturally low-carb and keto-friendly, thanks to the use of lettuce as the wrap instead of traditional tortillas or buns. However, to make this dish even more keto-friendly, be mindful of the sugar content in your teriyaki sauce:

• Use sugar-free teriyaki sauce or coconut aminos for a low-carb alternative.
• Opt for a low-carb or homemade teriyaki sauce that uses a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit to keep the carb count low.

Pair the wraps with a side of sautéed vegetables or cauliflower rice for a complete, keto-friendly meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make These Lettuce Wraps in Advance?

While the chicken mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, the lettuce wraps are best assembled just before serving to ensure the lettuce stays crisp. You can prepare all the toppings and fillings ahead of time and assemble them when ready to eat.

Can I Use Other Types of Lettuce for Wraps?

Yes, you can use other types of lettuce like Romaine, butterhead, or even kale leaves, though kale is a bit tougher and may need to be softened. The most important thing is to choose large, sturdy leaves that can hold the fillings without tearing.

Can I Make These Wraps Spicy?

Absolutely! If you like spice, you can add sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce for some heat. Adjust the spice level to your preference!

How Can I Store Leftover Teriyaki Chicken?

If you have any leftover chicken, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, the lettuce wraps are best enjoyed fresh, so it’s recommended to store the filling separately from the lettuce leaves and assemble when ready to eat.

Can I Use Grilled Chicken for This Recipe?

Yes! Grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor that complements the teriyaki sauce. Grill the chicken before shredding it and tossing it in the sauce for a slightly different flavor profile.

Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps are the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and fresh flavors, all wrapped up in a crisp lettuce leaf. These wraps are quick to make, healthy, and versatile, making them a great addition to your recipe collection. Whether you’re looking for a light meal, a snack, or an appetizer, this dish fits the bill.

Give them a try today, and enjoy the delicious, bold flavors of these Asian-inspired wraps!