Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a fresh, flavorful meal that combines savory shredded chicken with a creamy, slightly spicy peanut sauce wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves. The balance of sweet, salty, tangy, and spicy flavors makes this dish incredibly satisfying while still feeling light and refreshing. Perfect for quick lunches, easy dinners, or party appetizers, these wraps come together quickly using cooked chicken and a simple homemade sauce. Topped with crunchy vegetables, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lime, they offer bold Thai inspired flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes (for warming chicken and sauce)
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
1 lb cooked, shredded chicken
1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp sriracha (or more to taste)
1 to 2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
1 to 2 tbsp warm water (to thin sauce)
12 to 16 butter lettuce leaves or romaine leaves
Toppings:
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup chopped peanuts
3 green onions, sliced
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
For Serving:
Lime wedges
Instructions
In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sriracha, garlic, and grated ginger until smooth.
Add warm water one tablespoon at a time until the sauce reaches a creamy, pourable consistency.
Place shredded chicken in a skillet over medium low heat.
Pour the peanut sauce over the chicken and stir to coat evenly.
Warm for 3 to 5 minutes until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Taste and adjust seasoning with extra sriracha, honey, or soy sauce if desired.
Gently separate lettuce leaves and rinse them under cold water. Pat dry carefully.
Spoon a portion of the warm peanut chicken mixture into the center of each lettuce leaf.
Top with shredded carrots, chopped peanuts, green onions, and cilantro.
Serve immediately with lime wedges for squeezing over the wraps before eating.
Tips
Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
Choose sturdy lettuce leaves that can hold filling without tearing.
Warm the peanut butter slightly if it is too thick to mix easily.
Adjust sauce thickness gradually with warm water to avoid making it too runny.
Taste the sauce before adding it to the chicken to fine tune sweetness or spice.
Finely shred chicken so it absorbs the sauce more evenly.
Pat lettuce dry well so the wraps stay crisp and do not become soggy.
Add toppings just before serving for maximum crunch and freshness.
If preparing for guests, set up a toppings bar so everyone can build their own wraps.
Store extra sauce separately for drizzling or dipping.
Variations
Swap chicken with cooked ground turkey or tofu for a different protein option.
Use crunchy cabbage leaves instead of lettuce for a sturdier wrap.
Add thinly sliced red bell peppers for extra sweetness and color.
Include chopped mango or pineapple for a tropical twist.
Mix in cooked rice noodles for a more filling version.
Use almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for allergy friendly options.
Add chili flakes or extra sriracha for a spicier kick.
Sprinkle sesame seeds over the wraps for a nutty finish.
Add shredded purple cabbage for extra crunch and visual appeal.
Turn the filling into a rice bowl by serving it over steamed jasmine rice instead of lettuce.
Q&A
Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it can be prepared up to three days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Can I serve this cold?
Yes, the wraps taste great both warm and chilled.
What lettuce works best?
Butter lettuce and romaine are sturdy and flexible choices.
How do I make it less spicy?
Reduce or omit the sriracha.
Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Absolutely, this recipe is perfect for leftovers.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store chicken filling in the fridge for up to three days.
Is this recipe gluten free?
Use gluten free soy sauce or tamari if needed.
Can I freeze the filling?
Yes, freeze the chicken mixture without lettuce or toppings.
What sides pair well with these wraps?
Rice, cucumber salad, or light noodles work nicely.
Can I make it vegan?
Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use maple syrup instead of honey.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 28 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 540 mg
Conclusion
Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps offer a vibrant combination of bold flavors and fresh textures in a quick, easy meal. The creamy peanut sauce, tender chicken, and crunchy toppings create a satisfying balance that feels both light and filling. With minimal cooking time and plenty of flexibility for customization, this recipe works well for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or healthy meal prep. Once you try these wraps, they are likely to become a regular favorite thanks to their simplicity, flavor, and versatility.