Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

We love these delicious Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps with layers of fresh flavors! This lightened-up version of classic buffalo wings is perfect for dinner, as an appetizer, or even for game day. The combination of spicy chicken and crisp lettuce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: These wraps provide all the flavor of buffalo wings without the excess calories.
• Quick to Prepare: With a total prep and cook time of only 50 minutes, you can whip these up in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will enjoy customizing their wraps with toppings like blue cheese and ranch dressing.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great as a main dish or finger food for parties, they fit any occasion seamlessly.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and lean protein, these wraps are both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pan
• Forks (for shredding)
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pan: Essential for cooking the chicken evenly and allowing room to combine ingredients.
• Forks: Handy for shredding cooked chicken quickly while it’s still warm.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to slice your celery and prepare your lettuce.

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Ingredients

For these Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Filling

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

For Assembling

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

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. In a large pan, cook and shred your chicken. I place the chicken in the pan over medium/high heat with 1/2 cup of water. Use two forks to shred it as it cooks.
2. Once cooked through, all of the water should evaporate.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. Keep the pan on medium/low heat after shredding.
2. Add butter and olive oil, stirring until melted and combined.
3. Pour in hot sauce, then add celery seed followed by fresh pepper to taste.
4. Remove from heat and stir in thinly sliced celery.

Step 3: Assemble Your Wraps

1. Scoop a spoonful of the chicken mixture into each lettuce leaf.
2. Sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles.
3. Drizzle with ranch dressing before serving immediately while warm.

Enjoy your flavorful Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps! They are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or family dinner!

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Buffalo chicken lettuce wraps are versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your meal and impress your guests.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the wraps as bite-sized appetizers for gatherings. Guests can easily pick them up and enjoy the bold flavors in each bite.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer a selection of dipping sauces alongside the wraps. Ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or even a spicy sriracha sauce can enhance the flavor experience.

On a Bed of Greens

• For a heartier meal, serve the buffalo chicken mixture on a bed of mixed greens. This adds extra crunch and nutrition to your dish.

As Part of a Platter

• Include the lettuce wraps on a larger platter with other finger foods like veggie sticks, hummus, and pita chips for a well-rounded snack spread at parties.

How to Perfect Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Creating delicious buffalo chicken lettuce wraps requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your wraps turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken make a significant difference in taste.
• Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of hot sauce or mix in some honey for sweetness.
• Keep Lettuce Crisp: Rinse and dry your lettuce leaves thoroughly to maintain their crunchiness when serving.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding sliced avocado or diced tomatoes for added flavor and texture.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the chicken mixture in advance and assemble just before serving for freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Pairing buffalo chicken lettuce wraps with the right side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Vegetable Sticks: Pair with ranch or hummus for a crunchy, healthy side.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness complements the spicy buffalo flavor perfectly.
3. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds coolness and balance to each wrap.
4. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad offers a refreshing contrast to the heat of the wraps.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds summer vibes and sweetness.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad makes for a nutritious, filling accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure your Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps turn out perfectly every time.

• Using uncooked chicken: Always use cooked and shredded chicken for the best flavor and texture. This saves time and ensures safety.
• Overcooking the chicken: If you’re cooking your chicken in a pan, be mindful not to overcook it, which can dry it out. Use medium heat and check doneness frequently.
• Skipping the celery: Celery adds a refreshing crunch. Don’t skip it! Incorporate it to enhance the overall texture of your wraps.
• Too much sauce: While buffalo sauce is delicious, adding too much can overpower the dish. Start with a little and adjust to taste.
• Using the wrong lettuce: Choose sturdy leaves like romaine or iceberg that can hold all the filling without falling apart. Avoid flimsy lettuces.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover wraps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the components separate (chicken mixture and lettuce) for best freshness.

Freezing Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

• You can freeze the chicken mixture for up to 2 months in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

Reheating Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken mixture in a baking dish covered with foil, heat for about 15 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 30-second increments until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps?

Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings, combining shredded chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce served in crisp lettuce leaves.

Can I make Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken mixture ahead and store it separately from the lettuce leaves. Just assemble them when you’re ready to serve.

How do I customize my Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps?

Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as avocado, diced tomatoes, or different dressings like blue cheese or Caesar for extra flavor!

Are there any substitutes for blue cheese crumbles?

Certainly! If you prefer a milder flavor, use feta cheese or omit cheese altogether. You can also try dairy-free options if desired.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps are not only delicious but also versatile! Perfect for dinner, appetizers, or game day snacks, they allow room for customization. Try adding different veggies or sauces to make them your own!