BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

This BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps recipe turns simple ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying meal that you can have on the table in less than 35 minutes. With juicy barbecue chicken, crunchy coleslaw, and warm tortillas, these wraps offer a quick dinner solution that tastes café quality. If you need an easy, fast, and family approved weeknight dinner, BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps are the answer for delicious results in record time.

I first made this BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps recipe when looking for a filling lunch using leftover rotisserie chicken and a bag of slaw. After that, these wraps became a family regular because everyone loves how the smoky sweet barbecue flavor and creamy-crisp coleslaw combine in every bite. They are so simple to put together and bring real comfort, especially when time is short and a cozy meal is needed.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Cooked shredded chicken for BBQ chicken wraps: Provides juicy texture and soaks up the barbecue sauce; rotisserie chicken is easiest, but grilled or poached chicken breast works well too
• BBQ sauce for smoky flavor wraps: Key for deep smoky sweet flavor; use your favorite store brand or homemade for customization
• Coleslaw mix for fresh crunch: Brings cool crispness with cabbage and carrots; bagged is convenient, or shred your own for finer texture and fresher bite
• Mayonnaise for creamy slaw: Makes the slaw rich and smooth; substitute Greek yogurt for less fat, or vegan mayo for dairy free wraps
• Apple cider vinegar to add tang: Lifts the slaw with zippy acidity; rice or white wine vinegar can be used for a milder flavor
• Sugar to balance BBQ chicken wraps: Adds subtle sweetness that balances vinegar and BBQ sauce; honey or maple syrup are tasty alternatives
• Salt and pepper to season: Enhances all the natural flavors; use freshly cracked black pepper for a touch of gentle heat
• Large flour tortillas to wrap: Burrito size tortillas make hearty, tightly rolled wraps; choose whole wheat or gluten free tortillas as needed

How to Make BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Prep the BBQ Chicken:

Combine 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken with 1/2 cup barbecue sauce in a medium bowl. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated and glossy. For warm filling, heat the mixture in a skillet over medium for 3 to 4 minutes or microwave for about 1 minute. This allows the chicken to fully absorb the sauce for maximum flavor and ensures a juicy wrap, but do not overcook as chicken can dry out.

Mix the Creamy Coleslaw:

In a bowl, combine 2 cups coleslaw mix, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Stir thoroughly until every piece is well coated but not overly wet. Let the slaw rest for 5 minutes to blend the flavors and slightly soften the vegetables, while still keeping their crisp texture for bite.

Assemble the Wraps:

Lay a large tortilla flat and spoon a hearty portion of barbecue chicken down the center, leaving edges clear for rolling. Top generously with creamy coleslaw. This layering ensures smoky chicken and cool crunchy slaw with each mouthful, while preventing sogginess in the wrap.

Roll and Seal the Wraps:

Fold in the tortilla sides, then roll up tightly from the bottom to enclose filling, tucking as you go for a secure wrap. Place seam-side down into a dry skillet over medium heat and toast each wrap for 1 to 2 minutes per side until tortillas are golden. Toasting improves texture and helps keep the wraps sealed and easy to handle.

Slice and Serve:

Let finished wraps rest for 1 minute, then carefully slice each in half on the bias for attractive presentation. Serve right away for warmth and crispness, or pack in foil for easy lunchbox meals and family picnics.

The game changer for this recipe in my kitchen was discovering a local honey barbecue sauce that took the wraps to another level of flavor. I once doubled the batch for a weekend family picnic and everyone agreed these wraps were both hearty and refreshing. The generous servings of coleslaw not only add crunch but also boost nutrition with every slice of cabbage and carrot in the mix.

Smart Swaps and Variations

BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps work with nearly any protein or slaw variation. You can swap flour tortillas with gluten free or whole wheat varieties, and substitute pulled pork, turkey, or even crispy tofu for the chicken. Making the slaw dairy free is simple with vegan mayo, or lighten it by using Greek yogurt. For an extra flavor kick, stir in spicy jalapeños or chipotle peppers to your barbecue chicken mixture.

How to Store and Reheat BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Store BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps in the fridge for up to 3 days wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap for freshness. For freezing, wrap each cooled wrap in parchment paper and store in a freezer safe bag or container for up to 2 months, labeling with the date. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating wraps in a dry skillet for 2 to 3 minutes per side, which helps restore crispness and heat the filling evenly.

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps pair well with classic sides like oven baked potato wedges, fresh fruit salad, or crispy pickles for a balanced dinner plate. For parties, slice wraps into smaller portions for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Complement the smoky and tangy flavors with a refreshing iced tea or citrus flavored beverage to round out your meal for any gathering.

Nutritional Benefits

Each BBQ chicken coleslaw wrap delivers a balanced combination of lean protein from chicken, fiber from cabbage and carrots, and heart healthy fats in the slaw. Substituting Greek yogurt or light mayonnaise further reduces saturated fat. With about 480 calories and 25 grams of protein per wrap, this meal satisfies appetite while also supplying essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.

Recipe Success Tips

Avoid soggy or cracked tortillas by patting coleslaw dry before mixing and warming tortillas until pliable before filling. Do not overfill wraps to prevent bursting while rolling or toasting. For the crispiest result, always finish assembled wraps in a dry skillet for two minutes per side, being mindful to cook just long enough for golden color and a secure, sealed edge.

This BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps recipe is a lifesaver for busy nights and always brings bold barbecue flavor to the table. Try a batch this week for a quick, customizable dinner and let your favorite wrap version shine.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use leftover chicken for these wraps?

Yes, any cooked shredded chicken, such as rotisserie or grilled, works well in this dish.

→ How can I make the wraps healthier?

Substitute low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in the slaw and use whole wheat tortillas for added nutrition.

→ Is it possible to prepare the wraps in advance?

Absolutely. Assemble the components separately and build the wraps just before serving for maximum freshness.

→ Can I make these wraps vegetarian?

Swap the chicken for grilled tofu or chickpeas tossed in barbecue sauce for a flavorful vegetarian alternative.

→ What side dishes pair well with the wraps?

They pair nicely with fresh fruit, sweet potato fries, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.