What is a Buffalo bowl?

A Buffalo bowl is a layered meal typically featuring buffalo-style chicken, a grain base like rice or quinoa, and a mix of fresh toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and dressing. It offers a flavorful balance of spicy, creamy, and crisp textures. This customizable bowl is ideal for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or lunch on the go. Think of it as a deconstructed buffalo chicken wrap or salad served in a hearty, satisfying way.

How do you describe buffalo chicken?

Buffalo chicken is juicy, spicy, and tangy, usually made by tossing cooked chicken with a vinegar-based hot sauce like Frank’s RedHot and butter. It has a rich, bold flavor with heat upfront and a buttery undertone that’s often complemented by creamy dressings like ranch or blue cheese. Whether shredded, grilled, or baked, the buffalo flavor makes it crave-worthy and versatile.

Why is it called buffalo chicken?

The term "buffalo" in buffalo chicken originates from Buffalo, New York, where the dish was first created. Specifically, it refers to the original buffalo wings invented at the Anchor Bar in 1964. The name stuck, and now "buffalo chicken" simply means chicken prepared in that signature spicy sauce—regardless of cut or form.

What does "buffalo" mean for food?

In culinary terms, "buffalo" refers to the flavor style, not the animal. It typically involves a hot sauce made from cayenne pepper, vinegar, and butter, giving it a spicy yet tangy profile. Foods labeled "buffalo" are usually coated or flavored with this iconic sauce. It's a shortcut for saying “hot, tangy, and bold”—perfect for wings, wraps, pizzas, and of course, Buffalo Chicken Bowls .

Buffalo Chicken Bowls: 7 Proven Flavor Hacks You’ll Love

Description

Buffalo Chicken Bowls pack heat and freshness—learn to build this spicy, satisfying bowl with step-by-step instructions and flavor tips.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked skinless chicken breast, shredded
1/2 cup buffalo-style hot sauce
2 cups cooked white or brown rice (or cooked quinoa)
1 cup shredded romaine or iceberg lettuce
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup crumbled feta or non-pork cheese alternative
1/4 cup creamy ranch dressing
1/4 cup sliced green onions

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Instructions

In a mixing bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the buffalo-style hot sauce until evenly coated.
Cook rice or quinoa if not already prepared, and divide evenly into serving bowls.
Layer the buffalo chicken mixture over the rice base.
Add shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes on top.
Sprinkle with crumbled cheese and drizzle with ranch dressing.
Finish with sliced green onions for garnish and serve immediately.