Pin My roommate walked in one afternoon while I was standing at the counter, shredding leftover rotisserie chicken with two forks, and asked what I was making. I told her I had no idea yet, just that I was hungry and impatient. Ten minutes later, we were both biting into these buffalo ranch wraps, and she declared it the best lazy lunch she'd ever had. Sometimes the best recipes happen when you're just trying to use what's already in the fridge.
I started making these wraps during my first summer working from home, when I needed something quick between video calls that wouldn't leave me smelling like garlic or onions. The buffalo sauce gave me just enough of a kick to wake up my brain, and the crunch of the lettuce made it feel like an actual meal instead of sad desk food. My coworkers on Zoom never knew I was eating something this good while they microwaved soup.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: Rotisserie chicken is your best friend here because it's already juicy and seasoned, but leftover grilled chicken works just as well.
- Buffalo wing sauce: This is where the heat lives, so pick a brand you trust or make your own if you're feeling ambitious.
- Ranch dressing: It cools everything down and adds a creamy tang that ties the whole wrap together.
- Flour tortillas: Go for the large burrito-size ones so you have room to load them up without tearing.
- Romaine lettuce: The crispness is non-negotiable, it's what keeps this wrap from feeling soggy or heavy.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully if you toast the wrap, and adds a sharp, salty bite.
- Red onion: Optional but recommended if you like a little sharpness and crunch to balance the richness.
Instructions
- Mix the buffalo ranch chicken:
- In a medium bowl, toss your cooked chicken with the buffalo sauce and ranch dressing until every piece is coated in that spicy, creamy goodness. This step is messy but worth it.
- Lay out your tortillas:
- Place each tortilla flat on a clean surface and start building your layers, beginning with the lettuce so it acts as a barrier against the saucy chicken. Then add the buffalo ranch chicken, a generous handful of cheddar cheese, and red onion if you're using it.
- Drizzle with extra sauce:
- If you love bold flavors, drizzle a little more ranch and buffalo sauce over the top before rolling. Just don't go overboard or it'll be impossible to wrap neatly.
- Roll it up tight:
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla first, then roll from the bottom up, tucking as you go to keep everything snug inside. A tight roll means fewer spills and a better bite.
- Toast for extra flavor:
- Heat a skillet over medium and place each wrap seam-side down, pressing gently with a spatula for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. This step makes the cheese melty and the tortilla irresistible.
- Slice and serve:
- Cut each wrap in half on a diagonal and serve immediately while it's still warm. The first bite is always the best one.
Pin I'll never forget the night I made these for my brother after his basketball game. He inhaled two wraps in under five minutes, then asked if I could teach him how to make them. Watching him actually write down the steps in his phone was one of those small proud moments you don't expect to matter, but somehow do.
How to Make It Your Own
This wrap is endlessly adaptable depending on what you have or what you're craving. Swap the cheddar for pepper jack if you want more heat, or use crispy chicken tenders instead of shredded chicken for extra texture. I've even made a vegetarian version with roasted cauliflower tossed in buffalo sauce, and it was shockingly good. Add sliced avocado or tomato if you want something fresh and creamy to balance the spice.
What to Serve Alongside
These wraps are hearty enough to stand alone, but they're even better with classic buffalo wing sides. I like to serve them with celery sticks and extra ranch for dipping, or a handful of crispy sweet potato fries if I'm feeling indulgent. A cold beer or iced tea rounds out the meal perfectly, especially if you've gone heavy on the buffalo sauce.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil and store in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to bring back the crispness, or pop them in a 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes. Microwaving works in a pinch, but you'll lose that satisfying crunch on the outside.
- Assemble wraps fresh whenever possible for the best texture and flavor.
- Store the buffalo chicken mixture separately if meal prepping so the tortillas don't get soggy.
- Always taste your buffalo sauce before mixing it in, some brands are way hotter than others.
Pin This wrap has become my go-to whenever I need something fast, flavorful, and just a little bit indulgent. I hope it becomes one of those recipes you make without thinking, the kind that feels like a small celebration in the middle of an ordinary day.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make these wraps ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the wraps a few hours ahead and store them wrapped in foil or plastic wrap in the refrigerator. For best results, add the ranch dressing just before serving to prevent the tortilla from becoming soggy.
- → What's the best way to toast the wraps?
Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the wrap seam-side down. Toast for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy, then flip and toast the other side. This creates a warm exterior while keeping the filling intact.
- → Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and actually saves time. Simply shred the meat and proceed with the recipe. You may need slightly less sauce since rotisserie chicken can be juicier than freshly cooked breast meat.
- → How spicy is this wrap?
The spice level depends on your buffalo sauce brand. The ranch dressing helps balance the heat. If you prefer milder flavors, use less buffalo sauce or opt for a mild wing sauce variety.
- → What are good side dishes to serve with these wraps?
Pair with classic buffalo favorites like celery sticks, carrot slices, blue cheese dip, or extra ranch dressing for dunking. Chips, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad complement the wrap nicely.
- → Are there gluten-free alternatives?
Yes, substitute regular flour tortillas with gluten-free varieties. Many brands offer gluten-free options that work just as well for wrapping and toasting. Always check the label to ensure the sauce and dressing are also gluten-free if needed.