Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Thai chicken lettuce wraps are a delicious and healthy dish that has gained popularity in recent years. Originating from Thailand, this dish has now become a popular appetizer in many Thai and fusion restaurants around the world. It is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among food lovers.
Lettuce is a low-calorie and nutrient-rich vegetable that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is also a great source of fiber, making it an ideal choice for those who are looking for a healthy and light meal. The perfect wrap to hold the filling.
The chicken filling is the star of this dish. The chicken cooks in a flavorful Thai sauce, which is a combination of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. The sauce is a blend of ingredients such as soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, and chili peppers.
The combination of the tender and juicy chicken with the crisp and fresh lettuce creates a delightful contrast in every bite. The lettuce also adds a refreshing crunch to the dish, making it a perfect summer meal. Serve with a side of peanut sauce, which complements the flavors of the chicken filling.
Apart from being delicious, Thai chicken lettuce wraps are also a healthy option. As the dish is made with lean chicken and vegetables, it is low in calories and fat. It is also gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions. The dish can also be customized to suit different dietary needs, such as substituting chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.
Thai chicken lettuce wraps are a great appetizer but also enjoyed as a main course. They are a complete meal on their own, providing a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber. The dish is also easy to make at home, making it a perfect option for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
In addition to being a delicious and healthy dish, Thai chicken lettuce wraps also offer various health benefits. Lettuce is a rich source of antioxidants, which help in boosting the immune system and fighting against diseases. It also aids in digestion and promotes weight loss. The chicken in this dish is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles. The vegetables used in the dish provide a good dose of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious meal option.
In conclusion, Thai chicken lettuce wraps are a perfect combination of flavors, textures, and health benefits. So, the next time you visit a Thai restaurant, do not forget to try this delicious and nutritious dish. You can also make it at home and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.
Thai Chicken Lettuce Wrap
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 onion-chopped
- 3 cloves garlic-minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger-grated
- 1 lb ground chicken see below to grind chicken breast
- 2/3 cup soy sauce
- 3 tbsp Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1.5 limes-juiced
- 1/4 cup fish sauce
- 2 tsp maple syrup
- 1/2 cup cilantro-chopped
- 1 cup carrots-julienned or shredded
- sesame seeds-garnish
- chopped dry roasted peanuts-garnish
- chopped scallions-garnish
- sriracha-garnish
- 1 head iceberg lettuce-washed, cored and halved
Instructions
- Heat oil in a wok and cook onions. Once onions are tender and translucent about 5 minutes add garlic and ginger. Cook for 3 more minutes.
- Add the chicken to the pan, breaking it up as it cooks, about 5 minutes. Season with a little salt and pepper.
- To make the sauce, combine the soy sauce, fish sauce, chili sauce, lime juice, and honey to a bowl and stir together.
- Add the sauce to the chicken. Toss to combine and reduce the heat to low, then add in carrots and most if the cilantro. Saving some for garnish. Cook for 2 minutes.
- To assemble the lettuce wraps add a big scoop of the chicken to a lettuce cup. Top chicken with garnishes and some of the pan sauce. Or make your own lettuce wrap sauce.
- The chicken reheats well so it makes a great leftover for lunch or dinner.