These Hot Honey Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a tasty mix of juicy chicken, sweet honey, and a hint of spice, all wrapped up in fresh lettuce leaves. They make a fun and yummy meal!
Honestly, who needs tacos when you can have these wraps? They’re messy but in the best way! I love making them for a quick dinner or a snack—so easy and oh-so-satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy flavor, but chicken breasts work too. If you’re looking for a meatless option, try crumbled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based twist that’ll still soak up the sauce.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness, but if you need a vegan option, maple syrup or agave nectar can work well too! Just remember that these may alter the flavor a bit, but they will still taste great.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the heat to your liking. For less spice, reduce the amount or substitute with sweet paprika if you want to keep it flavorful without the heat.
Lettuce: Butter lettuce is great for its softness and wrap-ability, but Romaine or iceberg lettuce can also serve as sturdy alternatives. They provide a nice crunch too!
How Can You Master Cooking Chicken to Perfection?
Cooking chicken just right is crucial for this dish! To ensure you get juicy and tender chicken, follow these tips:
- Make sure your chicken is cut into small, even pieces so it cooks uniformly.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; this helps the chicken brown nicely. Cook in batches if needed.
- Cook until the chicken is golden and no longer pink, around 6-8 minutes. Using a meat thermometer, the internal temp should reach 165°F.
By paying attention to these details, your chicken will turn out perfect every time, making your wraps delicious and satisfying!
Hot Honey Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Filling:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1-2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
For the Wraps:
- 1 head butter lettuce or Boston lettuce, leaves separated and washed
- 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook, so you can have these delicious wraps ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped chicken. Season with salt and pepper and cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking.
2. Add Garlic and Sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, crushed red pepper flakes, rice vinegar, and grated ginger if you choose to use it. Pour this sauce over the chicken and stir well to coat. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes so the sauce can thicken slightly.
3. Prepare the Wraps:
After removing the skillet from the heat, it’s time to assemble your wraps! Take a lettuce leaf and layer it with a small handful of shredded cabbage and carrots. Spoon the hot honey chicken mixture right onto those fresh veggies.
4. Add the Toppings:
To finish off your wraps, sprinkle diced red onion and sliced green onions on top for a nice crunch and flavor boost. Serve them up immediately and enjoy wrapping them like little tacos!
These wraps are not just delicious — they’re also colorful and full of flavor. Enjoy the combination of sweet, spicy, and crunchy all in one bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thoroughly thaw it before cooking. The best way is to place it in the fridge overnight or submerge it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for a quicker thaw.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer milder flavors, start with just 1 tsp of crushed red pepper flakes and taste the mixture before adding more. For extra heat, you can add a dash of hot sauce or more flakes as desired.
Can I Prep These Wraps Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken filling in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just assemble the wraps right before serving for fresh lettuce and crunch.
What Leftovers Can I Store?
If you have leftover filling, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s great to use in salads, as a rice bowl topping, or even in sandwiches! Just keep any remaining lettuce separate so they stay crisp.