There’s something uniquely satisfying about biting into a BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wrap—it’s like a flavor party all wrapped up in a tidy tortilla. Imagine the delicious aroma of smoky BBQ chicken mingling with the vibrant crunch of fresh coleslaw, all nestled together for a handheld delight. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or just looking to shake up the routine of weeknight dinners, these wraps are perfect for any occasion.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility; you can easily customize it to fit your taste or dietary needs. Got leftover chicken from last night’s dinner? Perfect! Or maybe you’re in the mood for a low-carb option—just swap out the tortillas for crisp lettuce leaves. With endless possibilities for variations, this dish transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. So let’s dive in and discover how to create these mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps that are sure to please family and friends alike!
Why are BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps so great?
Simplicity at its finest: These wraps come together in just a few simple steps, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor explosion: The smoky BBQ chicken pairs beautifully with the crunch and tang of fresh coleslaw, creating a mouthwatering combination.
Customizable: With endless variations, you can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your preference or dietary needs.
Crowd pleaser: These wraps are great for parties, ensuring everyone finds something they love—whether they’re meat-lovers or vegetarians.
Make-ahead magic: Prepare the coleslaw in advance and save time when you’re ready to assemble, making dinner that much easier!
Serving ideas: Pair it with sweet potato fries or a light salad for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious!
BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Shredded Chicken – A great protein source; using leftover rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.
• BBQ Sauce – This adds moisture and that irresistible smoky flavor; feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade version.
For the Coleslaw
• Cabbage (Green or Red) – Offers a crunchy texture and boosts nutrition; substitute with a pre-packaged coleslaw mix for convenience.
• Carrots – Adds natural sweetness and color; grated carrots are a quick addition to increase texture.
• Optional Vegetables (Bell Peppers, Onions) – Enhance the flavors and add crunch while allowing for personalization based on preference.
• Coleslaw Dressing (Mayonnaise, Greek Yogurt, Vinegar) – Improves the flavor and creaminess of the slaw; use Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
For the Wraps
• Tortillas (Flour or Whole Wheat) – The perfect wrap for all the delicious fillings; substitute with lettuce leaves for a low-carb BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wrap.
Feel free to mix and match these ingredients to create your ideal wrap!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
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Prepare Chicken: Shred any leftover chicken or cook fresh chicken, ensuring it reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer. Mix it well with your favorite BBQ sauce until fully coated.
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Make Coleslaw: In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and any optional vegetables like bell peppers. Drizzle with coleslaw dressing, mixing everything thoroughly. Let sit for 10 minutes to enhance the flavors.
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Warm Tortillas: In a dry skillet, heat tortillas over medium heat for about 1 minute per side until they’re warm and pliable—this helps avoid tearing while assembling.
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Assemble Wraps: Place a generous portion of BBQ chicken and coleslaw in the center of each tortilla. Fold tightly and slice diagonally for that pleasing presentation.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs or extra BBQ sauce if desired, and watch them disappear!
Optional: Drizzle with a dash of lime juice for a fresh kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
• Choose Quality Chicken: Use tender, flavorful shredded chicken; leftover rotisserie works perfectly. Freshly cooked chicken can be dry if not monitored closely, so check its temperature.
• Perfect BBQ Sauce Ratio: Aim for a balanced coating of BBQ sauce; too much can make the wraps soggy. Start with a small amount and add more to your taste as needed.
• Coleslaw Freshness: Make your coleslaw dressing shortly before serving for optimal crunch and flavor. Allow it to chill for 30 minutes to enhance the taste without wilting the veggies.
• Warm Tortillas Carefully: Gently warm your tortillas to enhance flexibility; avoid overheating, as this can lead to tearing. A dry skillet works best!
• Endless Customization: Get creative with your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps! Substitute proteins like turkey or tofu, or switch up vegetables according to the season or what you have on hand.
• Store Separately: To keep your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps fresh, store the chicken, coleslaw, and tortillas separately until ready to assemble. This avoids sogginess and maximizes flavor.
BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Variations
Explore the delightful possibilities to customize your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps and make them uniquely yours!
- Low-Carb: Use large lettuce leaves instead of tortillas for a fresh, crunchy wrap that’s low on carbs.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your coleslaw for a fiery flavor boost.
- Vegan Delight: Substitute shredded chicken with jackfruit or firm tofu, and use a vegan BBQ sauce for a plant-based option.
- Crunchy Extras: Toss in sunflower seeds or sliced almonds to your coleslaw for added texture and a nutty flavor.
- Fruit Fusion: Add diced apples or pineapple to the coleslaw for a sweet and tangy twist that complements the BBQ.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into your chicken mix for an extra layer of smoky goodness.
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice over the chicken and coleslaw right before wrapping for a bright, zesty finish.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or dill into your coleslaw for an aromatic touch that elevates the dish.
Let your creativity shine as you whip up these wraps! It’s all about making them your own.
How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
Fridge: Store assembled wraps in an airtight container for up to 2 days; however, for best freshness, assemble them just before serving to maintain crunch.
Coleslaw: Prepare coleslaw in advance and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours; this enhances flavors without losing crunch.
Freezer: Freeze the shredded BBQ chicken separately in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Once thawed, combine with fresh coleslaw when ready to serve.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or a skillet until warmed through, and avoid reheating assembled wraps to preserve their texture.
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can prep the coleslaw up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the cabbage, carrots, and dressing, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it crisp. The shredded BBQ chicken can also be made ahead of time and stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or frozen for longer storage. When it’s time to serve, simply warm the tortillas in a dry skillet for about 1 minute per side, then fill with your prepared chicken and coleslaw. This way, you enjoy fresh, flavorful BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps with minimal effort!
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?
Transform a simple wrap into a complete meal with delightful sides that enhance every bite of your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy, slightly sweet fries contrast beautifully with the savory wraps, adding that perfect crunch.
- Light Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens and colorful vegetables helps balance the rich flavors, offering a refreshing bite alongside your wraps.
- Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits can elevate your meal’s freshness, providing a sweet counterpart to the savory BBQ chicken and coleslaw.
- Corn on the Cob: Served grilled or boiled, this classic side adds a summery vibe, pairing perfectly with the smoky flavor of your wraps.
- Creamy Coleslaw: It might seem redundant, but a side of creamy coleslaw enhances textures and flavors, making for a satisfying experience.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: A cool, refreshing drink helps cleanse the palate between bites, complementing the smoky BBQ without overpowering it.
BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?
Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and adds fantastic flavor. If you’re starting from scratch, make sure to cook fresh chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F, keeping it moist for the best results.
How should I store leftover BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?
To maintain the wraps’ crunch, it’s best to store the chicken, coleslaw, and tortillas separately if possible. Assemble them in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge. You can store the coleslaw in an airtight container for up to 24 hours without losing its texture.
Can I freeze BBQ Chicken for later use?
Yes! You can freeze the shredded BBQ chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your wraps, simply thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Combine it with fresh coleslaw right before assembling your wraps.
What if my coleslaw is too watery?
If your coleslaw turns out watery, don’t worry! One solution is to strain it through a fine-mesh sieve for a few minutes to remove excess liquid. You can also add a little more shredded cabbage or carrots to absorb some of the moisture, and an extra drizzle of coleslaw dressing can help balance the flavor.
Are BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Great question! To make these wraps gluten-free, simply substitute the tortillas with gluten-free wraps or fresh lettuce leaves. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without compromising on dietary needs.
Any recommendations for making BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps healthier?
Very! To lighten up your wraps, consider using whole wheat tortillas instead of regular ones, and swap out mayonnaise in your coleslaw dressing with Greek yogurt for a creamy yet healthier alternative. You can also load up on veggies, increasing the cabbage and carrot ratio for added nutrition.
BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps for Quick, Flavorful Meals
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Shred any leftover chicken or cook fresh chicken, ensuring it reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer. Mix well with BBQ sauce until fully coated.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and optional vegetables like bell peppers. Drizzle with coleslaw dressing, mixing thoroughly. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- In a dry skillet, heat tortillas over medium heat for about 1 minute per side until warm and pliable.
- Place a generous portion of BBQ chicken and coleslaw in the center of each tortilla. Fold tightly and slice diagonally.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or extra BBQ sauce if desired, and serve immediately.
