Get ready to transform your dinner routine with these mind-blowing Basil Chicken Lettuce Wraps that promise to tantalize your taste buds and transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Asia! In just 25 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that's not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive appetizer for your next gathering, these lettuce wraps are about to become your new culinary obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 head of butter lettuce, leaves separated
- Chopped peanuts for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping. Separate butter lettuce leaves carefully, rinse, and pat dry with paper towels. Set aside on a serving plate.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until chicken is completely cooked through and no longer pink.
- Pour soy sauce and sesame oil over the cooked chicken. Stir to combine and allow the liquid to slightly reduce and coat the meat, about 1-2 minutes.
- Remove skillet from heat and fold in freshly chopped basil, mixing thoroughly to distribute the herbs evenly throughout the chicken mixture.
- Transfer the hot chicken mixture to a serving bowl. Arrange the prepared lettuce leaves on the side, allowing guests to create their own wraps.
- Garnish with chopped peanuts just before serving for added crunch and texture. Serve immediately while the chicken is still warm.
Tips
- Choose the Right Lettuce: Butter lettuce works best for its soft, pliable leaves that create the perfect wrap. Make sure to carefully separate and pat the leaves dry to prevent sogginess.
- Achieve Perfect Chicken Texture: Break the ground chicken into small, uniform crumbles while cooking to ensure even seasoning and a consistent bite.
- Don't Overcook the Garlic: Sauté garlic and ginger quickly to release their flavors without burning, which can make the dish bitter.
- Fresh Basil is Key: Add the chopped basil at the end of cooking to preserve its bright, aromatic flavor and vibrant green color.
- Customize Your Wrap: Offer additional garnishes like sriracha sauce, lime wedges, or extra chopped peanuts to let guests personalize their wraps.
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the chicken mixture in advance and reheat just before serving, making this a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 85mg
