One Pot High Protein Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps

First off, let me sing the praises of ground meat and why it’s such a fabulous option to include for dinner this week. Ground meat is cost-effective, an excellent source of protein, and requires very minimal prep or cook time. This makes it a great option for busy nights where you still need to get dinner on the table. So make room for these Thai inspired lettuce wraps, which provide a punch of flavor as well as nutrition! This veggie-packed recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or a fun dinner idea that everyone will love. Let’s dive into this simple and delicious recipe!

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 cup diced onions

• 3 cloves of garlic, pressed

• 2 cups grated carrots (about 2 large carrots)

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 1 pack of ground chicken (approximately 1 pound)

• 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce

• 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 3 T cilantro, chopped

• 1 teaspoon ginger powder (or 2 teaspoons fresh ginger)

• Salt and pepper to taste

To Serve:

• Leafy greens (red lettuce, bib lettuce, or romaine lettuce are all good options)

• Sliced avocado

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by prepping your vegetables. Dice the onions and bell pepper, press the garlic, and grate the carrots. If you’re using fresh ginger, grate it now. If you’re short on time like we often are, use prechopped or frozen options!

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they become translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the pressed garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the grated carrots and diced bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

Create a well in the middle by pushing on the veggies to the perimeter of the pan. Add the ground chicken to the middle of the skillet. Cook, breaking up the meat a ground meat smasher (or a wooden spoon) until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink. Incorporate the veggies until evenly mixed.

Step 4: Add the Sauces and Seasonings

Once the vegetables are slightly tender, add the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, cilantro and ginger. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Prepare the Lettuce Wraps

While the chicken mixture is simmering, prepare your leafy greens. Wash and dry the lettuce leaves carefully, ensuring they are clean and crisp.

Step 6: Assemble the Wraps

To serve, spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture into the center of each lettuce leaf. Top with sliced avocado for a creamy contrast to the savory filling.

Step 7: Enjoy!

These Thai Inspired Lettuce Wraps are best enjoyed fresh. The combination of the warm, flavorful chicken filling with the crisp, cool lettuce and creamy avocado is simply irresistible.

Tips and Variations:

• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the ground chicken with crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

• Spice it Up: Add a diced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce if you like your wraps with a bit of heat.

• Add More Crunch: Top your wraps with chopped peanuts or cashews for an extra crunch.

• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro or Thai basil to add a burst of fresh herb flavor.

• When serving to kids, consider making some rice noodles and tossing in the filling like a stir fry! 

This dinner checks all the boxes: it uses just one pan, is super quick to prepare, packed with vegetables, and incredibly flavorful. We love a well balanced meal that provides fiber, healthy fats, and protein – & we’re certain you’ll love this one too! Enjoy!