Asian Sesame Chicken Lettuce Wraps

If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s both light and satisfying, these Asian Sesame Chicken Lettuce Wraps are exactly what you need. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken breast with the perfect balance of savory soy, sweet honey, and a hint of zingy rice vinegar – all wrapped up in crisp lettuce leaves. Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight dinner or bringing it to a gathering, these wraps are guaranteed to please every palate. Plus, they’re packed with fresh veggies and a nutty sesame finish that keeps every bite exciting.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Asian Sesame Chicken Lettuce Wraps hit all the right notes: they’re fresh, flavorful, and fun to eat. The crisp lettuce makes them feel light and healthy, while the chicken filling is juicy and loaded with umami. The sesame oil and seeds add a toasty depth that makes these wraps addictive. They’re perfect for sharing because everyone can customize their own wraps with extra veggies or sauces. Plus, they’re easy to make and come together quickly, so you don’t have to spend all day in the kitchen. If you love dishes like Instant Pot General Tsos Chicken or Sesame Ginger Chicken Soba Noodles, you’ll adore these lettuce wraps as a lighter, yet equally delicious alternative.

Ingredient Checklist

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced – tender, lean protein that soaks up the sauce beautifully
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil – for that signature toasted sesame flavor
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – adds pungent aroma and depth
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated – brings brightness and a little bite
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium) – salty umami base for the chicken
• 1 tablespoon honey – balances the savory with a touch of sweetness
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – adds acidity and tang
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – thickens the sauce to a glossy finish
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced – freshness and color
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots – crunch and sweetness
• 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers – vibrant color and crisp texture
• Lettuce leaves for wrapping – butter lettuce or iceberg work best for sturdy wraps
• Sesame seeds for garnish – nutty crunch and pretty finish

Before You Start: Equipment

• Large skillet or wok – for cooking the chicken and veggies evenly
• Mixing bowl – to combine the sauce ingredients smoothly
• Sharp knife and cutting board – for prepping chicken and vegetables
• Measuring spoons and cups – to get the perfect balance of flavors
• Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring without scratching your cookware
• Serving platter or individual plates – to arrange your beautiful lettuce wraps

Step-by-Step: Asian Sesame Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and cornstarch until smooth. This mixture will thicken beautifully as it cooks, coating the chicken with a glossy, flavorful glaze.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat the sesame oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds to release their fragrant oils—don’t let them burn!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet, tossing everything to coat the chicken evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the chicken pieces.

Step 5: Stir in Veggies

Add the shredded carrots, chopped bell peppers, and sliced green onions. Stir for a minute just to warm the veggies while keeping their crunch.

Step 6: Assemble the Wraps

Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture into a lettuce leaf. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for that irresistible nutty crunch. Fold the lettuce around the filling and enjoy!

Health-Conscious Tweaks

• Use ground chicken breast instead of diced for quicker cooking and easier wrapping.
• Swap honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly sweetener.
• Replace white rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a milder tang.
• Load up on extra veggies like shredded cabbage or bean sprouts to boost fiber.
• Serve with brown rice or quinoa on the side for a more filling meal.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

If your sauce is too thick, simply stir in a splash of water or extra soy sauce to loosen it up. On the flip side, if it’s too thin, keep cooking a little longer to reduce and thicken it. Overcooked chicken can become dry; to avoid this, cut the chicken into uniform pieces so they cook evenly and time your cooking carefully. Lastly, if your lettuce leaves tear easily, try using sturdier varieties like iceberg or Romaine hearts instead of more delicate options.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Store any leftover chicken mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the lettuce leaves separate to prevent sogginess. While the chicken mixture freezes well for up to 2 months, the lettuce does not freeze well and will become watery. To reheat, warm the chicken filling gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally. Then assemble fresh wraps right before serving for the best texture.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Can I use ground chicken instead of diced chicken breast?

Absolutely! Ground chicken cooks faster and works wonderfully in this recipe. Just brown it thoroughly and proceed with the sauce and veggies as usual.

What lettuce works best for wraps?

Butter lettuce is a favorite for wraps because of its soft texture and natural cup shape. However, iceberg or Romaine hearts are great alternatives if you want something sturdier.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also serve with sriracha on the side for dipping.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the chicken mixture a day ahead and refrigerate. Just reheat before serving and assemble the wraps fresh so the lettuce stays crisp.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Craving more Asian-inspired dishes? Try Egg Roll In A Bowl for a deconstructed, skillet-friendly meal.
• For a comforting noodle recipe, check out Sesame Ginger Chicken Soba Noodles—it’s packed with bold flavors.
• Looking for another chicken recipe with a twist? The Instant Pot General Tsos Chicken is a crowd favorite that’s easy to make.

Before You Go

Don’t forget to prep your veggies ahead to save time when cooking. These wraps come together in under 30 minutes, making them your go-to for a fast yet impressive meal. Experiment with different veggies or add crunch with chopped nuts for your own twist. And as always, remember to garnish generously with sesame seeds—they make every bite special.

Asian Sesame Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a delicious, healthy option that will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. Their balance of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors wrapped in crisp lettuce makes them irresistible. Serve them up at your next dinner and watch how quickly they disappear!

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