Preparing chicken lettuce wraps with hoisin sauce is a straightforward process that results in a dish bursting with flavor. Follow these steps to create your delicious wraps:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Begin by gathering and preparing all your ingredients. Mince the garlic, grate the ginger, chop the onion, dice the red bell pepper and water chestnuts, and separate the lettuce leaves.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Break up the chicken with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the chicken. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add Vegetables:
   • Incorporate the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and water chestnuts into the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
5. Make the Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili paste (if using). Pour this sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture, stirring well to coat everything evenly.
6. Season and Simmer:
   • Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Prepare the Lettuce Cups:
   • While the chicken mixture simmers, arrange the lettuce leaves on a serving platter. Ensure they are clean and dry.
8. Assemble the Wraps:
   • Spoon the chicken mixture into each lettuce leaf, creating a wrap. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
9. Serve:
   • Serve the chicken lettuce wraps immediately, allowing your guests to assemble their own wraps at the table for a fun and interactive dining experience.