Buffalo Chicken Wrap Delight

This spicy, satisfying buffalo chicken wrap has become my go-to lunch option when I need something quick yet packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken coated in that signature buffalo sauce, crisp vegetables, and creamy dressing wrapped in a soft tortilla delivers restaurant-quality taste right at home.

I started making these wraps after visiting a popular sports bar during football season. Their buffalo wraps cost nearly $15 each, and I realized I could make them at home for a fraction of the price while controlling exactly what goes inside.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: provides lean protein and takes on flavors beautifully
• Franks Hot Sauce: creates that authentic buffalo flavor without being overwhelmingly spicy
• Olive oil: helps coat the chicken evenly with seasonings and prevents sticking
• Paprika: adds subtle smokiness and enhances the color
• Garlic powder: contributes savory depth without the hassle of fresh garlic
• Large flour tortillas: create the perfect vessel; look for the soft taco size for best wrapping
• Blue cheese or Ranch dressing: cools the heat while adding richness
• Romaine lettuce: delivers essential crunch and freshness
• Shredded carrots: offer sweetness, color, and nutrition
• Avocado slices: provide creamy texture and healthy fats
• Shredded cheddar cheese: adds melty goodness that pairs perfectly with buffalo flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Slice chicken breast into long thin strips about half an inch thick. This ensures quick even cooking and makes them perfect for wrapping. The thinner cuts also absorb more marinade flavor.

Create the Buffalo Marinade:

In a small bowl whisk together olive oil, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, and salt until completely combined. The oil helps distribute the spices evenly and allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken. Pour this mixture over the chicken strips and allow to marinate for at least 10 minutes. For deeper flavor, prep this the night before and refrigerate.

Cook the Chicken:

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium high heat until hot. Add the marinated chicken strips in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook until the chicken reaches 165°F internally, about 4 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. The outside should have a slight char while remaining juicy inside.

Assemble the Wrap:

Lay each tortilla flat on a clean surface and spread about 2 tablespoons of dressing evenly across the center, leaving a border around the edges. Layer romaine lettuce, carrots, avocado, and cheese, creating a bed for the chicken. The lettuce acts as a barrier preventing the hot chicken from wilting through your tortilla.

Add Chicken and Wrap:

Place several chicken strips down the center of each prepared tortilla. To wrap, fold in the sides first, then roll from the bottom up, tucking tightly as you go like wrapping a burrito. This technique keeps all ingredients secure inside.

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My family has a tradition of buffalo chicken wrap night before big sporting events. My daughter, who normally avoids spicy food, completely surprised us by requesting these wraps for her birthday dinner last year. The secret might be the cooling effect of the creamy dressing balancing the heat perfectly.

Make-Ahead Tips

The marinated chicken can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and kept refrigerated. For meal prep, cook chicken completely, cool, then refrigerate separately from other ingredients. Assemble wraps the morning of or right before eating to maintain optimal texture.

Easy Substitutions

Replace chicken with crispy tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Swap romaine for spinach or kale to increase nutritional value. Use Greek yogurt mixed with hot sauce instead of blue cheese dressing for a lighter option. Try whole wheat or spinach tortillas for added fiber and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

These wraps pair beautifully with sweet potato fries or a simple side salad. Cut wraps in half and secure with toothpicks for an impressive party appetizer. For a complete meal, serve with corn on the cob and coleslaw in warmer months. During cooler weather, pair with a cup of tomato soup for comfort food perfection.

Heat Level Adjustments

Buffalo sauce varies in spiciness, so adjust to your preference by using more or less. For extra heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade. To tone down the spiciness, increase the amount of dressing inside the wrap. Consider offering additional dressing on the side for those who prefer milder flavors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I cook the chicken for the wrap?

Slice the chicken into thin strips, marinate it with olive oil, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, and salt for at least 10 minutes, then cook in a skillet over medium-high heat until no longer pink, about 4-5 minutes.

→ Can I use a different type of dressing?

Yes, you can use any dressing you prefer, such as ranch, blue cheese, or even a lighter vinaigrette for a different twist on the wrap.

→ What tortillas work best for this wrap?

Large flour tortillas work best as they are flexible and easy to wrap tightly around the ingredients, keeping everything together.

→ Can I make this wrap ahead of time?

It's best to assemble the wraps right before eating to ensure the ingredients stay fresh and the tortilla doesn't become soggy. You can prepare all the components ahead of time for quicker assembly.

→ Are there any substitutions for chicken in this wrap?

You can substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, tofu, or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option or a different protein flavor.