Pin Thai Peanut Chicken Wraps with Crunchy Vegetables deliver bold flavors and plenty of texture all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. When I want something quick but loaded with freshness and creamy peanut sauce, this is a go-to lunch or dinner dish for both my kids and me.
The first time I made these wraps, it was on a busy work night when everyone craved takeout. By the end, there were no leftovers and lots of lime-squeezed smiles at the table.
Ingredients
- Creamy peanut butter: gives the sauce its irresistibly rich taste choose a natural kind without extra sugar if possible for best flavor
- Soy sauce: creates umami balance select low-sodium for salt control
- Honey: adds sweetness and helps the sauce cling to the chicken and veggies a local wildflower honey gives a floral boost
- Rice vinegar: brings tangy brightness opt for unseasoned rice vinegar if available
- Lime juice: offers zesty freshness pick juicy limes with smooth skins for maximum yield
- Sesame oil: deepens the aroma and adds nuttiness look for toasted sesame oil in the Asian section
- Sriracha or chili garlic sauce: for a gentle heat use sparingly to let other flavors shine or skip for extra-mild wraps
- Warm water: thins the sauce making it easy to drizzle or spread
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: cook up juicy and quick seek out organic or free range for tenderness
- Vegetable oil: ensures even searing neutral oils are best
- Salt and black pepper: provide savory base seasoning use freshly ground pepper for more depth
- Shredded red cabbage: brings crunch and color choose firm heads with bright leaves
- Shredded carrots: pack in sweetness and softness pre-shredded is a time-saver but hand shredding keeps texture lively
- Red bell pepper: adds more crispness and a mild pop of flavor pick one that feels heavy and glossy
- Green onions: supply sharpness and freshness chop from the green tops down to the pale base for variety
- Fresh cilantro leaves: lend classic Thai fragrance pick bundles with vibrant green leaves
- Flour tortillas or wraps: act as the wrap canvas go for soft pliable ones that bend without splitting
- Roasted peanuts: add toasty crunch crush lightly by hand for bigger bites
- Lime wedges: make the flavors pop serve fresh wedges and squeeze to taste
Instructions
- Make the Peanut Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl whisk together peanut butter soy sauce honey rice vinegar lime juice sesame oil sriracha if you like a little heat and warm water Keep whisking until it is completely smooth and shiny You want a pourable creamy texture that coats the spoon
- Cook the Chicken:
- Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels to get a perfect golden sear Season both sides thoroughly with salt and black pepper
Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat Drop the chicken in and let it cook undisturbed for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side until the outside browns and the juices run clear Slide the chicken out and let it rest for 5 minutes resting keeps it juicy After that slice thinly across the grain
- Prepare Vegetables:
- While the chicken cooks toss together shredded red cabbage carrots red bell pepper green onions and fresh cilantro in a large bowl Stir gently with your hands or a spoon to keep it all extra crunchy and even
- Assemble Wraps:
- Warm your tortillas in a clean dry skillet over low heat for 20 seconds per side or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds This step makes them velvety soft so they will not break
Spread each tortilla with one or two generous spoons of peanut sauce Place a row of sliced chicken along the center Top with a pile of your vegetable mix and a scatter of roasted peanuts for crunch
- Roll and Serve:
- Fold the sides of your tortilla inward then roll tightly from the bottom up so everything stays tucked in Slice each wrap in half with a sharp knife if you want smaller portions Serve immediately with extra peanut sauce for dipping and a wedge of lime to squeeze over right before eating
Pin My kids always go for extra peanut sauce I sometimes double the batch and save some for dipping raw veggies or tossing in noodles on another day When we have picnics these wraps are a hands down favorite because they travel so well
Storage Tips
Keep assembled wraps tightly wrapped in parchment or foil in the fridge for up to 24 hours Reheat chicken or tortillas before assembling for the freshest texture If you are packing ahead store the peanut sauce separately so nothing gets soggy
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap out chicken for grilled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian spin Try crunchy almond butter instead of peanut butter if you have peanut allergies Use gluten free tortillas and tamari for those with wheat or soy concerns
Serving Suggestions
Serve these wraps with a side of Asian-style slaw or a light cucumber salad Top with extra cilantro or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a little added flair On a hot day wash it down with Thai iced tea
Cultural Context
These wraps are inspired by the flavors of Thai street food which often combine rich peanut sauces with fresh crisp vegetables They capture the balance of creamy salty sweet and tangy found in many Southeast Asian dishes With a few easy tweaks you can bring that harmony of flavors into a weeknight meal
Seasonal Adaptations
Add sliced cucumbers and bean sprouts in summer for more juiciness
In fall try julienned apple for a sweet crispy note
Extra chili sauce will keep you warm in winter
Helpful Notes
Always rest the chicken before slicing for juicy pieces
Pre-shredded veggies save time but hand-cut give brighter flavor
Doubling the sauce means you have some for tomorrow’s salad or noodles
Success Stories
Kids and grownups both love building their own wraps at the table which makes dinner interactive and fun One friend told me these wraps convinced her husband to love vegetables thanks to the crunchy colorful slaw mix
Freezer Meal Conversion
Freeze cooked sliced chicken in an airtight container for up to one month Thaw overnight in the fridge and assemble wraps fresh with vegetables and sauce right before serving so everything stays crisp
Pin These vibrant wraps are perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, offering a delightful combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use other proteins besides chicken?
Yes! Grilled tofu or tempeh work well for a vegetarian version. Shrimp or sliced beef also pair nicely with the peanut sauce.
- → How can I add extra crunch to the wraps?
Include sliced cucumber, bean sprouts, or extra peanuts for an added crunchy texture.
- → Is there a gluten-free option?
Use gluten-free tortillas and substitute soy sauce with tamari to keep the wraps gluten-free.
- → What makes the peanut sauce creamy?
The combination of creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and a touch of warm water creates a smooth, rich sauce.
- → How far in advance can I prepare the components?
The vegetables and sauce can be made one day ahead. Assemble wraps just before serving for the best texture.