Buffalo chicken lettuce wraps are one of those meals that manage to feel refreshing and bold at the same time. Every bite brings together spicy buffalo sauce, tender chicken, crisp lettuce, and a cooling drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing. Whenever I want something that’s quick, protein-rich, and lighter than a traditional sandwich or wrap, this recipe is one of my first choices.
What makes buffalo chicken lettuce wraps so appealing is how customizable they are. You can load them with veggies, keep them simple, or turn them into a full meal prep option that holds up exceptionally well. They deliver restaurant-style flavor without the heavy calories—perfect for lunch, dinner, or post-workout meals.
Why Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps Are So Popular
These wraps combine convenience with clean, bold flavor. They work well for busy cooks because:
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They’re naturally low-carb and gluten-free
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Prep takes very little time, especially with leftover chicken
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Great for meal prep
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Easy to assemble and customize
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Ideal for warm weather or lighter eating days
It’s the kind of recipe that fits nearly every lifestyle, from high-protein diets to casual clean eating.
Equipment You’ll Need
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Cutting board
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Chef’s knife
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Mixing bowl
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Skillet (if cooking chicken fresh)
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Measuring spoons
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Tongs
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Serving platter
Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
For the Chicken
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2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works great)
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⅓ cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
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1 tablespoon butter (optional for richness)
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¼ teaspoon garlic powder
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¼ teaspoon paprika
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Pinch of salt
For the Wraps
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1 head butter lettuce or romaine (separate into whole leaves)
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½ cup shredded carrots
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½ cup diced celery
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¼ cup sliced green onions
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½ cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
Optional Add-Ins
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Sliced avocado
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Crumbled blue cheese
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Diced cucumbers
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Cherry tomatoes
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Pickled jalapeños
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Chopped cilantro or parsley
Timing and Servings
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 8–10 minutes (if cooking chicken fresh)
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Total Time: 10–20 minutes
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Servings: 4 servings
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Step 1. Cook or Prep the Chicken
If using raw chicken, cook two chicken breasts in a skillet with olive oil until done, then shred. Leftover or rotisserie chicken saves time and works perfectly.
Step 2. Make the Buffalo Chicken Mixture
In a mixing bowl or skillet, combine:
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Shredded chicken
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Buffalo sauce
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Melted butter (optional)
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Garlic powder
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Paprika
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Pinch of salt
Warm through until the chicken is evenly coated and the flavors blend.
Step 3. Prepare the Lettuce Cups
Separate lettuce leaves gently. Rinse and pat them dry thoroughly—dry leaves prevent watery wraps.
Step 4. Assemble the Wraps
Add a spoonful of the buffalo chicken into each lettuce leaf. Top with:
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Shredded carrots
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Diced celery
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Green onions
Drizzle lightly with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Step 5. Serve
Arrange on a platter and serve immediately while the chicken is warm and the lettuce is crisp.
Serving Suggestions
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Add avocado slices for creaminess
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Serve with cauliflower rice or sweet potato fries
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Pair with cucumber salad for a cooling side
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Use mini lettuce leaves for appetizer portions
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Add extra sauce if you enjoy strong buffalo flavor
Nutritional Facts (Approximate per serving)
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Calories: 280–330
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Protein: 24–30 g
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Carbohydrates: 4–6 g
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Fat: 16–20 g
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Fiber: 1–2 g
Expert Tips for Better Texture and Flavor
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Use butter lettuce for softer wraps or romaine for crunch.
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Mix buffalo sauce with butter for a smoother, more traditional wing flavor.
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Keep lettuce dry to prevent soggy wraps.
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Chill veggies for extra crunch.
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Adjust heat by choosing mild, medium, or hot buffalo sauce.
For lunches that travel well, try Caprese Sandwich, Chicken Avocado Wrap, or Peanut Noodle Stir Fry.
Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- If using raw chicken, cook two chicken breasts in a skillet with olive oil until done, then shred. Leftover or rotisserie chicken saves time and works perfectly.
- In a mixing bowl or skillet, combine:
- Shredded chicken
- Buffalo sauce
- Melted butter (optional)
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Pinch of salt
- Warm through until the chicken is evenly coated and the flavors blend.
- Separate lettuce leaves gently. Rinse and pat them dry thoroughly—dry leaves prevent watery wraps.
- Add a spoonful of the buffalo chicken into each lettuce leaf. Top with:
- Shredded carrots
- Diced celery
- Green onions
- Drizzle lightly with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- Arrange on a platter and serve immediately while the chicken is warm and the lettuce is crisp.
Conclusion
Buffalo chicken lettuce wraps offer the best of both worlds—big flavor and a lighter feel. They come together quickly, use simple ingredients, and can be tailored to suit different tastes and diets. Whether you’re preparing lunch for yourself or making a fresh, zesty dinner for your family, these wraps deliver bold flavor without extra effort. Crispy lettuce, tender buffalo chicken, and cool, creamy dressing create a perfect balance in every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
Yes, canned chicken works, though shredded rotisserie chicken gives the best texture and flavor.
2. What lettuce works best?
Butter lettuce is soft and easy to fold, while romaine is sturdier and crunchier.
3. Can I make these wraps ahead of time?
Store the buffalo chicken separately. Assemble wraps just before eating to keep lettuce crisp.
4. Is there a dairy-free option?
Use dairy-free buffalo sauce and swap dressing for a vegan ranch.
5. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add extra buffalo sauce, cayenne pepper, or sliced jalapeños.
6. Are buffalo chicken lettuce wraps healthy?
Yes! They’re high in protein, low in carbs, and full of fresh veggies.