If you crave a burst of flavors that tantalize your taste buds, look no further than the irresistible Buffalo Chicken Wrap. This delectable creation combines the zesty kick of buffalo sauce with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy dressing, all wrapped in a warm tortilla blanket. As an experienced food blogger and professional cook, I’m thrilled to share my tried-and-true recipe for these mouthwatering wraps, ensuring you can recreate this delicacy in your own kitchen.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot or your preferred brand)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 large (10-inch) flour tortillas or burrito-sized tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce (romaine or iceberg)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
- 2 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese (optional)
Timing
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make Buffalo Chicken Wraps
Step 1- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken strips with olive oil, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken until evenly coated with the marinade. Cover and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes, or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavors.
Step 2- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken strips and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set it aside.
Step 3- Warm the Tortillas: While the chicken is cooking, warm the tortillas according to package instructions. You can do this by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds, or heating them briefly on a dry skillet or griddle.
Step 4- Assemble the Wraps: Lay a warm tortilla on a flat surface. Spread a tablespoon or two of ranch or blue cheese dressing in the center of the tortilla. Top with a handful of shredded lettuce, a portion of the cooked buffalo chicken, shredded cheese, and any additional toppings you desire, such as chopped green onions or crumbled blue cheese.
Step 5- Wrap and Serve: Fold the bottom of the tortilla over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll it up tightly into a wrap. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and fillings. Serve the Buffalo Chicken Wraps warm, with extra dressing or buffalo sauce on the side for dipping.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Buffalo Chicken
1- Use Thin Chicken Strips: Cutting the chicken breasts into thin strips ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from drying out.
2- Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate, even for a short time, infuses it with the bold flavors of buffalo sauce and spices.
3- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to steaming rather than browning.
4- Let the Chicken Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before assembling the wraps. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier chicken.
Best Tortillas for Buffalo Chicken Wraps
The tortilla you choose can make a significant difference in the overall texture and flavor of your wrap. Here are some excellent options to consider:
1- Flour Tortillas: Classic and versatile, flour tortillas provide a soft and pliable base for your Buffalo Chicken Wrap.
2- Whole Wheat Tortillas: For a nutritious twist, opt for whole wheat tortillas, which offer a heartier texture and a nutty flavor.
3- Spinach Tortillas: Infused with vibrant spinach, these tortillas add a touch of color and a subtle earthy flavor to your wraps.
4- Sun-Dried Tomato Tortillas: If you prefer a burst of tangy sweetness, sun-dried tomato tortillas are an excellent choice.
5- Gluten-Free Tortillas: For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free tortillas made from alternative flours like corn or rice offer a delicious option.
Delicious Add-Ins for Your Buffalo Chicken Wraps
While the classic combination of buffalo chicken, lettuce, cheese, and dressing is undeniably delicious, you can elevate your wraps by incorporating additional flavors and textures. Here are some tasty add-ins to consider:
1- Diced Avocado: Creamy avocado adds a rich, buttery flavor and a satisfying texture to your wraps.
2- Sliced Tomatoes: Fresh, juicy tomatoes provide a burst of sweetness and acidity, complementing the bold buffalo flavors.
3- Pickled Jalapeños: For an extra kick of heat and tanginess, sprinkle some sliced pickled jalapeños onto your wraps.
4- Crispy Bacon: Who doesn’t love the smoky, salty crunch of bacon? Crumbled bacon takes these wraps to new heights of deliciousness.
5- Sautéed Mushrooms: Meaty mushrooms add an earthy depth of flavor and a satisfying texture to your Buffalo Chicken Wraps.
6- Sliced Red Onions: Thinly sliced red onions provide a crisp, pungent bite that perfectly balances the richness of the buffalo chicken.
Make-Ahead Buffalo Chicken Wraps for Easy Dinner or Lunches
One of the beauties of these Buffalo Chicken Wraps is their versatility and convenience. You can easily prepare the components ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for meal prepping or packing for work or school lunches.
- Marinate and Cook the Chicken: Prepare the marinated chicken and cook it according to the recipe instructions. Once cooled, store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep the Veggies: Shred the lettuce, slice the tomatoes or avocado (if using), and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
- Assemble and Wrap: When ready to enjoy, simply warm the tortillas, spread the dressing, and layer the chicken, veggies, and cheese. Wrap tightly and enjoy!
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 1,200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve mastered the art of crafting mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Wraps, it’s time to indulge in this flavor-packed delicacy. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, packing a satisfying lunch, or simply craving a burst of bold flavors, these wraps are sure to satisfy. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different tortilla varieties, add-ins, and dressings to create your own unique twist on this classic dish. Happy wrapping!
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken myself?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a convenient time-saving option for these Buffalo Chicken Wraps. Simply toss the shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce and spices before assembling the wraps.
Can I make these wraps ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the individual components (cooked chicken, shredded lettuce, diced veggies, etc.) ahead of time and assemble the wraps when ready to eat. However, it’s best to avoid assembling the wraps too far in advance, as the tortillas may become soggy.
Can I use a different type of dressing?
Certainly! While ranch and blue cheese dressings are classic choices for Buffalo Chicken Wraps, you can experiment with other creamy dressings like Caesar or honey mustard to suit your taste preferences.
Can I make these wraps vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian or vegan by substituting the chicken with plant-based alternatives like crispy baked tofu or jackfruit. Additionally, use vegan dressings and omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
Can I freeze these wraps?
While it’s not recommended to freeze fully assembled wraps, as the tortillas may become soggy upon thawing, you can freeze the cooked buffalo chicken separately. Simply thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and assemble the wraps fresh when ready to enjoy.