Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
If you're planning a casual get-together or simply want to whip up an easy dinner that sparks joy, these Asian wraps are perfect! Picture this: a sunny afternoon, friends gathered around, laughter filling the air, and platters of vibrant wraps laid out, ready for everyone to make their perfect bundle. That's what these wraps do—they invite connection and creativity at the table. Grab your favorite lettuce, and let's dive into making an unforgettable dish that will keep everyone coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds)!
Asian wraps are one of those brilliant dishes that are as versatile as they are delicious. Think of them as edible vessels, inviting you to fill them with delightful ingredients of your choice, all wrapped snugly in crisp lettuce or served over a bed of fresh greens. They embody the essence of healthy eating: satisfying, nutritious, and bursting with flavor. Plus, they come together in no time, making them a favorite for busy nights or casual gatherings.
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The Asian wrap recipe is a delightful and simple dish that typically features ground protein, an array of crunchy vegetables, and a vibrant sauce, all of which you can fold into crisp lettuce leaves. It’s a hands-on meal that allows each person to personalize their wraps according to their preferences. Whether you opt for chicken, beef, or a vegetarian protein, the flavor profile achieved is beyond satisfying. Each bite delights with the crunch of fresh vegetables and a savory kick from the sauce, making it a meal experience that's fun and fulfilling.
This recipe walks the balance of flavors and textures brilliantly. The ground chicken provides protein and a savory base, while the peppers and water chestnuts add crunchy freshness. The homemade sauce blends sweetness, savory notes, and a touch of heat. Using fresh ingredients instead of store-bought versions avoids unwanted preservatives, resulting in a dish that's both healthy and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s quick and can be assembled in mere moments, making it a dependable option for any night of the week.
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 Tablespoon cooking oil (canola or peanut)
- ½ cup red or yellow bell pepper (finely diced)
- ½ onion (finely diced)
- ½ Tablespoon minced garlic
- 8 ounces water chestnuts (drained & finely diced)
- 1 Tablespoon rice vinegar
- 3 Tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 Tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 Tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 Tablespoon peanut butter
- 1 Tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons sweet chili sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon powdered ginger
- ¼ cup crushed peanuts (for garnish)
- ¼ cup sliced green onions (for garnish)
- Lettuce leaves or preferred Asian salad base
- Optional Add-Ins: 1 small carrot (shredded) and 1 teaspoon lime juice
Making these wraps is a breeze, thanks to their straightforward steps. You’ll first whip up the sauce, which ties all the flavors together, and then cook the chicken and veggies until they’re ready to be joined in delicious harmony. Prep your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Mix the Sauce
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. Toss in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, sweet chili sauce, garlic powder, and powdered ginger. Whisk everything together until well blended. If you’re using a firmer peanut butter, pop it in the microwave for about 30–60 seconds to loosen it up for easy mixing.
Sauté the Chicken and Aromatics
In a frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of peanut oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add in the ground chicken, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5–10 minutes, stirring frequently until the chicken is browned and the onions are translucent. You’ll know they’re ready when the kitchen starts to smell fantastic!
Cook the Vegetables
Next, stir in the diced bell peppers and finely chopped water chestnuts. Let this mixture cook for another 5 minutes or until the peppers soften a bit. They should maintain a nice crunch, adding texture to your wraps.
Combine with Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Reduce the heat and let it simmer on low for a few minutes. Stir occasionally, ensuring that every piece is coated in that flavorful glaze. You’re looking for everything to be heated through, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
Assemble Your Wraps
Once everything is ready, it’s time to serve! Take a generous scoop of the chicken and veggie mix and place it in the center of a lettuce leaf (or on top of your fresh salad). Garnish with crushed peanuts and sliced green onions for added flavor and crunch. You can also drizzle a little extra lime juice on top for a zesty kick.
- Use fresh lettuce leaves, like Butter or Romaine, for the best texture—they hold up well and add a delightful crunch.
- Allow the sauce to cool slightly before combining it with the chicken for an optimal flavor blend.
- Feel free to swap the ground chicken for ground turkey or a plant-based protein if cooking for a vegetarian crowd.
- Include shredded carrots for extra color and a sweet crunch.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully, but for best texture, consider serving chilled or at room temp to maintain the crispness of the veggies.
Storing leftovers is simple! Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for about 3–4 days. However, I recommend storing the lettuce leaves separately to prevent them from wilting. When you're ready to enjoy them again, just reheat the chicken and veggie mixture and assemble your wraps fresh.
These Asian wraps are not just delicious; they’re nutritious too. Typically, each serving offers a solid source of protein from the chicken and is low in carbs if you skip the noodles or rice. Packed with vitamins from the veggies, your taste buds and body will thank you. Plus, the use of flavor-enhancing sauces means a satisfying dish that doesn't compromise on taste.
- Fresh Spring Rolls: Light and refreshing, these rolls add a wonderful contrast to the Asian wraps.
- Edamame: These lightly salted soybeans bring protein and a touch of umami—perfect for keeping the meal balanced.
- Coconut Rice: The creamy sweetness of coconut rice feels indulgent and complements the savory wraps beautifully.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw combines cabbage and carrots with a tangy dressing—a great crisp counterpoint.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can round out your meal splendidly, adding warmth and depth.
- Ground Chicken: Turkey, pork, or even tofu can serve as an excellent substitute depending on your dietary preferences.
- Water Chestnuts: Chopped celery or jicama works in a pinch to maintain that crunch if you can’t find water chestnuts.
- Hoisin Sauce: A mix of soy sauce and a bit of honey can stand in if hoisin isn’t available.
- Sesame Oil: Olive oil or another neutral oil will work, although you’ll miss that nutty depth sesame oil brings.
- Peanut Butter: Almond butter can substitute well, giving a similar consistency and flavor.
These Asian wraps are not just another recipe; they embody a delightful way to interact with your food and make dinner exciting again! With fresh ingredients, a quick cooking timeline, and the ability to personalize each bite, you’re sure to surprise and satisfy your family and friends. Whether you’re celebrating warm evenings with good company or just want a tasty meal to make at home, this recipe should be right at your fingertips. So grab your lettuce, and make these wraps part of your next delicious adventure in the kitchen!
Asian wraps are one of those brilliant dishes that are as versatile as they are delicious. Think of them as edible vessels, inviting you to fill them with delightful ingredients of your choice, all wrapped snugly in crisp lettuce or served over a bed of fresh greens. They embody the essence of healthy eating: satisfying, nutritious, and bursting with flavor. Plus, they come together in no time, making them a favorite for busy nights or casual gatherings.
Servings 4
- Use fresh lettuce leaves, like Butter or Romaine, for the best texture—they hold up well and add a delightful crunch.
- Allow the sauce to cool slightly before combining it with the chicken for an optimal flavor blend.
- Feel free to swap the ground chicken for ground turkey or a plant-based protein if cooking for a vegetarian crowd.
- Include shredded carrots for extra color and a sweet crunch.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully, but for best texture, consider serving chilled or at room temp to maintain the crispness of the veggies.
Mary Siegel is a registered dietitian from Texas and the heart behind Easy Meal Recipe, a blog dedicated to making healthy cooking simple and enjoyable. With a background in Nutrition and Dietetics from the University of Houston, she shares easy, flavorful recipes designed for busy lives. Growing up surrounded by family and food, she now blends her love of comfort food with a focus on balanced nutrition. Outside the kitchen, Mary loves exploring farmers' markets and spending time with her family in the Texas outdoors.