Save Thai Peanut Chicken Lettuce Cups deliver restaurant-level flavor at home with minimal fuss. These crisp, refreshing lettuce cups cradle juicy chicken in a creamy Thai-style peanut sauce for a meal that feels both indulgent and incredibly light. They are perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressive appetizers when friends drop by unexpectedly.
The very first time I made these, my kitchen smelled like a Bangkok night market. My friends devoured them before I even sat down – now they are my go-to when I want something fresh but satisfying.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breast: diced fine for quick and even cooking choose organic or free-range if possible for the best flavor
- Vegetable oil: a neutral oil that helps brown the chicken without overpowering flavors
- Garlic: minced fresh boosts savory depth look for firm tight cloves
- Red bell pepper: diced for color crunch and natural sweetness pick heavy firm peppers with shiny skin
- Carrot: shredded brings gentle sweetness and beautiful color use fresh for maximum crunch
- Green onions: sliced thin for brightness and a mild oniony kick choose crisp vibrant stalks with no wilting
- Creamy peanut butter: the heart of the sauce stick to natural brands for authentic flavor
- Soy sauce: gives umami savoriness opt for low sodium if you wish
- Honey: adds balance and subtle sweetness make sure it is pourable and mild
- Rice vinegar: delivers gentle acidity and keeps things lively any unseasoned variety works
- Lime juice: fresh squeezed explodes with tang choose heavy limes for juiciness
- Sriracha or chili garlic sauce: for gentle heat adjust to taste and go for fresh if you can
- Water: helps reach that perfect creamy drizzling texture
- Large butter lettuce leaves or iceberg: for sturdy crisp
cups look for bright green leaves free of blemishes - Roasted peanuts: chopped for finishing crunch make sure they are unsalted
- Fresh cilantro leaves: for a pop of herbal aroma and green lift
- Lime wedges: essential for squeezing at the table use fresh and juicy limes
Instructions
- Prepare the Peanut Sauce:
- Whisk together peanut butter soy sauce honey rice vinegar lime juice Sriracha and water in a small bowl until smooth and creamy Adjust with more water if needed until you have a pourable sauce Set aside so flavors mingle
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high until shimmering Add your diced chicken stirring every minute or so for even browning Cook for four to five minutes until pieces are golden and no longer pink
- Add Flavor:
- Sprinkle minced garlic over the chicken and toss in the diced red bell pepper and shredded carrot Stir well and let cook for another two to three minutes until the vegetables have just softened but are still crisp
- Combine:
- Pour your prepared peanut sauce over the chicken mixture Stir everything together so every bit of chicken and vegetable is coated Cook for just one or two minutes letting the sauce bubble and thicken slightly
- Assemble:
- Arrange lettuce leaves on a platter and spoon the hot chicken mixture inside Top each cup with sliced green onion chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro leaves Serve right away with lime wedges for squeezing at the table
Save I adore the creamy peanut butter here – it pulls the whole dish together I remember letting my son whisk the sauce as a toddler which made him feel like a kitchen pro Now it is his favorite part
Storage Tips
Store leftover chicken and sauce separately from the lettuce in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days The filling rewarms nicely in a skillet or microwave If assembling ahead keep the lettuce dry and only fill just before serving to avoid soggy cups
Ingredient Substitutions
Diced tofu works instead of chicken for a vegetarian spin For extra veggies try adding julienned snap peas or shredded purple cabbage Almond butter will work in place of peanut butter if needed and if you are steering clear of peanuts
Serving Suggestions
These lettuce cups shine as a starter before Thai curries or stir fry For a meal set out a bowl of jasmine rice alongside and let everyone build their own Add a plate of cool cucumber sticks on the side to soothe the chili heat I often double the sauce and serve extra for dunking
Cultural and Historical Context
Lettuce wraps are a fun twist on Larb and other Thai street foods where spicy seasoned meats are served alongside crisp greens The peanut sauce is inspired by Sate dipping sauces found across Southeast Asia blending sweet sour salty and spicy in every bite
Seasonal Adaptations
Add julienned snap peas in spring for sweetness
Use grilled summer chicken for smoky depth
Swap in persimmon or mango slices when in season for a fruity twist
Success Stories
A friend once packed these for a work lunch and everyone in her office was jealous They are now her potluck legend Another time I prepped these ahead for a picnic and my kids did not miss sandwiches at all
Freezer Meal Conversion
Cook the chicken filling and cool completely Pack it into freezer-safe bags in single-meal portions and freeze up to two months Thaw and reheat gently before assembling with fresh lettuce and toppings Skip freezing raw lettuce
Save These lettuce cups are a vibrant and satisfying dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is easy to make. Enjoy the explosion of flavors and textures!
Recipe Questions
- → What type of lettuce works best for these cups?
Butter, iceberg, or cos lettuce leaves hold fillings well and provide a refreshing crunch.
- → Can chicken be substituted?
Yes, try diced tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian take while keeping the same flavorful sauce and toppings.
- → How spicy is the peanut sauce?
The sauce offers adjustable heat with Sriracha or chili garlic sauce. Use more or less to suit your taste.
- → Are these suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, just use gluten-free tamari instead of traditional soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free.
- → What drinks pair well with these lettuce cups?
Crisp Riesling or chilled Thai iced tea complement the nutty and spicy flavors beautifully.
- → Can these be made ahead?
Prepare fillings and sauce in advance, then assemble in lettuce cups just before serving for freshness.