Kung Pao Chicken Lettuce Wraps

 Here’s a flavorful recipe for Kung Pao Chicken Lettuce Wraps, a healthy and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy, slightly spicy sauce, all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a light and fresh meal.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken and Sauce

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced

2 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil)

1 red bell pepper, diced

1/2 cup onion, diced

1/2 cup carrots, julienned or thinly sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece of fresh ginger, minced

1/4 cup roasted peanuts (optional, for garnish)

For the Sauce

3 tbsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)

1 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tbsp hoisin sauce

1 tbsp honey or brown sugar

1 tbsp sriracha or chili paste (optional, for heat)

1/2 tsp sesame oil

1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For the Lettuce Wraps

1 head of butter lettuce, romaine, or iceberg lettuce (use the largest leaves for wrapping)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, honey (or brown sugar), sriracha (if using), sesame oil, and cornstarch (if using). Set the sauce aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

Add the diced chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced bell pepper, onion, and carrots. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Add the minced garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.

Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

5. Assemble the Lettuce Wraps

Carefully separate the lettuce leaves and wash them thoroughly.

Spoon the Kung Pao chicken mixture into the center of each lettuce leaf, making sure to fill them generously.

6. Serve

Garnish with roasted peanuts and additional sriracha or chopped green onions if desired.

Serve immediately as a fun and flavorful meal or appetizer.

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Tips

For extra crunch, add some shredded cabbage or bean sprouts to the filling.

If you like more heat, increase the amount of sriracha or chili paste in the sauce.

These wraps are also great for meal prep. Store the chicken mixture and lettuce leaves separately, then assemble when ready to serve.

Enjoy these Kung Pao Chicken Lettuce Wraps, a delicious, lighter version of the classic Chinese takeout dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion!