Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful twist on a classic dish, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! These Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps are not only delicious but also super easy to whip up. They bring all the spicy goodness of buffalo wings while being light and fresh. Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a family gathering, or game day with friends, this recipe fits right in.

What makes these wraps extra special is how customizable they are. You can mix and match ingredients based on what your family loves, making it a hit for everyone at the table. Trust me; once you try these Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps, they’ll become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of active cooking time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone will love the spicy chicken and fresh veggies wrapped in crunchy lettuce leaves.
• Healthy option: Skip the heavy breading and enjoy a lighter version of buffalo flavor without sacrificing taste.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make the chicken ahead of time and assemble wraps when you’re ready to eat.
• Great for any occasion: Whether it’s dinner or game day snacks, these wraps will be the star of the show!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For these Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what to gather:

For the Chicken Filling

• 2 large chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup Franks Red Hot Wing Sauce
• ½ teaspoon celery seed
• Fresh pepper to taste
• ½ cup thinly sliced celery

For Assembly

• Blue cheese crumbles
• Ranch dressing
• 2 heads of lettuce (romaine or iceberg, rinsed and patted dry)

Variations

One of the best things about these wraps is their flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: You can use shredded rotisserie chicken or even cooked ground turkey for a different flavor profile.
• Change up the sauce: If buffalo sauce isn’t your thing, try using teriyaki sauce for an Asian twist!
• Add more veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for added crunch and nutrition.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or cooked lentils mixed with buffalo sauce for a hearty plant-based option.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large pan, cook and shred your chicken. To make it easy, I place my chicken in the pan over medium/high heat with about ½ cup of water. As it cooks, I simply shred it using two forks. By the end of cooking, all that water will evaporate, leaving perfectly tender chicken that’s ready to be seasoned.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

Keep your pan on medium/low heat after shredding the chicken. Add butter and olive oil into the mix, stirring until everything is melted and combined beautifully. Then pour in that zesty hot sauce along with celery seed and pepper to taste. This step not only adds flavor but also brings those delicious spicy notes we love in buffalo dishes! Once it’s all mixed together well, remove from heat and stir in your thinly sliced celery for that extra crunch.

Step 3: Assemble Your Wraps

Now it’s time for the fun part—assembling your lettuce wraps! Scoop a generous spoonful of that flavorful chicken mixture into each lettuce leaf. Sprinkle some blue cheese crumbles on top if you like that tangy kick, then drizzle with ranch dressing. Serve immediately while everything is still warm so you can enjoy every bite!

These Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy them as an appetizer or make them a satisfying main course—either way, they’ll be loved by everyone!

Pro Tips for Making Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

These Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps are not only tasty but also easy to whip up! Here are some pro tips to ensure your wraps are the best they can be!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lettuce and vegetables will enhance the flavor and texture of your wraps, making them crisp and refreshing.
• Adjust the heat level: If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to reduce the amount of hot sauce or substitute with a milder wing sauce. This way, everyone can enjoy them without overwhelming their taste buds.
• Prep ahead: You can cook and shred the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge. This makes assembling the wraps a breeze, especially if you’re short on time during busy weeknights.
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like diced tomatoes or sliced jalapeños for added flavor and crunch. They can add a nice twist to your wraps!
• Make it a meal prep dish: These wraps store well, so pack them in containers for quick grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Presentation is key when serving Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps! Whether it’s game day or a casual family dinner, here are some ideas to make your dish stand out.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Adding fresh green onions as a garnish brings a burst of flavor and color that complements the spicy chicken perfectly.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado slices provide a rich texture that balances the spiciness of the buffalo sauce while adding healthy fats.

Side Dishes

• Veggie sticks with hummus: Carrot and cucumber sticks served with hummus make for a crunchy, refreshing side that complements the flavors of the wraps beautifully.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing adds an extra layer of nutrition and freshness to your meal.
• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the spicy chicken and make for a satisfying side option.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide creaminess and crunch that pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps are sure to impress! Enjoy this delicious meal with friends and family any night of the week or during your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

These buffalo chicken lettuce wraps are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it for quick assembly later in the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken mixture to cool completely before storing.
• Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Keep the lettuce leaves separate until you’re ready to assemble the wraps.

Freezing

• Let the chicken mixture cool down before freezing.
• Store it in a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
• It will keep well for up to 2 months. Label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw the chicken mixture overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat it on the stove over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
• Assemble your lettuce wraps just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about buffalo chicken lettuce wraps.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it and mix with your buffalo sauce and other ingredients as directed.

How can I make Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps spicier?

If you love heat, add more hot sauce or include diced jalapeños in your chicken mixture. You can also sprinkle extra cayenne pepper or use a spicier brand of hot sauce.

Are Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps suitable for meal prep?

Yes! They are fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare the chicken filling ahead of time, making it easy to assemble your wraps whenever you’re ready!

What kind of lettuce is best for Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps?

Romaine or iceberg lettuce works best due to their sturdy leaves that hold up well against fillings without tearing easily.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delicious buffalo chicken lettuce wraps as much as we do! They’re not only flavorful but also a healthier alternative to traditional wings. Whether it’s game day or just a cozy family dinner, these wraps are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!