A simple, protein-rich weeknight meal with fresh crunch, balanced flavor, and easy customization.
These Asian-inspired chicken lettuce bowls are one of my favorite “healthy but realistic” meals. They come together quickly, are packed with protein, and can easily be adjusted based on your preferences or what you have in the fridge.
Serve them over rice for a more substantial meal or in butter lettuce cups for a lighter option. Either way, they’re flavorful, satisfying, and family-friendly.
Ingredients
Chicken Filling
- 2 small yellow onions, finely chopped
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lbs ground chicken
- 4–6 green onions (spring onions), chopped
- 1 can water chestnuts, chopped
- 4 Tbsp tamari or soy sauce
- 4 Tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tsp maple syrup
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp avocado oil
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings
- Shredded carrots
- Chopped cucumber
- Fresh cilantro
- Chopped roasted peanuts or cashews
- Sesame seeds
- Butter lettuce leaves
- Cooked rice
Directions
- Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic and sauté until softened and translucent.
- Add ground chicken and cook until fully browned.
- Stir in chopped water chestnuts, half of the green onions, tamari, rice vinegar, and maple syrup.
- Simmer for a few minutes until flavors combine.
- Remove from heat and stir in sesame oil last for the best flavor.
- Serve over rice or spoon into butter lettuce cups. Top with remaining green onions and your favorite toppings.
Simple Peanut Sauce
Ingredients
- ¼ cup peanut butter
- 2 Tbsp tamari or soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp water
- 1 tsp sriracha (optional)
Directions
Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Add additional water as needed to reach desired consistency.
Tendwell Notes
- Using lettuce cups is a great way to increase fiber and vegetables while keeping the meal lighter.
- Ground chicken offers an easy protein source that works well for busy weeknights.
- Adding toppings like cilantro, cucumber, and shredded carrots increases phytonutrients and texture.
- For blood sugar balance, pair with a protein-forward portion and consider serving with rice that has been cooked and cooled to increase resistant starch.