Embark on a culinary journey with our Asian Chicken Meatball Lettuce Wraps, a tantalizing fusion of vibrant flavors and textures. Succulent chicken meatballs, glazed in a sticky-sweet sauce, are nestled in crisp butter lettuce leaves and topped with a refreshing mango slaw. Each bite offers a symphony of savory, sweet, and tangy notes, making these wraps a true delight for the senses.
In our household, these Asian Chicken Meatball Lettuce Wraps are a sensation. It all started when we hosted a dinner party and wanted to serve something unique yet crowd-pleasing. As the aroma of ginger and garlic filled the air, our guests eagerly gathered around the table, intrigued by the enticing spread before them. From the first bite, they were hooked—the tender meatballs, glazed to perfection, paired harmoniously with the vibrant mango slaw, creating a culinary experience they wouldn’t soon forget. Since then, these wraps have become a staple in our family gatherings, bringing joy and excitement to every mealtime.
Why These Flavorful Lettuce Wraps Are a Must-Try
- Dynamic Flavor Profile: From the savory chicken meatballs to the tangy mango slaw and the sticky-sweet glaze, every component of these wraps contributes to a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.
- Fresh and Vibrant Ingredients: With colorful purple cabbage, juicy mango, and fragrant cilantro, these wraps are not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them perfect for entertaining or brightening up weeknight dinners.
- Customizable and Versatile: Feel free to adjust the heat level of the glaze and slaw to suit your preferences, or swap out ingredients to cater to dietary restrictions or personal taste preferences.
- Quick and Easy Preparation: With simple instructions and minimal prep work, these lettuce wraps are perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
For the Mango Slaw:
- 1 ripe mango, thinly sliced
- 2 cups thinly shredded purple cabbage
- ½ cup packed cilantro, roughly chopped
- 2 green onions, whites and tender green parts thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce (like sriracha)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
For the Meatball Glaze:
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce (like sriracha)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 3 tablespoons panko bread crumbs (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 green onions, whites and tender green parts thinly sliced
To Assemble:
- 5 ounces butter lettuce
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Prepare the Mango Slaw: In a large bowl, combine mango, purple cabbage, cilantro, and green onions. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, chili garlic sauce, and salt. Pour the dressing over the slaw and stir until well combined. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Prepare the Meatball Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, sesame oil, soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch. Set aside.
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, soy sauce, panko bread crumbs, garlic, ginger, and green onions. Gently mix until well combined. Roll the mixture into mini meatballs, using about a tablespoon of the mixture for each.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the glaze to the pan. Toss to coat the meatballs and cook until the glaze thickens and coats the meatballs.
- Assemble the Lettuce Wraps: Place a spoonful of mango slaw onto each butter lettuce leaf. Top with a few meatballs and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes:
- Feel free to customize the spice level of the glaze and slaw to suit your taste preferences.
- You can omit the panko bread crumbs for a gluten-free version of the meatballs.
- These lettuce wraps are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
