Thai Lettuce Wraps

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Thai Lettuce Wraps are the ultimate combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The red curry chicken brings a savory depth of flavor, while the creamy peanut sauce adds a touch of sweetness and spice. The grilled pineapple provides a tropical burst, and the vegetables like shredded cabbage and bell pepper give the wraps a refreshing crunch. This dish is not only incredibly flavorful but also light and healthy, making it a great choice for a family dinner, a party appetizer, or a quick weeknight meal. Plus, assembling your own wraps adds an interactive and fun element to the meal!

Ingredients

For the Red Curry Chicken:

• 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp Thai red curry paste (or more if you like a little heat)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fish sauce

For the Creamy ‘Peanut’ Sauce:

• ½ cup peanut butter (unsweetened, unsalted) – see notes
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 2 tsp chili paste (or 1 tsp red pepper flakes)
• ½ cup coconut milk (from the can)
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
• ½ tsp sea salt (or to taste)
• ¼ cup water (add only if the sauce is too thick)

For the Grilled Pineapple:

• 1 pound fresh pineapple slices (about 5 – ½” slices, cored)
• 1 tbsp avocado oil (or any cooking oil)

For the Lettuce Wraps:

• 2 heads butter lettuce (or leaf lettuce of your choice)
• 1.5 cups red cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced or diced
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• ¼ cup thinly sliced green onion

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Red Curry Chicken:

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little cooking oil. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken thighs or breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and browned on both sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest.
2. Make the Sauce: In the same pan, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the Thai red curry paste and fish sauce, letting the mixture cook for another 1-2 minutes.
3. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken has cooled slightly, shred it using two forks and return it to the pan. Toss the chicken in the curry sauce to coat it evenly. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to absorb all the flavors.

Make the Creamy ‘Peanut’ Sauce:

1. In a bowl, combine the peanut butter, maple syrup, chili paste (or red pepper flakes), coconut milk, lime juice, and sea salt. Whisk together until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Grill the Pineapple:

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Lightly brush the pineapple slices with avocado oil and place them on the grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple is slightly caramelized. Remove from the grill and slice into smaller pieces.

Assemble the Lettuce Wraps:

1. Separate the butter lettuce leaves and wash them thoroughly. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. On each lettuce leaf, add a spoonful of the red curry chicken, followed by a few slices of grilled pineapple, shredded red cabbage, and red bell pepper. Drizzle with the creamy peanut sauce and sprinkle with chopped cilantro and green onions for extra flavor and color.
3. Fold the lettuce wrap over the filling and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12-14 wraps, serving approximately 4 people.

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Chicken: Increase the amount of chili paste or red pepper flakes in the peanut sauce to give the dish an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh, marinated in a bit of soy sauce and red curry paste, for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Grilled Veggies: Add grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms in place of or alongside the chicken for extra flavor and texture.
• Sweet and Sour Sauce: Swap the peanut sauce with a sweet and sour sauce if you prefer a tangier, fruitier flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cooked chicken and peanut sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the fresh vegetables and grilled pineapple in separate containers.
• Reheating: To reheat the chicken, place it in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil or water to keep it moist. Reheat the peanut sauce gently in the microwave or on the stove, stirring occasionally. The vegetables and pineapple are best served fresh, so it’s recommended to prepare them when you’re ready to assemble the wraps.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken breasts. However, chicken thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful when cooked, so chicken breasts may be a little drier.

Can I make the peanut sauce in advance?

Yes, the peanut sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just give it a good stir before using.

How do I make the wraps more filling?

If you want to make the wraps more substantial, you can add a scoop of cooked rice or quinoa to each wrap, creating a heartier meal.

Can I use another type of lettuce?

You can substitute butter lettuce with iceberg lettuce or romaine, but butter lettuce is the most tender and flexible for wraps.

Can I use canned pineapple?

Fresh pineapple is best for grilling, but if you need to use canned pineapple, be sure to drain it thoroughly before grilling or adding it to the wraps.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you ensure the fish sauce and peanut butter are gluten-free. Check the labels of those ingredients to be sure.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep most of the components in advance—cook the chicken, make the peanut sauce, and grill the pineapple. Just assemble the wraps right before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.

Can I freeze the chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw before reheating.

How can I make the peanut sauce spicier?

If you like extra heat, add more chili paste, red pepper flakes, or even a chopped fresh chili to the peanut sauce.

Can I use other fruits besides pineapple?

Yes, mango, peaches, or even pears would be great alternatives for a different tropical twist.

Conclusion

Thai Lettuce Wraps are a delightful and healthy meal, bringing together bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a touch of heat. The red curry chicken, creamy peanut sauce, grilled pineapple, and crunchy vegetables create a satisfying dish that’s both refreshing and savory. Perfect for a light dinner, a fun appetizer, or a family-friendly meal, these wraps are sure to impress and quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy every bite!

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