Thai Chicken Lettuce Cups

If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant, and healthy dish that is sure to impress, these Thai Chicken Lettuce Cups are an absolute must-try! Bursting with flavor and packed with nutritious ingredients, this dish offers a delightful combination of tender chicken, zesty sauces, and crunchy vegetables all wrapped in cool, crisp lettuce. Perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or as a fun appetizer for gatherings, these lettuce cups are sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and sriracha creates a tantalizing marinade that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor. The addition of peanut butter in the sauce adds a creamy richness that complements the dish beautifully.

• Healthy and Light: Using butter lettuce as the base for this dish not only provides a refreshing crunch but also keeps the meal low in carbs and calories. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a delicious meal without feeling weighed down.

• Customizable: This recipe is highly adaptable! Feel free to add other toppings like chopped peanuts, cilantro, or bell peppers to suit your taste. You can also substitute the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.

• Quick and Easy: With minimal cooking time and simple ingredients, this recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Helpful Tips for Success:

• Marinating Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes enhances the flavors and tenderness. If you have time, marinating it longer in the refrigerator will yield even better results.

• Cooking the Chicken: For perfectly cooked chicken, ensure that the skillet is preheated before adding the meat. This will help achieve a nice sear and lock in the juices. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.

• Preparing the Sauce: To save time, you can prepare the peanut sauce while the chicken is cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together, making the sauce even more delicious.

• Serving Suggestions: Pair these lettuce cups with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a complete meal. You can also serve additional dipping sauce on the side for those who like an extra kick!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

2 large chicken breasts

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 knob of ginger, grated

1 bunch scallions, chopped

1/2 cup soy sauce

2 tbsp sriracha

1 tsp sugar, honey, or sweetener

1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce:

1 tbsp peanut butter

1 tsp honey

1 tbsp soy sauce

1 tsp sriracha

For Assembly:

Butter lettuce leaves

1/4 cup carrots, grated for garnish

1 cup rice (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Begin by marinating the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the chicken breasts with the grated ginger, minced garlic, soy sauce, honey, sriracha, and half of the chopped scallions. Mix well and set aside to marinate for 15-30 minutes.

2. While the chicken is marinating, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, combine melted peanut butter, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, sriracha, and honey. Whisk together until smooth and set aside.

3. Cook the rice by combining 1 cup of rice with 2 cups of water in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until the rice is tender and water is absorbed, about 15-20 minutes.

4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts to the pan. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on one side, then flip and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about another 5-7 minutes.

5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and shred it while still in the pan to soak up the delicious juices.

6. To assemble, take a butter lettuce leaf and fill it with shredded chicken. Top with shredded carrots, remaining chopped scallions, and drizzle with the peanut sauce.

7. Serve your Thai chicken lettuce cups with a side of rice for a complete meal, and enjoy this delightful, flavor-packed dish!

These Thai Chicken Lettuce Cups are not only a feast for the senses but also a fun way to enjoy a healthy meal. The combination of textures and flavors will leave you craving more, making them a fantastic option for any occasion! Enjoy the burst of freshness and spice that this dish brings to your table.