Craving that iconic bar food experience but want the convenience and fresh taste of a homemade meal? Look no further! This Crispy Buffalo Chicken Wrap recipe brings the bold, spicy flavors you love right to your kitchen. Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm tortilla generously filled with tender, golden-fried chicken breast, coated in a vibrant, tangy buffalo sauce, crisp shredded lettuce, and a cooling, creamy drizzle of ranch dressing. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes, designed to satisfy your cravings for an easy, yet incredibly flavorful, lunch or dinner.
This ultimate crispy buffalo chicken tortilla wrap isn’t just a delicious meal; it’s a time-saver, too! Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an ideal solution for those hectic weeknights when you need a quick, satisfying meal without compromising on taste. The dynamic combination of spicy, savory, and tangy notes awakens your palate, leaving you thoroughly content. One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability – easily adjust the heat level of the buffalo sauce to suit your preference, ensuring every bite is pure enjoyment. Prepare for this versatile and scrumptious wrap to become a cherished staple in your regular meal rotation, perfect for family dinners, meal prepping lunches, or even entertaining guests.
If you’re a fan of flavorful wraps, be sure to explore my Chicken Avocado Wrap for another delightful culinary adventure.
Why This Crispy Buffalo Chicken Wrap Will Be Your New Favorite
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this easy buffalo chicken wrap recipe. Beyond its straightforward preparation, it delivers a phenomenal eating experience that will keep you coming back for more. Here’s why it stands out:
- Explosive Flavor Profile: Each element contributes to a harmonious blend of tastes and textures. The crispy, seasoned chicken provides a satisfying crunch and savory depth, which is perfectly complemented by the fiery kick and tangy notes of the buffalo sauce. The cool, crisp lettuce adds freshness, while the rich, creamy ranch dressing mellows the heat and ties all the robust flavors together beautifully. It’s a multi-layered taste sensation that truly bursts with flavor in every bite.
- Incredibly Quick and Convenient: In today’s fast-paced world, finding delicious meals that don’t demand hours in the kitchen is a game-changer. This recipe ensures you can have a gourmet-quality sandwich on your table in under 30 minutes. From preparing the homemade chicken strips to assembling the final wrap, the process is streamlined and efficient, making it perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute lunches, or when unexpected guests arrive.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, tailgating before a game, or simply need a hearty family meal, this buffalo chicken wrap is an excellent choice. Its simplicity makes it easy to scale up for larger crowds, and many components can be prepped in advance, saving you valuable time on the day of your event. Serve them whole for individual meals or slice them into smaller pinwheels for an impressive appetizer spread.
- Highly Customizable: This recipe serves as a fantastic foundation, allowing you to personalize it to your heart’s content. Experiment with different cheeses, add extra vegetables like diced celery or shredded carrots, or even switch up your sauces. It’s a versatile dish that encourages creativity in the kitchen.
- Satisfying and Wholesome: While indulgent in flavor, preparing this wrap at home gives you control over the ingredients, often resulting in a fresher and more wholesome meal than takeout alternatives. It’s a hearty option that will leave you feeling full and satisfied without being overly heavy.
Essential Ingredients for Your Crispy Buffalo Chicken Wrap
Creating an exceptional buffalo chicken wrap starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some tips for selection and substitutions:
- Chicken Breasts: We recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. To ensure even cooking and faster results, slice each breast horizontally into two thinner cutlets. This also creates more surface area for that delightful crispy breading. You could also use chicken tenderloins for convenience.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple yet essential. Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper are your go-to seasonings to enhance the natural flavor of the chicken before breading and frying. Adjust to your taste preferences.
- Breading Components: Achieving that perfectly crispy coating requires a classic three-part dredging station.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the initial dry layer for the egg to adhere to.
- Eggs: Act as the binding agent, helping the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken. Whisk them well.
- Panko Bread Crumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs are crucial for maximum crispiness. Their flaky texture creates a much crunchier exterior than regular breadcrumbs.
- Vegetable Oil: For pan-frying the chicken to a golden crisp. Choose a light, neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, such as canola, sunflower, or grapeseed oil.
- Buffalo Sauce: The heart and soul of this wrap! Your favorite store-bought buffalo sauce, like Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce, works perfectly. For a homemade touch, you can easily combine hot sauce with melted butter (see FAQ for more details).
- Large Flour Tortillas: Burrito-sized flour tortillas are ideal for easily wrapping and sealing. Feel free to substitute with whole wheat, spinach, sun-dried tomato, or low-carb wraps if you prefer different flavors or dietary options. Warming them slightly before assembly makes them more pliable.
- Shredded Lettuce: Crisp iceberg lettuce is recommended for its refreshing crunch and cooling contrast to the spicy chicken. You can also use romaine or a spring mix for different textures and nutrients.
- Ranch Dressing: The classic counterpoint to buffalo spice. A generous drizzle of creamy ranch dressing adds a cool, tangy, and rich element that balances the heat. If you’re a fan of blue cheese, it makes an excellent substitute for an even bolder flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide: How To Make Crispy Buffalo Chicken Wrap
Creating these delicious wraps is simpler than you might think. Follow these clear steps for a perfectly crispy and flavorful result:
- Prepare and Season the Chicken: Begin by patting your chicken breast halves thoroughly dry with a kitchen towel. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy crust. Once dry, generously season both sides with salt and pepper. Set up your dredging station with three shallow dishes: one for all-purpose flour, one for whisked eggs, and one for panko bread crumbs. Dredge each chicken piece first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, press the chicken firmly into the panko bread crumbs, ensuring it is completely and evenly coated.
- Fry the Chicken to Perfection: Heat about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot (you can test by flicking a small amount of flour into it – it should sizzle), carefully add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) with a meat thermometer. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Once slightly cooled, slice the crispy chicken into strips or dice it into bite-sized pieces.
- Coat with Tangy Buffalo Sauce: Transfer the sliced crispy chicken to a medium-sized bowl. Pour your desired amount of buffalo sauce over the chicken. Toss gently until all the chicken pieces are thoroughly and evenly coated in the spicy, tangy sauce.
- Assemble Your Delicious Wrap: To begin assembly, lightly warm your flour tortillas in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a dry skillet for 10-15 seconds per side. This makes them more pliable and less likely to tear. Lay a warmed tortilla flat and arrange a bed of shredded lettuce in the center. Spoon a generous portion of the buffalo-coated chicken over the lettuce. Finish with a drizzle of cool and creamy ranch dressing. To seal, fold in the sides of the tortilla, then tightly roll it up from the bottom, creating a neat burrito-like wrap. Slice it in half for easier handling and presentation, then serve immediately and savor every spicy, creamy bite!
Expert Tips for the Best Crispy Buffalo Chicken Wrap
Elevate your buffalo chicken wrap game with these helpful tips and tricks, ensuring a perfect outcome every time:
- Utilize Leftover Chicken: For an even speedier meal, repurpose leftover cooked chicken. Simply shred or chop it, then toss it with buffalo sauce. You can even use a rotisserie chicken for ultimate convenience.
- Go Lighter with Grilled Chicken: If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, swap the fried chicken for grilled chicken breast. Season and grill the chicken, then slice and toss with buffalo sauce for a wrap that’s just as flavorful but lighter.
- Sweeten the Heat: For a delightful twist, stir a small amount of honey or maple syrup into your buffalo sauce. This adds a touch of sweetness that beautifully complements the spice and tang, creating a “honey buffalo” flavor profile.
- Customize Your Fillings: This wrap is incredibly versatile! Feel free to add your favorite extras. Sliced avocado offers a creamy texture, crumbled blue cheese intensifies the savory notes, and crispy bacon bits add an irresistible smoky crunch. Other great additions include finely diced red onion, shredded carrots, or even a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro.
- Warm Your Tortillas: Don’t skip this step! Briefly warming the tortillas in the microwave or a dry skillet makes them much more flexible and easier to fold without cracking or tearing, resulting in a neater, more professional-looking wrap.
- Avoid Overfilling: While tempting to pack in as many delicious ingredients as possible, overfilling your wraps can make them difficult to roll and messy to eat. Aim for a balanced amount of filling that allows you to comfortably seal the tortilla.
- Ensure Proper Chicken Doneness: Food safety is paramount. Always cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. This ensures it’s safe to eat and perfectly cooked.
- Secure with a Toothpick: If your wrap seems reluctant to stay closed, a simple toothpick inserted through the middle or ends can securely hold it together, especially if you’re slicing it in half or preparing it for transport.
- Prep Ahead for Crowds: When serving a crowd, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Assemble the wraps just before serving, or if serving cold, they can be prepped a few hours prior and chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I make buffalo sauce from scratch?
While store-bought buffalo sauce is convenient, making your own is surprisingly simple and allows for customization. The basic recipe combines hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot Original) with melted unsalted butter. A common ratio is 1/2 cup hot sauce to 1/4 cup melted butter. For added depth of flavor, you can whisk in a dash of garlic powder, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, and a teaspoon of white vinegar. The butter not only adds a rich, silky texture but also helps to temper the heat, allowing you to control the spice level to your liking. Experiment with the ratios and additions to find your perfect homemade buffalo sauce!
What kind of tortilla is best for a wrap?
For wraps, the best tortilla truly depends on personal preference and the amount of filling. Giant burrito-sized flour tortillas (typically 10-12 inches in diameter) are generally the easiest to work with for a substantial wrap, as they offer ample space for ingredients and fold securely like a burrito. However, you can explore other options such as whole wheat tortillas for added fiber, spinach wraps for a subtle earthy flavor and green hue, or sun-dried tomato wraps for a savory twist. Low-carb tortillas are also readily available for those managing their carbohydrate intake. If using smaller tortillas (like taco-sized), you might need to adjust the filling amount and fold them more like a traditional taco or a double-wrapped method to keep everything contained.
How to store and reheat a buffalo chicken wrap?
These wraps are best served warm immediately after assembly for optimal crispiness and flavor. However, they can be prepared ahead of time. To store, individually wrap each cold wrap tightly in plastic film or foil, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, you can warm them gently in the microwave for 30-60 seconds until heated through. For best results, especially if you want to revive some crispness, transfer the microwaved wrap to a warm skillet or grill pan and cook for a few minutes per side until lightly toasted and the chicken is fully warmed.
Can I freeze this spicy chicken wrap?
It is generally not recommended to freeze assembled wraps. The lettuce will become soggy and unappetizing upon thawing, and the tortilla can lose its ideal texture. However, you can certainly freeze the leftover cooked and crispy fried chicken strips! Allow the chicken to cool completely, then store it in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a skillet or air fryer until crispy and warmed through before tossing with buffalo sauce and assembling your fresh wrap.
What to serve with Crispy Buffalo Chicken Wrap?
This easy lunch wrap is quite hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that complement its spicy, tangy profile. Consider these delicious options:
- Crispy Air Fryer French Fries: A classic pairing that offers a satisfying crunch.
- Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries: A slightly sweeter and often healthier alternative to traditional fries.
- Spicy Baked Zucchini Fries: A lighter, vegetable-based side that echoes the spice of the wrap.
- The BEST Crispy Potato Wedges: Hearty and flavorful, perfect for dipping in extra ranch or blue cheese.
- A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to add freshness.
- Celery and carrot sticks with extra ranch or blue cheese for a classic buffalo wing accompaniment.
Explore More Delicious Buffalo Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the zesty, spicy flavors of buffalo, you’re in luck! There’s a whole world of buffalo-inspired dishes to explore. From hearty meals to lighter options, these recipes promise to deliver that distinctive kick you crave:
- Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers: A wholesome and colorful way to enjoy buffalo chicken.
- Healthy Buffalo Chicken Salad: A lighter, yet still satisfying, option for lunch or a quick dinner.
- Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad: Combines the best of both worlds – crispy chicken in a fresh salad.
- Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: The ultimate comfort food with a spicy, cheesy twist.
- Buffalo Cauliflower Wings: A fantastic vegetarian alternative that’s equally flavorful.
- Easy Buffalo Shrimp: Quick-cooking shrimp coated in buffalo sauce for a speedy appetizer or light meal.
I genuinely hope you thoroughly enjoy every recipe I share with you, especially this delectable Crispy Buffalo Chicken Wrap recipe. It’s truly a labor of love, crafted to bring joy and flavor to your table. I encourage you to try it out, savor every bite, leave a star rating, and share this delightful recipe with your cherished friends and family!
Should you decide to make this recipe and find it to your liking, please take a moment to leave a star rating and a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable! Also, connect with me and stay updated on all my latest social posts and exciting new recipes by following Cookin’ With Mima on FACEBOOK |INSTAGRAM |PINTEREST.
Crispy Buffalo Chicken Wrap
Enjoy this spicy buffalo chicken tortilla made with fresh ingredients like homemade crunchy fried chicken breast, tangy buffalo sauce, crispy lettuce and cool and creamy ranch dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 whole chicken breasts, sliced horizontally into halves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 whole eggs
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- ¼ cup buffalo sauce
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 4 tablespoons ranch dressing
Instructions
- Pat dry the chicken halves with a kitchen towel and season them with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Set up your dredging station: dredge the seasoned chicken first in all-purpose flour, then in the whisked egg mixture, and finally in panko bread crumbs, pressing lightly to ensure a full, even coating.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until golden, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C). Remove and let rest, then slice into strips.
- Place the crispy chicken strips into a bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over them and toss gently until all chicken pieces are well coated.
- To assemble: Warm the tortillas briefly. Arrange chopped lettuce in the center of each tortilla, then add the buffalo chicken pieces. Drizzle generously with ranch dressing.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then tightly roll it up from the bottom like a burrito. Slice the wrap in half, serve immediately, and enjoy!
Notes
- Use leftover cooked chicken to make this wrap even faster.
- Replace fried chicken with grilled chicken for a lighter sandwich option.
- Stir a little honey into the buffalo sauce for a touch of sweetness that balances the heat.
- Customize this sandwich with additions like sliced avocado, crumbled blue cheese, crispy bacon, or finely diced red onion.
- Always warm your tortillas in the microwave or a skillet before filling; this makes them much easier to fold without tearing.
- Be mindful not to overfill the wraps, which can make them difficult to roll and messy to eat.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer for food safety.
- If you have trouble keeping the wrap closed, secure it with a toothpick.
- When making for a crowd, components can be prepped in advance, and wraps can be assembled and served cold.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Calories: 435 kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 10g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 122mg | Sodium: 1230mg | Potassium: 262mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 263 IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 87mg | Iron: 3mg
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