Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps are quick to make, deliciously crunchy, and packed with flavor. They are lighter than traditional wraps but still satisfying, thanks to the hearty chicken and cashews. The combination of a rich, savory sauce with fresh, crisp lettuce makes every bite refreshing and fulfilling. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—you can easily customize the fillings and toppings based on what you have on hand, making this a perfect meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 1/2 cup cashews, roasted and unsalted

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 head butter lettuce, iceberg lettuce, or romaine

• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced

• 1/4 cup shredded carrots (optional)

• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

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

Directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes. Set aside.

2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken and stir to coat evenly. Add the cashews and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.

5. Remove from heat.

6. Separate the lettuce leaves and wash them thoroughly. Pat dry.

7. Spoon the cashew chicken mixture into the center of each lettuce leaf.

8. Top with green onions, shredded carrots, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired.

9. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy kick: Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha sauce for more heat.

• Vegetarian option: Substitute diced tofu or chickpeas for the chicken.

• Different nuts: Swap cashews with peanuts or almonds if preferred.

• Extra veggies: Add diced bell peppers, water chestnuts, or mushrooms to the skillet for extra crunch and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cashew chicken mixture separately from the lettuce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken mixture in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Assemble wraps just before serving to maintain crisp lettuce.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of diced chicken?

Yes, ground chicken works great and makes the filling even quicker to cook.

What’s the best type of lettuce for wraps?

Butter lettuce is ideal because it’s sturdy yet flexible, but iceberg or romaine can also work well.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken filling ahead and refrigerate it. Assemble the wraps right before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.

Are Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps healthy?

Yes, they are a lighter, low-carb option compared to traditional wraps and sandwiches, especially if you use a lean cut of chicken and control the sauce ingredients.

Can I freeze the chicken filling?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce without the cashews. Add fresh cashews when reheating.

How do I keep the lettuce crisp?

Wash and dry the lettuce thoroughly and store it wrapped in paper towels in an airtight container until ready to use.

What can I serve with these lettuce wraps?

They pair well with steamed rice, quinoa, or a side of Asian slaw for a complete meal.

Can I add rice noodles to the wraps?

Yes, adding crispy rice noodles inside the wrap can provide an extra crunch and make the wraps even more filling.

How spicy is this recipe?

The base recipe is mild, but you can easily adjust the spice level with more crushed red pepper or hot sauce.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, if you have leftover cooked chicken, simply dice it up and toss it with the sauce and cashews, then heat everything together.

Conclusion

Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a flavorful, healthy, and incredibly easy meal that can be made in just 20 minutes. With a savory sauce, tender chicken, and crunchy cashews wrapped in crisp lettuce, each bite is packed with delicious textures and flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or a fresh and fun dinner option, these wraps are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.