If you love fresh, tangy flavors with just the right amount of spice, you are going to adore this Easy Chicken Larb Lettuce Wraps Recipe. It’s a vibrant, healthy spin on a classic Thai dish, combining juicy ground chicken with fragrant herbs, zesty lime, and a subtle kick of chili, all wrapped perfectly in crisp butter lettuce leaves. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe brings a refreshing burst of flavor that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of fresh, straightforward ingredients is all it takes to create this wonderful dish. Each one plays a key role, from the aromatic herbs that infuse brightness to the lime and chili that elevate the taste with zing and warmth.
- Ground chicken (1 lb): The lean protein base that soaks up all the vibrant flavors beautifully.
- Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing and bringing out the natural aromas of garlic and shallots.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Adds a pungent and savory depth essential to Thai cooking.
- Small shallot, thinly sliced (1): Provides a subtle sweetness and slight crunch.
- Grated ginger (1 teaspoon): A refreshing spice that lifts the flavors with a hint of warmth.
- Fish sauce (2 tablespoons): Brings authentic umami and saltiness, key to larb’s signature taste.
- Lime juice (1 tablespoon): The bright acidity that balances the dish with citrusy freshness.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon): Just enough sweetness to round out the sharp and salty notes.
- Chili flakes (1 teaspoon, adjust to taste): Adds a gentle heat that can be tailored to your preference.
- Chopped fresh cilantro (1/4 cup): Bursts of herbaceous flavor and vibrant green color.
- Chopped fresh mint (1/4 cup): Cool and aromatic, mint adds a unique twist to the flavor profile.
- Chopped green onions (1/4 cup): For a mild onion flavor and crunchy texture.
- Toasted rice powder (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds an authentic nutty crunch that elevates the dish.
- Butter lettuce leaves (8–10 large): Soft, tender wraps that cradle the flavorful chicken perfectly.
How to Make Easy Chicken Larb Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by warming the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the minced garlic, thinly sliced shallot, and freshly grated ginger. Sauté these aromatics for about 1 to 2 minutes until they release their wonderful fragrance—this step builds the flavorful foundation of your larb.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Chicken
Add the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it apart gently with a spoon as it cooks. Stir continuously for 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked through and no longer pink. This process ensures juicy, tender meat that absorbs all your seasonings.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Next, stir in the fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili flakes. These ingredients marry beautifully to create the iconic larb flavor—salty, tart, slightly sweet, and spicy. Let it cook together for another 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Toss in Fresh Herbs and Optional Toasted Rice Powder
Remove the pan from heat, then gently fold in the chopped cilantro, mint, and green onions. If you’re using toasted rice powder, add it now to give your dish that authentic crunch and nutty twist. The fresh herbs introduce a burst of color and brightness that brings the dish alive.
Step 5: Assemble the Wraps
Ladle spoonfuls of the flavorful chicken mixture directly onto large butter lettuce leaves. The soft lettuce acts as the ideal vessel, providing crisp texture and freshness that balances the savory meat. Your Easy Chicken Larb Lettuce Wraps Recipe is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Chicken Larb Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some extra chopped cilantro, mint, or sliced red chili on top for added color and a sharper flavor punch. A wedge of lime on the side allows guests to add an extra citric zing if they like. You can also offer crushed peanuts for crunch and texture contrast, turning your wraps into a real flavor celebration.
Side Dishes
These wraps pair wonderfully with light, refreshing sides like a simple cucumber salad or a bowl of fragrant jasmine rice. If you want to keep things low-carb, a crunchy Asian slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing complements the wraps perfectly without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party platter, arrange individual lettuce leaves in a pretty circular pattern with small bowls of each topping nearby, inviting guests to create their own wraps. This interactive presentation adds a social and festive vibe. You can also serve the chicken larb over rice noodles or steamed rice for a more substantial meal variation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover chicken larb in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the herbs are mixed in after cooking, the flavors stay fresh and vibrant. Store lettuce separately to prevent it from wilting.
Freezing
Freezing cooked chicken larb is possible but not ideal since fresh herbs can lose their brightness. If needed, freeze the cooked meat mixture without herbs and add fresh herbs once thawed. Use a freezer-safe container and consume within one month for the best flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken mixture in a skillet over low heat or microwave it carefully to avoid drying out. Add fresh herbs after reheating to restore the dish’s freshness. Avoid reheating the lettuce leaves; add fresh ones when ready to serve.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground turkey for chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully as a lean alternative without sacrificing flavor or texture, making it an easy swap in this Easy Chicken Larb Lettuce Wraps Recipe.
How spicy is this recipe, and can I adjust the heat?
The chili flakes add a moderate level of heat, but you can easily adjust the amount up or down based on your spice preference. For a milder version, reduce the chili or omit it altogether.
What’s the purpose of toasted rice powder?
Toasted rice powder adds a unique nutty aroma and subtle crunch that’s signature to authentic larb. It’s optional but highly recommended to enhance your wraps’ flavor and texture.
Are butter lettuce leaves the only option for wraps?
While butter lettuce is preferred for its soft texture and mild flavor, you can also use other varieties like romaine or iceberg lettuce if you want a crunchier bite. Just make sure the leaves are large enough to hold the filling.
Can I make the chicken larb filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a few hours in advance and refrigerate it, but it’s best to add the fresh herbs just before serving to keep the dish tasting bright and lively.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about the harmony of zesty, savory, and fresh flavors in this Easy Chicken Larb Lettuce Wraps Recipe. It’s quick, uncomplicated, and packed with vibrant tastes that will make you want to whip it up again and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and share this delicious little taste of Thailand with your friends and family!
