Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps – Low-Carb Recipes for Dinner

Let me tell you, these Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps are the kind of dish that makes busy weeknights feel like a treat. Picture juicy, glossy chicken bites coated in sweet-savory teriyaki, wrapped in crisp, cool lettuce leaves that add an irresistible crunch. I first stumbled upon this combo during a particularly hectic week, craving something quick, fresh, and satisfying without loading up on carbs. The moment I took that first bite, with the tender chicken and refreshing greens coming together, I knew I had to share it with you. Trust me, once you’ve made these, they’ll become your go-to dinner hack when you want something healthy that doesn’t skimp on flavor or fun.

Quick Facts

• Yield: Serves 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, freshly grated
• 1 head butter lettuce or romaine leaves, separated and washed

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
• 2 tbsp water
• 2 tbsp brown sugar or coconut sugar
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water (slurry)
• Optional: 1 tsp chili flakes for a kick

For Garnish (Optional):

• Sesame seeds
• Thinly sliced green onions
• Shredded carrots or chopped peanuts for crunch

How I Make It

Step 1:

Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and ginger, stirring constantly to release their fragrant aroma—this step really builds flavor.

Step 2:

Next, add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F). If the chicken starts to stick, add a splash of water or lower the heat slightly.

Step 3:

While the chicken cooks, whisk together all the teriyaki sauce ingredients (except the cornstarch slurry) in a bowl. Once the chicken is nearly done, pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the skillet.

Step 4:

Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium and stir in the cornstarch slurry. This will thicken the sauce quickly—keep stirring for 1-2 minutes to get that glossy, sticky texture that clings perfectly to every piece of chicken.

Step 5:

Remove from heat once the sauce has thickened. Take your lettuce leaves and spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture into each. Add your favorite garnish, like sesame seeds or sliced green onions, for a fresh pop of color and texture.

Step 6:

Serve immediately so the lettuce stays crisp and the flavors are fresh. These wraps are best enjoyed while still warm and juicy!

Variations & Tips

• Swap chicken thighs for ground turkey or beef for a different twist.
• Add diced water chestnuts or mushrooms for extra crunch inside the wraps.
• Use iceberg lettuce if you prefer a milder, crunchier leaf.
• If you want it spicier, add a drizzle of Sriracha or sprinkle chili flakes over the finished wraps.
• Double the sauce and save some for dipping—it’s addictive!
• For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

How I Like to Serve It

These wraps shine at casual dinner parties or when you want a light, fresh meal after a long day. I love serving them alongside a simple cucumber salad or steamed edamame for a complete, refreshing low-carb feast. Perfect for summer evenings when you want something cool but satisfying!

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days (separate the chicken from the lettuce for best texture).
• Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to keep the sauce nice and thick—avoid overheating to prevent dryness.

Closing: Trust me, once you’ve tried these teriyaki chicken lettuce wraps, their perfect balance of savory, sweet, and crisp will make you wonder why you ever did dinner any other way!