Easy & Healthy Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps: Your Ultimate Crockpot & Stovetop Recipe
Discover the ultimate recipe for fresh, flavorful, and incredibly easy Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps. Prepared effortlessly in your crockpot or quickly on the stovetop, this dish requires minimal ingredients and prep time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or light lunches. These wraps are not only perfect for convenient meal prep but also cater to low-carb and healthy eating lifestyles, delivering all the classic buffalo flavor without the guilt.
It’s hard to believe it’s been over a decade since I first shared this beloved recipe for Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps. I vividly remember that summer day; the heat was stifling, and the last thing I wanted was to turn on the oven and warm up my kitchen. Life was moving at a frantic pace, and I desperately needed a quick, fuss-free dinner that didn’t involve a lengthy ingredient list or elaborate preparation. So, I did what any resourceful home cook does: I rummaged through my fridge, assessed my limited supplies, and got creative.
My solution was simple yet brilliant: I tossed some boneless, skinless chicken breasts into my trusty crockpot, added a splash of chicken broth to keep them moist, and generously coated them with Frank’s Hot Wing Sauce for that signature buffalo kick. Then, I let the slow cooker work its magic while I went about my day, completely hands-off. By dinner time, the chicken was perfectly cooked and incredibly tender. A quick shred with two forks, a nest of crisp bibb lettuce leaves, a sprinkle of crunchy broccoli slaw, and a handful of nutty sunflower seeds, and dinner was served. No fancy plating, no complex steps—just an easy, satisfying, and refreshingly light meal that quickly became a family favorite. This humble recipe proved that delicious, healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when you have smart tools like a slow cooker on your side.
Effortless Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A Go-To for Any Season
The beauty of these easy Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps lies in their simplicity and versatility. While I originally created this recipe to beat the summer heat, its appeal extends far beyond the warmer months. Tossing chicken into the crockpot isn’t just about keeping the kitchen cool; it’s about making life incredibly easy. This dish has become a year-round staple for me, offering a light yet satisfying meal whenever needed. It’s particularly fantastic when you’re looking for a refreshing alternative to heavier dishes.
Beyond everyday dinners, I frequently prepare this shredded buffalo chicken for game day gatherings and tailgating events. The slow cooker makes a large batch effortlessly, and the chicken is incredibly versatile for serving a crowd. For those craving a heartier meal, simply serve the buffalo chicken on tortillas or slider buns. If you’re aiming for a lighter, low-carb option, the crisp lettuce leaves are the perfect vehicle. No matter the occasion, these wraps deliver on flavor and convenience, making them a true winner in my recipe collection.
Slow Cooker or Stovetop: Your Choice for Perfect Buffalo Chicken
My love for the crockpot knows no bounds, but it truly shines in the summer when the thought of standing over a hot stove is unbearable. When we’re not grilling outdoors, my slow cooker becomes my go-to kitchen appliance, sometimes getting pulled out multiple times a week. It frees up precious time, allowing me to enjoy the sunshine and other fun activities instead of being stuck in the kitchen. This appliance is a lifesaver for creating tender, flavorful shredded chicken with minimal effort, making Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps a dream.
However, if you’re short on time or don’t own a slow cooker, don’t despair! These delicious buffalo chicken wraps are just as easily prepared on the stovetop. Simply place your chicken breasts in a saucepan, cover them with chicken stock and your favorite hot wing sauce, then simmer until the chicken is cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached. Once cooked, the chicken will be wonderfully tender and can be effortlessly shredded using two forks. This method is perfect for a quicker dinner or when you simply prefer not to use a slow cooker. Both methods yield juicy, spicy buffalo chicken that’s ready to be wrapped and enjoyed.
Beyond these wraps, I highly recommend exploring other slow cooker chicken recipes for their incredible convenience and flavor. Some of my personal favorites include: Crockpot Chicken Marsala, Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki and Homemade Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken. Each offers a unique and delicious way to utilize your slow cooker for easy meals.
Essential Ingredients for Your Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Creating these vibrant Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps relies on a few key ingredients that deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss. For a comprehensive list of ingredients and detailed instructions, be sure to scroll down to the bottom of this post for the full printable recipe card.
To Make the Buffalo Chicken Filling:
- Chicken Breasts: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean protein content and ease of shredding. However, boneless chicken thighs are also an excellent option if you prefer a richer, more tender dark meat.
- Hot Wing Sauce: For speed and convenience, Frank’s Hot Wing Sauce is my go-to choice, delivering that quintessential buffalo flavor instantly. If you have a little extra time and want to elevate the taste, consider making homemade Buffalo Sauce – it truly is top-notch!
- Chicken Stock: A crucial element for keeping the chicken moist and tender as it slow cooks. Chicken broth works just as well, ensuring your chicken remains juicy and absorbs all those delicious flavors.
For Serving and Assembly:
- Butter Lettuce: This is my favorite choice for these wraps, often called Boston Bibb lettuce. Its soft, pliable leaves are perfectly shaped for wrapping around the flavorful shredded chicken and fresh toppings, making assembly a breeze.
- Broccoli Slaw: You’ll typically find this in pre-packaged bags in the produce section, often near the traditional cabbage slaw. It’s a fantastic mix of julienned broccoli, carrots, and sometimes red cabbage, adding a delightful crunch and vibrant color.
- Sunflower Seeds: Whether salted or natural, these seeds are a must-have! They provide an unexpected but incredibly satisfying crunch that truly elevates the texture of the wraps.
Feel free to customize these healthy chicken lettuce wraps based on what you have on hand or what your taste buds crave. A drizzle of creamy ranch dressing or tangy blue cheese dressing is always a winning addition, enhancing that classic buffalo experience. Sometimes I’ll also add fresh avocado slices for a creamy texture, finely chopped celery for extra crunch, sliced green onions for a mild oniony bite, or even some crumbled blue cheese for a more pungent, salty kick. This is one of those wonderfully adaptable recipes where you can easily make it your own and tailor it to your preferences every time.
How to Effortlessly Prepare Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
This recipe for Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps is renowned for how quickly and easily it comes together, letting your slow cooker do most of the hard work.
Step 1: Prep the Crockpot. Begin by lightly spraying the bottom of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. This simple step helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze later. Next, arrange your boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly in the bottom of the pot. Pour the chicken stock over the chicken, ensuring each piece gets a boost of moisture. Finally, generously pour your hot wing sauce over the top of the chicken and stock. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is fork-tender. This long, slow cooking process infuses the chicken with incredible flavor and makes it incredibly easy to shred.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken. Once the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender, carefully remove it from the crockpot using tongs or a slotted spoon. Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board or in a shallow bowl. Using two forks, easily shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. The slow cooking process ensures the chicken will practically fall apart.
Step 3: Reincorporate and Keep Warm. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, stirring it well into the flavorful buffalo sauce. This step ensures every piece of chicken is coated and stays warm and juicy until you’re ready to assemble your wraps. The chicken will absorb even more of that delicious spicy broth, enhancing its flavor profile.
Step 4: Assemble Your Wraps. Wash and thoroughly dry your butter lettuce leaves. For each wrap, place a generous spoonful of the warm shredded buffalo chicken inside a lettuce leaf. This forms the delicious core of your low-carb meal.
Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy. Top the buffalo chicken with a sprinkle of fresh broccoli slaw for added crunch and vibrant color, followed by a handful of sunflower seeds for that irresistible nutty texture. Feel free to add any other optional toppings you love, such as a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing, blue cheese crumbles, or chopped celery. Roll them up gently and savor every bite of your fresh, spicy, and satisfying Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps!
For convenience and future meals, the cooked buffalo chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. This makes it a fantastic option for weekly meal prep. Be sure to continue reading for more valuable tips, clever substitutions, and answers to common questions about this versatile buffalo chicken lettuce wrap recipe.
Love It? Pin It!
If you’re as excited about this Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wrap recipe as I am, don’t let it get lost in the depths of the internet! Make sure to save it for later by pinning it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board. This way, you’ll always have this quick, healthy, and delicious meal idea at your fingertips whenever you need it!
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
If you’re wondering what to serve alongside these light and spicy Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps, you have a wealth of delicious options to complement their vibrant flavors. For a classic, cooling contrast, offer a side of creamy ranch or zesty blue cheese dip, accompanied by crisp fresh veggies like celery sticks and carrot batons – a perfect nod to traditional buffalo wings. If you’re looking for something a bit heartier, consider some satisfying sides like homemade baked sweet potato chips for a touch of sweetness and crunch, or savory roasted Parmesan potato wedges. For warmer days, a creamy, tangy coleslaw or a refreshing, chilled pasta salad makes a fantastic match. And if you’re leaning towards an even lighter and more refreshing addition, a simple cucumber salad or a juicy, vibrant fruit salad will round out the meal perfectly, balancing the spice with a burst of freshness. The versatility of these wraps means you can easily tailor your side dishes to any occasion or dietary preference.
Clever Substitutions & Tips for Crafting the Best Buffalo Chicken Wraps
When it comes to preparing these delicious buffalo chicken wraps, don’t be afraid to unleash your culinary creativity! Recipe substitutions are an excellent way to personalize dishes to suit your unique taste, dietary preferences, or simply what you have readily available in your pantry. Make this recipe truly your own, and enjoy the flexibility it offers!
For the chicken, feel free to substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs in place of chicken breasts if you prefer a juicier, richer flavor. If you’re looking for an even quicker preparation, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut; simply shred the meat and combine it with your favorite buffalo sauce. Regarding the lettuce, I highly recommend using butter lettuce, also known as Boston lettuce, for its soft, pliable leaves that cradle the filling perfectly. While iceberg lettuce or Romaine lettuce can also be used, you might find them a bit harder to wrap neatly around the filling. However, if you’re not keen on wrapping, simply chop all the ingredients together to create a wonderful Buffalo Chicken Salad. This salad is delicious with any type of green leaf lettuce. Enhance your wraps or salad with a drizzle of your favorite dressing (ranch or blue cheese are excellent choices), fresh diced tomatoes, or extra chopped celery for an added layer of crunch and that authentic buffalo wings flavor we all love. Experiment with various hot sauces to adjust the spice level to your liking, and don’t hesitate to add other favorite toppings like thinly sliced red onion or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. The possibilities are endless for customizing these incredibly versatile wraps!
More Irresistible Buffalo-Inspired Recipes You’ll Adore
If you’re a true enthusiast of that bold and spicy buffalo flavor, then you’re in for a treat! Before you go, I’ve curated some truly amazing buffalo-inspired recipes that are absolute must-tries. First up, take a peek at this incredible Buffalo Chicken Pizza, pictured above, which transforms your favorite wing flavors into a satisfying pizza experience. For those cooler soup seasons, my Buffalo Chicken Chili recipe is an absolute must-make, offering a hearty and spicy twist on a classic comfort food. Planning a tailgating event? Your spread will become truly epic with my Slow Cooker Buffalo Pulled Pork with Celery Slaw, a dish that’s packed with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare for a crowd. No buffalo-themed gathering is complete without a creamy and addictive Buffalo Chicken Dip, perfect for sharing. And if you’re mindful of your carbs, don’t miss out on this innovative Buffalo Cauliflower Dip, a healthier alternative that doesn’t skimp on taste. Finally, for an authentic wing experience right at home, my Copy Cat Hooters Wings, an easy air fryer recipe, has been a reader favorite for years, consistently delivering crispy, flavorful results.
I genuinely hope that you and your family fall in love with this light, flavorful, and low-calorie meal as much as mine has. These Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a simple way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying dinner any day of the week. Your thoughts and feedback mean the world to me, so please don’t hesitate to share your experiences in the comments section below. Your comments and reviews are incredibly helpful and appreciated!
LIKE THIS RECIPE?
Don’t forget to give it a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star rating and
leave a comment below the recipe!
Print Recipe
Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 5 boneless, skinless, chicken breasts
- 1 (12 ounce) bottle Frank’s hot wing sauce or your favorite brand to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
For Serving:
- 1 large head Butter Lettuce (Bibb Lettuce)
- 1 package broccoli slaw
- sunflower seeds
- (optional) ranch or bleu cheese dressing, blue cheese crumbles, chopped celery
Instructions
-
Spray your crock pot with non-stick cooking spray.
-
Place chicken breasts in the bottom. Pour the chicken stock over the top.
-
Pour hot wing sauce over the top, I used about half the bottle for 6 chicken breasts, and reserved the rest for topping if you wanted to later. Don’t use quite as much if you don’t like a lot of spice, you can always add more later.
-
Slow cook on low all day.
-
Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it up. Put it back into the crockpot.
-
Tear the lettuce leaves from the head,wash and dry it well, top with chicken, broccoli slaw and sunflower seeds. Wrap and enjoy!
Notes
The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months in an air tight container, or kept in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on June 19, 2013. It has since been updated to enhance user experience, improve instructions, and enrich content, and was reshared on May 28, 2025.
