P.F. Chang's Style Lettuce Wraps--Healthy Style

Confession: as I think of it, I'm trying to remember if I've even had P.F. Chang's Lettuce Wraps.  After trying this recipe and now knowing I can make a healthier version so quickly and easily, I'm not sure I ever will feel the need.  I am so excited about these, my mouth is watering and I am thinking about how quickly I can make them again. 

I have even bought a new can of water chestnuts (which happen to be one of the grand total of two foods my husband rejects--along with bamboo shoots of all things--and even he loved them!) in anticipation of my next batch.  Please don't omit the water chestnuts either, they just add the perfect crunch to this light, crispy, crunchy, savory dish.  

Seriously, I think these might be my new favorite food.   

P.F. Chang’s Lettuce Wraps
Serves 2-3

Ingredients:
1lb ground chicken breast (or 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks and finely chopped in a food processor)
1/2 medium onion, minced
salt & pepper, a dash of each
2 large cloves garlic, minced
1 inch nob fresh ginger, peeled & minced
1 Tablespoon sesame oil
2 1/2 Tablespoons soy sauce
1/2 Tablespoon water
1 Tablespoon natural peanut butter

1/2 Tablespoon honey
1 Tablespoons + 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce (or more if you like it hotter)
dash of fresh pepper
3 green onions, chopped
1/2-8oz can sliced water chestnuts, drained & chopped
1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
10-12 large outer lettuce leaves, rinsed and patted dry

Directions:

1. Heat a large, non-stick skillet on high. Add chicken, onion, salt & pepper, and cook until chicken is nearly done, stirring often to break up the meat. Add in minced garlic and ginger, and continue cooking until chicken is no longer pink.

2. Meanwhile, in a microwave safe bowl, combine sesame oil, soy sauce, water, peanut butter, honey, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce and pepper. Microwave for 20 seconds, then stir until smooth. Add into the skillet and stir to combine.

3 Add green onion and water chestnuts into the skillet then cook for 1-2 minutes until the onions are soft and the water chestnuts are heated through.

4. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts, and serve with cold lettuce leaves.  Spoon chicken mixture into lettuce leaves and wrap lettuce around chicken

Recipe Source: Iowa Girl Eats