PF Changs Chicken Lettuce Wraps Copycat Recipe

There’s nothing quite like enjoying Chicken Lettuce Wraps from PF Chang’s, but when the craving hits and going out isn’t an option, this delicious copycat recipe brings those same signature flavors right into your kitchen. It’s simple to make, uses everyday ingredients, and delivers the iconic taste your family already loves.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Lettuce Wraps

• Tastes just like the restaurant version
• Quick and easy to prepare
• Uses simple, affordable ingredients
• Family-friendly and kid-approved
• Easy to customize to your tastes

Fun fact: PF Chang’s originally based this dish on classic Chinese San Choy Bow.

Simple Ingredients

Everything you need is easy to find and full of flavor.

• Ground chicken: The tender base that absorbs all the delicious sauce
• Onion: Adds sweetness and aromatic depth
• Garlic & ginger: Essential aromatics for PF Chang’s signature flavor
• Water chestnuts: Provide crunch and texture
• Hoisin sauce: The sweet, savory heart of the dish
• Soy sauce: Adds salty, umami richness
• Rice vinegar: Balances the sweetness with acidity
• Sesame oil: Adds nutty aroma
• Butter lettuce or iceberg leaves: For cool, crisp wrap cups
• Green onions: Fresh garnish that brightens the dish

Servings & Time

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes

What Is Needed

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
• 1/2 cup diced water chestnuts
• 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Butter lettuce leaves
• 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Add ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Step 3: Add the Sauce

Stir in hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Crunch

Stir in diced water chestnuts and cook 1 more minute. Remove from heat and top with sliced green onions.

Step 5: Serve

Scoop the chicken mixture into crisp lettuce leaves and serve warm.

Top Tips

• Use butter lettuce for the most tender wraps.
• Add extra ginger for brighter flavor.
• Keep the filling slightly saucy it absorbs quickly.
• Dice ingredients small for PF Chang’s texture.
• Serve with extra dipping sauce on the side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the chicken (it dries quickly).
• Using too little sauce.
• Skipping the water chestnuts crunch is essential.
• Using stiff lettuce leaves.
• Adding sauce too early (wait until chicken is browned).

How to Customize This Recipe

Sweeter: Add 1–2 tsp honey.
Spicier: Add sriracha or more red pepper flakes.
Tangier: Add extra rice vinegar or a squeeze of lime.
Thicker/Richer: Add 1 tbsp peanut butter for depth.
Healthier: Use low-sodium soy sauce and ground turkey.

Extra Serving Ideas

Pairs perfectly with:

• Fried rice
• Egg rolls
• Asian cucumber salad
• Wonton soup
• Steamed edamame

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey: Lighter but still flavorful.
Tamari: Gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.
Maple syrup or coconut sugar: Substitute for sweetness in hoisin.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based crumbles and vegan hoisin.
Healthier Version: Swap hoisin for a lower-sugar alternative.

Short History of Chicken Lettuce Wraps

PF Chang’s popularized chicken lettuce wraps in the U.S. in the 1990s, inspired by Chinese San Choy Bow a traditional minced meat lettuce cup dish. Their version became iconic for its sweet-savory sauce and tender chicken filling.

Recommended Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl

Make-Ahead Tips

• Prepare the filling up to 2 days ahead.
• Reheat gently before serving.
• Store lettuce leaves separately to keep them crisp.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, or microwave in short intervals until warmed.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• Potstickers
• Chow mein
• Asian slaw
• Steamed rice
• Spring rolls

What You Need to Know About This Recipe

This recipe is inspired by the iconic PF Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps. It captures the same core flavors, textures, and aroma using simple ingredients while remaining budget-friendly, quick, and perfect for recreating restaurant-quality meals at home.

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