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Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Chicken Soong – a Chinese chopped chicken filling is served inside lettuce leaves for a delicious appetizer.

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Chicken Soong filling inside of lettuce leaves being held by two hands.

Experience the Fresh and Flavorful Delight of Chicken Soong Lettuce Wraps

There’s an undeniable allure to a well-made lettuce wrap. The crisp, cool crunch of fresh lettuce perfectly contrasts with a warm, savory filling, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that’s simply irresistible. For enthusiasts of vibrant, light, and utterly delicious Asian-inspired cuisine, Chicken Soong lettuce wraps stand out as a true culinary gem. This classic Chinese chopped chicken dish, elegantly served within tender lettuce leaves, offers a refreshing and satisfying experience, whether enjoyed as a sophisticated appetizer or a light, wholesome main course.

My own journey into the world of lettuce wraps has been a delightful one, leading me to explore various iterations of this fantastic concept. From the classic Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps to more inventive takes, each recipe brings its unique twist to the table. So, naturally, when I discovered the Chicken Soong recipe nestled within the pages of this month’s Cookbook of the Month, The Shun Lee Cookbook, I knew I had to try it. The appetizer section of this acclaimed cookbook is a treasure trove of enticing recipes, and I’m thrilled to report that this particular dish exceeded all expectations. It was, without a doubt, incredibly delicious and an instant favorite in my kitchen.

Why Chicken Soong Lettuce Wraps Are a Must-Try

Beyond their exquisite taste, Chicken Soong lettuce wraps offer a multitude of reasons to become a staple in your meal rotation. They are remarkably quick to prepare, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something homemade, healthy, and packed with flavor but lack extensive cooking time. The light and fresh nature of the dish also makes it a fantastic alternative to heavier meals, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying dish without feeling weighed down.

This recipe provides a balanced meal with lean protein from the chicken and a generous serving of fresh vegetables, all wrapped in nature’s perfect carbohydrate-free shell – lettuce. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more greens into your diet in an exciting and interactive manner. The process of assembling your own wrap at the table adds an element of fun and personalization, making it a great dish for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Mastering the Art of Stir-Frying: Wok vs. Skillet

One of these days, I truly intend to invest in a quality wok. Many traditional Chinese recipes, including a good number from The Shun Lee Cookbook, are designed with the unique heat distribution and cooking surface of a wok in mind. However, for those of us without this specialized kitchen tool, a large, heavy-bottomed skillet serves as a perfectly acceptable substitute. While a wok’s high, sloping sides facilitate rapid, even cooking and easy tossing, a skillet can still achieve excellent results with a few adjustments and mindful technique.

During my initial attempt at this recipe, I did notice it turned out a touch on the oily side. This could very well be attributed to the use of a standard skillet rather than a wok, which often requires less oil due to its shape and heating properties. To mitigate this, consider reducing the amount of oil initially used for stir-frying or draining excess oil more thoroughly after cooking the chicken. Despite this minor observation, the dish still came together incredibly fast once all the preliminary preparation was complete. The key to successful stir-frying, regardless of your chosen pan, lies in what chefs call “mise en place” – having all your ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go before you even turn on the heat. Once the cooking begins, the process is incredibly swift, often finishing in under 10 minutes. This speed is a huge advantage, allowing you to enjoy a freshly cooked meal without a long wait.

A crucial point to remember, which I learned firsthand, is that these are designed as appetizer portions. While half the recipe made a delicious meal for two, it was quite clear that for a main course, you’ll want to either double the recipe or serve it alongside other dishes to ensure everyone is fully satisfied. Nonetheless, we devoured every last bite with immense pleasure!

Chicken Soong Lettuce Wraps

A delightful Chinese chopped chicken filling served in crisp lettuce leaves, perfect as a fresh and flavorful appetizer or light meal.

Author: Deborah Harroun

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4 appetizer servings

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: Chinese

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Ingredients

Chicken

  • 8 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons egg white (beat until foamy, then measure)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon rice wine or dry sherry
  • 1/2 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch

Wraps & Garnish

  • 4 celery ribs, strings removed with a vegetable peeler, finely diced (1 cup)
  • 4 scallions, white and green parts, trimmed and minced (3/4 cup)
  • 3 carrots, finely diced (1/2 cup)
  • 1 teaspoon dark sesame oil
  • 2 teaspoons hoisin sauce
  • 8 whole Bibb or iceberg lettuce leaves
  • 2 tablespoons lightly toasted pine nuts

Instructions

  1. To prepare the chicken, place the diced chicken in a medium bowl. Add the egg white, cornstarch, and salt. Toss to coat evenly.
  2. To prepare the sauce, whisk together the soy sauce, red wine vinegar, rice wine (or dry sherry), sugar, and ground white pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.
  3. For the cornstarch slurry, combine 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water in a separate small bowl and set it aside. This will be used to thicken the sauce later.
  4. Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add enough vegetable oil to come up the sides of the skillet by about 1 inch. Heat until the oil is very hot and almost smoking. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces and stir constantly to prevent them from sticking together. Cook until the chicken turns white, which typically takes about 45 seconds to 1 minute.
  5. Using a mesh skimmer or slotted spoon, transfer the cooked chicken to a colander to drain any excess oil.
  6. Carefully pour out all but 2 tablespoons of oil from the skillet.
  7. Return the skillet to high heat. Add the finely diced celery, minced scallions, and diced carrots. Stir-fry for 45 seconds to 1 minute, until the vegetables are slightly tender-crisp. Return the drained chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
  8. Stir in the prepared sauce mixture and cook for 30 seconds, allowing the flavors to meld. Add the cornstarch-water mixture and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Finally, stir in the dark sesame oil for an added aromatic touch. Transfer the finished chicken mixture to a serving bowl.
  9. To serve your Chicken Soong lettuce wraps, spread about 1/4 teaspoon of hoisin sauce down the center of each individual Bibb or iceberg lettuce leaf. Spoon approximately 3 tablespoons of the hot chicken mixture onto the hoisin-coated lettuce. Garnish generously with the lightly toasted pine nuts. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, flavorful combination!

Recipe Notes:

This fantastic recipe is adapted from The Shun Lee Cookbook, a must-have for lovers of authentic Chinese cuisine.

Keywords: chicken soong, lettuce wraps, Chinese chicken, Asian appetizer, quick stir-fry

Tips for Your Best Chicken Soong Experience

Creating the perfect Chicken Soong lettuce wraps is an achievable goal with a few key tips:

  • Mise en Place is Paramount: As mentioned, stir-frying is a rapid cooking method. Ensure all your ingredients are prepped, chopped, and ready to be added to the pan in quick succession. This will prevent overcooking and ensure a smooth cooking process.
  • High Heat is Your Friend: Stir-frying demands high heat to sear the ingredients quickly and lock in flavors. Don’t be shy with your heat settings, but keep an eye on your ingredients to avoid burning.
  • Managing Oil: If using a standard skillet, you might find the dish a little oily. To combat this, you can slightly reduce the initial amount of oil used to cook the chicken, or ensure you thoroughly drain the chicken after its initial cook. The goal is a light, flavorful coating, not a greasy one.
  • The Right Lettuce: Bibb or iceberg lettuce are traditional choices because their sturdy, cup-like leaves hold the filling well and offer a satisfying crispness. Romaine hearts can also work in a pinch, but might not form as neat a cup.
  • Flavor Variations: Feel free to customize your wraps! Add a touch of grated fresh ginger or garlic to the stir-fry for an extra aromatic kick. A sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro before serving can also elevate the freshness. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes can be added to the sauce or directly to the filling.
  • Serving as a Main: To make this a more substantial main dish, consider serving it with a side of steamed white or brown rice, or a light Asian-inspired noodle salad. This will help stretch the appetizer portions into a fuller meal.

The Health Benefits of Lettuce Wraps

In an age where healthy eating is a priority, Chicken Soong lettuce wraps shine brightly. By replacing traditional carb-heavy wraps or buns with fresh lettuce, you significantly reduce the calorie and carbohydrate content of your meal. Lettuce provides essential vitamins (like Vitamin K and Vitamin A) and minerals, along with dietary fiber, contributing to a feeling of fullness and aiding digestion. The lean chicken breast offers a powerful protein punch, vital for muscle repair and satiety. Paired with a medley of fresh vegetables, this dish truly exemplifies how healthy eating can also be incredibly delicious and satisfying.

Conclusion: A Taste of Chinese Culinary Excellence at Home

Chicken Soong lettuce wraps offer a delightful culinary journey that combines the rich, savory flavors of Chinese cuisine with a light and refreshing presentation. This recipe, inspired by The Shun Lee Cookbook, proves that creating authentic-tasting dishes at home can be both simple and rewarding. It’s a testament to the power of fresh ingredients and straightforward techniques in yielding extraordinary results. Whether you’re hosting a gathering and need an impressive appetizer, or simply seeking a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal for your family, these lettuce wraps are an impeccable choice.

So, gather your ingredients, embrace the spirit of efficient stir-frying, and prepare to be captivated by the irresistible charm of Chicken Soong. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an interactive and immensely enjoyable dining experience that will leave you craving more.

We absolutely loved these, and I’m confident you will too!

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