Okay, picture this: you want all the fiery, tangy goodness of buffalo chicken but without the heaviness of bread or the mess of wings dripping in sauce. Enter these Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps — crisp, cool lettuce cups loaded with spicy, saucy chicken that packs a punch. They’re juicy, vibrant, and literally bursting with flavor in every bite. Plus, they come together super fast! I always keep my trusty hot sauce and blue cheese crumbles on standby for this one. Whether you’re craving a light lunch or need a knockout appetizer for game day, these wraps are your new best friend. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be dreaming buffalo. Ready to dive in?
1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 head iceberg or butter lettuce (leaves separated, washed, and dried)
For the Sauce / Garnish:
1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese or shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp ranch or blue cheese dressing (optional)
Chopped celery or green onions for crunch and color
How I Make It
Step 1:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent and soft, about 3 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant — nothing like that garlic aroma to get you excited!
Step 2:
Add the ground chicken to the pan. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it apart and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika for a subtle smoky kick.
Step 3:
Once the chicken is cooked through, reduce the heat to medium low and pour in the buffalo wing sauce. Stir well to coat every morsel, letting it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes so those flavors really meld together.
Step 4:
While the chicken simmers, get your lettuce cups ready. Gently separate and wash the leaves, being careful not to tear them. Pat dry completely — dry leaves hold up better and won’t turn soggy from the sauce.
Step 5:
Spoon generous portions of the buffalo chicken into each lettuce cup. Top with crumbled blue cheese or shredded cheddar, some chopped celery or green onions, and if you like, a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Step 6:
Serve immediately and enjoy that perfect combo of spicy, creamy, crunchy, and fresh. These wraps are best eaten right away to keep the lettuce crisp and the chicken juicy.
Variations & Tips
Swap ground chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Use romaine hearts for sturdier cups if iceberg feels too flimsy.
Double the sauce if you prefer extra saucy wraps, but watch out for sogginess.
Add shredded carrots or diced avocado for extra texture and color.
For a milder heat, mix half buffalo sauce with half honey or BBQ sauce.
Grill the lettuce leaves briefly for a smoky flavor boost and sturdier wrap.
How I Like to Serve It
I love serving these at casual get-togethers or a quick weeknight dinner when I want something light but satisfying. They’re a hit on game day paired with crunchy celery sticks and a cold beer or sparkling water. In warmer months, I toss a simple corn salad or cold pasta salad on the side for a bright, summery meal.
Notes
Store leftover chicken (without lettuce) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it feels dry.
Closing: These Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps always save the day because they’re quick, flavorful, and so easy to customize—what’s not to love?
