P.f. Chang’s Copycat Lettuce Wraps Recipe – Dish Journal

When it comes to serving P.F. Chang’s copycat lettuce wraps, picking the right accompaniments can take your meal from great to spectacular. Think about pairing them with some vibrant, refreshing sides. A light cucumber salad, maybe dressed with a splash of rice vinegar, could offer a nice crunchy contrast.

Consider crafting a simple yet delicious Asian slaw. Shredded cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers tossed with a sesame dressing work beautifully. If you’re in the mood for some heat, crispy tempura green beans or spicy edamame make excellent options. Don’t forget to have some chilled beverages handy, like iced green tea or a fruity lemonade, to cleanse the palate between bites.

Today, I’m whipping up something you might have craved after a visit to P.F. Chang’s: their legendary lettuce wraps. You know the ones—those crispy, flavorful bundles that have your taste buds doing a happy dance. 

Well, not only can you replicate those delicious flavors at home, but I’m also here to guide you through the nitty-gritty of making them yourself. As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I’m excited to transform a restaurant favorite into something you can savor any day of the week.

These wraps are healthy, quick to make, and can offer a customized eating experience that you just can’t get at the restaurant. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a refreshing appetizer, or a party dish that dazzles, this recipe fits the bill. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive in.

What Is P.F. Chang’s Copycat Lettuce Wraps?

This recipe mimics P.F. Chang’s famous lettuce wraps that feature a savory filling tucked into fresh lettuce leaves. The flavor is delightful, blending ground chicken with water chestnuts, mushrooms, garlic, and spices. For a quick prep, you can make the filling ahead of time, then just scoop and wrap when you’re ready to eat.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You don’t need a culinary degree to whip this up. Just a handful of ingredients and a little time in the kitchen. Plus, it can easily be modified to suit your specific tastes or dietary preferences, making it a versatile winner.

What Is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

Imagine a combination of savory, sweet, and just the right kick of heat. That’s what we’re aiming for. The ground chicken provides a hearty base. The water chestnuts add a satisfying crunch. Fresh garlic and ginger bring a bright, aromatic taste. And the special sauce? Wowza! It’s a tangy—not-too-spicy addition that elevates the whole experience.

This dish caters to every palate. Whether you lean towards sweet or savory, there’s something here for you. Plus, the lightness of the lettuce wraps means you won’t feel heavy after indulging. It’s a winner all around.

What Makes This Recipe Different from Other P.F. Chang’s Copycat Lettuce Wraps Recipes?

While many recipes exist, I aimed to create a version that stays faithful to the original while making it just a tad easier to prepare. Some recipes introduce unnecessary complexities or skip important steps. My method focuses on using quality ingredients but simplifies the process, ensuring you get that authentic flavor without the fuss.

There’s also the delicious aspect of customizing—add more or less of what you love. If you prefer a plant-based twist, you can replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu. Feel free to experiment!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Marinade

• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons of sweet rice wine (mirin)
• 3 tablespoons of soy sauce

Lettuce Wrap Filling

• 1 pound of ground chicken breast
• 10 fresh or dried shiitake mushrooms, stems discarded and finely diced (about 2/3 cup; if using dried, soak in warm water until softened before chopping)
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced or grated
• 1 (8-ounce) can of water chestnuts, drained and finely chopped (approximately 1 cup)
• 1 tablespoon of ginger, freshly grated
• 1 tablespoon of canola oil

For Serving

• Lettuce cups (for serving)
• 1 green onion, finely sliced (for garnish)

Special Sauce

• 1/8 teaspoon of chili oil
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of Chinese hot mustard paste
• 1 to 3 teaspoons of chili garlic sauce
• 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
• 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced

Step by Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, oyster sauce, sweet rice wine, and soy sauce. Set aside. This marinade is key—it adds layers of flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Add the ground chicken, cooking until it turns white, about 5 minutes. Break apart the chicken to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, diced mushrooms, and chopped water chestnuts. Sauté for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Pour in the Marinade

Pour your prepared marinade over the chicken mixture. Stir well to coat everything in that delightful sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until it’s heated through and fragrant.

Step 5: Assemble the Wraps

Take your lettuce leaves and spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture into the center. Don’t overfill or you’ll have a mess! Top with sliced green onions for an extra burst of freshness.

Step 6: Make the Special Sauce

To create your special sauce, combine the chili oil, hot mustard paste, chili garlic sauce, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sliced green onions in a small bowl. Adjust the heat to your preference.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Plate your stunning lettuce wraps alongside the special sauce. Dive in and enjoy the crunch and flavor. Go ahead—dare to make a mess!

Tips On Making P.F. Chang’s Copycat Lettuce Wraps

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic truly elevate the flavor.
• Don’t Skimp on the Wrapping: Choose large, firm leaves of iceberg or butter lettuce. This creates a perfect little pocket for your filling.
• Adjust the Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, start small with the chili sauces and adjust as needed.
• Prep Ahead: You can make the filling ahead of time and chill it in the fridge. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.
• Vary Your Fillings: Feel free to swap in ground turkey or tofu for a different take on this classic.

Nutrition Information

p.f. chang’s copycat lettuce wraps recipe nutrition facts

How Can I Store This P.F. Chang’s Copycat Lettuce Wraps Recipe?

Leftovers? No problem. You can store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just keep the lettuce leaves separate; otherwise, they’ll wilt. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply reheat the filling in a skillet over low heat and assemble your wraps fresh.

What If Some Items Are Not Available in Your Kitchen?

Running low on certain ingredients? Here are some handy substitutions!

• Ground Chicken: Ground turkey or lean beef can seamlessly replace chicken without too much change in flavor.
• Shiitake Mushrooms: If fresh shiitakes aren’t available, you can use button mushrooms or even dried mushrooms (just soak them first).
• Water Chestnuts: If you can’t find them, try using chopped celery or jicama for that necessary crunch.
• Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free alternative, consider tamari sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

There you have it: P.F. Chang’s famous copycat lettuce wraps, made simple! With a nourishing filling and crisp lettuce wrappers, these wraps shine at any table. You get to enjoy the rewards of great flavors without stepping foot in a restaurant. Gathering your ingredients and following this guide allows you to serve a dish that impresses.

Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or something to share with friends, these wraps are bound to become a beloved staple in your recipe repertoire. So roll up those leaves and dig into something that truly tastes like a treat!

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