Delicious & Healthy PF Chang’s Style Chicken Lettuce Wraps (Low Carb & Easy!)

Craving the vibrant flavors of your favorite Asian restaurant without the guilt? Look no further! These healthy chicken lettuce wraps are a homemade rendition of the beloved PF Chang’s classic, reimagined to be lower in carbs, sugar, and sodium. They offer a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes, wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing bite. This incredibly quick and easy recipe takes less than 20 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a impressive appetizer for entertaining guests. Prepare to delight your family and friends with this fresh, flavorful, and guilt-free meal.

These flavorful wraps are more than just a meal; they’re an experience. They capture the essence of Asian cuisine with aromatic ginger and garlic, perfectly seasoned ground chicken, and a delightful crunch from water chestnuts, all embraced by fresh, crisp lettuce. It’s a meal that feels indulgent yet aligns perfectly with a healthy lifestyle, offering an incredible taste that proves healthy food can be utterly delicious and satisfying for everyone, even the pickiest eaters.

Why This Recipe Works: Your New Favorite Healthy Meal

This recipe for chicken lettuce wraps is a game-changer for anyone seeking a delicious, healthy, and incredibly fast meal. It works wonders because it delivers an authentic Asian-inspired flavor profile with significantly less sugar and sodium compared to traditional takeout or even popular restaurant versions like those from PF Chang’s. By opting for a low-carb approach, we ensure that you and your family can enjoy a satisfying meal without compromising on health goals.

The beauty of these wraps lies in their simplicity and speed. All the ingredients are readily available at any grocery store, and the entire cooking process from start to finish takes less than 20 minutes. This makes it a perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you need a wholesome meal on the table fast. What’s even better is that my own kids, who can be quite particular, absolutely adore this recipe. They never felt like they were missing out on anything from the original, sugar-laden versions, which speaks volumes about its irresistible taste and texture. It’s a healthy dish that genuinely pleases everyone, making it a staple in any clean eating repertoire. The combination of lean ground chicken, crunchy water chestnuts, and a savory sauce creates a dynamic texture and flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

The Secret to Perfect Lettuce Wraps: Ingredients

Crafting the perfect chicken lettuce wrap begins with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients that build layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that sought-after balance of savory, sweet, and spicy that defines this dish.

• **Olive Oil & Sesame Oil:** A blend of light olive oil provides a neutral base for sautéing, while a touch of sesame oil introduces that distinctive nutty, aromatic Asian flavor.
• **Onion & Garlic:** These essential aromatics form the foundation of our flavor, bringing depth and fragrance to the chicken filling.
• **Ground Chicken:** Lean ground chicken is the star protein. It cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully. You can also use ground turkey for a similar healthy profile.
• **Fresh Ginger:** Grated fresh ginger is non-negotiable for an authentic Asian taste. Its zesty, slightly spicy kick elevates the entire dish.
• **Natural Almond Butter:** This might seem unconventional, but almond butter adds a creamy richness and subtle nutty sweetness, contributing to the sauce’s body and complexity.
• **Tamari:** A gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, Tamari provides the savory umami depth without the gluten. If gluten isn’t a concern, low-sodium soy sauce can be used.
• **Rice Wine Vinegar:** This offers a crucial tang and acidity that brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the other ingredients.
• **Low-Carb Sweetener:** To mimic the slight sweetness often found in Asian sauces, a low-carb sweetener like erythritol, stevia, monk fruit, or sugar-free maple syrup is used. Adjust to your preferred sweetness level.
• **Sriracha (Optional):** For those who enjoy a little heat, a tablespoon of Sriracha or any hot sauce adds a pleasant kick. Adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance.
• **Chinese Five Spice:** This aromatic blend of star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, Szechuan peppercorns, and fennel seeds infuses the dish with an unmistakable warmth and authentic Asian character.
• **Canned Water Chestnuts:** Drained and chopped, these provide a wonderful, crisp texture contrast to the soft chicken filling. They are optional if you want to further reduce carb count.
• **Green Onions:** Used both in the filling and as a garnish, green onions add a fresh, mild oniony flavor and a pop of color.
• **Salt & Black Pepper:** Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best in all the ingredients.
• **Butter Lettuce:** The ideal vessel for these wraps, butter lettuce (also known as Boston or Bibb lettuce) has soft, pliable, and perfectly cup-shaped leaves, offering a delicate crunch.

When selecting your ingredients, prioritize fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor. For the ground chicken, choose a lean variety to keep the dish healthy. Ensure your almond butter is natural, without added sugars or oils, to maintain the low-carb and clean eating focus. These thoughtful ingredient choices are key to creating chicken lettuce wraps that are both nutritious and incredibly satisfying.

Step-by-Step Guide: Recipe Instructions

Making these healthy chicken lettuce wraps is incredibly straightforward, even for novice cooks. Follow these simple steps to bring this flavorful dish to life in under 20 minutes.

1. **Prepare Your Aromatics:** In a large non-stick skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and emits a fragrant aroma.
2. **Infuse with Garlic:** Add the 2 minced large garlic cloves to the pan with the sautéed onions. Continue to cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly turn bitter.
3. **Brown the Chicken:** Introduce 1 pound of ground chicken to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to vigorously break the chicken apart into small, uniform crumbles. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring periodically, until it is mostly cooked through and no longer shows any pink. If there’s any excess liquid or fat, you can carefully drain it at this stage.
4. **Flavor Infusion:** Now, it’s time to build the rich flavor profile. Add the 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger, 1 tablespoon of natural almond butter, 3 tablespoons of Tamari, 4 teaspoons of rice wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of your chosen low-carb sweetener, 1 tablespoon of Sriracha (if you like heat), and a pinch of Chinese five spice powder to the chicken mixture. Stir all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the savory sauce.
5. **Add Texture & Finish:** Stir in the drained and finely chopped 1 can (8oz) of water chestnuts (if using) and 2 stalks of finely chopped green onions. Continue to cook for just another 1-2 minutes, stirring gently. This brief cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the water chestnuts retain their delightful crunch.
6. **Season to Perfection:** Season the chicken mixture with ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your personal preference for saltiness and spice. Turn off the heat.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:** To serve, separate the leaves of 1 head of butter lettuce. Spoon generous portions of the warm, savory chicken filling into individual lettuce cups. For an extra touch of freshness and presentation, garnish with additional chopped green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately and savor every delicious, healthy bite!

Master Your Wraps: Expert Tips

Achieving restaurant-quality chicken lettuce wraps at home is easy with a few simple tricks. These expert tips will help you elevate your dish and ensure a perfect experience every time.

• **Optimizing Oil Flavor:** The recipe calls for a mixture of light olive oil and sesame oil. This blend is often preferred for its balanced flavor, as pure sesame oil can be quite intense for some palates. If your family enjoys a very pronounced sesame flavor, feel free to use all sesame oil, or adjust the ratio to your liking. Alternatively, if you’re out of sesame oil, a little toasted sesame seed sprinkled at the end can add a similar aroma.
• **Sweetener Customization:** The beauty of homemade recipes is the ability to customize. For the low-carb sweetener, you can use anything you prefer and have on hand. Popular options include erythritol, stevia, monk fruit, or even a sugar-free maple syrup. Always taste as you go and adjust the quantity to reach your desired level of sweetness, as different sweeteners have varying potencies.
• **Further Carb Reduction:** Water chestnuts add a delightful crunch, but if you’re aiming to lower the carbohydrate count even further, you can simply omit them from the recipe. The wraps will still be incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Another tip for carb reduction is to ensure you’re using fresh, crisp lettuce leaves rather than relying on any carb-heavy sides.
• **Protein Alternatives:** While ground chicken is fantastic in this recipe, it’s also highly adaptable. You can easily substitute ground turkey, ground pork, or even a combination of meats. For a plant-based option, finely crumbled extra-firm tofu or tempeh can be used, just be sure to press out excess water from the tofu before cooking for the best texture.
• **Meal Prep Savvy:** These chicken lettuce wraps are excellent for meal prepping. Cook the chicken filling completely, then let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat the filling gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, and serve with freshly washed and separated lettuce leaves for maximum crispness.
• **Adjusting Spice Levels:** The Sriracha adds a pleasant warmth. If you prefer a milder wrap, reduce or omit the Sriracha. For an extra fiery kick, increase the amount of Sriracha or add a pinch of dried red chili flakes along with the other spices.
• **Serving Fresh:** Always serve the lettuce leaves and the chicken filling separately. This allows each person to assemble their own wraps, ensuring the lettuce remains perfectly crisp until the moment of consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Navigating new recipes can sometimes bring up questions. Here are some of the most common inquiries about making delicious and healthy chicken lettuce wraps.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These healthy chicken lettuce wraps are wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed in several ways, whether as a light appetizer or a fulfilling main course. For a simple and elegant appetizer, arrange the lettuce cups and the warm chicken filling on a large platter, allowing guests to assemble their own. If you’re serving them as a main dish, consider pairing them with a side of cauliflower rice or a simple Asian-inspired cucumber salad for a complete low-carb meal.

To vary the flavor profile, you could experiment with different dipping sauces like a light peanut sauce (ensure it’s low-sugar) or a sweet chili sauce. For added texture and flavor, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, or even a few crispy fried shallots over the filling before serving. Don’t hesitate to play with the spices; a dash of red pepper flakes can turn up the heat, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice can add extra brightness. The possibilities are endless for customizing these wraps to your personal taste!

Related Healthy Asian Recipes

If you’re embracing a healthier, low-carb lifestyle, or simply looking for more delicious Asian-inspired meals, here are some fantastic recipes that complement these chicken lettuce wraps:

• Keto Cloud Bread: Incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients, this versatile keto cloud bread can serve as a soft, airy accompaniment to your wraps, or be used to mop up any leftover delicious sauce. It’s a great low-carb alternative to traditional bread rolls.

More Irresistible Asian Inspired Dinners

Expand your repertoire of Asian-inspired dishes with these flavorful and convenient recipes, perfect for any night of the week:

• Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice: This quick and easy one-pot dinner is guaranteed to become a repeat favorite. Featuring tender chicken, a vibrant blend of vegetables, fluffy rice, and scrambled egg, it’s a satisfying and incredibly delicious Asian-inspired meal made effortlessly in your Instant Pot.
• This Panda Express Sweetfire Chicken Copycat Recipe is the ultimate solution for satisfying those sweet and spicy cravings without the need for takeout. Enjoy crispy, flavorful chicken coated in a perfectly balanced sweet and tangy sauce, delivering an explosion of taste in every single bite.
• Why wait in line for takeout when you can easily recreate Panda Express Mushroom Chicken iconic dish at home? Tender bites of chicken and earthy mushrooms are stir-fried in a savory ginger-soy sauce, and it’s all ready to serve in under 30 minutes for a fresh, healthy, and delicious meal.

Healthier and often more flavorful than their restaurant counterparts, these chicken lettuce wraps are truly a fantastic option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The leftovers are equally delicious for lunch the next day, making meal prep a breeze. If you try this recipe, please don’t forget to give it a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ star rating and share a photo of your finished dish. I always enjoy seeing your culinary creations and how you make the recipe your own. Thank you!

Healthy & Quick Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Crafted for flavor and health, these Chicken Lettuce Wraps offer a delicious, low-carb alternative to your favorite takeout. Perfect as a speedy lunch, light dinner, or impressive party appetizer, they’re packed with savory goodness and ready in minutes.

5 from 2 votes

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe
Rate This Recipe
Save Recipe

Course: Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine: Asian, American

Diet: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free (with Tamari), Halal

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: Approximately 288 kcal per serving

Author: Amira

Ingredients

• 1 Tablespoon light olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 large (180g) onion, finely chopped
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound ground chicken (or ground turkey)
• 1 Tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 Tablespoon natural almond butter
• 3 Tablespoons Tamari (or low-sodium soy sauce)
• 4 teaspoons rice wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon low-carb sweetener of your choice (e.g., erythritol, sugar-free maple syrup)
• 1 Tablespoon Sriracha or your preferred hot sauce (optional, adjust to taste)
• Pinch of Chinese five spice powder
• 1 can (8oz) water chestnuts, drained and finely chopped (optional for lower carbs)
• 2 stalks green onions, finely chopped, plus more for garnish
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• 1 head butter lettuce (Boston or Bibb), leaves separated and washed

Instructions

1. In a large non-stick skillet or wok, heat the olive oil and sesame oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
2. Add the minced garlic to the pan and continue to cook for another 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the chicken apart into small crumbles. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is mostly cooked through and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
4. Stir in the grated fresh ginger, natural almond butter, Tamari, rice wine vinegar, your chosen low-carb sweetener, Sriracha (if using), and Chinese five spice powder. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined and the chicken is coated evenly with the sauce.
5. Add the drained and chopped water chestnuts (if using) and the chopped green onions to the pan. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring gently, allowing the flavors to meld and the water chestnuts to warm through while retaining their crunch.
6. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your preference. Remove from heat.
7. To serve, spoon the savory chicken mixture into individual butter lettuce leaves. Garnish with additional chopped green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or a drizzle of extra Sriracha if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe Video

Watch this quick video to see how easily these delicious Low Carb Chicken Lettuce Wraps come together. Perfect for visual learners!

Chef’s Notes and Tips

• **Oil Blend:** The recipe uses a balanced mix of light olive oil and sesame oil to avoid an overly intense sesame flavor. For a more pronounced sesame profile, feel free to use all sesame oil, or adjust the ratio to your liking.
• **Tamari vs. Soy Sauce:** Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, often with a richer, less salty flavor. If Tamari is unavailable, low-sodium soy sauce can be substituted, but be mindful that the overall sodium content will be higher.
• **Sweetener Options:** Any low-carb sweetener you prefer can be used. Popular choices include erythritol, stevia, monk fruit, or sugar-free maple syrup. Adjust the quantity based on the sweetness level of your chosen sweetener and your personal taste.
• **Reducing Carbs:** For an even lower carbohydrate count, simply omit the water chestnuts. While they add a delightful crunch, the dish remains delicious without them.
• **Storage:** Leftover chicken filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Store lettuce leaves separately to maintain their crispness. Reheat the filling gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving with fresh lettuce cups.
• **Spice Adjustment:** If you enjoy more heat, increase the amount of Sriracha or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture.
• **Serving Suggestion:** These wraps are fantastic as a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or an impressive appetizer for gatherings. Consider serving them with a side of cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb meal.

Please refer to our nutrition disclaimer policy for detailed information.

Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate)

Calories: 288.3 kcal | Carbohydrates: 11.4g | Protein: 24.6g | Fat: 16.5g | Saturated Fat: 3.5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.7g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1.3g | Cholesterol: 95mg | Sodium: 886.2mg | Potassium: 221.3mg | Fiber: 2.7g | Sugar: 2.9g | Vitamin C: 14.2mg | Calcium: 5.1mg | Iron: 13.7mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Tried this Recipe? Pin it for Later!

Mention @AmirasPantry or tag #AmirasPantry!

This recipe was first published on January 31, 2020. It was last updated on February 09, 2021, with important tips, clearer step-by-step instructions, and improved readability to enhance your cooking experience.