Easy Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe

Zesty Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe for Lunch Joy

Crispy and light buffalo chicken lettuce wraps bring zesty flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort.

Every bite packs a punch of spicy goodness that dances across your taste buds.

Lean protein meets fresh crunch in this simple meal that takes just minutes to assemble.

Forget complicated cooking techniques – these wraps come together faster than you can order takeout.

Tangy hot sauce coats tender chicken pieces, creating a mouthwatering combination that satisfies serious cravings.

Crunchy lettuce leaves provide the perfect vehicle for delivering bold, spicy flavors straight to your plate.

Jump into this easy recipe that promises maximum taste with minimal kitchen time.

What’s Inside Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Main Protein:
  • Chicken: Lean protein for the base of the dish.
Seasonings:
  • Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder: Classic flavor enhancers for chicken.
Cooking Liquid:
  • Olive Oil, Cooking Spray: Prevents sticking and helps cook chicken.
Sauce:
  • Buffalo Sauce: Provides spicy and tangy flavor to the chicken.
Wrap Base:
  • Lettuce Leaves: Fresh, crisp wrapper for the filling.
Optional Toppings:
  • Celery, Carrots: Adds crunch and fresh vegetable texture.
  • Blue Cheese: Provides creamy and tangy flavor complement.
Dressing:
  • Ranch Dressing, Blue Cheese Dressing: Adds extra moisture and rich flavor.

How to Prepare Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare Chicken

Grab your chicken and dice it into bite-sized pieces.

Sprinkle salt, pepper, and garlic powder over the chicken, ensuring each piece gets a delicious coating of seasoning.

Step 2: Sizzle the Protein

Fire up a skillet over medium heat.

Splash a touch of olive oil or spray the pan to prevent sticking.

Toss in the seasoned chicken and let it dance around the pan.

Stir occasionally and cook until the chicken turns golden and is completely cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 3: Drench in Spicy Sauce

Pour Buffalo sauce over the cooked chicken.

Swirl and toss the chicken until every piece is generously covered in the tangy, fiery sauce.

Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to help the sauce cling and intensify the flavor.

Step 4: Prep Crisp Wrappers

Rinse your lettuce leaves under cool water.

Gently pat them dry with paper towels.

Select the largest, most sturdy leaves that can handle a hearty scoop of spicy chicken.

Step 5: Build Your Wrap

Spoon the saucy Buffalo chicken into each lettuce leaf.

Be generous but careful not to overfill.

Step 6: Garnish and Enhance

Sprinkle these wraps with delightful toppings:
  • Diced celery
  • Shredded carrots
  • Crumbled blue cheese

Drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing for extra creaminess.

Step 7: Serve and Devour

Plate your Buffalo chicken lettuce wraps and dive right in while they’re fresh and warm!

Tips for the Best Chicken Lettuce Wrap Texture and Flavor

  • Choose sturdy lettuce varieties like romaine or butter lettuce that won't tear easily when holding the spicy chicken filling.
  • Adjust Buffalo sauce quantity to match your heat tolerance, mixing mild and hot sauces for a perfect personalized kick.
  • Cook chicken and chop vegetables in advance, storing separately to quickly assemble wraps when hunger strikes.
  • Add Greek yogurt or cottage cheese crumbles for extra protein and creamy texture without heavy calories.
  • Skip dressing or use a light, homemade version to keep the wrap lean and diet-friendly while maintaining maximum flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Buffalo Lettuce Wraps Easily

  • Store leftover Buffalo chicken in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Keep lettuce leaves separate to prevent sogginess.
  • Transfer chicken to freezer-safe containers, removing excess air. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
  • Warm chicken in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add splash of Buffalo sauce to restore moisture and prevent drying.
  • Place chicken in microwave-safe dish, cover with damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warmed.

Best Sides to Serve with Lettuce Wraps

  • Flavor-Boosting Drink Pairings: Light, crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio perfectly cut through the spicy Buffalo sauce, refreshing your palate with each sip.
  • Cool Down the Heat: Craft beer with wheat or blonde ale styles provide a smooth, malty counterpoint to the zesty chicken, balancing the Buffalo sauce's intense kick.
  • Complementary Side Strategies: Fresh cucumber water or sparkling lemonade offer a tangy, cooling effect that neutralizes the spiciness while keeping the meal light and enjoyable.
  • Unexpected Taste Adventure: Hard cider with its slightly sweet and acidic profile creates a delightful contrast against the spicy Buffalo chicken, making each bite more interesting.

Variations to Switch Up Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

  • Vegetarian Buffalo Tofu Wraps: Replace chicken with firm tofu, pressed and cubed, seasoned with buffalo sauce for a plant-based protein option that's equally spicy and satisfying.
  • Keto-Friendly Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Boats: Use cauliflower rice instead of traditional toppings, adding extra low-carb vegetables like diced bell peppers for crunch and nutrition.
  • Mediterranean-Inspired Buffalo Chicken Wraps: Swap blue cheese with crumbled feta, add cucumber and mint for a refreshing Mediterranean flavor profile that complements the spicy chicken.
  • Gluten-Free Low-Sodium Version: Use coconut aminos instead of traditional buffalo sauce, select low-sodium seasoning blends, and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for sensitive diets.

FAQs

  • How spicy are these Buffalo chicken lettuce wraps?

The spice level depends on the Buffalo sauce you choose. For mild heat, use a mild sauce. For extra kick, select a hot or extra-hot Buffalo sauce. You can always adjust the amount of sauce to control spiciness.

  • Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken work great. You can also try lean ground beef or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

  • What if I don't have blue cheese?

No problem! You can substitute with feta cheese, shredded cheddar, or simply skip the cheese. The Buffalo sauce and fresh toppings will still provide plenty of flavor.

  • Are these lettuce wraps low-carb friendly?

Yes! These wraps are naturally low-carb since they use lettuce instead of tortillas or bread. They’re perfect for people following keto or low-carbohydrate diets.

Why You’ll Love These Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

  • Minimal kitchen skills needed to create these delicious lettuce wraps in minutes.
  • Perfect for health-conscious eaters wanting a lighter alternative to traditional sandwiches or tacos while maintaining bold flavor profiles.
  • Switch up toppings, experiment with different sauces, or adjust spice levels to match personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Engaging meal that allows everyone to build their own wrap, making dinnertime interactive and enjoyable for all ages.
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Easy Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe

Easy Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe


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4.8 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Crispy, zesty buffalo chicken lettuce wraps deliver a spicy kick that dances across taste buds. Lean protein and fresh lettuce create a light, satisfying meal perfect for quick weeknight dinners you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 1 pound (1 lb) chicken breast

Produce:

  • 8 large lettuce leaves (romaine, iceberg, or butter lettuce)
  • 1/4 cup diced celery
  • 1/4 cup shredded carrots

Seasonings and Sauces:

  • 1/3 cup buffalo sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

  • 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
  • Ranch dressing
  • Blue cheese dressing

Instructions

  1. Dice chicken into uniform pieces and generously season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance flavor profile.
  2. Preheat skillet to medium heat and lightly coat with olive oil, ensuring even surface coverage.
  3. Carefully transfer seasoned chicken to hot skillet, spreading pieces to prevent overcrowding and promote even cooking.
  4. Sauté chicken for 6-8 minutes, stirring periodically, until meat turns completely opaque and reaches internal temperature of 165°F.
  5. Pour Buffalo sauce directly over cooked chicken, thoroughly coating each piece with vibrant red sauce.
  6. Simmer chicken in sauce for additional 2-3 minutes, allowing liquid to slightly reduce and intensify flavor complexity.
  7. Gently wash lettuce leaves under cool water, then thoroughly pat dry using clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
  8. Select large, sturdy lettuce leaves that can effectively hold substantial chicken filling without tearing.
  9. Carefully spoon saucy Buffalo chicken into center of each prepared lettuce leaf.
  10. Garnish wraps with finely diced celery, delicately shredded carrots, and crumbled blue cheese for textural contrast.
  11. Optional: Drizzle ranch or blue cheese dressing over filled wraps for additional creamy dimension.
  12. Serve immediately to maintain crisp lettuce and optimal temperature of spicy chicken filling.

Notes

  • Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender, juicy meat that absorbs Buffalo sauce perfectly.
  • Adjust Buffalo sauce intensity by mixing hot sauce with a bit of honey or butter to create a personalized heat level that suits your taste buds.
  • These lettuce wraps are naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly, making them an excellent option for health-conscious eaters seeking a protein-packed meal.
  • Prepare chicken in advance and store separately from lettuce to maintain crisp wrap texture, allowing for quick assembly during busy weeknights.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 900 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Olivia Bennett

Olivia Bennett

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • Showcasing ingredients in plant-forward vegetarian dishes.
  • Creating adaptable weeklong menu templates centered on seasonal produce.

Education

Schoolcraft College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Associate Degree
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, menu planning, and food safety.

With an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts from Schoolcraft College and a natural knack for teaching, Olivia Bennett’s all about making home cooking feel possible, even on your busiest day.
Her thing? Recipes that are budget-friendly, season-forward, and full of Southern warmth. Whether it’s a roasted veggie bowl or a five-ingredient skillet bake, Olivia makes sure it’s simple, satisfying, and something you’ll want to make again tomorrow.
When she’s not shooting step-by-step videos or testing spice blends, she’s out foraging, flipping through old cookbooks, or throwing laid-back dinner parties with a BYO-mason-jar theme.

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