Buffalo chicken wraps are a favorite for those who love a kick of heat in their meals. The combination of spicy buffalo sauce, grilled or fried chicken, fresh vegetables, and a soft tortilla makes for a satisfying dish on its own. However, to elevate the meal experience, pairing buffalo chicken wraps with the right side dishes can make a world of difference. Whether you’re hosting a party, having a casual dinner, or meal prepping for the week, selecting complementary sides will help balance the flavors and add variety to your plate.
In this guide, we’ll explore a wide range of side dishes, from classic fries and coleslaw to creative options like buffalo cauliflower bites and quinoa salad. These pairings can suit different preferences, including indulgent and unique twists that can wow your guests or satisfy your cravings.
If you’re looking for other ways to pair sandwiches with the perfect sides, check out this comprehensive guide on what goes best with an egg sandwich. It offers a variety of options that ensure a well-rounded meal.
Classic and Traditional Side Dishes
When it comes to pairing side dishes with buffalo chicken wraps, you can’t go wrong with the classics. These traditional sides offer a familiar and satisfying balance to the spicy, tangy flavors of the wrap.
1. French Fries
A staple in any meal involving sandwiches or wraps, French fries provide a crunchy, salty counterpoint to spicy buffalo chicken wraps. Whether you prefer classic fries or you’re looking for a creative twist like sweet potato fries or waffle fries, they are always a hit. The crispiness of fries offers a textural contrast to the soft tortilla and juicy chicken.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet potato fries add a subtle sweetness that pairs nicely with the heat of buffalo chicken.
- Waffle Fries: Waffle fries provide a larger surface area, which means more crispiness and flavor in every bite. They are ideal for dipping into sauces like ranch or blue cheese, often served with buffalo chicken wraps.
2. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is the perfect cooling counterpart to buffalo chicken wraps. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor help balance the heat from the buffalo sauce, while the crunchy cabbage adds an enjoyable bite to the meal.
- Vinegar-Based Coleslaw: If you’re looking for a lighter version of coleslaw, opt for a vinegar-based slaw. It’s lighter on the palate but still packs a flavorful punch.
- Creamy Coleslaw: Traditional coleslaw made with mayonnaise offers a richer option that complements the bold flavors of buffalo chicken.
For a delicious twist on coleslaw, you can try this healthy coleslaw recipe, which uses Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a refreshing take on the classic side dish.
3. Potato Wedges
Thick, crispy potato wedges are another filling option to serve with buffalo chicken wraps. Their crunchy exterior and soft, fluffy inside provide a hearty, satisfying side that complements the wrap’s spicy and tangy notes.
For more potato-related side dishes that work with rich main courses, consider this slow cooker beef and noodles recipe, where baked potato wedges or mashed potatoes are ideal accompaniments.
Fresh and Light Side Dishes
If you’re trying to balance the bold flavors and richness of buffalo chicken wraps with something light and refreshing, these fresh side dishes are the perfect companions.
1. Garden Salad
A simple garden salad with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions provides a light and crunchy side that contrasts the heavier elements of the wrap. You can dress the salad with a light vinaigrette or go for a creamy ranch dressing to complement the buffalo chicken.
- Dressings: While a vinaigrette keeps things light, a creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing will enhance the overall flavor profile of your meal. These dressings pair well with the spiciness of buffalo sauce, offering a cool contrast.
2. Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad is an ideal side for spicy dishes. Its crisp and refreshing nature cools down the heat from the buffalo chicken while providing a crunchy texture. A cucumber salad can be made with sliced cucumbers, red onions, and a light yogurt-based dressing with dill or mint for extra freshness.
- Greek-Inspired Cucumber Salad: For a Mediterranean twist, add feta cheese and olives to the cucumber salad. The salty, tangy flavors elevate the dish and offer a satisfying contrast to the heat of the wrap.
3. Fruit Salad
If you’re seeking a sweet counterbalance to the spiciness of buffalo chicken wraps, fruit salad is a great option. The sweetness and juiciness of fruits like watermelon, pineapple, or citrus help to cleanse your palate and refresh your taste buds.
- Tropical Fruit Salad: Try mixing tropical fruits like mango, papaya, and pineapple to add an exotic twist to your meal. The sweetness of the fruit contrasts beautifully with the bold buffalo chicken flavors.
For more inspiration on light and healthy sides, consider pairing your wraps with options from this guide on what is a turkey sandwich made of, which dives into flavorful, light meal pairings.
Hearty and Filling Side Dishes
If you want your meal to feel more substantial, these hearty sides offer satisfying flavors and textures that complement buffalo chicken wraps.
1. Macaroni and Cheese
Creamy macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food and pairs exceptionally well with buffalo chicken wraps. The cheesy pasta helps to cool down the heat from the buffalo sauce while providing a rich, indulgent contrast to the light tortilla wrap.
2. Loaded Baked Potatoes
A loaded baked potato is a perfect hearty side to accompany buffalo chicken wraps. Stuff your potato with toppings like sour cream, cheese, bacon, and chives for a fully-loaded experience.
- Customizable Toppings: Add extras like jalapeños or black beans to elevate your baked potato to a meal in itself. For more ideas, check out these loaded baked potato variations.
3. Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf is a versatile, neutral side dish that complements the spicy flavors of buffalo chicken wraps without overpowering them. You can add a variety of vegetables, herbs, or spices to your pilaf to match your flavor preferences.
- Quinoa or Farro: If you’re looking for a twist, try using quinoa or farro instead of rice. These grains offer a unique texture while maintaining the satisfying nature of traditional pilaf.
Fried Side Dishes
For a more indulgent meal, these fried sides are crowd-pleasers that add richness and crunch to your buffalo chicken wraps.
1. Onion Rings
Onion rings provide a crisp, golden crunch that works well with the soft texture of buffalo chicken wraps. The sweetness of the onions contrasts nicely with the tangy buffalo sauce, making for a delicious flavor combination.
2. Mozzarella Sticks
Mozzarella sticks are a cheesy, gooey side that perfectly balances the spiciness of buffalo chicken wraps. The rich, melted cheese helps to cool down the heat from the wrap, creating a satisfying pairing.
3. Fried Pickles
For a tangy and crunchy option, fried pickles are a Southern favorite that pairs beautifully with buffalo chicken. Their acidity and crisp texture offer an excellent contrast to the bold flavors of buffalo sauce.
Creative and Unique Side Dishes
For those who love to experiment with new flavors and textures, these creative sides will take your buffalo chicken wrap experience to the next level.
1. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Buffalo cauliflower bites offer the same spicy, tangy flavor as buffalo chicken but with a vegetarian twist. These crispy cauliflower florets are coated in buffalo sauce and baked to perfection, making them a great alternative to traditional sides.
2. Stuffed Jalapeños
For those who like their meals spicy, stuffed jalapeños make an excellent side dish. You can fill them with cream cheese, cheddar, or even wrap them in bacon for an extra flavor boost. The spiciness of the jalapeños complements the heat of the buffalo chicken, while the cheesy filling provides a creamy counterbalance.
3. Fried Green Tomatoes
For a Southern-inspired side, try serving fried green tomatoes. Their tangy, crunchy texture pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken wraps, offering a unique twist that will impress your guests.
Beverage Pairings for Buffalo Chicken Wraps
Pairing the right drink with your buffalo chicken wraps can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are a few options to consider:
- Iced Tea: A classic pairing, iced tea (either sweet or unsweetened with lemon) is refreshing and balances the spice of buffalo chicken wraps.
- Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade complements the spiciness of the wraps, making it a great choice for a refreshing drink.
- Beer: Light beers like lagers and wheat beers pair well with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken wraps, helping to cool down the heat.
- Sparkling Water: For a calorie-free option, sparkling water with a hint of citrus is a refreshing way to cleanse your palate between bites.
FAQs: What Side Dishes Go With Buffalo Chicken Wraps?
What sides go well with buffalo chicken wraps?
Classic sides like fries, coleslaw, and garden salad are great options. For more adventurous eaters, consider creative sides like buffalo cauliflower bites or stuffed jalapeños.
Can I serve cold sides with buffalo chicken wraps?
Yes, cold sides like cucumber salad, fruit salad, and coleslaw offer a refreshing contrast to the heat of buffalo chicken wraps.
What are good side dishes for buffalo chicken wraps at a party?
For a party setting, serve indulgent options like mozzarella sticks, onion rings, or fried pickles alongside buffalo chicken wraps.
What dips are best with buffalo chicken wraps?
Ranch, blue cheese, and honey mustard dips are classic choices to accompany buffalo chicken wraps, offering creamy and tangy flavors that balance the heat.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re sticking to the classics like fries and coleslaw or trying something new like buffalo cauliflower bites or stuffed jalapeños, pairing buffalo chicken wraps with the right side dishes will enhance your meal experience. The key is to balance the heat and richness of the wraps with fresh, light, or indulgent options depending on your preference. Mix and match from this guide to find the perfect combination that suits your taste and the occasion.
For more ideas on sandwich pairings and delicious sides, check out this comprehensive guide on what is a turkey sandwich made of for even more inspiration.