Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a meal that’s as fun to eat as it is flavorful, Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps are your ticket! Packed with tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and a garlicky, hoisin-kissed sauce, all tucked into crisp lettuce leaves, these wraps promise freshness, crunch, and irresistible umami in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I adore about Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps is how their simple, everyday ingredients work together to create bold, restaurant-quality flavors. Each player brings something special—whether it’s crunch, savor, or zing—that just makes this dish pop.

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender and lean, chicken breasts soak up all the vibrant sauce flavors and remain wonderfully juicy when cooked just right.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning, a quick sprinkle brings all the other flavors to life.
• Low-sodium chicken broth or stock: Adds depth and richness to the sauce without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Low-sodium soy sauce: Brings deep umami and just the right salinity, allowing other flavors to shine.
• Freshly grated ginger: Lends a warm, fragrant zing that wakes up the whole dish.
• Hoisin sauce: Sweet, salty, and a little bit mysterious—hoisin ties everything together for that signature Asian-inspired flavor.
• Rice vinegar: Brightens the sauce with acidity and balances the sweet-savory notes.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to glossy, clings-to-your-chicken perfection.
• Garlic cloves: Adds aromatic punch—use fresh for best results!
• Sesame oil (or canola): Authentic, nutty flavor (use sesame oil if you can) for an extra layer of depth.
• Sriracha hot sauce: Bring on the heat—add a little or a lot, depending on your spice preference.
• Unsalted cashews: Buttery and crunchy, they transform every bite into something special.
• Green leafy lettuce: Romaine, bibb, or butter lettuce all provide a sturdy, crisp cup to cradle the filling.
• Green onions: Lively, bright, and just a little sharp—save some for a fresh, green garnish.

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous (or simply out of chicken), Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps bend to your cravings and what you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to give them your own twist—this dish is endlessly customizable for different diets, textures, or spice levels.

• Swap the protein: Try ground turkey, beef, or even tofu for a delicious vegetarian version that still packs in the flavor.
• Go low-carb or keto: Skip the hoisin sauce and use coconut aminos for a lower-sugar approach.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in finely diced bell peppers, water chestnuts, or shredded carrots for bonus crunch and color.
• Vary the nuts: Roasted peanuts or almonds can take the cashew’s place for a different twist on texture.

How to Make Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Step 1: Prep Your Chicken and Sauce

Start by cutting your chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces so they’ll cook quickly and stay juicy. Season with salt and pepper, then whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, ginger, hoisin, vinegar, and cornstarch in a bowl—the sauce will thicken and coat the chicken deliciously later on.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat a drizzle of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken, and cook, stirring now and then, until cooked through and lightly golden—about 5 minutes. It’s quick, so don’t wander too far from the stove!

Step 3: Bring in the Flavor

Add the minced garlic to your cooked chicken, letting it bloom for about 30 seconds. Pour in your pre-mixed sauce, lower the heat, and stir gently as the sauce bubbles up and thickens to a glossy sheen around every piece of chicken.

Step 4: Add Heat, Nuts, and Greens

Splash in Sriracha to taste for just the right amount of kick. Stir in the cashews and most of the green onions, saving a big handful for your beautiful, fresh garnish at the end. The toasted nuts and onions lift all the flavors!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange cold, crisp lettuce leaves on a platter—these are your serving “cups.” Spoon that savory cashew chicken filling into each, and top with more sliced green onions for a pop of color. Invite everyone to dig in with their hands. That’s what makes Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps so much fun!

How to Serve Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Garnishes

Let those wraps sing with a final sprinkle of sliced green onions, extra toasted cashews, or even a shower of sesame seeds. If you’re feeling zesty, a squeeze of fresh lime right before serving can brighten up the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps shine on their own, but for a full meal, serve them with a side of fluffy steamed jasmine rice, a vibrant Asian slaw, or delicate cold noodles tossed in sesame oil. Even some quick-pickled veggies would be amazing for added crunch!

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, set up a DIY lettuce wrap bar with the chicken filling in a bowl, an array of garnishes, and stacks of lettuce cups—let everyone build their own! Or, use mini butter lettuce leaves for appetizer-sized bites that guests can grab and go.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra filling, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep your lettuce separate so it stays nice and crisp when you’re ready to serve again.

Freezing

The cashew chicken filling freezes beautifully! Cool it completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and give it a gentle reheat on the stove before serving with fresh lettuce.

Reheating

Reheat the filling gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen if needed. Avoid microwaving the lettuce—always use fresh leaves for best texture!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a meal that’s light, full of flavor, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, give these Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps a try. They’re easy, adaptable, and bring everyone together around the table—so roll up your sleeves and enjoy every vibrant, crunchy bite!

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