If you’re craving something bold, satisfying, and secretly kind of virtuous, Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps are about to become your new weeknight hero. I’m talking big Buffalo flavor, juicy shredded chicken, and cool, crunchy lettuce—all without turning on the oven or dirtying every pan in your kitchen.
Whether you’re juggling work, kids, or just the mental load of deciding what’s for dinner again, this recipe hits that sweet spot: fast, filling, and fun to eat. And yes, they totally count as finger food, which already makes them feel like a treat.
This is one of those dishes I make when I want something comforting and fresh. Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps bring the heat, but the crisp lettuce and creamy toppings keep everything balanced—kind of like yoga pants with a cute top. You get the idea.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Let’s be honest—recipes earn repeat status when they solve a real problem. These wraps do exactly that.
- Fast relief for busy days: You’re about 15 minutes away from dinner.
- Big flavor, lighter feel: All the Buffalo goodness without the heavy carbs.
- Totally customizable: Blue cheese loyalist? Ranch devotee? Both are welcome here.
- Kid-optional, adult-approved: Easy to tone down or crank up the heat.
They’re perfect for quick dinners, casual get-togethers, or those nights when you want something snacky-but-still-a-meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
No wild grocery scavenger hunt here. Everything is easy to find, and there’s a good chance you already have half of it.
For the Buffalo chicken filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/3 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For topping and serving:
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (or ranch dressing if that’s your love language)
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 head butter lettuce (or romaine), separated into leaves
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps (Step-by-Step)
No fancy techniques. No stress. Just good food happening quickly.
Step 1: Warm the sauce
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the buffalo sauce, melted butter, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently until everything melts together into a smooth, glossy sauce. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing—this is your first win.
Step 2: Coat the chicken
Add the shredded chicken directly into the saucepan. Stir until every strand is coated in that spicy, buttery goodness. Let it simmer for about 2–3 minutes, just long enough to warm through and soak up flavor.
Step 3: Cool slightly
Take the pan off the heat and let the chicken cool for a minute or two. This helps keep your lettuce crisp instead of wilty (no one wants sad lettuce).
Step 4: Build the wraps
Lay your lettuce leaves flat on a platter. Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the buffalo chicken mixture into the center of each leaf.
Step 5: Add toppings
Sprinkle with diced celery, red onion, blue cheese crumbles (or drizzle ranch), and finish with a little parsley for color and freshness.
Step 6: Fold & serve
Fold the lettuce around the filling like a taco and serve immediately. Napkins recommended. Smiles guaranteed.
Choosing the Right Lettuce (It Matters More Than You Think)
Butter lettuce is my top pick—it’s soft, flexible, and naturally cup-shaped. Romaine works well too, especially if you want extra crunch.
Pro tip: Pick larger outer leaves and rinse them in cold water, then pat dry. Cold lettuce = extra crisp wraps.
Easy Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
- Too spicy? Add a little extra butter or drizzle ranch directly into the chicken mixture.
- Want more crunch? Toss in shredded carrots or extra celery.
- Sauce too thick? A splash of water or chicken broth loosens it right up.
- Feeding kids? Serve the chicken mild and let adults add extra buffalo sauce at the table.
And if your wrap falls apart halfway through? Congratulations—you now have a Buffalo chicken salad. Still delicious.
A Little Story from My Kitchen
The first time I made these Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps, it was one of those days. You know the kind—late afternoon, hungry people circling the kitchen, zero patience for anything complicated.
I had leftover chicken in the fridge and a bottle of buffalo sauce staring at me like, Do something. Fifteen minutes later, everyone was happily munching, and no one asked where the bread was. That’s when I knew this recipe was a keeper.
Now it’s my go-to for busy nights, casual friends-over dinners, and even solo lunches when I want something quick but exciting.
Make It a Meal (Or a Party Platter)
These wraps are great on their own, but if you want to round things out:
- Serve with sweet potato fries or oven-roasted potatoes
- Add a simple cucumber or tomato salad
- Set them out as part of a game-day spread
They’re also fantastic for DIY-style dinners—just put everything on the table and let everyone build their own.

FAQs About Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and works beautifully here.
Can I make Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving and assemble fresh for the best texture.
What’s the best substitute for blue cheese?
Ranch dressing is the most popular swap, but feta or shredded mozzarella also work if you want something milder.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the buffalo chicken filling in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep lettuce and toppings separate.
Are these gluten-free?
Yes—just double-check your buffalo sauce to be safe.
A Fresh Take on Comfort Food You’ll Crave Again
Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps prove that comfort food doesn’t have to feel heavy or complicated. They’re spicy, crunchy, creamy, and wildly satisfying—all wrapped up in a crisp lettuce leaf you can hold in your hand.
If you’re looking for a quick dinner that feels fun, a lighter option that doesn’t skimp on flavor, or a recipe that fits into real life without drama, this one checks every box. From my kitchen to yours, I hope these wraps bring a little magic—and a lot of smiles—to your table.
Happy cooking,
Keep the Buffalo Love Going
If these Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps hit the spot and you’re still craving more easy, flavor-packed chicken ideas, I’ve got you covered. Here are a few reader-favorite recipes that pair perfectly with the bold, cozy vibe you’re already loving—whether you’re planning another quick dinner, a fun lunch, or a casual get-together:
- Buffalo Chicken Cheese Bake – All the spicy, cheesy Buffalo flavor you love, baked into a warm, scoopable dish that’s perfect for family dinners or game day cravings.
- Sweet Chili Chicken Wraps – If you enjoy handheld meals like lettuce wraps, these wraps bring a sweet-heat twist that’s just as quick and satisfying.
- Healthy Chicken and Sweet Potato Bowls – Looking for something balanced but still comforting? These bowls are filling, colorful, and perfect for busy weekdays.
- Buffalo Chicken Bowls – Can’t get enough Buffalo flavor? These bowls keep the spice going with a hearty, customizable meal everyone can enjoy.
If you try this recipe (or any of the ones above), I’d love to hear what you think! 💬
Scroll down and leave a quick review with your ⭐ star rating—it helps other readers and makes my day in the kitchen too. Happy cooking!
Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (8 wraps) 1x
Description
These Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps are spicy, fresh, and ready in minutes. Juicy shredded chicken tossed in bold buffalo sauce is tucked into crisp lettuce leaves and finished with blue cheese or ranch for a lighter, flavor-packed meal perfect for busy days.
Ingredients
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2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
-
1/3 cup buffalo sauce
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1 tablespoon butter, melted
-
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
-
1/2 teaspoon salt
-
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
-
1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (or ranch dressing)
-
1/2 cup diced celery
-
1/4 cup diced red onion
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
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1 head butter lettuce (or romaine), leaves separated
Instructions
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In a medium saucepan over low heat, stir together buffalo sauce, melted butter, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth and warmed through.
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Add the shredded chicken and stir until fully coated. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
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Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
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Lay lettuce leaves flat and spoon 2–3 tablespoons of buffalo chicken into each leaf.
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Top with celery, red onion, blue cheese (or ranch), and parsley.
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Fold lettuce around the filling and serve immediately.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
For less heat, mix buffalo sauce with ranch or add extra butter.
Best served fresh to keep the lettuce crisp.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dinner , lunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 lettuce wraps
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg