Dinner

Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Cups Recipe

Name: Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Cups Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 head butter lettuce (or iceberg lettuce), leaves separated; 1/2 cup shredded carrots; 1/2 cup diced cucumber; 1/4 cup green onions, sliced; Sesame seeds for garnish

Byreem everly February 5, 2026February 5, 2026

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Introduction

These Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Cups are a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy a classic Asian-inspired dish. With tender chicken cooked in a savory teriyaki sauce and crisp veggies wrapped in cool lettuce, they make a perfect light meal or appetizer. Ready in just 20 minutes, they’re ideal for a quick, healthy bite.

The image shows five lettuce cups arranged on a white plate with a white marbled texture background. Each cup is made from bright green leafy lettuce that curves upward to hold the filling. The filling consists of small pieces of glazed chicken coated in a shiny dark brown sauce, mixed with thin orange carrot strips and small bright green cucumber chunks, topped with chopped green onions and sprinkled white sesame seeds. The mix looks fresh and colorful with a mix of soft and crunchy textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon ginger (minced)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1 head of butter lettuce (or iceberg lettuce, leaves separated)
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup diced cucumber
1/4 cup green onions (sliced)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Add the diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
Step 3: Stir in the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the chicken.
Step 4: While the chicken cooks, wash and separate the lettuce leaves. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
Step 5: In a small bowl, combine the shredded carrots, diced cucumber, and sliced green onions.
Step 6: Spoon the teriyaki chicken mixture into the center of each lettuce leaf.
Step 7: Top with the carrot, cucumber, and green onion mixture.
Step 8: Garnish with sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.
Step 9: Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors.

Tips & Variations

Swap chicken breasts for thighs for extra juiciness and flavor.
Add chopped water chestnuts for extra crunch in the filling.
Use iceberg lettuce for a crispier texture if butter lettuce is unavailable.
For a spicy kick, drizzle some sriracha or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top.
Make your own teriyaki sauce with soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger for a homemade touch.

Storage

Store any leftover cooked chicken separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the lettuce and toppings separate to prevent sogginess. Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling new lettuce cups. For best texture, assemble lettuce cups fresh before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows five bright green lettuce leaves placed on a white plate with a white marbled texture underneath. Each lettuce leaf holds a filling of small, glossy, brown chicken pieces coated in a sauce, topped with thin orange carrot strips, small bright green cucumber chunks, and sprinkled with white sesame seeds and chopped scallions. The combination of colors and textures creates a fresh and vibrant look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the chicken filling in advance?

Yes, you can cook and store the teriyaki chicken filling up to 3 days ahead. Keep it refrigerated and reheat before assembling the lettuce cups.

What is the best type of lettuce to use?

Butter lettuce is ideal for its soft, pliable leaves that easily wrap around the filling. Iceberg lettuce can be used for a crunchier option, though it is less flexible.