Looking for a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy a classic favorite? Our chicken lettuce wraps recipe vegan offers a delicious plant-based twist on the traditional dish.
Perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or appetizer, these wraps are bursting with savory, umami flavors and a satisfying crunch. Instead of chicken, we use seasoned and textured plant proteins that replicate that hearty, meaty bite without any animal products.
Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to add more plant-based meals into your rotation, this recipe is easy to prepare, healthy, and sure to impress.
Not only do these wraps come together quickly, but they’re also customizable with your favorite fresh veggies and sauces. Wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves, each bite delivers a perfect balance of texture and taste that will keep you coming back for more.
Ready to dive into a guilt-free, tasty adventure? Let’s get started with this vibrant and nutritious vegan lettuce wraps recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken lettuce wraps recipe vegan is a wonderful alternative for anyone craving a savory, satisfying meal without meat. Here’s why it’s a winner:
- Healthy and low-calorie: Using fresh lettuce as the wrap keeps carbs and calories low, making it a perfect light meal.
- Protein-packed: With plant-based protein such as textured soy or mushrooms, it provides a filling and nutritious option.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Customizable flavors: Add your favorite veggies, spices, or sauces to tailor the wraps to your taste.
- Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing: Even non-vegans love these wraps because of their rich flavor and fun presentation.
Ingredients
- 1 cup textured vegetable protein (TVP) or finely chopped king oyster mushrooms (for vegan chicken substitute)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or any neutral oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (check for vegan-friendly brands)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup diced water chestnuts (optional, for crunch)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 head butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce, leaves separated and washed
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or cashews (optional, for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes or Sriracha (optional, for heat)
Equipment
- Large skillet or non-stick frying pan
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Serving platter or plates
Instructions
- Prepare the TVP or mushrooms: If using TVP, soak it in warm water or vegetable broth for about 10 minutes until rehydrated. Drain and squeeze out excess liquid. If using mushrooms, finely chop them to mimic a ground chicken texture.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add garlic and protein: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the rehydrated TVP or chopped mushrooms, stirring frequently for 5-7 minutes until they start to brown slightly.
- Mix sauces and season: Pour in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir well to coat all the ingredients evenly. Add black pepper and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Add vegetables: Toss in shredded carrots, diced water chestnuts, and half of the green onions. Stir to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes just to warm through.
- Assemble the wraps: Lay out the lettuce leaves on a serving platter. Spoon a generous amount of the vegan chicken mixture into each leaf.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with remaining green onions, chopped cilantro, and nuts if using. Add a dash of red pepper flakes or Sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Enjoy immediately: These wraps are best eaten fresh to keep the lettuce crisp.
Tips & Variations
“For an even more authentic ‘chicken’ texture, try blending cooked chickpeas with the mushrooms or TVP before cooking.”
- Protein swap: Use finely chopped tempeh or crumbled tofu instead of TVP or mushrooms for a different texture.
- Add crunch: Include diced bell peppers or shredded cabbage for extra crispness.
- Flavor boost: Mix in fresh ginger or a splash of lime juice to brighten the dish.
- Make it gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check hoisin sauce ingredients.
- Meal prep: Prepare the filling in advance and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Assemble wraps just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (2 wraps) |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Protein | 15 g |
Fat | 7 g |
Carbohydrates | 15 g |
Fiber | 4 g |
Sodium | 600 mg |
Serving Suggestions
These vegan chicken lettuce wraps make a fantastic light meal on their own, but pairing them with complementary dishes can elevate your dining experience.
- Serve alongside a fresh cucumber and avocado salad for added creaminess and crunch.
- Pair with a bowl of hot and sour soup or miso soup for a comforting starter.
- Accompany with steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a more substantial dinner.
- For a fun party platter, offer a variety of dipping sauces like peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce, or vegan garlic aioli.
- Looking for more plant-based inspiration? Check out our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a delicious veggie side.
Conclusion
Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just exploring plant-based meals, this chicken lettuce wraps recipe vegan is a flavorful and satisfying choice. It combines the best qualities of the traditional dish — savory, crunchy, and fresh — with wholesome plant-based ingredients that nourish your body and delight your taste buds.
The recipe is quick to prepare, versatile, and perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknights to elegant gatherings.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different veggies or sauces to create your perfect wrap. And if you’re interested in other hearty recipes, be sure to try our Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe or indulge in the tangy flavors of our Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe.
With this vegan chicken lettuce wraps recipe, you’ve got a healthy, tasty, and easy meal that everyone will love!
📖 Recipe Card: Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe Vegan
Description: A delicious and healthy vegan twist on classic chicken lettuce wraps using plant-based chicken alternatives. Perfect for a light, protein-packed meal or appetizer.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 oz) vegan chicken strips, chopped
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup water chestnuts, diced
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 head butter lettuce, leaves separated
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in vegan chicken strips and cook until browned.
- Add mushrooms and water chestnuts, cook for 3 minutes.
- Mix in hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger.
- Cook for another 2 minutes until mixture is heated through.
- Spoon filling into lettuce leaves.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 18 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 15 g
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