Thai chicken larb is a quick and flavorful dish made with lean ground chicken, fresh herbs, lime juice, and savory seasonings. Ready in just 30 minutes, this light meal combines spicy, tangy, and refreshing flavors in every bite.
Red onion, scallions, cilantro, mint, ginger, and lemongrass bring freshness and depth to the cooked chicken, while fish sauce adds a savory finish.
Each serving contains approximately 165 calories and 26 grams of protein. Serve the chicken mixture in crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb meal or pair it with warm sticky rice for a more filling dinner.
Recipe Overview
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 165 per serving
- Protein: 26 grams per serving
- Cooking Method: Stovetop
Ingredients for Thai Chicken Larb
This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together in one skillet. Prepare the vegetables and herbs before cooking so you can add everything at the right time.
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken breast: Lean chicken provides the main protein and absorbs the lime juice and seasonings.
- 1 red onion: Halved and thinly sliced for a mild, sharp flavor and a little crunch.
- ¼ cup scallions: Use the white parts, sliced, to add a subtle onion flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: Adjust according to taste.
Herbs, Aromatics, and Seasonings
- Juice of 1 lime: Adds a fresh, tart flavor that balances the savory ingredients.
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro: Chopped to provide a clean, herbal aroma.
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint: Optional, but adds a refreshing finish.
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger: Minced for a mild, spicy warmth.
- 1 teaspoon lemongrass paste: Optional, for a citrusy, aromatic note.
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce: Adds savory depth and a characteristic Southeast Asian flavor.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Provides a noticeable amount of heat; reduce or increase as desired.
How to Make Thai Chicken Larb
Step 1: Cook the Ground Chicken
Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it into small pieces. Stir frequently as the chicken cooks, allowing the meat to brown lightly and cook evenly.
Continue cooking for approximately 5 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If excess liquid collects in the pan, allow it to cook off before adding the remaining ingredients.
Step 2: Add the Onion and Scallions
Add the sliced red onion and white scallions to the skillet. Stir them into the cooked chicken and continue cooking for about 2 minutes.
The onion should soften slightly while retaining some texture. Avoid cooking it for too long, as a little crispness helps balance the tender ground chicken.
Step 3: Mix in the Herbs and Seasonings
Pour the fresh lime juice and fish sauce into the skillet. Add the chopped cilantro, mint, minced ginger, lemongrass paste, and red pepper flakes.
Stir everything together and cook for approximately 3 minutes, allowing the aromatics and seasonings to coat the chicken evenly. Taste the mixture and add sea salt as needed.
Remove the skillet from the heat once the ingredients are well combined. Serve immediately while warm.
Helpful Tips for Making Chicken Larb
Prepare the Ingredients Before Cooking
Chop the herbs, slice the onion, mince the ginger, and measure the seasonings before heating the skillet. Ground chicken cooks quickly, so having everything ready helps prevent overcooking while you prepare the other ingredients.
Keep the Chicken Moist
Lean ground chicken breast can become dry if cooked for too long. Use medium heat and stir regularly. Remove the pan from the heat as soon as the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature and the other ingredients have been heated through.
Balance the Lime and Fish Sauce
Lime juice brings acidity, while fish sauce contributes a salty, savory flavor. Taste the finished mixture before adding extra salt. If the flavor seems too sharp, adjust the seasoning gradually rather than adding large amounts of any one ingredient.
Adjust the Spiciness
Red pepper flakes can be reduced for a milder meal or increased for a hotter version. Sriracha can also be used as an alternative source of heat. For a stronger chili flavor, add finely sliced fresh Thai chilies as a garnish.
Make Ingredient Substitutions
Ground pork can replace ground chicken if you prefer a richer flavor. Cook it thoroughly before adding the vegetables and seasonings. Lemongrass paste is optional, so you can leave it out if it is unavailable.
Fresh mint can also be omitted, although it adds a refreshing herbal note.
Serving Suggestions
Thai chicken larb is versatile enough to serve as a light lunch, appetizer, or main course.
- Lettuce wraps: Spoon the warm chicken mixture into crisp lettuce leaves, such as butter lettuce or romaine. Serve immediately for a fresh, crunchy meal.
- Sticky rice: Pair the seasoned chicken with warm sticky rice to make a satisfying dinner.
- Fresh vegetable platter: Serve alongside sliced cucumber, lettuce, and other fresh vegetables to complement the spicy and tangy flavors.
- Rice bowls: Add the chicken to a bowl of steamed rice and finish with fresh herbs and lime wedges.
For a simple presentation, arrange the chicken in a serving bowl and garnish with a little extra cilantro, mint, or sliced scallions.
Nutrition Facts
The following nutrition information is approximate and based on one serving of the chicken mixture, without rice or lettuce wraps.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 165 | — |
| Total Fat | 4g | 5% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Cholesterol | 69mg | 23% |
| Sodium | 595mg | 26% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 6g | 2% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g | 5% |
| Total Sugars | 2g | — |
| Protein | 26g | 52% |
| Vitamin C | 9mg | 10% |
| Calcium | 32mg | 2% |
| Iron | 7mg | 36% |
| Potassium | 318mg | 7% |
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Actual nutrition values may vary depending on the ingredients and brands used.
Final Thoughts
Thai chicken larb is an easy skillet meal that combines lean ground chicken with fresh herbs, citrus, and savory seasonings.
Its short cooking time makes it suitable for busy evenings, while its adaptable ingredients allow you to adjust the heat and choose your preferred serving style.
Enjoy it in lettuce wraps, over sticky rice, or alongside fresh vegetables for a simple, satisfying meal.
