If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s both light and satisfying, look no further than this Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe. Combining tender chicken breast pieces with crunchy cashews, a perfect balance of savory and tangy sauce, and crisp lettuce cups, this recipe delivers an explosion of textures and flavors that feels like a celebration in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a casual gathering, these wraps are sure to become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every great dish starts with simple, fresh ingredients that bring bold flavors to life. Each component here plays an essential role—the chicken for protein and heartiness, the sauce for a rich umami punch, and the lettuce for a refreshing crunch that makes these wraps so fun to eat.
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into small pieces for quick and even cooking.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Seasoning basics that enhance the natural flavor of the chicken.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or stock: Adds moisture and depth to the sauce without overwhelming saltiness.
- 2 Tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: Provides a subtle saltiness and rich umami foundation.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger: Adds a burst of bright, warm spice to the dish.
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce: Brings sweetness and complexity, rounding out the savory flavors perfectly.
- 1 Tablespoon rice vinegar: Balances the sauce with a gentle tang.
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch: Thickens the sauce for that luscious consistency.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil (or canola oil): Adds a nutty richness and helps cook the chicken evenly.
- 1 – 2 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce: Adds a spicy kick—adjust to your liking!
- 3/4 cup unsalted cashews: Offers a delightful crunch and buttery flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 head green leafy lettuce (romaine, bib, or butter): Crisp and refreshing vessel for stuffing the flavorful chicken mixture.
- 5 green onions, chopped, divided: Provides freshness, vibrant color, and a mild onion bite.
How to Make Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning your diced chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple step is crucial because it creates a base layer of flavor that will carry you through to the very last bite.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, freshly grated ginger, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Stir everything thoroughly so the cornstarch dissolves completely—this mixture will become your thick, glossy sauce that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Warm the sesame or canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until they’re cooked through and slightly golden, about five minutes. Toss in the minced garlic toward the end and sauté just long enough to release its fragrant aroma without burning.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Turn the heat down to low and pour in the newly prepared sauce. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens up and envelops every piece of chicken with that delicious, sticky glaze. Add the Sriracha hot sauce here, adjusting to just the right level of heat for your taste buds. Then, fold in the crunchy unsalted cashews and most of the chopped green onions for a burst of color and mild sharpness.
Step 5: Serve and Assemble
Carefully spoon the chicken and cashew mixture into individual lettuce leaves. Top each wrap with the remaining green onions for extra freshness and a pop of vibrancy. These little bundles of flavor are now ready for you to enjoy.
How to Serve Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Garnishes
For a final touch, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or add fresh cilantro leaves to your wraps. These garnishes not only enhance the visual appeal but elevate the flavor profile with toasted nuttiness or herby brightness that complements the Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pairing your wraps with light, complementary sides can turn your meal into a delightful feast. Try serving with steamed jasmine rice, a crisp cucumber salad, or even some quick pickled vegetables to add a tangy counterpoint to the savory wraps.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, serve this Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe as part of a build-your-own wrap bar. Offer various toppings like shredded carrots, diced bell peppers, or sliced avocados. Let guests customize their wraps, which makes mealtime interactive and fun!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken mixture in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to three days, maintaining its flavor and texture, making lunch or a quick dinner a breeze.
Freezing
You can freeze the chicken mixture without the lettuce for up to two months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, making it a handy make-ahead option when you’re low on time.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken mixture gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave. Stir frequently to ensure even heating without drying out the chicken. Always add fresh lettuce at the time of serving to retain that satisfying crispness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and offer a richer flavor, which works wonderfully in this recipe. Just be sure to cut them into small, evenly sized pieces to cook thoroughly and quickly.
What lettuce varieties work best for wraps?
Green leaf lettuces like romaine, butter, or bibb lettuce are ideal because their leaves are sturdy yet tender, making them perfect vessels for holding the filling without tearing.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this dish?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and follow the same cooking process. Adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers can make it just as tasty and satisfying.
How spicy is the recipe with Sriracha?
The heat level is quite mild if you start with one teaspoon of Sriracha and increase gradually. It’s easy to customize based on your preference, so feel free to adjust to make it milder or spicier.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Definitely. The filling can be made up to a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just assemble the wraps when ready to serve, so the lettuce stays crisp and fresh.
Final Thoughts
This Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe is so much more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of textures, tastes, and easy cooking that fits right into your busy life. I promise once you give it a try, these wraps will be stealing the spotlight at many dinners to come. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and dive into a dish that feels like a hug wrapped in lettuce leaves!
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Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings 1x
Description
These Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a quick and flavorful dish combining tender, seasoned chicken with a savory hoisin and soy sauce glaze, crunchy cashews, and fresh green onions, all served in crisp lettuce cups for a perfect light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or stock
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Additional Ingredients
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil or substitute canola oil
- 1–2 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce, to taste
- 3/4 cup unsalted cashews
- 1 head green leafy lettuce (romaine, bib, or butter)
- 5 green onions, chopped, divided
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces evenly with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring each piece is lightly coated for enhanced flavor.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, low-sodium soy sauce, grated ginger, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch until fully combined and smooth.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the skillet and stir continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken evenly, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in Sriracha hot sauce to taste, then fold in the unsalted cashews and most of the chopped green onions.
- Serve: Spoon the chicken mixture into individual lettuce cups. Garnish each wrap with the remaining chopped green onions. Serve immediately for a fresh and crunchy meal.
Notes
- You can substitute cashews with chopped peanuts for a different nutty flavor.
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of Sriracha or add chili flakes.
- Leafy lettuce varieties like butter lettuce or bibb lettuce work best for wrapping and holding the filling.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure your soy sauce and hoisin sauce are gluten-free versions.
- This dish pairs well with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
