Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Cups Recipe – Healthy, Low-Carb

If you’re looking for a delicious, healthy, and low-carb alternative to traditional buffalo chicken wings or wraps, Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Cups are the perfect solution. These tasty lettuce wraps deliver all the flavor of classic buffalo chicken but without the heavy carbs and calories that typically accompany it. Packed with lean protein, spicy buffalo sauce, and fresh crisp lettuce, they are a guilt-free indulgence ideal for lunches, dinners, or party appetizers.

Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Cups Recipe

Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Cups are versatile and easy to prepare. Whether you’re sticking to a keto diet, looking for a gluten-free option, or simply trying to eat lighter, this dish satisfies your cravings while keeping things fresh and nutritious. With minimal ingredients and a short cook time, it’s a perfect recipe for weeknight meals or entertaining guests on game day. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know—from nutrition facts to cooking instructions—for the ultimate Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Cups Recipe.

Cuisines

• American

Course

• Appetizer

• Main Course

• Snack

Servings

• 4 servings (2 lettuce cups per serving)

Calories

• Approximately 250 calories per serving

Prep Time

• 10 minutes

Active Time (Cooking Time)

• 15 minutes

Resting Time

• 5 minutes

Total Time

• 30 minutes

Nutrition (Per Serving)

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and can vary depending on the brand of ingredients used.

Equipment Needed

 

• Large skillet or sauté pan

• Mixing bowls

• Spatula or wooden spoon

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Knife and cutting board

• Serving plate or platter

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and shredded

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Buffalo Sauce:

• 1/3 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 1 tablespoon white vinegar

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat

For the Lettuce Cups:

• 1 head of butter lettuce, Bibb lettuce, or romaine (8 large leaves)

• 1/2 cup chopped celery

• 1/4 cup shredded carrots

• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese or ranch dressing (optional)

Toppings (optional):

• Chopped green onions

• Extra buffalo sauce

• Ranch or blue cheese dressing drizzle

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• If not already cooked, boil or pan-cook the chicken breasts until fully done (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C), then allow to cool slightly before shredding with two forks.

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.

• Add shredded chicken to the pan, then season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

• Sauté for 3–4 minutes to warm the chicken through and infuse with the seasoning.

Step 2: Make the Buffalo Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together the hot sauce, melted butter, vinegar, paprika, and cayenne pepper if using.

• Pour the sauce over the shredded chicken in the skillet.

• Toss thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly with the buffalo sauce.

• Let it simmer on low heat for 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally, to soak up the flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Lettuce Cups

• While the chicken simmers, carefully separate the lettuce leaves, rinse, and pat them dry.

• Lay the lettuce cups on a large serving platter or plate.

Step 4: Assemble the Lettuce Cups

• Spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of the buffalo chicken mixture into each lettuce leaf.

• Top with a few chopped celery pieces and shredded carrots for crunch.

• Sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese or a drizzle of ranch if desired.

• Garnish with chopped green onions and an extra drizzle of buffalo sauce if you like it spicy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve immediately while the chicken is still warm.

• These cups can be eaten like tacos—fold and bite in!

• Optionally serve with celery sticks or carrot sticks on the side.

Tips & Variations

• Protein Options: Use ground chicken or turkey for a slightly different texture. Rotisserie chicken also works great for a quick fix.

• Low-Spice Alternative: Use a mild buffalo sauce or dilute the hot sauce with extra butter or a touch of honey for a sweet-heat combo.

• Add Crunch: Toss in some sliced radishes or chopped cucumbers for additional texture.

• Make Ahead: The buffalo chicken can be cooked ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Meal Prep Friendly: Store components separately and assemble the cups just before serving to keep the lettuce fresh and crisp.

Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Cups Recipe

• Healthy & Low Carb: Swapping out tortillas or bread for lettuce leaves makes this meal lighter and keto-friendly.

• Quick & Easy: From start to finish, this recipe takes under 30 minutes.

• Customizable: You can adjust spice levels, toppings, and even the protein to your liking.

• Perfect for Entertaining: These lettuce cups look great on a platter and are sure to impress guests without requiring hours of kitchen time.

Conclusion

This Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Cups Recipe delivers everything you love about spicy buffalo chicken in a light, refreshing, and healthy format. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a crowd, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.