PF Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps: The Ultimate Copycat Recipe for a Healthy & Quick Dinner

Craving the irresistible flavors of PF Chang’s chicken lettuce wraps but want to enjoy them from the comfort of your home? Look no further! This perfect copycat recipe delivers all the deliciousness of your restaurant favorite, made easy and healthy in your own kitchen. Forget takeout – prepare to savor a homemade version that’s ready faster and tastes even better.

As a devoted fan of recreating beloved restaurant dishes, I’m thrilled to share my tried-and-true recipe for PF Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps. This isn’t just a casual attempt; I’ve personally perfected this recipe over ten times, ensuring it’s consistently delicious, incredibly simple, and surprisingly quick to prepare – often faster than waiting for delivery! You’ll be amazed at how easily you can bring this iconic appetizer, or even a light main course, to your dinner table. These wraps are a fantastic option for weeknights when you need a flavorful, nutritious meal without a lot of fuss. They’re packed with savory chicken, crisp vegetables, and a tantalizing sauce that captures the essence of the original, making them a staple in my kitchen and soon to be in yours too!

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Homemade Lettuce Wrap Recipe

• An Authentic PF Chang’s Copycat: Get ready for an explosion of flavor that genuinely mirrors the beloved PF Chang’s experience. This recipe meticulously recreates the signature taste, allowing you to enjoy your favorite lettuce wraps without the restaurant price tag. You’ll impress your family and friends with a dish that tastes like it came straight from the kitchen of a gourmet Asian eatery.
• Remarkably Healthy and Low-Carb: These chicken lettuce wraps are not just delicious; they’re also an incredibly healthy and low-carb meal option. By serving the flavorful chicken and vegetable mixture in crisp lettuce cups, you cut down on calories and carbohydrates without sacrificing an ounce of flavor. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that fits perfectly into various dietary lifestyles, including keto and paleo (with minor adjustments).
• Whip It Up in Under 30 Minutes: Imagine a healthy, restaurant-quality meal on your table in less than half an hour. That’s the magic of this recipe! With a little bit of ingredient prep beforehand, you can have these wraps ready to serve in as little as 15 minutes. This makes them ideal for busy weeknights, quick lunches, or last-minute dinner parties. Fast food doesn’t have to mean unhealthy, and this recipe proves it.
• Versatile and Customizable: Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or adventurous foodies, this recipe offers fantastic versatility. Adjust the spice level, swap out proteins, or add extra vegetables to suit your preferences. It’s a foundational recipe that can be adapted to your family’s tastes, ensuring everyone finds something to love.

Essential Ingredients and Smart Substitutions for Your Wraps

Crafting the perfect PF Chang’s copycat lettuce wrap requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients, but don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with plenty of flexible substitutions to ensure you can make this recipe work with what you have on hand or adapt it to your dietary needs. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that signature sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavor profile.

• Olive Oil: This serves as the foundation for sautéing your protein and vegetables. While olive oil is a great choice for its flavor and health benefits, you can easily use any neutral-flavored cooking oil you prefer. Avocado oil, grapeseed oil, or even vegetable oil would work equally well, ensuring your ingredients cook evenly without overpowering the delicate Asian flavors.
• Ground Chicken: Lean ground chicken is the star protein here, providing a tender and flavorful base for the filling. For a change of pace or to accommodate different preferences, feel free to substitute with other ground meats. Ground turkey is an excellent lean alternative, ground pork offers a richer flavor, and extra-lean ground beef can also be used for a heartier texture. Whichever protein you choose, ensure it’s well-browned for optimal taste and texture.
• Shiitake Mushrooms: These mushrooms contribute an umami depth that is essential to the authentic taste of the wraps. Their earthy flavor pairs wonderfully with the chicken and sauce. If fresh shiitake mushrooms are hard to find, any finely chopped mushroom of your choice will do. Cremini (baby bella) or white button mushrooms can be excellent substitutes, just make sure to chop them finely so they blend seamlessly into the mixture.
• Yellow Onion: Diced yellow onion provides a sweet and aromatic base when sautéed, adding complexity to the overall flavor. If yellow onions aren’t available, white onions offer a similar sweetness, while shallots provide a more delicate, refined onion flavor. Even a small amount of finely diced red onion could work in a pinch, though its flavor is slightly stronger.
• Matchstick or Grated Carrots: These add a touch of natural sweetness, vibrant color, and a pleasant textural contrast to the filling. You can buy pre-cut matchstick carrots for convenience or quickly grate your own. For an extra boost of freshness and crunch, consider adding other finely diced vegetables like cucumber or bell peppers after the cooking process.
• Water Chestnuts: A hallmark of many Asian dishes, water chestnuts provide that distinctive, refreshing crunch that makes these lettuce wraps so enjoyable. Their subtle, nutty flavor is a welcome addition. If you can’t find canned water chestnuts at your local grocery store, you can simply omit them without significantly impacting the overall dish, though you’ll miss that unique textural element.
• Green Onions: Sliced green onions are added towards the end of cooking and as a fresh garnish, providing a mild oniony bite and visual appeal. You can use both the white and green parts. If green onions are unavailable, a sprinkle of finely diced white onion can offer a similar, albeit sharper, flavor profile.
• Boston Leaf Lettuce: The foundation of these wraps, Boston leaf lettuce is perfect for its soft yet sturdy cups, which hold the filling beautifully. Other excellent choices for serving include romaine lettuce, known for its crispness, butter lettuce for its tender texture, or classic iceberg lettuce for maximum crunch. Choose fresh, vibrant heads that can be easily separated into individual cups.

Sauce – The Heart of the Flavor

The sauce is where the magic truly happens, blending sweet, savory, and spicy notes into a harmonious symphony. Each ingredient is vital for creating that authentic PF Chang’s taste.

• Soy Sauce: This provides the primary salty and umami backbone of the sauce. I recommend using low-sodium soy sauce to control the overall saltiness of the dish. For gluten-free alternatives, coconut aminos or tamari are excellent direct substitutes, maintaining a similar depth of flavor.
• Sesame Oil: Toasted sesame oil is indispensable for its rich, nutty aroma and distinct Asian flavor. A little goes a long way in elevating the sauce. While you could technically use olive oil as a liquid, it won’t provide the same characteristic flavor, resulting in a milder and less authentic taste.
• Honey: Honey adds natural sweetness, balancing the savory and spicy elements. Maple syrup can be used as a vegan-friendly substitute, or a touch of brown sugar will also provide a similar caramel-like sweetness. Adjust the amount to your preference for a sweeter or less sweet sauce.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is crucial for its pungent aroma and robust flavor. It infuses the sauce with a warmth that complements the other ingredients. If fresh garlic isn’t handy, jarred minced garlic can be a convenient alternative, just be sure to use a good quality one for the best results.
• Ginger: Fresh ginger provides a zesty, slightly spicy kick that brightens the entire dish. Its aromatic qualities are key to the Asian flavor profile. For the most vibrant taste, use freshly minced ginger. If fresh isn’t an option, 1 teaspoon of dried ground ginger can be used in place of 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, though the flavor will be less intense.
• Sriracha: For those who love a bit of heat, sriracha adds a fantastic spicy dimension to the sauce. It’s optional, so if you’re not a fan of spice or are serving to children, feel free to omit it entirely or reduce the amount. Alternatively, you can offer it on the side as an optional condiment for individual customization.

Mastering PF Chang’s Lettuce Wraps: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these delightful PF Chang’s copycat lettuce wraps at home is surprisingly simple, broken down into just a few easy steps. Follow these instructions closely for a flavorful and authentic experience every time.

Step 1: Cook the Chicken and Sauté the Veggies.

Begin by heating a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add your preferred cooking oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil, and allow it to shimmer. Once hot, add the ground chicken to the pan. Break it up with a spoon or spatula, seasoning lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is mostly browned and no longer pink. Next, add the finely chopped shiitake mushrooms, diced yellow onion, matchstick carrots, and chopped water chestnuts to the skillet. Continue to sauté for another 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened to your liking and the chicken is fully cooked through. This step builds the foundational flavors and textures of your wrap filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Signature Sauce.

While your chicken and vegetables are cooking, it’s the perfect time to whisk together the incredible sauce that truly brings this dish to life. In a small bowl, combine the low-sodium soy sauce (or coconut aminos/tamari), rich sesame oil, sweet honey (or maple syrup/brown sugar), pungent minced garlic, fragrant freshly minced ginger (or dried ginger), and a dash of sriracha for heat (if desired). Whisk all these ingredients together vigorously until they are well combined and the honey has fully dissolved. This balanced blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors is the secret to an authentic copycat taste.

Step 3: Combine and Infuse Flavors.

Once the chicken and vegetables are cooked, pour the prepared sauce mixture directly into the skillet. Add the sliced green onions at this stage. Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring that the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the savory sauce. Continue to cook for just 1 minute more, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken and all the flavors to meld beautifully. This brief cooking time is enough to warm the sauce and slightly soften the green onions while retaining their fresh bite.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve Your Delicious Wraps.

Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the chicken mixture to cool for about 5 minutes. This cooling period prevents the lettuce from wilting too quickly and makes the mixture easier to handle. While it cools, prepare your Boston leaf lettuce cups by gently peeling them from the head. Once slightly cooled, spoon generous amounts of the flavorful chicken filling into each lettuce leaf. Arrange the assembled wraps on a platter and serve immediately. Enjoy the satisfying crunch of the fresh lettuce perfectly complementing the warm, savory, and aromatic filling!

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Lettuce Wraps

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying PF Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps at home, providing you with all the information you need for a successful culinary adventure.

What’s the best lettuce to use for these wraps?

The best lettuce varieties for these chicken wraps are those that offer a sturdy yet flexible leaf, capable of holding the delicious filling without falling apart. My top recommendation is Boston leaf lettuce (also known as butter lettuce) because its broad, tender leaves form perfect, pliable cups. Romaine lettuce is another fantastic choice, known for its crisp texture and slightly elongated shape, which still makes for excellent wraps. Iceberg lettuce, with its classic crunch, also works well if you prefer a very firm wrap. The key is to select fresh, vibrant heads of lettuce and carefully peel off the leaves to create intact “cups” for your filling.

Can you use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely, yes! This recipe is incredibly versatile when it comes to protein. Ground turkey is an excellent substitute for ground chicken, offering a similarly lean profile and mild flavor that readily absorbs the delicious sauce. You can also experiment with other ground meats like ground pork for a richer, more savory filling, or even extra-lean ground beef if you prefer a heartier option. Just ensure that whichever ground meat you choose, it is thoroughly browned and cooked through before adding the sauce and other ingredients. The cooking times may vary slightly depending on the fat content of your chosen protein.

How many calories are in PF Chang’s lettuce wraps compared to this recipe?

It’s great to be mindful of what you’re eating, and I’m happy to report that this homemade copycat recipe offers a fantastic, healthier alternative to the restaurant version. According to PF Chang’s nutritional information, their lettuce wraps typically contain around 330 calories per serving, which usually consists of two wraps. In contrast, my homemade recipe significantly improves on this, providing approximately 307 calories per serving. The best part? Each serving of *my* recipe includes three wraps, meaning you’re getting a larger, more satisfying portion size for roughly the same, if not fewer, calories! This makes our homemade PF Chang’s chicken lettuce wraps a truly guilt-free and enjoyable meal choice.

What to Serve Alongside Your Chicken Lettuce Wraps

While these chicken lettuce wraps are incredibly satisfying on their own, pairing them with the right side dishes can elevate your meal to a complete Asian-inspired feast. Here are some fantastic ideas to complement the flavors and textures of your homemade PF Chang’s lettuce wraps:

• Rice Noodles, Fried Rice or Cauliflower Fried Rice: For a more substantial meal, serve your wraps alongside a carb-rich option like fluffy white rice or savory fried rice. If you’re keeping it low-carb, my cauliflower fried rice is an excellent alternative that perfectly mimics the taste and texture of traditional fried rice without the extra carbs. Instant Pot steamed vegetables are also a great, quick option.
• Crispy Spring Rolls or Egg Rolls: Recreate the full takeout experience by serving your lettuce wraps with classic spring rolls or savory egg rolls. The crispy exterior of these appetizers provides a delightful textural contrast to the soft filling of the wraps.
• A Light Appetizer Before a Main Course: These lettuce wraps can also serve as an impressive and flavorful appetizer to a larger Asian-inspired meal. Consider serving them before a hearty PF Chang’s spicy chicken stir fry or another one of your favorite stir-fry dishes for a complete restaurant-style dining experience at home.
• Asian-Inspired Salad: A simple side salad with a light sesame-ginger dressing can add freshness and balance to the meal.
• Steamed Edamame: A quick and healthy addition, steamed edamame pods sprinkled with sea salt make a great snack or side.

Storing, Freezing, and Reheating Your Lettuce Wraps

One of the beauties of this PF Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps recipe is its meal prep friendliness. Knowing how to properly store, freeze, and reheat your components will ensure you can enjoy this delicious meal whenever a craving strikes.

Storing: To maintain freshness and prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy, it’s crucial to store the chicken and vegetable filling separately from the lettuce leaves. Once the filling has completely cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The filling will keep beautifully for up to 5 days. Keep the fresh lettuce leaves in a separate airtight bag or container in the fridge, ensuring they remain crisp and ready for assembly.

Freezing: While the assembled lettuce wraps cannot be frozen (the lettuce would become unpleasantly limp upon thawing), the flavorful chicken and vegetable filling freezes exceptionally well. Allow the cooked filling to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Label and date the container. The filling can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the filling overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating: To reheat the thawed or refrigerated filling, you have a couple of convenient options. For best results, reheat the filling on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through, typically 3-5 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway, until hot. Once the filling is warmed, you can then assemble your wraps fresh with crisp lettuce leaves, ensuring a delightful texture contrast.

Mason Jar Salads: Get creative with your meal prep by transforming these into “lettuce wrap salads” in mason jars! This method keeps your ingredients fresh and ready to go. Start by adding the cooled chicken mixture to the bottom of a wide-mouthed mason jar. Next, layer with other sturdy vegetables if desired (like diced bell peppers). Finish by topping generously with chopped Boston leaf, romaine, or iceberg lettuce. Seal the jar tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. When lunch or dinner time arrives, simply shake the jar to combine the ingredients or pour it into a bowl and enjoy a deconstructed lettuce wrap salad!

Recommended Meal Prep Tools & Ingredients

Having the right tools and pantry staples can make your cooking and meal prepping experience much smoother. These items are highly recommended for making and storing your PF Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps:

• You can conveniently order water chestnuts online if they’re not readily available in your local grocery stores. They provide that essential, unique crunch to the filling.
• For a fantastic gluten-free and soy-free alternative to traditional soy sauce, pick up some coconut aminos. It offers a similar savory flavor profile and is perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
• If you’re serious about meal prepping and packing healthy lunches, invest in a set of durable glass meal prep bowls. They’re excellent for storing your chicken filling and keeping it fresh for days.
• For high-quality, free-range ground chicken, I highly recommend checking out Butcher Box. Their humanely raised meats are a game-changer for flavor and ethical sourcing.
• A good quality non-stick skillet or wok will make cooking the filling much easier and ensure even browning.
• A sharp chef’s knife and a sturdy cutting board are essential for efficiently chopping all your vegetables and making prep a breeze.