If you have been searching for a fresh, vibrant meal that bursts with flavor and is incredibly quick to prepare, this Easy Chicken Larb Lettuce Wraps Recipe is exactly what you need. Originating from Thailand, this dish showcases perfectly seasoned ground chicken mixed with bright herbs and a tangy dressing, all wrapped in crisp butter lettuce leaves. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a low-carb, gluten-free meal that feels light yet satisfying, making it a standout choice for lunch, dinner, or even entertaining guests without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a crucial role, either adding depth of taste, a burst of freshness, or a delightful crunch. These easily found staples come together to make an unforgettable dish that’s both wholesome and exciting.
- Vegetable oil: Used for a light sauté that keeps the chicken moist without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- Ground chicken: The lean protein base that soaks up all the seasoning beautifully.
- Garlic (minced): Adds aromatic warmth and savory depth with just a hint of pungency.
- Shallot (finely chopped): Brings a subtle, sweet onion flavor that balances the dish.
- Fish sauce: Essential for authentic Thai taste, offering umami and a salty punch.
- Soy sauce: Enhances flavor complexity and adds a slight caramel note.
- Lime juice: Injects a bright, zesty tang that lifts every bite.
- Sugar: Just a touch to balance acidity and saltiness perfectly.
- Chili flakes: Brings the heat—adjust to your liking to keep things lively.
- Fresh cilantro (chopped): Delivers that fresh, vibrant green herbaceousness crucial to larb.
- Fresh mint (chopped): Adds a cooling, fragrant contrast that complements the spice.
- Green onions (sliced): Provide crunch and a mild onion freshness.
- Toasted rice powder (optional): Adds authentic texture and a nutty crunch, elevating the experience.
- Butter lettuce leaves: The perfect soft, crisp wrap vessel to carry all the deliciousness.
How to Make Easy Chicken Larb Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken, breaking it up as it cooks so it browns evenly and fully cooks, usually around 5 to 7 minutes. This step is crucial for building the savory base that carries all the flavors in this Easy Chicken Larb Lettuce Wraps Recipe.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Once the chicken is cooked through, toss in the minced garlic and chopped shallot. Stir and cook them for 1 to 2 minutes until you can smell their fragrant, savory aroma. These ingredients add layers of flavor that make every forkful sing.
Step 3: Season the Mixture
Next, pour in the fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili flakes. Stir to combine and let everything cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes. This resting time lets the flavors marry into a perfectly balanced filling that is tangy, salty, spicy, and just a little sweet.
Step 4: Finish With Fresh Herbs and Texture
Remove the skillet from heat and gently mix in the chopped cilantro, mint, and green onions. These fresh herbs provide contrast and brightness. If you have toasted rice powder, sprinkle it in now for an authentic crunch that will make your Easy Chicken Larb Lettuce Wraps Recipe truly special.
Step 5: Assemble the Wraps
Carefully spoon the chicken mixture into the center of each butter lettuce leaf. These soft, tender leaves act like nature’s perfect little taco shell, holding all that flavorful goodness without overpowering it.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Larb Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can take these wraps to the next level. Fresh lime wedges on the side invite an extra squeeze of citrus. Sprinkle additional chopped herbs like cilantro or mint for more color and freshness. If you love heat, add thin slices of fresh chili or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce to amp up the spice.
Side Dishes
While these wraps are wonderful on their own, pairing them with simple sides can round out the meal. Think fragrant jasmine rice for those wanting to bulk up, crisp cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch, or steamed vegetables to keep the meal light and wholesome. A chilled Thai iced tea would make an ideal beverage to balance the spicy, citrusy flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Hosting a casual get-together? Lay out a platter with chicken larb, lettuce leaves, various garnishes, and sides so guests can customize their own wraps. Alternatively, serve the larb mixture over a bed of shredded cabbage or in crunchy rice paper for a playful twist on this classic. No matter how you plate it, the vibrant colors and textures make the Easy Chicken Larb Lettuce Wraps Recipe a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, keep the cooked chicken larb in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to store the lettuce separately to avoid sogginess and keep everything fresh and crisp when reheated or served later.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken mixture, but fresh herbs and lettuce don’t freeze well. Store the filling in a freezer-safe container and use within 1 month for best flavor. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and refresh with fresh herbs before serving.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken larb gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to keep it moist and evenly heated. Avoid overheating which can dry out the meat. Then, reassemble with fresh lettuce and herbs for that authentic burst of flavor you love.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and works well with the seasoning in the Easy Chicken Larb Lettuce Wraps Recipe. Just cook it the same way you would the chicken for equally delicious results.
What if I don’t have toasted rice powder?
No worries if you can’t find toasted rice powder. It adds texture and nuttiness, but the wraps will still taste amazing without it. Feel free to omit or try making your own by toasting rice in a dry pan and grinding it finely.
How spicy is this dish?
The chili flakes add a pleasant warmth that you can easily adjust. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce or omit the chili flakes. For more heat, add fresh Thai chilies or extra chili flakes when serving.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute ground chicken with crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Just be sure to keep the fish sauce out or use a vegetarian-friendly substitute like soy sauce or tamari.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it naturally is gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce. This makes the Easy Chicken Larb Lettuce Wraps Recipe a fantastic option for those avoiding gluten while still craving bold, fresh flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Larb Lettuce Wraps Recipe is a true gem that brings a delicious mix of tangy, savory, and fresh flavors to your table in under 20 minutes. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough to share with friends. I encourage you to try it out, savor every bite, and enjoy the little burst of Thailand in your own kitchen!
Print
Easy Chicken Larb Lettuce Wraps Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Easy Chicken Larb Lettuce Wraps are a flavorful and light Thai-inspired dish featuring ground chicken cooked with aromatic garlic, shallots, and fresh herbs, seasoned with fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, and chili flakes. Served in crisp butter lettuce leaves, these wraps provide a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors, ideal for a quick and healthy main course.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup toasted rice powder (optional, for authentic texture)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- 2 green onions, sliced
For Serving
- Butter lettuce leaves
- Extra lime wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the ground chicken.
- Cook the chicken: Add 1 pound ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes.
- Sauté aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and finely chopped shallot, cooking for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Add seasonings: Mix in 1 tablespoon fish sauce, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes. Let cook for another 2–3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Incorporate fresh herbs and rice powder: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint, and 2 sliced green onions. Sprinkle in 1/4 cup toasted rice powder if using, to add authentic texture.
- Assemble wraps: Spoon the chicken mixture into fresh butter lettuce leaves. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side for additional zest.
Notes
- Toasted rice powder adds a traditional Thai texture and flavor but can be omitted if you don’t have it on hand.
- Ground turkey or firm tofu can be used as substitutes for ground chicken to suit dietary preferences.
- For extra heat, feel free to add sliced fresh Thai chilies to the mix.
