Name: BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps: A Fun Twist on Classic Flavors
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Cooked Chicken Breast (shredded into bite-sized pieces); 0.5 cups BBQ Sauce (your favorite kind); 4 large Flour Tortillas (burrito-sized); 2 cups Coleslaw Mix (shredded cabbage and carrots); 0.25 cups Mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt); 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar (or lemon juice); 1 tablespoon Sugar (to balance acidity); Salt and Pepper (to taste); 0.25 cups Fresh Cilantro (chopped); 0.25 cups Green Onions (sliced)

As I stood in my kitchen, the sizzling sounds of BBQ chicken filled the air, promising a quick and satisfying meal ahead. If you’re looking for a delectable yet effortless lunch, these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are your new go-to. In just 25 minutes, you can assemble this family-friendly dish that combines tender, smoky chicken with crisp coleslaw, all wrapped in a fluffy tortilla. What makes these wraps even more enchanting is their versatility—you can swap proteins, use different sauces, or even choose whole wheat tortillas to suit your dietary needs. Whether you need a fuss-free meal for a busy day or a fun picnic treat, these wraps are sure to delight your taste buds. Curious about how to whip up this quick delight? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are These Wraps So Versatile?

Convenience at its Finest: These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps come together in just 25 minutes, making them perfect for those hectic weekdays.

Flavorful Goodness: The rich taste of smoky BBQ chicken paired with crisp, tangy coleslaw will elevate your lunch experience.

Customizable: Feel free to switch up proteins, like using pulled pork or black beans, and experiment with different tortillas for a unique twist.

Meal Prep Friendly: Easily prepare the components in advance and assemble right before eating, ensuring fresh textures.

Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love these wraps, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone! For more tasty options, check out my recipes for Honey BBQ Chicken or BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad.

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Ingredients

Are you ready to create these delightful BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?

For the Wraps

Cooked Chicken Breast – shredded into bite-sized pieces; it’s your main protein for flavor-packed wraps.
BBQ Sauce – ½ cup of your favorite kind adds sweetness and tang; try spicy chipotle for a kick!
Flour Tortillas – 4 large, burrito-sized tortillas for the perfect wrap; substitute with whole wheat or spinach for added nutrients.

For the Coleslaw

Coleslaw Mix – 2 cups of shredded cabbage and carrots provide crunch and texture; making your own is a great option!
Mayonnaise – ¼ cup dresses the slaw with creaminess; Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative if desired.
Apple Cider Vinegar – 1 tablespoon adds tanginess; can be swapped for lemon juice for a fresh twist.
Sugar – 1 tablespoon balances the vinegar’s acidity perfectly.
Salt and Pepper – to taste, enhancing all flavors in your wraps.

Optional Enhancements

Fresh Cilantro – ¼ cup, chopped; adds a fresh, herby flavor if you’re feeling inspired!
Green Onions – ¼ cup, sliced; brings an extra layer of flavor to your wraps.

Now you have all the ingredients ready to bring these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps to life! Enjoy the cooking adventure!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Step 1: Mix the BBQ Chicken
In a medium mixing bowl, take your shredded cooked chicken and pour in ½ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce. Stir it all together until every piece of chicken is generously coated with sauce, ensuring an even, vibrant color. This step should take about 3 minutes. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the coleslaw.

Step 2: Prepare the Coleslaw Dressing
In another larger bowl, combine 2 cups of coleslaw mix, ¼ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, then mix thoroughly. You’re looking for a creamy consistency with an appealing crunch from the cabbage and carrots, which should take about 5 minutes to achieve.

Step 3: Rest the Coleslaw
Allow your prepared coleslaw to rest for approximately 10 minutes at room temperature. This wait helps the vegetables soak up the dressing, enhancing their flavors and achieving a delightful tanginess. You’ll see the cabbage soften slightly while still remaining crisp—perfect for a satisfying bite in your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps.

Step 4: Assemble the Wraps
Lay out one large flour tortilla on a clean flat surface. Using a spoon, add a generous portion of the BBQ chicken down the center of the tortilla, followed by a layer of the dressed coleslaw. Aim for a vibrant mix visible through the wrap, showcasing the colors of both the chicken and slaw for a visually appealing dish.

Step 5: Roll it Up
Fold the shorter sides of the tortilla inwards, then starting from the bottom edge, roll your wrap tightly towards the top. Ensure to keep it snug to avoid filling spilling out. A firm roll will create a beautiful and cohesive wrap that holds all the delicious flavors of your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps together.

Step 6: Cut and Serve
Using a sharp knife, cut each wrap in half diagonally for easier handling. This not only makes it more manageable for eating but also shows off the appetizing layers of BBQ chicken and coleslaw. Serve immediately, or wrap in parchment paper to enjoy later—perfect for lunches on the go!

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Enhance your meal with delightful sides and drinks that balance and complement the flavors of these savory wraps.

Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy outside and fluffy inside, they provide a comforting side that pairs perfectly with the BBQ flavors. Their natural sweetness balances the tangy coleslaw beautifully.
Crunchy Potato Chips: A classic addition, offering a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the wraps’ textures. Serve with your favorite dip for extra flavor and fun!
Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens and seasonal veggies dressed in a light vinaigrette makes for a vibrant, nutritious side. The freshness cuts through the richness of the BBQ chicken.
Iced Tea: Serve chilled for a quenching beverage that complements your meal’s smoky notes. Opt for a sweetened or unsweetened version based on your preference.
Coleslaw Variations: Pair with a different slaw, like apple-cabbage, for a playful twist. The extra crunch and tanginess will add an exciting layer to your meal.
Fruit Salad: Fresh, juicy fruits can cleanse the palate and provide a light contrast to the savory wraps. Include berries, melon, or citrus for a vibrant, sweet side.

These pairing ideas will lift your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps from a delightful lunch to a complete dining experience!

How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Fridge: Store the assembled BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps them chilled and maintains their freshness.

Components Storage: For optimal taste and texture, store the BBQ chicken and coleslaw separately in the fridge, where they will last for up to 3 days. Assemble just before serving.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap each filled wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Reheating: When ready to eat, remove the wrap from the fridge or freezer and warm it in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. Enjoy your flavorful BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps!

Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Cool the Chicken: Let the chicken cool slightly after mixing with BBQ sauce to avoid wilting the fresh coleslaw during assembly.
Right Dressing Amount: Don’t over-dress your coleslaw. Aim for a light coating to maintain the wrap’s integrity and avoid a soggy tortilla.
Flexible Tortillas: Choose fresh, pliable tortillas. If they feel stiff, microwave them for a few seconds to make assembly easier.
Moisture Barrier: Consider spreading a thin layer of mayo or cream cheese on your tortillas before filling them. This creates a moisture barrier that prevents sogginess.
Customize Wisely: Experiment with different proteins and sauces, like spicy chipotle or mustard-based BBQ, to keep your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps exciting at every meal.

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps: Fun Customization Ideas

Feel free to explore these creative twists that will elevate your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps into something uniquely yours!

Protein Swap: Try pulled pork or turkey for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian delight, black beans or chickpeas can equally deliver great satisfaction!
Tortilla Changes: Substitute traditional flour tortillas with whole wheat or spinach for an added nutritional boost. You can also opt for corn tortillas for a gluten-free version.
BBQ Sauce Variations: Spice it up with a chipotle BBQ sauce or switch it for a tangy mustard-based sauce. Each option packs a distinct kick, inviting your taste buds to dance.
Flavor Boosters: Incorporate sliced avocado for added creaminess, crispy bacon for a salty crunch, or fresh corn kernels for a burst of sweetness.
Unique Slaw Bases: Experiment with different slaw mixes, like purple cabbage or even broccoli slaw, to infuse vibrant colors and varied textures.
Heat it Up: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your wraps for those who crave a fiery kick.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or mint can add an unexpected freshness to your wraps, creating delightful layers of flavor.

As you get creative, don’t forget to check out my tasty Bang Bang Chicken Skewers or Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls for more scrumptious meal ideas!

Make Ahead Options

These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious lunches with minimal effort! You can prepare the BBQ chicken (mixed with sauce) and coleslaw (dressed) separately up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their flavors and textures. To keep the wraps fresh, don’t assemble them until you’re ready to eat, as this prevents the tortillas from getting soggy. When it’s time to serve, just lay out your tortillas, spoon in the BBQ chicken and coleslaw, roll them up, and voila! Quick, delicious wraps ready in a minute—perfect for busy weeknights!

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for the wraps?
Absolutely! Shredded cooked chicken breast is ideal for these wraps as it provides the perfect texture and flavor. You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken for convenience—just make sure it’s moist and tender!

How should I store leftover BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?
For optimal freshness, store the assembled BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To retain the crunch of the coleslaw, you can also store the BBQ chicken and coleslaw separately and assemble them just before serving.

Can I freeze these wraps for later?
Yes, you can! Wrap each assembled BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds until heated through.

What should I do if my coleslaw becomes soggy?
Very common! If your coleslaw is too wet, it can lead to soggy wraps. A good method is to ensure you’re not over-dressing the coleslaw. Only add enough mayonnaise and vinegar to coat the vegetables lightly. If it’s already soggy, you can try adding a touch more shredded cabbage to absorb excess moisture.

Are these wraps suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Definitely! Simply swap the flour tortillas with gluten-free alternatives available in stores. There are many delicious options that make these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps accessible to everyone!

How long does the coleslaw last in the fridge?
After preparing your coleslaw, it can store in the fridge for about 3 days in an airtight container. During this time, the flavors will marry beautifully. However, it’s best to assemble your wraps just before you’re ready to eat for a refreshing crunch!