Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps

This crispy BBQ chicken wraps recipe has become my weeknight hero for quick, satisfying dinners packed with juicy barbecue chicken, melted cheddar, sweet corn, and hearty black beans inside golden, crunchy tortillas. With only 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes total cook time, these wraps make it easy to enjoy restaurant style flavor at home without the fuss or long wait times. If you need a fast, family friendly meal that hits all the right notes, this easy chicken wrap delivers bold barbecue comfort every time, ready in under 35 minutes.

I first made these crispy bbq chicken wraps for a last minute family picnic when we needed a fast meal everybody would love. The simple combination of smoky barbecue sauce, creamy cheddar, and juicy chicken quickly made it a most requested dinner on movie nights. I love how customizable and fuss free each wrap is, so I can easily adjust the fillings, spice level, or use up whatever cooked chicken and veggies I have in the fridge, all while delivering big, comforting BBQ flavor in every bite.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Cooked chicken breast (shredded for easy filling and best texture): Tender chicken is essential for juicy wraps; use rotisserie for extra moisture or leftover grilled chicken for smoky notes, and shred finely for even texture throughout the filling.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (melts beautifully): Creamy and sharp, cheddar adds classic flavor and gooey texture; substitute with Mexican blend or dairy free cheese for dietary needs while ensuring good melt.
• BBQ sauce (your favorite kind): The key to smoky, tangy, and sweet flavor; classic hickory, honey BBQ, or spicy chipotle blends all work, just choose one with bold taste that matches your preferences.
• Large flour tortillas (burrito size): Sturdy to hold the filling and roll easily; gluten free or lower carb tortillas can be used for swaps, and medium tortillas work for smaller wraps and serving sizes.
• Chopped green onions (optional, for fresh bite): Adds color and crisp tang; use extra for more crunch or omit if you prefer a milder wrap.
• Frozen corn (thawed for pops of sweetness): Brings natural sweetness to balance the BBQ; fire roasted corn can be used for extra smoky flavor or sub in drained canned corn for convenience.
• Canned black beans (rinsed and drained): Increases protein and fiber, gives hearty bite; you can swap with pinto beans or even refried beans for a creamier texture.
• Extra virgin olive oil or cooking spray: Ensures exterior crispness when pan searing; avocado oil also gives great browning and subtle flavor.

How to Make Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps

Prepare the Filling Mixture:

Combine shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, BBQ sauce, thawed corn, black beans, and green onions in a large bowl. Stir until the BBQ sauce fully coats each ingredient and the cheese begins to bind everything together. The mixture should be moist but not watery, giving off a rich smoky aroma, and ready in about 3 to 4 minutes.

Fill and Roll the Tortillas Tightly:

Lay each flour tortilla flat on a work surface, then place half to three quarters cup of filling along the lower third, keeping slightly off center. Fold both sides in toward the filling and roll up from the bottom to create a snug burrito shape, tucking in as you go for firm wraps. If filling spills out, reduce amount per wrap for easier rolling and less mess.

Sear Wraps Until Crispy and Golden:

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and brush or spray lightly with olive oil. Once oil shimmers, add wraps seam side down and press gently with a spatula. Cook two to three minutes per side until golden brown and crisp, monitoring closely to prevent burning and adjusting heat as needed for steady cooking without smoking.

Check for Melted Cheese and Crisp Texture:

The wraps are ready when both sides are evenly golden and feel crisp to the touch. Cheese inside should be bubbling and fully melted, visible if you press gently with a spatula. Let cool for two minutes after cooking so cheese sets and filling stays in place when slicing.

Serve Immediately or Prep for Later:

Cut wraps on the diagonal for easy serving or cool and wrap in foil for meal prep. Enjoy hot for the crispiest bite, or let cool completely to store for lunches and quick dinners throughout the week. Cooking and serving right away maximizes the crunchy tortilla and melty cheese texture.

My favorite trick is sprinkling fresh green onions inside for extra crunch and flavor, making each bite vibrant and fresh. We once made these using leftover grilled chicken after a barbecue, and the added smokiness turned out so well that my family now requests them for movie nights and casual gatherings. The wraps are always a reliable hit and make meal prep for busy weeks much more exciting and flavorful.

Smart Swaps and Variations

You can easily swap chicken breast for pulled rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or shredded turkey for a new spin on these wraps. For a vegetarian version, double the black beans and corn or substitute with jackfruit and BBQ sauce for a hearty, pulled texture. Dairy free cheese melts nicely for those avoiding dairy, and if you want more spice, stir in pickled jalapenos or chipotle sauce to give your crispy BBQ chicken wraps a bold kick.

How to Store and Reheat Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps

Let wraps cool completely before storing to keep the crispy texture and prevent sogginess. Wrap each individually in foil or parchment and place in the fridge for up to four days, or freeze in a single layer, separated by parchment, for up to three months. Reheat leftovers in a 350 degree oven or on a skillet over medium low heat until hot and crispy throughout for that just cooked taste and satisfying crunch.

What to Serve with Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps

Crispy BBQ chicken wraps pair perfectly with sides like green salads, classic potato wedges, or a simple slaw for balance. For a comforting meal, serve with tomato or corn soup, and add pickles, sliced cucumbers, or extra BBQ sauce on the table for extra flavor. For parties or casual lunches, present sliced wraps on a platter with ranch or avocado dipping sauce alongside sweet potato fries or grilled veggies.

Nutritional Benefits

These BBQ chicken wraps are packed with lean protein from chicken breast, fiber from black beans and corn, and calcium from cheddar cheese, creating a balanced and filling meal for busy families. Using olive oil for crisping adds heart healthy fats, while the whole recipe remains naturally low in added sugar if you choose a low sugar BBQ sauce. The wraps are fully customizable for gluten free and dairy free diets, making them a great choice for a variety of nutritional preferences.

Recipe Success Tips

If your wraps split or tear while rolling, microwave tortillas for 15 seconds before assembling to make them more flexible. Use moderate amounts of filling to avoid bursts, and always start pan searing seam side down for a better seal. When batch cooking, keep finished wraps warm in a 200 degree oven on a wire rack, so they stay crisp and ready for serving without losing texture.

This crispy BBQ chicken wraps recipe proves quick dinners can be homemade, flavorful, and fun even on your busiest nights. Give these wraps a try and discover your own favorite twist for a meal the whole family will request again and again.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ How do you keep the wraps crispy?

Cook wraps seam-side down in a hot, lightly oiled skillet, pressing gently for even browning and crispness.

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend for varied flavor and melting qualities.

→ What protein alternatives work well?

Shredded rotisserie chicken, turkey breast, or plant-based substitutes can be used in the filling.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Wrap cooled leftovers in foil and refrigerate for up to two days. Reheat in a skillet to regain crispiness.

→ What can I serve with these wraps?

Pair with a fresh salad, coleslaw, or roasted veggies for a balanced and colorful meal.