Low Carb Chicken Lettuce Wraps: Easy and So Good!

Ingredients for Low Carb Chicken Lettuce Wraps

• Protein:
  • 1 pound ground chicken or ground turkey: This is the base of the recipe, providing protein and heartiness. Ground chicken is a lean option, while ground turkey is even lower in fat. Choose whichever best suits your dietary needs and preferences.
• Vegetables:
  • 8 scallions, white and green part chopped: Scallions add a mild oniony flavor and a nice crunch to the wraps. Both the white and green parts are used, adding a subtle difference in taste and texture.
  • 1 (8oz) can water chestnuts, drained, rinsed and chopped fine: Water chestnuts add a delightful textural contrast to the dish. They have a subtle sweetness and a crisp bite.
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped fine: Red bell pepper provides a vibrant color, a touch of sweetness, and a slight crunch. You can substitute another color bell pepper if you prefer a different flavor profile.
• Flavorings:
  • ¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce: Soy sauce is a key ingredient in many Asian recipes, adding a salty-umami flavor. Reduced-sodium soy sauce is a healthier option for those watching their sodium intake.
  • 2½ tablespoons hoisin sauce: Hoisin sauce is a thick, flavorful sauce made with soybeans, fermented red peppers, garlic, and spices. It adds a sweet, savory, and slightly garlicky taste to the dish.
  • 1 tablespoon ginger (from a jar) or freshly grated ginger: Ginger adds a warming, pungent flavor to the wraps. Freshly grated ginger is ideal for the most intense flavor, but pre-jarred ginger is a convenient substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon water: A touch of water helps to thin out the sauce and prevent it from becoming too thick or sticky.
• Cooking Essentials:
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil: Sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and a subtle toasted sesame flavor to the dish.
  • 1 large head butter lettuce, wash, dried and leaves separated: Butter lettuce leaves act as the "wrap" for this low-carb option. They are large, sturdy, and have a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• ¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce (Tamari for gluten-free): Similar to the soy sauce used in the chicken mixture, this adds a salty and umami base to the sauce. Tamari is a gluten-free soy sauce option made from soybeans only.
• 2 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar or rice vinegar: Rice vinegar adds a tangy acidity that cuts through the richness of the other ingredients. Seasoned rice vinegar comes pre-flavored with sugar and salt, while regular rice vinegar offers a cleaner, slightly sweeter profile. Choose based on your preference for sweetness and the additional salt you might want to adjust later.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Sugar balances the savory and tangy elements of the sauce, adding a touch of sweetness. You can experiment with different sweeteners like honey, erythritol (for a keto-friendly option), or even a squirt of stevia depending on your taste and dietary needs.
• ½ tablespoon ginger (from a jar) or fresh minced ginger: Ginger adds a warming, slightly spicy kick to the sauce. Freshly grated ginger offers the most intense flavor, but pre-jarred ginger provides a convenient alternative.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and a subtle toasted sesame flavor that complements the other ingredients in the sauce.
• ½ teaspoon garlic (from a jar) or fresh minced garlic: Garlic adds a sharp, savory note to the sauce. Freshly minced garlic offers the strongest flavor, but jarred garlic is a time-saving option.