Buffalo chicken wrap recipes provide an easy fix for bold flavor in a simple meal. They combine hot chicken, fresh greens and a cool sauce, all wrapped up in a tender tortilla. Most people use cooked chicken, buffalo sauce, lettuce, tomato and ranch or blue cheese. These wraps are great for lunch or dinner, with a bit of heat and crunch. The next couple of posts provide simple recipes and advice for cooking them.
About the Dish
Buffalo chicken wraps are an American casual dining staple, with their unruly blend of flavors and minimal preparation. They combine the spice and zing of buffalo sauce, with cool dressings and fresh vegetables, all encased in a flour tortilla. This combination makes them a favorite for anyone craving something substantial but quick, be it lunch on a chaotic work day, a speedy dinner at home or a crowd-pleasing game-day snack.
Fusion of Flavors
There’s something about a buffalo chicken wrap that just works — that melds spicy, tangy and creamy into one tasty package. The buffalo sauce, typically a combination of hot sauce and melted butter, provides a kick of spiciness and acidity. Chicken, grilled or breaded, soaks up that sauce and remains juicy in the wrap. To counter the heat, most wraps include something creamy—ranch or blue cheese dressing are popular choices. These creamy dressings help tame the heat and add a touch of richness. Crisp lettuce, diced tomatoes and occasionally sliced red onions or shredded cheese add a fresh crunch and complete the flavor. This combination of crunch and sweetness is what defines buffalo chicken wraps.
Versatility as a Meal or Snack
Buffalo chicken wraps are good for just about any meal time or location. They’re simple to make ahead and bring to work or pack for a picnic. At home, they’re a trusty weeknight dinner, particularly when you’re in a time crunch and need something quick, still filling. For snack, slice the wraps in halves or pinwheels and serve as finger food. They’re versatile because you can make a large batch and allow everyone to construct their own—simply place bowls of toppings and additional sauces for a family style meal that accommodates groups with differing palates.
Popularity and Customization
What brings hordes of people to buffalo chicken wraps time and time again is the unforgettable bite of buffalo sauce combined with succulent chicken. It’s a combo that comes from your classic American bar grub—buffalo wings, but less drippy and more portable. The wrap format makes it portable and less greasy, so it fits right in at cafes, food trucks, and lunch counters. The dish takes to other diets well. Swap in grilled chicken for a lighter take, plant-based chicken for a vegetarian twist, or select a low-carb tortilla if you’re carb conscious. Some of you may want to include avocado slices for creaminess or jalapeños and such for a little extra kick – so it’s easy to customize each wrap to what you like best.
Wide Range of Toppings
Toppings are a huge part of each buffalo chicken wrap. Most opt for shredded romaine or iceberg for crunch. Others include diced celery or carrots for additional crunch and a tip of the cap to traditional wing accompaniments. Cheese can be anywhere from sharp cheddar to crumbly blue and additional sauce on the side allows each of you to turn up the heat. You can even twist things up by using a different dressing, like ranch, blue cheese, or a light yogurt sauce.
Ingredients
Buffalo chicken wraps combine spicy chicken, fresh veggies, creamy dressing and soft tortillas. That’s the beauty of these wraps – they’re flexible. Whether you keep it classic or get crazy with add-ons and local produce. Here’s what you’ll need, courtesy of four wraps.
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2 cups (roughly 280g) chicken breast, cooked and either shredded or chopped
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1/3 cup (80ml) buffalo wing sauce (more or less to taste).
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4 large flour tortillas (10-inch/25cm), use a good quality brand for best texture
- 1 cup (about 60g) romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup (about 75g) shredded carrots
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1/2 cup (120ml) ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 1/2 cup (about 60g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup (about 30g) blue cheese crumbles (optional)
- 1/2 cup (about 90g) diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1/4 cup (about 35g) sliced red onions (optional)
- 1/2 cup (about 65g) sliced cucumbers (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Chicken is the star. Take advantage of rotisserie, grilled, or even leftover roast chicken as a starting point. Throw in buffalo sauce for that signature heat and tang. Tortillas keep it all tied up, so it’s worth it to select fresh pliable ones. Search for brands with minimal preservatives and a pliable texture–it makes rolling and eating much easier.
Lettuce and carrots are your go-to for crunch and freshness, but you can go wild. Dice up tomatoes, cucumbers, or onions for extra crunch and color. They brighten up the wrap and provide a really nice counterpoint to the decadent chicken stuffing. In LA, local produce is a breeze to come by, so taking advantage of what’s fresh at your market can really make a difference.
Dressing ties it all together. Ranch is standard, but blue cheese adds a sharper note. Use whatever suits your palate or add a pinch of all. Cheese is optional, but shredded cheddar or blue cheese crumbles will amp flavor and creaminess. For a lighter wrap, skip the cheese and pile on the fresh veggies.
All you need to finish is a pinch of salt and pepper. You can sprinkle in a splash of lime juice or some chopped cilantro for a little more zip, but not necessary.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Wraps
Preparing buffalo chicken wraps is straightforward but requires some attention to achieve the perfect balance of taste and consistency. There’s a reason behind each layer, from constructing the wrap to ensuring it stays intact for eating on the run. These steps keep things clean and get you a result that’s great for hectic weeknights or laid-back lunches.
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Make the chicken and sauce. Prepare the chicken any way you like–grilled, baked, or sautéed in a pan. Shred or slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces after cooking. Then toss your chicken in the buffalo sauce to coat it. Needless to say, the quantity of sauce depends on your preference for how ‘hot’ you want your wraps. This is the trick for infusing each bite with bold, tangy flavor.
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Open the tortilla and spread on the base. Lay a large flour tortilla out on a clean work surface. Begin with a bed of crisp lettuce leaves on the bottom third of the tortilla. Romaine or iceberg lettuce both work because they add crunch and keep the wrap from getting soggy.
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Add the chicken and toppings. Spoon the buffalo chicken over the lettuce. Top with sliced tomatoes, shredded carrots, thinly sliced red onion or diced celery, if you’d like. For added decadence, drizzle some ranch or blue cheese dressings over the chicken. Sprinkle with shredded cheese if you like them a little creamier. These toppings add layers of flavor to the wrap and balance out the buffalo heat.
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Roll and seal the wrap. Begin tightly rolling from the edge nearest the fillings, folding in the sides. Roll nice and tight to keep all the insides inside, but not so tight that the tortilla rips. The target is a wrap that stays together without spilling or disintegrating. If necessary, hold the wrap together with a toothpick or wrap in parchment paper for convenient consumption.
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Serve immediately or finish on the grill. For a chilled wrap, cut in half and serve with additional dressing on the side. To toast the wraps, place them seam-side down in a dry skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook for 1 – 2 minutes per side until the tortilla is crisp and lightly browned. This just adds a little crispiness and helps to melt any cheese inside.
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Adapt for other flavors. Mix and match toppings or switch-up the type of dressing for different flavor preferences. Use spinach instead of lettuce, or even a low carb tortilla to lighten it up. Include avocado or roasted red peppers for extra flavor. These little twists leave the recipe open and adaptable to many palates and eating regimens.
Sauce Pairings
Good buffalo chicken wraps are brought to life by proper sauce pairings. MIX ‘N’ MATCH SAUCE PAIRINGS – not only does this transform the taste of the wrap, but it allows everyone to customize their flavor profile. L.A. Is a city accustomed to bold flavors and fresh twists on old favorites, so it stands to reason to reach beyond your standard ranch or blue cheese. Local eaters and cooks at home can experiment with sauces for different preferences, dietary restrictions, or just to mix things up.
- Ranch dressing
- Blue cheese dressing
- Honey mustard
- Garlic aioli
- Avocado crema
- Yogurt-based sauce
- Spicy mayo
- Chipotle sauce
Honey mustard is the sweet and tangy standout. The sauce is made with basic pantry ingredients like Dijon mustard, honey, and a little vinegar. It pairs well with the spicy, buttery notes of buffalo chicken, bringing balance without smothering the heat. Garlic aioli is another great choice if you desire a garlicky depth. Prepared with mayo, fresh garlic, lemon juice, and a dash of salt, garlic aioli brings creaminess and a velvety finish. This sauce is perfect for those who like their wraps decadent without being too oily.
For a lighter option, avocado crema is creamy and full of good fats. Throw ripe avocados in a blender with some lime, Greek yogurt and salt. This combination not only tempers the spice from the buffalo sauce, but brings in a fresh, West Coast vibe that pairs perfectly with California’s obsession with avocado. Yogurt-based sauces, consisting of plain Greek yogurt, lemon, and herbs, are another low-calorie option. They bring that tart bite and lighter texture, so the wraps remain sharp without weighing you down.
Spicy mayo, for the heat lovers who crave creaminess! Mix together some mayo with sriracha or other hot sauce and a squeeze of lime. Chipotle sauce goes even more extreme, imparting a smoky, bold punch. Throw in some canned chipotle peppers in adobo to mayo or greek yogurt for a mix with heat and depth. Experimenting with these sauces allows you to mess with spice and smokiness and tailor the sauce to be as mild or hot as you desire.
Toppings and Variations
Customizing a buffalo chicken wrap is simple and allows you to tailor the meal to your own preferences or restrictions. Here in LA with all of our local produce and trendy eats, there are plenty of ways to give this classic wrap a local flair.
- Shredded lettuce or cabbage for crunch
- Sliced avocado or guacamole for creaminess
- Diced tomatoes or pico de gallo for brightness
- Crumbled blue cheese or feta for tang
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing for extra flavor
- Thinly sliced red onions for sharpness
- Pickled jalapeños for heat
- Roasted corn or black beans for a Southwestern touch
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness
- Sliced cucumbers or bell peppers for crisp texture
Mix and match any of these to keep the wrap feeling fresh, every time. A few of us crazy people even like to throw in a little hot sauce or lime juice for some extra zip. If you want a lighter wrap, skip the cheese or add more greens. For a more substantial meal, black beans, corn, or even a small scoop of cooked quinoa can make the wrap more satisfying, yet still balanced.
Vegetarian versions rock for those who want to ditch the meat. Swapping in crispy tofu or pan-seared chickpeas keeps the protein high but makes it plant-based. Baked tofu doused in buffalo sauce can absorb all that flavor, while chickpeas—whether left whole or gently smashed—add a nutty flavor and hearty chew. Roasted cauliflower is another that stands up nicely to loads of sauce. These swaps are readily available at most LA grocery stores and pack the same spicy punch as the original.
For even more toppings, there are a lot of flavored tortillas out there. Spinach tortillas give a colorful punch and a mild earthiness, tomato basil wraps add a touch of sweetness. Whole wheat wraps are a solid choice for fiber lovers, and gluten-free tortillas cater to dietary restrictions. Local markets throughout SoCal even carry wraps with ancient grains or superfoods as a nice nutritional, yet flavorful plus. Switching up the wrap is an easy way to mix things up, particularly if you prepare these wraps frequently.
A sprinkling of fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley at the very end is a game changer. These herbs freshen every mouthful and help to balance the dense buffalo sauce. Both thrive in Southern California and are abundant at farmers’ markets. Chopped green onions or chives work, if you want a mild, fresh note without being too bold.
Leftover Ideas
Buffalo chicken wraps leftover can be more than a round two meal. They provide a foundation for effortless, fast meals that square nicely with hectic LA schedules. Utilizing what you have reduces waste and saves time, while still allowing you to indulge in bold flavors. These easy ideas demonstrate how to breathe new life into leftovers — whether you’re cooking for just yourself or a room full of diners.
Quesadillas and Tacos
Piling leftover wraps inside tortillas is an excellent way to create quesadillas or tacos. Cut or tear the buffalo chicken wrap into bite-sized chunks. Sandwich the filling between flour tortillas with shredded Monterey Jack or sharp cheddar. Toast in a dry pan until the cheese melts and the tortilla is golden. For tacos, grab some smaller corn tortillas, warm, then fill with the chopped buffalo chicken, topping with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese. These are all practical, expedient, and utilize ingredients available in any local market.
Buffalo Chicken Salad
Alternatively, dice leftover wrap fillings and throw them atop a bed of crisp greens. Romaine, spinach, or even chopped kale all work. Sprinkle in some cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, shredded carrots or avocado for an added pop of color and crunch. To make it easy, dress it with a light ranch or bleu cheese. The buffalo chicken adds a spicy kick and protein, making the salad substantial enough for lunch. It’s a great approach for anyone looking for a lighter meal but still wanting LOTS of flavor.
Baked Potato or Nacho Topping
Leftover buffalo chicken wraps… warm ’em up and shovel ’em on top of baked russet potatoes! Bake potatoes until tender, split open and top with the chopped chicken, additional cheese, and a dollop of ranch. Pop back in the oven and melt it all together. For nachos, lay chips out on a sheet pan, sprinkle with chicken and cheese, and bake until bubbly. Garnish with scallions, jalapenos, and a lime wedge. Both are crowd-pleasers, perfect for entertaining or game day at home.
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Sprinkle the diced wrap filling onto a store-bought or homemade pizza crust. Scatter with mozzarella or provolone and bake ’til cheese is melty and crusty. Toss in sliced red onion or bell pepper if you desire additional crunch. Out of the oven, drizzled with ranch or blue cheese and fresh herbs like chives or parsley. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a wild use of leftovers for pizza night.
Nutritional Information
Buffalo chicken wraps work in a lot of diets but nutrition varies depending what you use. The sauces and toppings and even the wrap choice can swing calories, protein and fat. So, let’s take a look at what you’d typically find in a traditional buffalo chicken wrap, and how minor swaps really add up.
Protein, Calories, and Toppings Comparison
| Variation | Calories (kcal) | Protein (g) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fried chicken, flour tortilla | 520 | 28 | Standard ranch, cheddar, lettuce, tomato |
| Grilled chicken, flour tortilla | 410 | 32 | Same toppings, lower fat |
| Lettuce wrap, grilled chicken | 270 | 30 | Lower carb, fewer calories, no tortilla |
| Extra cheese, creamy buffalo | 610 | 29 | Heavy on cheese, standard ranch, more fat |
| Light dressing, no cheese | 350 | 31 | Focus on lean, simple toppings, less fat |
Calories can jump if you choose traditional fried chicken, thick flour tortillas, or additional cheese. Opt for grilled chicken and ditch creamy dressings to save 100–150 calories per wrap. Less sauce or a light buffalo sauce reduce sodium and sugar.
Calorie Count and Sauce Choices
Sauce and cheese taste good but accelerate calories. Creamy ranch and blue cheese pack more fat and calories than light vinaigrette or nonfat Greek yogurt. A traditional buffalo sauce by itself is pretty lean, but the addition of creamy dressings or additional cheese can put a wrap over 600 calories.
An easy swap from regular ranch to a light yogurt ranch slashes 60–80 calories a serving. Supplementing with shredded lettuce and sliced tomatoes increases fiber and vitamins without greatly increasing the calories.
Low-Carb and Fat-Reduced Options
Low-carb takes replace tortillas with lettuce wraps. This shift slashes around 140 calories and 25 grams of carbs per wrap. It’s a great option if you’re carb conscious or just want a lighter lunch. Grilled chicken instead of fried eliminates excess fat and still provides ample protein.
Others swear by whole-wheat tortillas for extra fiber. Some omit cheese, or add a sprinkle of low-fat cheese. Opt for low-fat or nonfat dressings to reduce saturated fat. Toss in some fresh vegetables for crunch and nutrition.
Simple Ways to Adjust Nutrition
Drop the cheese to trim saturated fat. Switch to grilled chicken for less fat and more lean protein. Choose lettuce wraps or whole-wheat tortillas for your carb needs. Go easy on the dressings and keep your sauce portions small for reduced fat and sodium.
Conclusion
Buffalo chicken wraps deliver spiced flavor in every mouthful. They deliver a knockout with hot chicken, cool dressings and crunchy greens. Simple, fast, and delicious. Go ranch or blue cheese for an added punch. Toss on sliced avocado or tomatoes to switch things up. Leftovers play nice in salads or over rice! Each wrap provides a well-rounded meal with lean protein and fresh vegetables. Stuff the wraps or leave them lite—either way they’re delish! Thirsty for more fast meal inspiration? See other simple recipes or send your own spin to friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a buffalo chicken wrap?
What is a buffalo chicken wrap, you ask? It’s a soft flatbread brimming with spicy buffalo chicken, fresh veggies & creamy sauce. It’s inspired by the beloved buffalo chicken flavor, a true classic tangy-spicy combo.
Can I make buffalo chicken wraps ahead of time?
Yes, you can make buffalo chicken wraps ahead of time! Pack everything separately and put the wrap together right before you serve it to maintain freshness and avoid sogginess.
What protein can I use instead of chicken?
Feel free to sub in cooked turkey, tofu, tempeh or plant-based chicken alternatives. These play so well with buffalo sauce and taste great to boot which helps keep the wrap exciting for alternative diets.
Are buffalo chicken wraps healthy?
Buffalo chicken wraps can be healthy if you use lean chicken, lots of veggies and whole grain wraps. Customize sauces and toppings to fit your nutritional aims.
How spicy is a buffalo chicken wrap?
The spice level is reliant on the buffalo sauce you use. There are a lot of sauces that are mild to hot. Pick one that fits you or add extra for heat!
What sauces go well with buffalo chicken wraps?
Common sauces are ranch, blue cheese dressing or simple yogurt. These sauces help balance the spice and bring creamy to the wrap.
How do I store leftover buffalo chicken wraps?
Wrap up leftovers snugly and store in the fridge. For optimal texture, consume within 1–2 days. When possible, keep sauces and veggies separate until ready to chow.
