Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Name: Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tbsp. olive oil or vegetable oil; 1 lb. chicken breasts (cut into 1/2-inch pieces OR 1 lb. ground chicken); 1 stalk celery (thinly sliced); 1/2 8 oz. can sliced water chestnuts, coarsely chopped; 4 shiitake mushrooms (thinly sliced (optional)); 2 garlic cloves (minced); 1/2- inch ginger (peeled and finely grated*); 1/4 c. low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp. sesame oil; 2 tbsp. oyster sauce; 1 teaspoon chili paste (like Sambal Oelek, 1 tbsp. for spicy chicken); 1 head butter lettuce; 1 carrot (julienned and cut into 1-inch pieces); 1/2 cup cashews (roasted and lightly salted); 2 green onions (green part only, cut on the bias)

These Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a fresh, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and crisp vegetables tossed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. Wrapped in cool, crunchy lettuce leaves, they offer a satisfying balance of textures while keeping the meal light and refreshing. The best part is that this all comes together in less than 30 minutes!

Cashew chicken lettuce wraps would be great with ground chicken too! This filling meal would pair nicely with some homemade potstickers and a bowl of hot and sour soup!

Why We Love Lettuce Wraps

Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps provide a satisfying low-carb alternative to traditional wraps.
They offer a nutritious meal with fresh ingredients and lean protein.
Each bite of Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wrap is packed with delicious, savory flavors.

Recipe Ingredients

Close-up of chicken and cashew lettuce wraps.

Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Adds a rich, salty umami flavor essential for depth and savory taste.
Chili Paste: Brings a spicy kick and a bit of heat.
Oyster Sauce: Adds a sweet and savory flavor with a slightly thick texture.

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

Variations

Garnish Options: For an extra burst of flavor and texture, consider garnishing your Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps with fresh cilantro leaves, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha or a dash of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Soy Sauce Variety: For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos, which offer the same umami punch without gluten. You can also try flavored soy sauces, such as mushroom soy sauce, which adds an earthy undertone, or ponzu, which infuses a hint of citrus.

How to Make Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Step 1: In a large nonstick skillet set over medium heat, add the oil. When the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook throughout.

Step 4: Scoop the warm mixture into the lettuce leaves; top with carrot, cashews, and green onion. Serve immediately.

FAQs

What type of lettuce is best for my Cashew Chicken Wraps recipe?

Boston, butter, romaine, iceberg, or bibb lettuce works to make lettuce cups. But if you can’t find them, romaine or iceberg will work.

How can I serve my Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps?

Serve them over white or brown rice, or even cauliflower rice or cooked quinoa. You can mix the cashew chicken with rice noodles or spaghetti noodles for a hearty meal. Additionally, adding steamed vegetables can easily turn this recipe into a vegetable stir fry.

Storage Info

To STORE Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps, keep the chicken mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Lettuce should be stored separately to maintain freshness. The chicken mixture can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.

REHEAT the chicken mixture in a large skillet or pan over medium heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes. Assemble the wraps just before serving to ensure the lettuce remains crisp.