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Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps - A Fresh, Spicy, Weeknight Favorite

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small bite-size pieces (or use ground chicken)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
  • 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (choose mild, medium, or hot)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for a classic silky finish)
  • 1–2 teaspoons honey (optional, to mellow the heat)
  • 1 head butter lettuce or 2 romaine hearts, leaves separated and washed
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup carrots, finely diced or shredded
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for drizzling
  • Crumbled blue cheese or feta (optional)
  • Fresh chives or parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Lemon or lime wedges (optional, for brightness)

Method
 

  1. Prep the lettuce. Gently separate the leaves and pat them dry. Keep them chilled in the fridge so they stay crisp while you cook.
  2. Season the chicken. In a bowl, toss the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
  3. Cook the chicken. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add the chicken in a single layer. Let it sear for 2–3 minutes without stirring, then cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes total.
  4. Make it buffalo. Reduce heat to low. Stir in buffalo sauce and butter. Add honey if you want a touch of sweetness. Simmer 1–2 minutes until the sauce clings to the chicken. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
  5. Prep the toppings. While the chicken simmers, chop celery, carrots, and herbs. Crumble the cheese if using.
  6. Assemble. Spoon warm buffalo chicken into lettuce leaves. Top with celery, carrots, and a light drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing. Add crumbled blue cheese and herbs. A quick squeeze of lemon or lime brightens the flavors.
  7. Serve immediately. Set out extra sauce and napkins. These are saucy and satisfying.