If you have been craving the crisp, savory taste of egg rolls but want a lighter, fresher alternative, this Chicken Lettuce Wraps Inspired by Egg Rolls Recipe is your new best friend. It captures all those bright and bold flavors we adore in traditional egg rolls, packed with tender chicken and vibrant veggies, but skips the deep frying and starchy wrappers. Each bite offers a delightful crunch wrapped in cool lettuce leaves, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, these wraps are as easy to make as they are addictive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh, and full of flavor — the ingredients in this dish are the backbone of its irresistible texture and taste. Using everyday items like cabbage and chicken, combined with the magic of ginger, garlic, and a savory-sweet sauce, you’ll be amazed how these basics come together to create something spectacular.
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, diced: The perfect protein base that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil: For that essential sautéing and subtle nutty aroma when using sesame oil.
- 3 cups shredded cabbage (green, Napa, or mix): Adds a satisfying crunch and freshness to balance the savory chicken.
- 1 large carrot, julienned or shredded: Brings sweetness and vibrant color to brighten each bite.
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced: Adds a tender crispness and a touch of natural sweetness.
- 3 green onions, sliced (reserve some for garnish): Enhances the flavor with a mild oniony freshness and a pop of green.
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced: For that warm, aromatic kick that makes the dish sing.
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated: Adds a zesty, peppery depth that pairs perfectly with garlic and soy.
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): The salty, umami-rich cornerstone of the sauce.
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar: Introduces a bright acidity that balances the sweetness.
- 1 tbsp sesame oil: Imparts a deep, nutty flavor essential for that egg roll vibe.
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup: A touch of natural sweetness to round out the sauce.
- 1 tsp sriracha or chili paste (optional for heat): Gives just the right amount of spice if you like a bit of a kick.
- Optional garnishes – sesame seeds, extra green onions, crispy wonton strips: These bring texture, crunch, and an extra layer of flavor to your wraps.
How to Make Chicken Lettuce Wraps Inspired by Egg Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating your choice of oil in a large skillet. The sizzle when the diced chicken hits the pan is pure satisfaction, signaling the start of a delicious journey. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper to enhance its natural flavor. Cook it until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Once done, set the chicken aside to keep warm. This step lays the savory foundation for the entire dish and ensures the chicken remains juicy and tender.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Using the same skillet means all those flavorful browned bits stay in play. Add the garlic and fresh ginger first and sauté briefly until fragrant—this quick step releases their aromatic magic that makes your kitchen smell heavenly. Next, toss in the cabbage, carrot, and bell pepper for a vibrant medley. Stir-fry for 4 to 5 minutes just until the vegetables become tender-crisp. This preserves their delightful crunch and ensures they bring both texture and freshness into your wraps.
Step 3: Combine & Sauce
Now for the best part: bringing everything together. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the veggies. Whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and optional sriracha, then pour this irresistible sauce over the mixture. Toss everything well to coat, letting the flavors meld together as it cooks an extra 1 to 2 minutes. This step infuses every bite with a perfect balance of salty, sweet, tangy, and a touch of heat—just like your favorite egg rolls but healthier.
Step 4: Serve
For serving, spoon the savory chicken and veggie mixture onto crisp lettuce leaves. Iceberg or butter lettuce work beautifully here, providing a cool crunch that complements the warm filling. You can also enjoy these wraps over a bed of rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice if you prefer keeping things low-carb. Top with optional garnishes like sesame seeds, more green onions, or crispy wonton strips to add extra flair and texture. Each wrap promises a flavorful, hands-on meal that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious.
How to Serve Chicken Lettuce Wraps Inspired by Egg Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes take these wraps from tasty to irresistible. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch, scatter fresh green onions to brighten the dish, or add crispy wonton strips when you want that satisfying crunch reminiscent of traditional egg rolls. These little extras elevate the texture and flavor, giving each bite a delightful surprise.
Side Dishes
While these wraps are fantastic on their own, pairing them with a few well-chosen side dishes can turn your meal into a feast. Consider a simple cucumber salad with a light dressing to keep things refreshing, or steamed edamame for extra protein and fiber. A bowl of jasmine or brown rice also makes a great accompaniment, offering a comforting base without overpowering the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the filling family-style in a beautiful platter alongside a basket of fresh lettuce leaves and small bowls of garnishes. Let everyone build their own wraps—it’s interactive, fun, and encourages everyone to customize their flavors. Alternatively, stack the assembled wraps on a new platter, arranging colorful garnishes on top for an eye-catching presentation that’s sure to be the conversation starter of any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You’re going to love how these wraps taste as leftovers. Store the cooked chicken and veggie mixture in an airtight container in the fridge, and keep the washed lettuce leaves separate to prevent sogginess. This meal stays fresh for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners during the week.
Freezing
Freezing chicken lettuce wraps is best done with just the filling. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Avoid freezing lettuce leaves as they become limp and lose their crispness once thawed.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the filling gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Adding a splash of water or extra soy sauce can help revive the sauce’s silkiness. Replace the warm filling into fresh, cold lettuce leaves for that perfect contrast of textures that keep this Chicken Lettuce Wraps Inspired by Egg Rolls Recipe a winner every time.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of diced chicken?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works wonderfully and cooks quickly. Just cook it thoroughly, breaking it up as it browns, then proceed with adding the veggies and sauce as usual.
What type of lettuce is best for wraps?
Butter lettuce and iceberg lettuce are favorites because their leaves are sturdy enough to hold the filling yet tender enough to bite through easily. Romaine can work too if you’re looking for a bit more crunch.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh and use tamari or soy sauce that’s vegan friendly. Make sure your sweetener suits your diet (maple syrup is vegan). You’ll still get incredible flavor and texture.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I omit the sriracha?
The sriracha adds a mild to moderate heat that can be adjusted to your taste. Feel free to omit it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor—the dish will still have plenty of savory and sweet notes.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! Prepare the filling in advance and keep it warm or reheat when guests arrive. Provide a platter of washed lettuce leaves and garnishes so everyone can assemble their own wraps, making for a fun and casual meal experience.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Lettuce Wraps Inspired by Egg Rolls Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—comforting, fresh, and utterly satisfying. It’s an easy recipe that delivers big on flavor with minimal fuss, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. Trust me, once you try making these wraps, they’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen too. So grab your ingredients and start wrapping!
Print
Chicken Lettuce Wraps Inspired by Egg Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Description
A healthy and flavorful egg roll-inspired stir-fry that’s packed with protein and fresh vegetables. This dish delivers all the deliciousness of an egg roll without the hassle of frying or using wrappers. Quick to make in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner and can be easily adapted to be low-carb or vegan.
Ingredients
Protein & Veggies
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, diced
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 3 cups shredded cabbage (green, Napa, or mix)
- 1 large carrot, julienned or shredded
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 3 green onions, sliced (reserve some for garnish)
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
Sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp sriracha or chili paste (optional for heat)
Optional Garnishes
- Sesame seeds
- Extra green onions
- Crispy wonton strips (for crunch)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook 5–6 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Veggies: In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger; sauté 30 seconds until fragrant. Add cabbage, carrots, and bell pepper. Stir-fry 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Combine & Sauce: Return chicken to the skillet. Stir together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and sriracha. Pour over chicken and veggies; toss to coat evenly. Cook 1–2 minutes more to heat through and allow flavors to meld.
- Serve: Serve over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, or crispy wonton strips as desired.
Notes
- Veggie Crunch: Don’t overcook the cabbage; it should stay slightly crisp.
- Meal Prep: This keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days and reheats quickly.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of soy sauce or drizzle of sriracha before serving.
- Make it Vegan: Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh.
