Save Tender chicken coated in a rich Thai peanut sauce, wrapped in crisp lettuce and loaded with crunchy vegetables—these lettuce wrap tacos are a fresh, colorful meal that feels both satisfying and light. When I need a speedy but vibrant dinner that everyone loves, this recipe is my first pick.
The first time I made these was on a humid summer night when turning on the oven was a no go. They disappeared off the table in minutes and now pop up on my meal plan all year round.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast or thigh strips: Tender and juicy choose boneless and skinless for easy slicing and quick cooking
- Vegetable oil: Helps brown the chicken evenly and keeps it from sticking
- Salt and pepper: Essential basics that bring out the natural flavors of the chicken
- Creamy peanut butter: This forms the heart of the sauce Choose a natural version with only peanuts for the best flavor
- Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami element Low sodium or gluten free options work perfectly
- Lime juice: Adds brightness and fresh tang Use freshly squeezed for a vibrant lift
- Honey: Offers subtle sweetness which pairs beautifully with nutty and spicy notes
- Rice vinegar: Brings acidity and balances the richness of the peanut butter
- Sesame oil: Provides deep nutty fragrance Just a dab goes a long way
- Sriracha or chili garlic sauce: Delivers mild heat and complexity Adjust to your preferred spice level
- Warm water: Loosens the sauce and ensures a silky texture
- Butter lettuce leaves: These make perfect taco shells for a crisp clean bite Look for leaves wide enough to hold your filling
- Carrot and cucumber julienned: Each adds crunch and sweet coolness Choose fresh produce for extra crispness
- Spring onions: Brings mild onion flavor and color Thinly slice for even distribution
- Roasted peanuts: Sprinkle over for crunch and a roasted finish Chop coarsely for best texture
- Fresh cilantro: Gives a herbal citrusy lift Pick vibrant green leaves
- Lime wedges: Serve on the side for a splash of extra tang
Instructions
- Make the Peanut Sauce:
- In a medium sized mixing bowl whisk peanut butter soy sauce lime juice honey rice vinegar sesame oil sriracha and warm water together until smooth and pourable Take time to fully dissolve the peanut butter and blend the flavors
- Brown the Chicken:
- Season chicken strips lightly with salt and pepper Heat oil in a large skillet over medium to high heat Add chicken in an even layer letting each piece touch the pan Cook undisturbed for two minutes to get good color Stir and continue cooking for six to eight minutes until just cooked through with golden edges
- Coat in Peanut Sauce:
- Lower the heat to low Pour your prepared peanut sauce over the cooked chicken Toss thoroughly to coat every strip and let it simmer for two to three minutes so the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken Turn off the heat so the sauce does not scorch
- Prepare Lettuce and Toppings:
- While the chicken is cooking gently separate lettuce leaves Rinse and pat them completely dry Lay out julienned carrots cucumber sliced spring onions chopped peanuts and cilantro so your toppings are ready
- Assemble the Lettuce Wrap Tacos:
- Spoon a generous amount of warm peanut chicken mixture into the center of each lettuce leaf Arrange carrots cucumber spring onion peanuts and cilantro on top for color and crunch
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Plate the lettuce wraps and nestle lime wedges on the side Encourage everyone to squeeze fresh lime over each taco just before eating for a bright finish Serve immediately to keep the lettuce crisp
Save I have a soft spot for real roasted peanuts on top They add just the right amount of crunch and a nutty aroma that lingers after each bite Growing up my mom always said a sprinkle of chopped peanuts could turn anything into a celebration and with this dish it truly does
Storage Tips
For best texture store the cooked peanut chicken filling in a sealed container in the fridge up to three days Keep the lettuce leaves and chopped veggies dry and separate Assemble wraps just before eating so the lettuce stays crisp If you have leftovers pack the filling and veggies for an easy lunch and add fresh lettuce at work
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap chicken for tofu or shrimp both pick up the flavors of the sauce beautifully If you do not have sriracha try sambal oelek or a touch of chili flakes For extra crunch red bell pepper or purple cabbage both work nicely If you need it nut free sunflower seed butter and roasted seeds make great substitutes
Serving Suggestions
These wraps are delicious as a light main dish but they also make fun appetizers at gatherings Add sticky jasmine rice or a simple slaw on the side Pair with a glass of crisp Riesling or a light lager for true Thai fusion flair For a picnic or potluck serve all the elements separately so everyone can build their own
Cultural and Historical Context
Lettuce wraps are a popular way to enjoy punchy flavors while keeping food light and fresh in Thai and Southeast Asian cooking Peanut sauce evolved as a key part of satay tradition and has been adapted worldwide for salads and street food Inspired by these roots, this dish bridges everyday tacos and Thai food for an easy fusion meal
Seasonal Adaptations
Use tender baby lettuce in the spring for a more delicate bite Radish or snap peas add snap in the summer Swap in roasted squash cubes for an autumnal twist
Success Stories
The first time I served these for friends they could not believe how easy it was The vibrant colors and fresh crunch instantly made the table feel festive Even picky eaters love the sweet nutty sauce so it has become a favorite for group dinners
Freezer Meal Conversion
The chicken peanut filling freezes beautifully Let it cool fully and store in freezer bags for up to two months Thaw in the fridge overnight Heat gently before serving and prep fresh lettuce and veggies the day of
Save Create a platter with all the toppings and let everyone build their own vibrant taco. Few meals are this fun and customizable at the table.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use another protein instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even sliced beef for a different protein option.
- → Is this gluten-free?
This dish is gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce. Make sure all ingredients are gluten-free before serving.
- → What type of lettuce works best?
Butter lettuce is recommended for its sturdiness and cup-like shape, but iceberg lettuce can also be used.
- → How spicy is the peanut sauce?
You control the heat—add more or less sriracha or chili garlic sauce to suit your taste preferences.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Keep the peanut chicken and toppings separate from the lettuce. Refrigerate in airtight containers and assemble just before serving.
- → Are there any nut-free alternatives?
For a nut-free version, try using sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter, though flavor will change.