Keto Lettuce Wraps (PF Chang Inspired)

Keto Lettuce Wraps –Well, Thanksgiving and Christmas have come and gone. Did you overindulge? I sure did! Now I’m ready for something light, something a little refreshing.

These quick and easy keto chicken lettuce wraps are just the thing. They’re so good every single time I just want to keep making them again and again!

Though we haven’t been eating out during all this pandemic madness, sometimes I still crave my favorite restaurant dishes. Fortunately I like to cook!

After these belly bursting holidays, those delicious PF Chang lettuce wraps came drifting into my mind. Perfect low carb dinner contender! Plus, they’re a fun meal, so your kids won’t complain about eating light. 😉

Why You’ll LOVE Our Keto Lettuce Wraps

• Bold Flavors: One bite and you’re greeted with an explosion of Asian-inspired flavors – zesty ginger, punchy garlic, and the rich umami of tamari and sesame oil. Trust me, this isn’t your everyday lettuce wrap!
• Quick and Easy: No need to marinate or wait. From wok to plate, you’re looking at a delicious meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something amazing without the fuss.
• Keto-Friendly: Finally, a recipe that lets you have all the flavor without the carbs! It’s a godsend for keto dieters or anyone watching their carb intake.
• Versatile: Got ground beef or pork in the fridge? Go ahead and use it! The recipe is incredibly forgiving and adaptable to whatever you have on hand.
• Healthy Veggies: This isn’t just a meat fest. The veggies add color, texture, and essential nutrients, making it a balanced meal.
• Make It Your Own: Feel like jazzing it up? Throw in some extra chili for heat or a dollop of keto-friendly hoisin sauce for more depth. The possibilities are endless!
• Great for Sharing: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a dish that’s family-friendly, these lettuce wraps are an instant crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re fun to eat!

But Are Lettuce Wraps Low Carb?

According to the PF Chang website nutritional info, their original lettuce wraps are pretty loaded with carbs. That’s a bit much for my after-holiday goals.

Today I’m going to make a few sauce and veggie substitutions for a keto bomb, with only 5 grams of net carbs per serving!

What Kind of Meat to Use for Lettuce Wraps?

Traditionally, these wraps are made with ground chicken, which I am using today. I have tried them with ground pork and beef also and they are equally delicious. Use whatever is on hand.

Or, try finely diced chicken. You can also make a great meatless Monday option with cauliflower or mushrooms.

Ingredients

• Ground Chicken – A lean, protein-rich meat that’s perfect for a lighter meal.
• Oil – Any neutral-flavored oil will work.
• Yellow Onion, Garlic, and Ginger – These are your flavor backbone. Always opt for fresh to get the most aromatic experience out of these ingredients.
• Mushrooms – Not just a filler; mushrooms add an earthy flavor that pairs exceptionally well with chicken. Feel free to use your favorite type. Shiitake, portobello, or even button mushrooms will work wonders.
• Red Bell Pepper – Adds color and a sweet, subtle crunch. If you’re in a spicy mood, swap it for a finely chopped jalapeño.
• Sesame Oil – This oil adds that classic Asian aroma. A little goes a long way, so no need to overdo it.
• Tamari Sauce – This gluten-free alternative to soy sauce brings that indispensable umami touch. If you’re not on a strict keto diet, regular soy sauce will work too.
• White Vinegar – Cuts through the richness and balances out flavors. Apple cider vinegar could be a great alternative for a milder tang.
• Monk Fruit Sweetener – Optional but recommended if you like a touch of sweetness. It’s keto-friendly and doesn’t spike your blood sugar levels.
• Chili Garlic Sauce – Your ticket to spice town. Adjust according to your heat tolerance.
• Cilantro and Green Onions – Fresh herbs to give that final, fragrant lift. Don’t skip these; they make all the difference.
• Boston or Butter Lettuce – These varieties are soft yet sturdy, perfect for holding all the delicious filling without falling apart.

How to Make Keto Lettuce Wraps

1. Give your onion a quick sauté, till it turns translucent.
2. Add chicken and sauté for a few minutes.
3. Add veggies, aromatics and sauces. Cook for a few minutes till chicken is fully cooked. garnish with cilantro and green onions.
4. Scoop mixture into lettuce leaves. DONE!

Expert Notes and Tips

• Meat Choice: While ground chicken is lean and absorbs flavors well, using dark meat like ground chicken thighs can add extra juiciness and flavor.
• Sautéing Technique: Make sure your wok or pan is hot before adding oil. This ensures that your ingredients will sauté rather than steam, keeping textures crisp and flavors concentrated.
• Ingredient Prep: Finely chop your aromatics like ginger and garlic to maximize their flavor release during cooking. Uniformly chopped ingredients cook evenly.
• Sauce Balance: If you find tamari too salty, balance it with a splash of water or unsweetened coconut milk. This dilutes the saltiness while adding a subtle depth of flavor.
• Veggie Crunch: To keep your bell peppers and mushrooms crisp, add them towards the end of the cooking process. Overcooked veggies can turn soggy.
• Lettuce Selection: While Boston or butter lettuce are recommended, iceberg or romaine can also work if you’re looking for a more substantial crunch.
• Keto Substitutions: If you want to diversify the flavors while staying keto, consider sugar-free alternatives like keto teriyaki or sriracha sauce for a different kick.
• Serving Style: Serve the lettuce wraps with small bowls of extra tamari, chili garlic sauce, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This allows everyone to customize their wraps to their liking.

Storage and Leftovers

This is a wonderful meal prep option. Sometimes I double the recipe and have easy lunches or dinners for days. Just refrigerate cooked meat mixture in an airtight container for up to four days.

When the craving hits, just take out however much you want and re heat on stovetop or in the microwave, then get wrapping!

Other options for the leftover meat mixture: have it over cauliflower rice or use it in stuffed zucchini! 🙂

Variations

1. Swap the meat: As stated above, this is great with any type of ground meat or finely diced chicken.
2. Give it some heat: Spice it up with a little sriracha or red chili flakes, or gochujang for a Korean Twist.
3. Thai-Inspired: Incorporate a spoonful of unsweetened peanut or almond butter into the mixture. Garnish with fresh basil and a squeeze of lime for a Thai flair.
4. Tex-Mex Flair: Season your ground meat with with taco spices. Add diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar for a south-of-the-border take on lettuce wraps.
5. Extra Crunch: Sprinkle some crushed nuts – think peanuts or cashews – on top for an added layer of texture.

Well, my friends, enjoy something a little lighter after all that ham and turkey. These addicting little keto lettuce wraps may be your new best friend. Let me know how you like them, I love feedback!

Be sure to bookmark or pin this quick weeknight meal, and subscribe to GypsyPlate for more easy recipes delivered straight to your inbox.

And for more low carb dinner ideas, check our collection of favorite Keto Recipes. Until next time, take care…

Keto Lettuce Wraps, on our Gypsy Plate… enjoy!

Try these other great low carb dinner options!
Marry Me Chicken
Keto Zuppa Toscana
Mediterranean Fish with Tapenade
Shrimp Remoulade Lettuce Cups
Country Style Beef Ribs
Creamy Lemon Chicken
Egg Roll in a Bowl
Peri Peri Chicken
Camarones a la Diabola