The first time I tried PF Chang’s chicken lettuce wraps, I was hooked – that perfect bite of savory chicken, crunchy water chestnuts, and crisp butter lettuce became my go-to appetizer order every visit. After one too many “just one more bite” moments stealing wraps from friends’ plates, I knew I had to crack the code at home. This recipe nails that signature PF Changs flavor with pantry staples you likely already have. What I love most? These wraps come together faster than delivery would arrive, with that same addictive sweet-savory sauce clinging to every bit of juicy chicken. Trust me, once you taste these, you’ll understand why they’re legendary.

Why You’ll Love These PF Changs Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Listen, I don’t just make these wraps—I crave them. Here’s why you will too:

• Faster than takeout: 25 minutes from fridge to table (yes, I’ve timed it). Skip the delivery fee!
• Flavor bomb: That magic combo of garlic, ginger, and hoisin sauce makes every bite better than the last.
• Healthier hack: Butter lettuce cups mean you get all the crunch without the carbs of tortillas or buns.
• Meal prep hero: The filling keeps beautifully for lunches—just pack lettuce separately.
• Crowd pleaser: Friends always ask for this recipe after one bite. (I may have stolen this exact move from PF Changs myself!)

Seriously, these wraps check every box—easy, tasty, and just a little bit addicting. You’ve been warned.

Ingredients for PF Changs Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Gather these simple ingredients—I bet most are already in your kitchen! The magic happens when they all come together. Here’s exactly what you’ll need:

The Protein

• 1 lb ground chicken (thigh meat has more flavor, but breast works too)

The Aromatics & Crunch

• 1 tbsp sesame oil (toasted, not light—it makes all the difference)
• 1 tbsp minced garlic (fresh cloves, not jarred—trust me on this)
• 1 tbsp minced ginger (peel and grate it right before cooking)
• 1/2 cup diced water chestnuts (that signature PF Changs crunch!)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (slice thin, greens and whites both)

The Sauce That Makes It Magic

• 3 tbsp soy sauce (regular or low-sodium both work)
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (the sweet, sticky backbone of the flavor)
• 1 tsp rice vinegar (just a splash for brightness)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (or more if you like heat!)

The Edible Bowl

• 1 head butter lettuce (look for one with big, cup-shaped leaves)

See? Nothing fancy—just good ingredients prepped right. Now let’s make some magic!

How to Make PF Changs Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Okay, time for the fun part! This is where that pile of ingredients transforms into those restaurant-worthy wraps you love. I’ll walk you through each step – just follow along and you’ll be scooping up that saucy chicken in no time.

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

First, grab your largest skillet (I use a 12-inch) and heat that sesame oil over medium. When it shimmers – that’s your cue – toss in the garlic and ginger. Now, listen closely: 30 seconds max. Stir constantly! You want them fragrant and golden, not browned or (heaven forbid) burnt. That bitter taste ruins everything. I set a timer because I’ve learned the hard way how fast garlic turns from perfect to pan-fail.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Next, add your ground chicken. Break it up with a wooden spoon like you’re playing culinary whack-a-mole – you want small, bite-sized crumbles. No big clumps! Cook for about 5 minutes until there’s no pink left. Here’s my trick: press a piece against the pan – if juices run clear, you’re golden. The chicken should look nicely browned but still juicy.

Step 3: Combine Sauces and Veggies

Now the magic happens! Add water chestnuts and green onions first – that crunch needs just a minute to warm through. Then pour in your sauce trio: soy, hoisin, and rice vinegar. The red pepper flakes go in now too. Stir everything like you mean it for about 2 minutes until the sauce coats every bit of chicken. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells like heaven and the sauce thickens slightly, clinging to the spoon.

Step 4: Assemble Lettuce Wraps

Time to build! Gently separate your butter lettuce leaves – look for the cup-shaped ones. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of filling into each (don’t overstuff!). Pro tip: place leaves on a platter first, then fill – way less messy than trying to carry loaded wraps. Sprinkle extra green onions on top if you’re feeling fancy. Serve immediately while the filling’s warm and the lettuce is crisp. Watch how fast these disappear!

Expert Tips for Perfect PF Changs Chicken Lettuce Wraps

After years (and I mean years) of tweaking this recipe, here are my absolute must-know secrets for wrap perfection:

• Chill your lettuce – Pop those leaves in ice water for 10 minutes before assembling. They’ll stay crisp way longer!
• Mini-chop your chestnuts – Smaller pieces = better crunch distribution. I pulse mine in the food processor quick.
• Sauce on the side – Double the sauce recipe and keep extra for dipping. Game. Changer.
• Medium-high is magic – That initial garlic/ginger sauté needs enough heat to bloom flavors fast without burning.
• Prep greens last – Wash and dry lettuce right before serving so leaves don’t wilt.

Oh, and one bonus tip? Always make extra filling. You’ll thank me when midnight snack cravings hit!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Listen, I make these wraps so often I’ve tried every swap imaginable! Here are my favorite ways to mix it up when I’m missing something or feeling adventurous:

Protein Swaps

• Ground turkey works beautifully if that’s what you’ve got – just add an extra teaspoon of sesame oil for richness
• Shredded chicken thighs make a great leftover hack (about 2 cups shredded does the trick)
• For vegetarians? Crumbled extra-firm tofu pressed well and browned gets surprisingly close

Sauce Adjustments

• No hoisin? Use 1 tbsp honey + 1 tsp soy sauce – not identical but still delicious
• Tamari or coconut aminos are perfect gluten-free soy sauce swaps
• Like heat? Add 1 tsp Sriracha to the sauce mix (my husband’s favorite move)

Crunchy Add-Ins

• Swap water chestnuts for jicama or minced celery in a pinch
• For extra texture, toss in ½ cup chopped peanuts right before serving
• No butter lettuce? Bibb or romaine hearts work nearly as well

The beauty of this recipe? It’s like your favorite little black dress – easy to accessorize however you’re feeling!

Serving and Storing PF Changs Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Here’s how I make these wraps feel like a complete meal (and keep leftovers tasty for days):

For serving, I always whip up a pot of steamed jasmine rice – it soaks up any extra sauce beautifully. A quick cucumber salad with rice vinegar makes the perfect cool contrast. Leftovers? Let the filling cool completely before storing in an airtight container – it keeps wonderfully for 3 days in the fridge. Just reheat gently and refresh your lettuce leaves. Pro tip: pack filling and lettuce separately if meal prepping – no one likes soggy wraps!

PF Changs Chicken Lettuce Wraps Nutritional Information

Here’s the scoop on what’s in these tasty wraps (per serving): 220 calories, 20g protein, and just 12g carbs thanks to those lettuce cups! You’ll get a good dose of vitamin A from the butter lettuce too. Remember: nutrition varies by ingredients – like if you use low-sodium soy sauce or extra veggies. But honestly? With flavors this good, who’s counting?

FAQs About PF Changs Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are the ones I get asked most about these addictive wraps:

Can I use iceberg lettuce instead of butter lettuce?

You absolutely can – iceberg gives that classic crunch! Just know the leaves won’t cup as nicely. I often use a mix: butter lettuce for presentation, iceberg for extra crunch on the side. Pro tip: Cut iceberg into wide wedges for easier wrapping.

How spicy are these lettuce wraps?

With just 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, they’ve got a mild kick – think “flavorful glow” not “mouth on fire.” For kids or spice-shy folks, reduce to 1/4 tsp. Want more heat? Add sriracha to taste after cooking.

Can I make these ahead for a party?

Yes! Cook the filling up to 2 days early (it actually tastes better as flavors meld). Keep chilled, then reheat gently. Prep lettuce leaves same-day though – nobody likes soggy greens!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Filling keeps great for 3 days refrigerated in airtight containers. Lettuce? Rinse, spin dry, then tuck in a ziplock with a paper towel. They’ll stay crisp for 2 days if you change the towel daily.

Why do my wraps get soggy so fast?

Two culprits: Overfilling (stick to 2 tbsp max per leaf) and assembling too early. I always keep filling and leaves separate until the last minute. Chilled lettuce helps too – 10 minutes in ice water works wonders!

Share Your PF Changs Chicken Lettuce Wraps Experience

I’d love to hear how your wraps turn out! Did you add extra heat with Sriracha? Maybe you discovered a killer new garnish? These little flavor bombs have been my obsession for years, and I’m always amazed at the creative twists people come up with. Your tips might just become my new favorite way to make them!

Irresistible PF Changs Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe in 25 Minutes

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• Author: Christina R. Jones
• Total Time: 25 mins
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Calorie

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Description

Make PF Chang’s famous chicken lettuce wraps at home with this easy recipe. Enjoy the perfect balance of savory chicken, crunchy water chestnuts, and fresh lettuce.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp minced ginger
• 1/2 cup diced water chestnuts
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 head butter lettuce

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Instructions

1. Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Add ground chicken and cook until browned.
4. Stir in water chestnuts, green onions, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
5. Cook for 5 minutes until flavors combine.
6. Spoon mixture into lettuce leaves and serve.

Notes

• Use ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Add extra hoisin sauce for more sweetness.
• Serve with extra green onions on top.

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 15 mins
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 wrap
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: PF Changs chicken lettuce wraps, Asian lettuce wraps, easy appetizer recipe