P.F. Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps {Copycat Recipe}

If you’ve ever found yourself devouring P.F. Chang’s famous Chicken Lettuce Wraps and thinking, “I wish I could eat this at home anytime I wanted,” you’re in luck. This copycat recipe brings that same bold, savory flavor right into your kitchen—fast, fresh, and unbelievably easy. With tender chicken, crunchy water chestnuts, and a rich, umami-packed sauce nestled in cool, crisp lettuce leaves, this dish is a total weeknight winner. It’s light but satisfying, super flavorful, and comes together in under 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Simple: Ready in about 25 minutes, this recipe is a go-to for busy evenings when you want something fast but not boring.
• Flavor Explosion: The savory-sweet sauce, aromatic garlic, and ginger, plus that irresistible crunch from water chestnuts, deliver next-level flavor in every bite.
• Light but Filling: Wrapped in lettuce, this dish is low-carb and refreshing, but still hearty enough to satisfy hunger.
• Family Favorite: Great for kids and adults alike. Let everyone build their own wraps—it’s fun and interactive!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything that makes this recipe shine, with tips to make each ingredient work best for you:

• Ground Chicken: Lean and quick-cooking; use ground turkey or finely chopped mushrooms for a variation.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth. Finely chopped for even cooking.
• Garlic: Don’t hold back—it gives the wraps their bold, aromatic base.
• Fresh Ginger: Adds warmth and zing. Use freshly grated for best results.
• Soy Sauce: Brings salty umami. Go for low-sodium to control saltiness.
• Hoisin Sauce: The star of the sauce—rich, slightly sweet, and full-bodied.
• Rice Vinegar: For a touch of tang that balances the richness of the sauce.
• Sriracha or Chili Garlic Sauce: Adds heat—adjust to your spice preference.
• Water Chestnuts: Crucial for that signature crunch. Dice them finely.
• Green Onions: Brings freshness and a pop of color.
• Sesame Oil: Just a splash at the end enhances the aroma and adds nutty depth.
• Butter or Boston Lettuce: Use sturdy, cup-shaped leaves to hold the filling.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap ground chicken for crumbled tofu or finely diced mushrooms and zucchini.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in extra chili garlic sauce or serve with a drizzle of spicy mayo.
• Crunch Boost: Top with chopped peanuts or crispy fried shallots for texture.
• Sweet Touch: Add a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to the sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.

How to Make P.F. Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, and ginger. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Add ground chicken to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Stir occasionally until fully browned.

Step 3: Build the Flavor

Once the chicken is cooked, stir in hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili sauce. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes so the flavors come together.

Step 4: Add Texture

Mix in the diced water chestnuts and green onions. Stir everything well and cook for 1–2 more minutes. Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Scoop the warm filling into lettuce leaves. Serve with extra green onions, chili sauce, or your favorite toppings.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Chop Ingredients Evenly: Especially the water chestnuts, so every bite has balanced texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep it juicy by removing it from the heat as soon as it’s no longer pink.
• Warm the Lettuce Slightly: Just a few seconds in the microwave softens the leaves, making them easier to wrap without tearing.
• Double the Sauce: If you like extra sauce for drizzling, make a bit more and serve it on the side.

How to Serve

These lettuce wraps are great on their own, but you can easily turn them into a full meal:

Appetizer Style:

Serve them before a main dish like stir-fried noodles or fried rice.

Light Dinner:

Pair with a bowl of miso soup or a side of steamed edamame for a complete, light dinner.

Party Favorite:

Lay out the filling and lettuce separately for a DIY wrap station—guests will love building their own.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store lettuce leaves separately to keep them crisp.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken mixture for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the filling on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water if it looks dry.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic substitute and works beautifully with the same seasonings.

What type of lettuce works best for wraps?
Butter lettuce or Boston lettuce is ideal. It’s tender, naturally cupped, and holds the filling without tearing.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes—just use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and make sure your hoisin sauce is gluten-free too.

Can I prep this ahead for meal prep?
Definitely. Cook the filling and portion it out into containers. Store the lettuce separately and assemble when ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

These P.F. Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps are the perfect mix of easy, healthy, and delicious. Whether you’re craving takeout flavors or just want a quick dinner that everyone will love, this recipe delivers big-time. Try it once, and it might just become a regular in your rotation. Give it a go—you’re going to love every bite!

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