Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

We love these delicious buffalo chicken lettuce wraps with layers of fresh flavors! This healthy recipe is a lightened-up version of classic buffalo wings and is perfect for dinner, as an appetizer, or for game day celebrations. The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and crunchy lettuce makes these wraps a standout dish that the whole family will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful: The buffalo sauce adds a spicy kick, while the fresh celery and ranch dressing balance it out, creating a deliciously satisfying meal.
• Healthy Twist: With lean chicken and fresh veggies, these lettuce wraps are a guilt-free alternative to traditional buffalo wings.
• Versatile: Enjoy them as an appetizer during football games or serve them as a light main course any day of the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun of wrapping their own food, making mealtime interactive and enjoyable.

Tools and Preparation

To make these buffalo chicken lettuce wraps, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pan
• Forks (for shredding)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pan: A spacious pan allows you to cook your chicken evenly while providing enough room to stir in other ingredients.
• Forks: Using two forks makes shredding the chicken quick and easy, ensuring it’s well-prepared for your wraps.

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Ingredients

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)

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. In a large pan, cook and shred your chicken. To do this, place the chicken in the pan over medium/high heat with 1/2 cup of water.
2. Use two forks to shred the chicken as it cooks until all the water evaporates.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

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

Step 3: Assemble Your Wraps

1. Scoop a spoonful of the buffalo chicken mixture into each lettuce leaf.
2. Sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles and drizzle with ranch dressing.
3. Serve immediately while still warm for the best flavor experience.

Enjoy your flavorful buffalo chicken lettuce wraps at any occasion!

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Buffalo chicken lettuce wraps are versatile and make a fantastic meal or appetizer. They can be served in various ways to suit your occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or game day.

As Appetizers

• Serve small portions of the buffalo chicken mixture on individual lettuce leaves for guests to enjoy as finger foods.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side to enhance the flavors of the wraps.

In a Platter

• Arrange several filled lettuce wraps on a large platter, garnished with celery sticks and fresh herbs for an appealing presentation.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Add chopped cilantro or parsley on top of the wraps before serving for an extra burst of flavor and color.

Pairing with Snacks

• Serve alongside crispy veggie chips or homemade baked tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast to the soft wraps.

How to Perfect Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Creating perfect buffalo chicken lettuce wraps requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you elevate your dish.

• Choose Fresh Lettuce: Use crisp, fresh romaine or iceberg lettuce leaves for optimal crunch and durability when holding the filling.

• Control the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your preference. You can mix in some mild sauce if you prefer less heat.

• Shred Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure that chicken is shredded finely, so it mixes well with the sauce and fills the wraps evenly.

• Chill Your Toppings: Keep toppings like blue cheese crumbles and ranch dressing chilled until serving for a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken.

• Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve the wraps right after assembling them while they’re still warm.

Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Buffalo chicken lettuce wraps pair well with various sides that complement their bold flavors. Here are some delightful options:

1. Crispy Veggie Chips: These provide a healthy crunch and are perfect for dipping into ranch dressing.
2. Celery Sticks with Hummus: A classic pairing that adds freshness and pairs well with the spicy flavors of buffalo sauce.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light salad with veggies can balance out the spice while adding nutritional value.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of these fries contrasts nicely with spicy buffalo chicken, making them a crowd-pleaser.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds a sweet element that complements the dish beautifully.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can provide a sweet contrast that enhances the overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making buffalo chicken lettuce wraps is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect your final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using dry chicken: Overcooking your chicken can lead to a dry texture. Cook at medium heat and monitor closely to ensure juicy shredded chicken.
• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough spice or flavoring in the sauce can make the wraps bland. Don’t skip the hot sauce and celery seed; they add essential flavors.
• Choosing the wrong lettuce: Lettuce that’s too thin may tear easily. Opt for sturdy leaves like romaine or iceberg for better wrapping.
• Not serving immediately: Serving the wraps too late can result in soggy lettuce. Assemble right before serving for optimal freshness.
• Overloading with toppings: Piling on too many toppings can make it hard to eat. Keep it simple with just a sprinkle of blue cheese and drizzle of ranch.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover buffalo chicken in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

• Place cooled chicken mixture in freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat until warm, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use medium heat in a pan, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about buffalo chicken lettuce wraps that might help you.

What are Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps?

Buffalo chicken lettuce wraps are a healthy alternative to traditional buffalo wings. They feature shredded chicken mixed with spicy sauce, served in fresh lettuce leaves.

Can I use other proteins for Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or even lamb for different flavors and textures.

How spicy are Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps?

The spiciness depends on the hot sauce used. Franks Red Hot Wing Sauce provides a moderate kick, but you can adjust it according to your preference.

Can I prepare Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it separately from the lettuce. Assemble right before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo chicken lettuce wraps are not only delicious but also versatile! Perfect as a light dinner, appetizer, or game day snack, you can easily customize them by adding extra veggies or using different sauces. Give this recipe a try; your family will love it!