PF Chang’s Lettuce Wraps Copycat Recipe – Authentic, Easy & Delicious at Home

There’s nothing quite like enjoying the flavorful crunch of PF Chang’s Lettuce Wraps right at home. I remember the first time I tried them at the restaurant and couldn’t get enough. The combination of savory minced chicken, fresh veggies, and that delightful hoisin sauce all wrapped up in crisp lettuce leaves is simply irresistible.

Recreating this dish was a game-changer for my dinner routine. It’s not only delicious but also healthy and easy to make. Whether you’re a long-time fan or trying them for the first time, this copycat recipe will bring a bit of restaurant magic to your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 (8-ounce) can water chestnuts, chopped
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1 head Bibb or butter lettuce, separated into leaves

Instructions

Follow these steps to recreate PF Chang’s delicious Lettuce Wraps in your own kitchen. Each section will guide you through preparing the ingredients, cooking the flavorful filling, and assembling the perfect wraps.

Prep Ingredients

1. Mince Garlic and Ginger

• Finely mince 3 cloves of garlic.
• Grate a 2-inch piece of fresh ginger.

1. Chop Vegetables

• Dice 1 can (8 oz) of water chestnuts into small pieces.
• Slice 4 green onions thinly.

1. Prepare Lettuce

• Carefully separate 1 head of Bibb or butter lettuce into individual leaves.
• Rinse the leaves under cold water and pat them dry with a kitchen towel.

Cook Filling

1. Sauté Aromatics

• Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet.
• Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

1. Cook Chicken

• Add 1 pound of ground chicken to the skillet.
• Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes.

1. Add Vegetables and Sauce

• Stir in the diced water chestnuts and sliced green onions.
• In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup hoisin sauce, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon Sriracha, and 1 tablespoon brown sugar.
• Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet.
• Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Assemble Wraps

1. Prepare Lettuce Cups

• Lay out the lettuce leaves on a serving platter.
• If the leaves are small, use 2-3 leaves per wrap for extra support.

1. Fill the Lettuce Cups

• Spoon a generous amount of the chicken filling into each lettuce leaf.
• Ensure each cup has a balanced mix of chicken and vegetables.

1. Garnish and Serve

• Top each wrap with additional sliced green onions if desired.
• Serve immediately with extra Sriracha on the side for added heat.

Equipment Needed

To master these PF Chang’s Lettuce Wraps at home, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what I use in my kitchen:

• Large Skillet or Wok

• Perfect for sautéing the chicken and vegetables evenly. I prefer a non-stick surface to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

• Cutting Board and Sharp Knife

• Essential for chopping garlic, ginger, green onions, and water chestnuts quickly and safely. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts and saves prep time.

• Measuring Spoons and Cups

• Accurate measurements are key to balancing the flavors in the sauce. I keep a set handy to ensure precision.

• Mixing Bowl

• Ideal for combining the ground chicken with the marinade before cooking. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

• Spatula or Wooden Spoon

• Perfect for stirring the mixture without damaging your cookware. A sturdy spatula makes the cooking process smoother.

• Serving Platter

• Use this to neatly arrange your lettuce wraps for an appealing presentation. I like to serve them on a large, flat platter for easy access.
• Necessary if you’re using canned water chestnuts. A reliable can opener ensures you can access all the ingredients without hassle.
• Lettuce Leaf Separator or Serving Spoon (Optional)
• Helpful for assembling the wraps neatly without making a mess. This keeps the presentation clean and professional.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Preparing PF Chang’s Lettuce Wraps ahead of time can streamline your cooking process and make your mealtime even more enjoyable. Here’s how I like to get things ready in advance:

Prep the Ingredients

1. Chop Vegetables

I start by mincing the garlic and ginger, then finely chopping the green onions and water chestnuts. Place them in airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture

Cook the ground chicken with the aromatics, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, Sriracha, and brown sugar as per the recipe. Let the mixture cool completely, then refrigerate it in a sealed container for up to 2 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

1. Store the Lettuce

Keep the Bibb or butter lettuce refrigerated. To prevent wilting, store the lettuce leaves separately in a moisture-free environment, such as a paper towel-lined container, and use them within 2 days for the freshest wraps.

Assemble Ahead

• Portion the Filling

Divide the cooled chicken mixture into individual portions and store them in the refrigerator. This makes assembling the wraps quick and easy when you’re ready to serve.

• Prepare Garnishes

If you like to garnish with additional ingredients like shredded carrots or chopped peanuts, prepare and store them in small containers. This ensures everything is ready to go when you need it.

Storage Overview

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your PF Chang’s Lettuce Wraps with these expert serving ideas:

Accompaniments

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Serve a side of fragrant jasmine rice to balance the savory wraps.
• Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy sesame dressing complements the wraps perfectly.
• Edamame: Lightly salted steamed edamame adds a nutritious and satisfying element to your meal.

Dipping Sauces

• Spicy Peanut Sauce: Drizzle a homemade spicy peanut sauce for an extra kick.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: Offer sweet chili sauce for a delightful contrast to the savory filling.
• Soy-Ginger Sauce: A mixture of soy sauce, fresh ginger, and a splash of lime enhances the flavors.

Garnishes

• Chopped Peanuts: Sprinkle crushed peanuts over the wraps for added texture and nuttiness.
• Fresh Cilantro: Add a burst of freshness with chopped cilantro leaves.
• Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor and vibrant color.

Beverage Pairings

• Jasmine Tea: A warm cup of jasmine tea complements the Asian-inspired flavors.
• Light Lager Beer: A crisp lager beer balances the richness of the wraps.
• Sparkling Water with Lime: Refreshing and simple, sparkling water with a squeeze of lime keeps the palate clean.

Presentation Tips

• Lettuce Cups on a Platter: Arrange the lettuce cups neatly on a large serving platter for an appealing presentation.
• Individual Serving Bowls: Use small bowls for dipping sauces to keep flavors separate and accessible.
• Garnish Artistically: Scatter garnishes like peanuts and cilantro around the platter for a professional look.

Make It a Party

• Build-Your-Own Wrap Station: Set up a DIY station where guests can assemble their own wraps with preferred toppings and sauces.
• Themed Decorations: Enhance the dining experience with Asian-themed tableware and decorations.
• Interactive Elements: Include a live cooking element where you prepare additional fillings or sauces on the spot.

By incorporating these serving suggestions, you’ll create a memorable and delicious dining experience that rivals PF Chang’s original Lettuce Wraps.

Storage Tips

As a chef dedicated to perfecting every aspect of a dish, I know how important proper storage is to maintain the freshness and flavor of your PF Chang’s Lettuce Wraps copycat recipe. Here are my top tips to ensure your wraps stay delicious, whether you’re prepping ahead or saving leftovers.

Refrigerating Leftovers

To keep your lettuce wraps fresh in the refrigerator, follow these steps:

1. Store the Filling Separately: Place the chicken mixture in an airtight container. This prevents the lettuce from wilting and keeps the flavors intact.
2. Keep Vegetables Fresh: Store chopped vegetables like water chestnuts and green onions in separate containers. This maintains their crunch and vibrant color.
3. Prepare Lettuce Properly: Wrap your lettuce leaves in a damp paper towel and place them in a resealable plastic bag. This keeps them crisp and ready for assembly.

Freezing for Future Use

If you want to make the wraps ahead of time or save some for later, freezing is a great option:

1. Freeze the Filling: Allow the chicken mixture to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Label with the date and use within two months for best quality.
2. Avoid Freezing Lettuce: Lettuce doesn’t freeze well, so it’s best to store it in the refrigerator only. Freezing can make the leaves soggy and unappealing.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy your stored wraps, follow these simple reheating steps:

1. Thaw the Filling: If frozen, thaw the chicken mixture in the refrigerator overnight.
2. Warm the Filling: Reheat the chicken mixture in a skillet over medium heat until it’s heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Assemble Fresh: Use fresh lettuce leaves for each wrap to ensure a crisp and refreshing bite.

Storage Duration

Here’s a quick reference table to help you keep track of how long each component lasts:

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy the delightful flavors of PF Chang’s Lettuce Wraps any time you crave them, without compromising on taste or texture.

Conclusion

Bringing PF Chang’s Lettuce Wraps into my home kitchen has been such a rewarding experience. I love how the fresh ingredients and bold flavors come together to create something truly special.

This recipe has become a favorite for both everyday meals and entertaining guests. It’s satisfying to know I can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish anytime I want. Plus it’s fun to customize the wraps with different toppings and sauces to suit everyone’s taste.

I hope you enjoy making and eating these delicious lettuce wraps as much as I do. Give it a try and create your own memorable meals right at home