Sesame Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, light on carbs, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, these Sesame Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps are exactly what you need. Packed with tender diced chicken breast, a rich and creamy peanut sauce, and crisp, fresh veggies wrapped in delicate butter lettuce leaves, this recipe is a vibrant and satisfying meal that will quickly become a household favorite. The combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger gives each bite an irresistible Asian-inspired flair, while the peanut butter adds a luscious nuttiness that ties everything together perfectly.

Why It Deserves a Spot

These Sesame Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps are more than just a healthy alternative to traditional wraps—they’re a flavor powerhouse that balances savory, sweet, and nutty elements in every bite. Unlike heavy dishes, they’re refreshing and light, making them ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious meal without feeling weighed down. The recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough to serve guests. Plus, since the wraps are handheld and customizable, they’re a fun way to gather around the table and enjoy a meal together.

What’s more, this dish is incredibly versatile—you can easily turn it into a meal prep favorite or jazz it up with additional toppings depending on your mood. Whether you’re making dinner after a long day or whipping up a snack for game night, these wraps deliver on both taste and convenience.

What to Buy

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced – the star protein of the dish, lean and tender
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil – adds a nutty, toasty flavor essential for authentic taste
• 1/4 cup natural peanut butter – creamy and rich, forming the base of the sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – provides saltiness and umami; opt for a low-sodium version if preferred
• 1 tablespoon honey – a touch of natural sweetness to balance the savory notes
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced – fresh ginger adds a zesty, aromatic kick
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential aromatic for depth of flavor
• 1/4 cup scallions, chopped – for freshness and mild onion flavor
• 1/4 cup carrots, shredded – adds natural sweetness and crunch
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced – brightens the dish with color and sweetness
• 1 head butter lettuce, leaves separated – soft, crisp wraps that hold all the fillings
• Sesame seeds for garnish – adds texture and a nutty finish

Recommended Tools

• Sharp chef’s knife – for dicing chicken and chopping vegetables precisely
• Cutting board – a clean, sturdy surface for prepping ingredients
• Large skillet or wok – perfect for sautéing chicken and mixing the sauce
• Mixing bowl – to combine the peanut sauce ingredients smoothly
• Measuring spoons and cups – for accuracy in balancing flavors
• Spatula or wooden spoon – to stir the chicken and sauce without scratching your cookware

Cooking Sesame Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps: The Process

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the natural peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, minced ginger, and minced garlic until smooth. This creamy sauce will coat the chicken and veggies, infusing them with rich, savory, and slightly sweet flavors.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken breast and sauté until cooked through and golden brown, about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the chicken cooks evenly.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium, then stir in the shredded carrots, diced red bell pepper, and chopped scallions. Pour the peanut sauce over the chicken and vegetables, tossing everything together to coat evenly. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Wraps

Remove the skillet from heat. Spoon the chicken mixture into individual butter lettuce leaves, creating perfectly portioned wraps. Sprinkle lightly with sesame seeds for a subtle crunch and garnish.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the wraps on a serving platter and enjoy immediately. These are perfect as a light lunch or dinner, and they pair beautifully with simple sides or Sticky Sesame Chicken With Rice for a more substantial meal.

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

• Chicken breast: Swap with ground chicken, turkey, or firm tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Natural peanut butter: Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you have a peanut allergy.
• Soy sauce: Substitute with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
• Honey: Replace with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly sweetener.
• Butter lettuce: Romaine or iceberg lettuce leaves work well as a crunchy alternative.
• Sesame oil: Use a neutral oil like avocado or canola oil if sesame oil isn’t available, though the flavor will be milder.

Pro Tips & Notes

• For extra freshness, add chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

• To make the wraps more filling, serve alongside steamed jasmine rice or try pairing with Sweet Chili Chicken Stir Fry Noodles for a complementary dish.

• Toast the sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan before garnishing to enhance their flavor.

• Make sure to use natural peanut butter without added sugars or hydrogenated oils for the best taste and texture.

• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.

• These wraps are best served fresh since lettuce can wilt if filled too far in advance.

Save It for Later

These Sesame Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps are perfect for meal prep. Store the cooked chicken mixture and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the lettuce leaves separate and assemble just before eating to maintain crispness. This way, you can enjoy a quick, flavorful meal anytime without the hassle of cooking from scratch.

Your Top Questions

Can I make these Sesame Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken mixture up to three days in advance and store it in the fridge. Just keep your butter lettuce leaves separate and assemble the wraps right before eating to keep them crisp.

What if I don’t have sesame oil on hand?

If you don’t have sesame oil, you can substitute with a neutral oil like canola or avocado oil. Keep in mind that sesame oil adds a distinctive nutty flavor, so the dish will taste slightly different but still delicious.

Are these wraps suitable for a gluten-free diet?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, which are naturally gluten-free alternatives.

Can I use other types of lettuce for the wraps?

Absolutely! While butter lettuce is soft and pliable, you can use romaine, iceberg, or even collard greens if you prefer a crunchier or sturdier wrap.

Reader Favorites

• Sticky Sesame Chicken With Rice – A comforting classic with sticky, sweet, and savory notes.
• Sweet Chili Chicken Stir Fry Noodles – A vibrant noodle dish with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
• Peanut Sesame Salad Dressing – Pair this dressing with your wraps or salads for an extra flavor boost.
• Chicken Peanut Stir Fry – Quick and tasty, packed with veggies and a luscious peanut sauce.

Bring It to the Table

Serving Sesame Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps is all about the experience—handheld, interactive, and full of vibrant textures. Arrange the wraps on a large platter or individual plates, and set out bowls of extra shredded carrots, scallions, and sesame seeds so everyone can customize their own. Complement the meal with a light cucumber salad or steamed rice for a more filling feast. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a small gathering with friends, these wraps bring color, flavor, and fun to the table.

If you’re in the mood to mix things up, consider pairing these wraps with dishes like Sticky Sesame Chicken With Rice or Sweet Chili Chicken Stir Fry Noodles for a full, restaurant-quality spread that’s surprisingly simple to prepare at home.

With their perfect balance of savory chicken, nutty peanut sauce, and crisp veggies, these Sesame Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps are sure to become a go-to recipe for anyone who loves bold flavors and healthy meals. Give this recipe a try, and watch how quickly it disappears from the dinner table!

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