If you’re craving a meal that perfectly balances savory, sweet, and fresh, look no further than this Flavorful Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps – Light, Easy & Delicious Recipe. Imagine tender chicken bites glazed in rich teriyaki sauce, paired with crisp veggies and crunchy nuts, all wrapped snugly in cool, refreshing lettuce leaves. It’s a dish that feels indulgent without weighing you down, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer when guests arrive. Once you try this recipe, it just might become your go-to for a vibrant, crowd-pleasing meal that comes together effortlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role, whether adding flavor, color, or texture, and they combine to create that irresistible harmony you’ll adore.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1½ lb): Dice into small pieces so they cook quickly and absorb the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
- Sesame oil (2 tablespoons, divided): Adds a nutty aroma and depth that’s essential for authentic Asian flavors.
- Carrots (⅔ cup, shredded): Contribute a subtle sweetness and crunch to brighten every bite.
- Garlic clove (1, minced): Infuses the dish with a savory kick that wakes up your taste buds.
- Green onions (1 cup, sliced): Deliver freshness and a mild sharpness, both in the filling and as garnish.
- Red bell pepper (1 large, seeded and diced): Brings vibrant color and sweet crispness to the wraps.
- Water chestnuts (1 can, sliced and chopped): Provide an unexpected crunch that makes every bite exciting.
- Cashews or peanuts (⅔ cup, roughly chopped): Sprinkle these on top for rich texture and a buttery finish.
- Teriyaki sauce (1 cup, divided): The star of the dish, coating the chicken with its signature sweet-savory glaze.
- Romaine, iceberg, or butter lettuce leaves: Hold everything together with their crispness and mild flavor.
- Sesame seeds (2 tablespoons): A final elegant touch that adds nuttiness and visual appeal.
How to Make Flavorful Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps – Light, Easy & Delicious Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced chicken and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until fully cooked through and no longer pink at the center (aim for an internal temperature of 165°F). This quick cooking seals in the juices, keeping the chicken tender and ready to soak up the teriyaki sauce later. Once done, set the chicken aside so you can move on to the flavorful buildup of the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Pop in the minced garlic and about two-thirds of the sliced green onions, sautéing for roughly 30 seconds until their aroma fills your kitchen. This step creates a fragrant base that enhances the overall depth of the wraps.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Next, toss in the diced red bell pepper and chopped water chestnuts. Cook everything together for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables start to soften but still retain their delightful crunch. This balance is key to the texture contrast that makes these wraps so satisfying.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Pour in two-thirds of your teriyaki sauce, saving the rest for later. Stir everything together, letting the sauce meld with your veggies and aromatics for about 1 minute. This step infuses the dish with that unmistakable sweet-savory flavor that teriyaki lovers cherish.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Carrots
Return your cooked chicken and shredded carrots back to the skillet. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring each chicken piece is generously coated in sauce and combined with the colorful vegetables. Heat through just until the mixture is warm and inviting, perfectly ready for assembly.
Step 6: Assemble the Wraps
Grab fresh lettuce leaves to serve as your edible cups. Spoon the teriyaki chicken mixture into each leaf generously. Then, sprinkle with the remaining green onions, chopped cashews or peanuts, and finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds. For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle some of the reserved teriyaki sauce on top. These wraps are now ready to delight your senses!
How to Serve Flavorful Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps – Light, Easy & Delicious Recipe
Garnishes
For garnishes, keep it simple yet striking. Freshly sliced green onions add a crisp, mild bite, while sesame seeds contribute a toasty nuttiness and a lovely crunch. Finely chopped cashews or peanuts not only enhance the texture but also bring a buttery richness that complements the lightness of the lettuce. These little extras turn a simple wrap into a flavor-packed handheld delight.
Side Dishes
Think of sides that complement but don’t overshadow the wraps. A light Asian cucumber salad provides a refreshing counterpoint, while steamed jasmine rice can add a comforting element if you want something heartier. Miso soup or edamame are also excellent companions, keeping the meal well-rounded and true to the theme without extra fuss.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress friends at a casual gathering? Arrange the lettuce cups artistically on a platter with the chicken mixture in a bowl beside them, inviting everyone to assemble their own wraps. Alternatively, place small portions of filling onto each leaf and line them up on a long tray for an elegant appetizer spread. Adding colorful garnishes like thinly sliced red chili or fresh cilantro leaves can elevate the visual appeal and whet appetites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of the Flavorful Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps – Light, Easy & Delicious Recipe filling, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the lettuce leaves separate in a paper towel-lined container to maintain their crispness until you’re ready to serve again. This prevents sogginess and keeps your wraps fresh tasting.
Freezing
The chicken and vegetable filling freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to maintain the best texture and flavor. Avoid freezing the lettuce leaves, as they do not thaw well and lose their crispness.
Reheating
To reheat the filling, gently warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or extra teriyaki sauce if needed to keep it moist. This allows you to quickly refresh the flavors without drying out the chicken. Assemble the wraps fresh with cold lettuce leaves just before serving for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of lettuce?
Absolutely! While romaine, iceberg, or butter lettuce are classic choices for their crunch and sturdy leaves, you can experiment with other greens like bibb lettuce or even collard greens for a heartier wrap. Just aim for leaves that are flexible enough to hold the filling without breaking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
That depends on your teriyaki sauce. Many store-bought teriyaki sauces contain soy sauce, which has gluten. To keep the recipe gluten-free, look for gluten-free teriyaki sauce or make your own at home using tamari, a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a delicious meat-free version. Press and cube the tofu before cooking it the same way you would the chicken, allowing it to soak up the teriyaki sauce beautifully while keeping it light and satisfying.
How spicy is this dish? Can I add heat?
By default, this recipe is mild and focuses on sweet and savory notes. If you love spice, consider adding red pepper flakes, diced fresh chili, or a drizzle of sriracha either while cooking or as a topping. It will add a lively kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Can these wraps be served cold?
While traditionally served warm or at room temperature, the chicken mixture can also be enjoyed cold, especially on a hot day. Just be sure to assemble the wraps fresh with crisp lettuce. Refrigerate the filling until chilled and enjoy for a refreshing, healthy snack or lunch.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the ease and vibrant flavors packed into the Flavorful Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps – Light, Easy & Delicious Recipe. It’s a perfect combination of textures and tastes that feels like a treat while still being simple and quick to prepare. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend gathering, this dish invites you to enjoy wholesome ingredients wrapped up in a fun, customizable way. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved recipe in your kitchen!
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Flavorful Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps – Light, Easy & Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
These flavorful Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a light, easy, and delicious meal perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Tender diced chicken breasts are cooked with vibrant vegetables and a savory teriyaki sauce, then wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, handheld delight. Garnished with crunchy nuts and sesame seeds, these wraps offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 1½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil, divided
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce, divided
Vegetables and Aromatics
- ⅔ cup carrots, shredded
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 cup green onions, sliced (divided: ⅔ cup for cooking, remaining for garnish)
- 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 1 (8-ounce) can sliced water chestnuts, drained and chopped
Garnish and Wrap
- ⅔ cup cashews or peanuts, roughly chopped
- Romaine, iceberg, or butter lettuce leaves
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Add the minced garlic and ⅔ cup of sliced green onions. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring continuously, until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the diced red bell pepper and chopped water chestnuts to the skillet with the aromatics. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften but still retain some crunch.
- Add the Sauce: Pour in ⅔ of the teriyaki sauce, reserving the remaining third for later use. Stir well to coat the vegetables and cook for about 1 minute, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and flavors to meld.
- Combine Chicken and Carrots: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the shredded carrots. Stir everything together thoroughly and cook for another 2 minutes or until heated through and well combined.
- Assemble the Wraps: Spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture into clean lettuce leaves. Garnish each wrap with the remaining sliced green onions, roughly chopped cashews or peanuts, and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Drizzle with the reserved teriyaki sauce if desired for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use any crisp lettuce variety like romaine, iceberg, or butter lettuce for the best wrap texture.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free teriyaki sauce.
- Substitute cashews with peanuts or omit nuts for a nut-free option.
- To reduce sodium, choose a low-sodium teriyaki sauce or homemade alternative.
- To add heat, sprinkle with red pepper flakes or add sriracha to the sauce.
- Leftover filling can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.
