Save Imagine all the savory, gingery goodness of a classic pan-fried dumpling, but reimagined as a crisp and refreshing meal. These Potsticker-Inspired Chicken Lettuce Boats bring that irresistible combination of juicy chicken and aromatic ginger to your table, with the added bonus of being incredibly light and low-carb.
Pin it The secret to this dish lies in the cooking technique. By allowing the ground chicken mixture to sit undisturbed in the skillet for a few minutes, you develop those golden, crispy bits that mimic the perfectly seared bottom of a potsticker. Wrapped in buttery Bibb lettuce, it is a satisfying crunch in every single bite.
Ingredients
- Chicken Filling:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
- 1 cup (100 g) finely shredded Napa cabbage
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp Sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional)
- 1/4 tsp ground white pepper
- For Crispy Edges:
- 2 Tbsp neutral oil (e.g., canola, avocado)
- Assembly:
- 12 large leaves butter lettuce or Bibb lettuce, washed and dried
- 1 small carrot, julienned
- 1/4 cup (25 g) shredded purple cabbage
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- Dipping Sauce:
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce (or tamari)
- 1 Tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, shredded Napa cabbage, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, Sriracha (if using), and white pepper until well combined.
- Step 2
- Heat neutral oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken mixture in an even layer. Let cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes to develop crispy edges.
- Step 3
- Stir and continue to cook, breaking up the chicken, until fully cooked and golden brown in spots, another 4–5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Step 4
- In a small bowl, whisk together all dipping sauce ingredients.
- Step 5
- To assemble, spoon chicken filling into lettuce leaves. Top with julienned carrot, shredded purple cabbage, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
- Step 6
- Serve immediately with dipping sauce on the side.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best texture, use a large nonstick skillet so the chicken has enough room to brown properly. For an extra crunch, you can add finely chopped water chestnuts to the chicken mixture during the mixing stage. If you want more caramelization, resist the urge to stir the chicken too early.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily substitute the ground chicken with ground turkey for a similar result. To make the recipe strictly gluten-free or soy-free, swap the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos. For those who enjoy extra heat, add more Sriracha or chili garlic sauce directly into the filling mixture.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these lettuce boats immediately while the chicken is hot and the lettuce is crisp. They pair wonderfully with a chilled glass of green tea or a dry Riesling. For a complete meal, garnish with extra green onions and keep a small bowl of extra Sriracha on the table for those who want an extra kick.
Pin it Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a light appetizer for your next gathering, these chicken lettuce boats deliver big on flavor without the heavy feeling of dough. It is a vibrant, healthy dish that brings the best of Asian fusion flavors to your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What makes the edges crispy?
Letting the chicken mixture cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes in hot oil allows the bottom to caramelize and develop crunchy, golden-brown edges before stirring.
- → Can I prepare the filling ahead?
Yes, mix the filling ingredients up to 24 hours in advance and store refrigerated. Cook just before serving for the best crispy texture.
- → What lettuce works best?
Butter lettuce and Bibb lettuce are ideal due to their cup shape, tender leaves, and mild flavor that complements the savory filling without overpowering it.
- → How do I make it spicier?
Increase the Sriracha in the filling, add more chili flakes to the dipping sauce, or serve with extra chili garlic sauce on the side.
- → Can I use ground turkey?
Absolutely. Ground turkey works well as a substitute, though you may want to add an extra teaspoon of sesame oil to maintain richness.