Buffalo Chicken Wraps recipe

Let me tell you, finding that perfect balance between flavor, ease, and something that the whole family will actually devour can be a real kitchen quest. That’s where these Buffalo Chicken Wraps have become my absolute secret weapon. From the very first time I made them, they were a massive hit. The tangy, spicy Buffalo chicken, the cool and creamy ranch, the crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes all wrapped up in a soft tortilla – it’s an explosion of textures and tastes that’s simply irresistible. Even my kids, who can be notoriously picky, ask for these wraps constantly. They are incredibly versatile too; perfect for a quick lunch, a fun dinner, game day appetizers, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these Buffalo Chicken Wraps are foolproof and deliver restaurant-quality deliciousness right in your own kitchen. Get ready to add a new family favorite to your recipe box – you won’t be disappointed!

Ingredients for Delicious Buffalo Chicken Wraps

The key to mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Wraps lies in the quality and combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component is carefully chosen to contribute to the overall taste and texture experience. Let’s break down each ingredient you’ll need for these satisfying wraps:

• 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Chicken is the protein powerhouse of these wraps, offering a hearty and satisfying base. Both breasts and thighs work well, each bringing slightly different qualities to the dish.
  • Chicken Breasts: Chicken breasts are leaner and provide a milder flavor, making them a great canvas for the bold Buffalo sauce. They shred easily and are a popular choice for health-conscious eaters.
  • Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are richer in flavor and more forgiving to cook, remaining moist and tender even if slightly overcooked. They offer a more robust chicken flavor that some prefer in Buffalo dishes.
  • Preparation: Whether using breasts or thighs, ensure they are boneless and skinless for ease of cooking and shredding. You can use fresh or thawed frozen chicken. For optimal flavor and texture, consider using high-quality, pasture-raised chicken if available.
• 1 cup Buffalo Wing Sauce: The Buffalo wing sauce is the signature flavor component, delivering that iconic tangy, spicy, and buttery kick. The quality of your Buffalo sauce will significantly impact the final taste of your wraps.
  • Choosing Buffalo Sauce: Opt for a classic Buffalo wing sauce that is specifically designed for chicken wings. These sauces typically have a vinegar base, are moderately spicy, and contain butter or butter flavor for richness. Brands like Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce are widely recognized and deliver authentic flavor.
  • Heat Level: Buffalo sauce heat levels can vary from mild to extra hot. Choose a heat level that suits your spice tolerance and that of your family or guests. For a milder wrap, start with a mild or medium Buffalo sauce. For those who love the heat, go for hot or even extra hot versions.
  • Homemade Buffalo Sauce (Optional): For a truly customized flavor, you can make your own Buffalo sauce. A simple homemade version typically involves melting butter and whisking in hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot Original), vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.
• ½ cup Ranch Dressing: Ranch dressing serves as a cooling and creamy counterpoint to the spicy Buffalo sauce, creating a balanced and harmonious flavor profile within the wrap. It also adds moisture and creaminess, enhancing the overall texture.
  • Choosing Ranch Dressing: Use a good quality, creamy ranch dressing. Brands like Hidden Valley Ranch are classic and widely available. You can choose regular, light, or even Greek yogurt-based ranch dressings depending on your preference and dietary needs.
  • Homemade Ranch Dressing (Optional): For a fresher and potentially healthier option, you can make your own ranch dressing. Homemade ranch often tastes superior and allows you to control the ingredients. Recipes typically involve combining mayonnaise, buttermilk, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a blend of herbs and spices like dill, parsley, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
• 1 head Romaine Lettuce, shredded: Shredded romaine lettuce provides a fresh, crisp, and slightly bitter element that adds textural contrast and lightness to the wraps. It also contributes a refreshing coolness that balances the richness of the chicken and sauces.
  • Preparation: Wash the romaine lettuce thoroughly and pat it dry. Shred it into thin strips using a knife or a salad spinner with a shredding attachment. Romaine lettuce is ideal for wraps due to its sturdy leaves and crisp texture.
  • Alternatives: You can also use other crisp lettuces like iceberg lettuce or butter lettuce, but romaine holds up best in wraps and offers the most satisfying crunch.
• 2 medium Tomatoes, diced: Diced tomatoes add juiciness, sweetness, and a slight acidity that complements the Buffalo chicken and ranch dressing. They also contribute vibrant color and freshness to the wraps.
  • Choosing Tomatoes: Use ripe but firm tomatoes. Roma tomatoes or vine-ripened tomatoes are good choices. Dice them into small, even pieces for easy incorporation into the wraps.
  • Alternatives: Cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes, halved or quartered, can also be used for added sweetness and visual appeal. You can also use sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense, concentrated tomato flavor, though they should be used sparingly due to their strong taste.
• 8-10 large Tortillas (Flour or Whole Wheat): Tortillas are the vessels that hold all the delicious fillings together, creating the portable and convenient wrap form. Both flour and whole wheat tortillas are excellent choices, each offering slightly different characteristics.
  • Flour Tortillas: Flour tortillas are soft, pliable, and have a mild flavor that complements the Buffalo chicken perfectly. They are the most traditional choice for wraps.
  • Whole Wheat Tortillas: Whole wheat tortillas offer a slightly nuttier flavor and are a healthier option, providing more fiber. They are also sturdy and hold fillings well.
  • Size: Use large burrito-size tortillas (about 10-12 inches in diameter) to ensure you have enough space to fill the wraps generously and fold them securely.
  • Warming Tortillas (Optional but Recommended): Warming the tortillas slightly before filling them makes them more pliable and less likely to tear when folding. You can warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side, in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel, or directly over a gas stovetop flame for a slightly charred flavor.
• Optional Ingredients & Garnishes: To customize your Buffalo Chicken Wraps and add extra flavor and texture, consider these optional additions:
  • Blue Cheese Crumbles: For those who love blue cheese with Buffalo wings, adding blue cheese crumbles to the wraps enhances the classic Buffalo flavor profile.
  • Shredded Carrots and Celery: Adding shredded carrots and celery sticks mimics the classic Buffalo wing platter and provides extra crunch and freshness.
  • Avocado Slices or Guacamole: Avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats, complementing the spiciness and tanginess of the Buffalo sauce.
  • Pickled Red Onions: Pickled red onions add a tangy, acidic bite that cuts through the richness of the other ingredients.
  • Jalapeño Slices (Fresh or Pickled): For extra heat, add thinly sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños.
  • Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Blend): Adding shredded cheese, especially cheddar or Monterey Jack, provides extra flavor and meltiness if you choose to briefly grill or pan-fry the assembled wraps.

Instructions: Assembling Your Perfect Buffalo Chicken Wraps

Creating these flavorful Buffalo Chicken Wraps is a breeze, especially with these clear and easy-to-follow instructions. Let’s walk through each step to assemble your perfect wraps:

1. Cook the Chicken: There are several methods you can use to cook the chicken for these wraps, depending on your preference and time availability.
   • Boiling/Poaching: Place chicken breasts or thighs in a pot and cover with water or chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Shred with forks. This method results in very tender and moist chicken.
   • Baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Shred with forks. Baking is a hands-off method.
   • Pan-Searing: Cut chicken breasts into smaller pieces or strips. Heat a skillet with a little oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until cooked through and lightly browned. This method is quicker and adds some browning for extra flavor.
   • Slow Cooker: Place chicken breasts in a slow cooker with ½ cup of chicken broth or water. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, or until chicken shreds easily. Shred directly in the slow cooker. Slow cooking results in very tender, shreddable chicken.
   • Instant Pot/Pressure Cooker: Place chicken breasts in an Instant Pot with 1 cup of chicken broth. Cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. Shred with forks. This is the quickest method for cooking chicken.
2. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked using your chosen method, let it cool slightly, then shred it using two forks. Shredding the chicken allows it to absorb the Buffalo sauce evenly and creates a pleasing texture in the wraps.
3. Toss Chicken with Buffalo Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken and Buffalo wing sauce. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce. Ensure all the chicken pieces are well coated for maximum flavor. You can adjust the amount of Buffalo sauce to your preference – use more for a saucier wrap or less if you prefer a drier filling.
4. Warm Tortillas (Optional but Recommended): If desired, warm the tortillas to make them more pliable. You can warm them in a dry skillet, microwave, or over a gas flame as described in the ingredient section.
5. Assemble the Wraps: Lay out the warmed tortillas on a clean surface. For each wrap, spread a generous amount of ranch dressing in the center of the tortilla, leaving a border around the edges for folding.
6. Layer Fillings: On top of the ranch dressing, layer shredded romaine lettuce, diced tomatoes, and the Buffalo chicken mixture. Be careful not to overfill the wraps, as this can make them difficult to fold and may cause them to tear.
7. Fold the Wraps: To fold the wraps, bring the bottom edge of the tortilla up and over the filling, tucking it under. Fold in the sides of the tortilla towards the center. Then, roll the wrap tightly from the bottom up, like a burrito, to enclose the filling completely.
8. Cut and Serve: If desired, cut the wraps in half diagonally for easier eating and to showcase the fillings. Serve immediately, or wrap them individually in parchment paper or plastic wrap for later consumption or meal prepping. Serve with extra ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or celery sticks and carrot sticks on the side, if desired.
9. Optional Grilling/Pan-Frying (For Warm Wraps): For warm Buffalo Chicken Wraps with a slightly crispy tortilla, you can grill or pan-fry the assembled wraps briefly. Heat a skillet or panini press over medium heat. Place the folded wraps in the skillet or panini press and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until the tortilla is lightly golden brown and slightly crispy and the fillings are warmed through. Be careful not to overheat them as the lettuce and tomatoes can wilt if heated for too long.

Nutrition Facts for Buffalo Chicken Wraps

Buffalo Chicken Wraps can be a relatively balanced and satisfying meal, offering a good source of protein, some vegetables, and flavor. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per wrap, based on a recipe that yields approximately 8 wraps. Please note that these are estimations and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, tortilla size, and serving sizes.

• Servings: Approximately 8 wraps
• Calories per Serving (per wrap, estimated): 450-600 calories

Approximate Nutritional Information Per Wrap (estimated):

• Calories: 450-600 kcal
• Protein: 30-40g
• Fat: 20-30g
  • Saturated Fat: 5-10g (can vary depending on ranch dressing and Buffalo sauce)
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10-20g
• Cholesterol: 100-150mg (from chicken)
• Sodium: 1000-1500mg (can be high due to Buffalo sauce and ranch dressing)
• Carbohydrates: 40-60g
  • Fiber: 3-5g (from whole wheat tortillas and vegetables)
  • Sugar: 5-10g (from Buffalo sauce and ranch dressing)

Vitamins and Minerals (per wrap, estimated):

• Protein: Excellent source (from chicken)
• Vitamin C: Moderate source (from tomatoes and romaine lettuce)
• Vitamin A: Moderate source (from romaine lettuce and carrots if added)
• Calcium: Moderate source (from ranch dressing and cheese if added)
• Iron: Moderate source (from chicken)

Health Considerations:

• High in Protein: Excellent source of lean protein from chicken, promoting satiety and muscle building.
• Moderate in Fat: The fat content is moderate, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. Using leaner chicken, light ranch dressing, and portion control can help reduce fat content.
• Sodium Content: Can be high in sodium due to Buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. Choosing lower-sodium options for these sauces and being mindful of portion sizes can help reduce sodium intake.
• Carbohydrate Content: Moderate carbohydrate content, primarily from tortillas. Choosing whole wheat tortillas increases fiber content.
• Vegetable Content: Contains vegetables like romaine lettuce and tomatoes, contributing some vitamins and fiber, but vegetable content could be increased for a more balanced meal.

Important Notes on Nutrition:

• These values are estimates and can vary. For more precise nutritional information, use online nutrition calculators and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.
• Using whole wheat tortillas, light ranch dressing, and leaner chicken can reduce calories, fat, and increase fiber.
• Adding more vegetables like carrots, celery, or avocado will increase the vitamin, mineral, and fiber content.
• Portion control is important when enjoying Buffalo Chicken Wraps, as they can be calorie-dense.

Preparation Time for Buffalo Chicken Wraps

Buffalo Chicken Wraps are relatively quick to prepare, especially if you use time-saving cooking methods for the chicken or pre-cooked chicken. Here’s a breakdown of the time involved:

• Active Preparation Time: 20-30 minutes (This includes cooking and shredding chicken, preparing vegetables, making Buffalo chicken mixture, and assembling wraps). The hands-on time is manageable, especially with efficient cooking methods.
• Cooking Time (Chicken): Varies depending on cooking method (15-30 minutes for boiling/baking, quicker for pan-searing or Instant Pot, longer for slow cooker).
• Total Time (approximate): 35-60 minutes from start to finish, depending on chicken cooking method and prep efficiency.

Time-Saving Tips:

• Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or canned chicken can significantly reduce preparation time. Just shred and toss with Buffalo sauce.
• Prepare Ingredients Ahead: Shred lettuce, dice tomatoes, and prepare ranch dressing ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the wraps.
• Quick Chicken Cooking Methods: Pan-searing or using an Instant Pot for chicken cooking are the quickest methods for cooking chicken from raw for this recipe.
• Assemble in Batches: If making a large batch of wraps, set up an assembly line with all the ingredients and assemble the wraps efficiently in batches.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Wraps

Buffalo Chicken Wraps are versatile and can be served in numerous ways, making them suitable for various occasions and meals. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Quick Lunch or Light Dinner:
  • As is: Serve Buffalo Chicken Wraps on their own for a quick and satisfying lunch or light dinner. They are a complete meal in a wrap.
  • With a Side Salad: Pair them with a simple green salad, Caesar salad, or coleslaw for a more balanced meal with added vegetables and freshness.
  • With Soup: Serve with a light soup like tomato soup, vegetable soup, or chicken noodle soup, especially on a colder day.
• Appetizers or Game Day Snacks:
  • Cut into Smaller Pieces: Cut the wraps into smaller, bite-sized pieces or pinwheels for easy appetizer serving at parties or game day gatherings. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
  • Platter Presentation: Arrange the cut wraps attractively on a platter, garnished with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and small bowls of ranch and blue cheese dressing for dipping.
  • Mini Wraps: Use smaller tortillas (fajita-size) to make mini Buffalo Chicken Wraps for bite-sized appetizers.
• Meal Prep for the Week:
  • Wrap Individually: Assemble the wraps and wrap each one tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Grab-and-Go Lunches: Buffalo Chicken Wraps are perfect for meal prepping lunches for the week. They are portable, convenient, and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
  • Reheating (Optional): If you prefer warm wraps, you can reheat them briefly in a skillet, panini press, or microwave before serving, but they are also delicious cold.
• Side Dishes for a Heartier Meal:
  • French Fries or Potato Wedges: Serve with crispy French fries, potato wedges, or sweet potato fries for a more indulgent and satisfying meal.
  • Onion Rings: Onion rings are a classic side for Buffalo-flavored dishes and complement the wraps well.
  • Mac and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese can be a comforting and complementary side dish.
  • Coleslaw or Potato Salad: Coleslaw or potato salad adds coolness and creaminess and makes for a great picnic or BBQ meal combination.

Additional Tips for Perfect Buffalo Chicken Wraps

To ensure your Buffalo Chicken Wraps are consistently delicious, easy to make, and a crowd-pleaser, here are five essential tips to keep in mind:

1. Don’t Overfill the Wraps: Resist the temptation to overfill the tortillas. Overfilling makes the wraps difficult to fold, increases the risk of tearing, and can make them messy to eat. Use a moderate amount of filling in each wrap to ensure they are easy to handle and hold together well.
2. Warm Tortillas for Pliability: Warming the tortillas slightly before filling is highly recommended, especially if using cold tortillas straight from the refrigerator. Warmed tortillas are much more pliable and less likely to crack or tear when folded. Warming enhances their texture and makes them easier to work with.
3. Adjust Buffalo Sauce and Ranch to Taste: The amounts of Buffalo sauce and ranch dressing in this recipe are guidelines. Adjust them to your personal taste preference. If you like a spicier wrap, use more Buffalo sauce or a hotter variety. If you prefer a creamier wrap, use more ranch dressing. Taste the Buffalo chicken mixture and ranch dressing separately and adjust seasonings before assembling the wraps.
4. Prepare Components Ahead of Time: To streamline the assembly process, prepare the components of the wraps ahead of time. Cook and shred the chicken, shred the lettuce, dice the tomatoes, and have the ranch dressing and Buffalo sauce ready. Storing these components separately in the refrigerator allows for quick and efficient wrap assembly when you are ready to eat or meal prep.
5. Wrap Tightly for Portability and Freshness: When assembling the wraps, ensure you fold and roll them tightly to enclose the filling securely. If you are making wraps for meal prep or to take on-the-go, wrapping them tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap will help them hold their shape, prevent them from drying out, and make them more portable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Buffalo Chicken Wraps

Here are some common questions people often have when making Buffalo Chicken Wraps, along with detailed answers to help you cook with confidence:

Q1: Can I Make Buffalo Chicken Wraps Ahead of Time for Meal Prep?

A: Yes, Buffalo Chicken Wraps are excellent for meal prep. Assemble the wraps as instructed, wrap each one tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They are perfect for grab-and-go lunches or quick meals throughout the week. For best results, store them in a way that prevents them from becoming soggy.

Q2: How Do I Prevent Buffalo Chicken Wraps from Getting Soggy?

A: To prevent Buffalo Chicken Wraps from getting soggy, especially if making them ahead of time:
* Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling the wraps with too much wet filling.
* Layer Ingredients Correctly: Spread ranch dressing first as a barrier against the tortilla, then layer lettuce and tomatoes before adding the Buffalo chicken mixture. This helps to keep the tortilla from directly contacting the moist chicken and sauces.
* Wrap Tightly: Wrap the wraps tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap to minimize air exposure and maintain their structure.
* Store Properly: Store them in a single layer in an airtight container in the refrigerator, rather than stacking them on top of each other.
* Add Wet Ingredients Just Before Serving (If Possible): If you’re making wraps for later and want to ensure maximum crispness, you can assemble the wraps with just the chicken and lettuce, and then add the ranch dressing and tomatoes just before serving.

Q3: Can I Make Buffalo Chicken Wraps with Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

A: Yes, you can absolutely use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for Buffalo Chicken Wraps. Chicken thighs are richer in flavor, more forgiving to cook, and remain moist and tender. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs and cook them using any of the methods described in the instructions (boiling, baking, pan-searing, slow cooker, Instant Pot). Shred the cooked chicken thighs and proceed with the recipe as directed. Chicken thighs will result in a slightly more flavorful and juicy Buffalo Chicken Wrap.

Q4: Can I Grill or Bake Buffalo Chicken Instead of Boiling or Pan-Searing?

A: Yes, you can grill or bake the chicken for Buffalo Chicken Wraps.
* Grilled Buffalo Chicken: Marinate chicken breasts or thighs in Buffalo sauce for at least 30 minutes. Grill over medium heat until cooked through and slightly charred. Shred and use in wraps. Grilling adds a smoky flavor.
* Baked Buffalo Chicken: Toss chicken breasts or thighs with Buffalo sauce and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Shred and use in wraps. Baking is a hands-off and flavorful method.

Q5: What are Some Vegetarian or Vegan Alternatives for Buffalo Chicken Wraps?

A: To make vegetarian or vegan Buffalo Wraps, you can substitute the chicken with:
* Cauliflower: Roast cauliflower florets until tender, then toss with Buffalo sauce and use in wraps. Buffalo cauliflower is a popular vegetarian option.
* Jackfruit: Use young green jackfruit (canned in water or brine, not syrup). Shred the jackfruit, sauté it until slightly browned, then toss with Buffalo sauce. Jackfruit mimics the texture of shredded chicken well.
* Tofu: Press firm or extra-firm tofu to remove excess water, cube it, and bake, pan-fry, or air fry until golden brown. Toss with Buffalo sauce and use in wraps.
* Chickpeas: Roast chickpeas until crispy, then toss with Buffalo sauce. While chickpeas don’t mimic chicken texture, they provide a protein-rich vegetarian filling.

For vegan wraps, ensure your ranch dressing is also vegan (many plant-based ranch dressings are available).

Buffalo Chicken Wraps are a fantastic and versatile recipe that is perfect for quick meals, meal prep, and entertaining. With their bold Buffalo flavor, creamy ranch coolness, and customizable fillings, they are sure to become a new family favorite! Enjoy the delicious simplicity and satisfaction of these amazing wraps!

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