Name: BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Cooked Chicken (Use shredded rotisserie or grilled chicken); 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce (Choose your favorite variety); 2 cups Cabbage (Shredded, green or red); 1 cup Carrots (Shredded); Bell Peppers (Optional); 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt (Optional, for dressing); 4 pieces Tortillas (Whole wheat or low-carb); Hot Sauce (Optional, for heat)

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As I flipped through my pantry, I stumbled upon the remnants of last night’s BBQ chicken feast. Just then, inspiration struck—why not create something fresh and exciting? Enter my BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps! This recipe merges smoky, savory chicken with a crunchy coleslaw tucked in warm tortillas, making it an absolute game-changer for busy weeknights. Not only are these wraps a quick meal prep solution, but they also allow for endless customization, whether you want to amp up the flavor with a zesty sauce or keep it light with Greek yogurt. Perfect for using up leftovers and sure to please a crowd, these wraps will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. What unique twist will you add to your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?

Why Are BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Perfect?

Quick Preparation: These wraps are a lifesaver on hectic days, taking only minutes to assemble, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without the fuss.
Endless Customization: From spicy BBQ sauces to crunchy veggies, you can tailor each wrap to please your palette, making them great for family gatherings or casual meals.
Healthier Options: Swap traditional mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter slaw without losing creaminess, proving that healthy can be delicious!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for sharing, these wraps are a hit at parties—everyone loves the combination of smoky chicken and refreshing coleslaw!
Satisfying Texture: Experience the delightful contrast of tender chicken and crunchy veggies wrapped in a warm tortilla, bringing joy in every bite.
Don’t forget to check out my recipe for Butter Chicken Comfort if you’re looking for more flavorful options!

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling

Cooked Chicken – Use shredded rotisserie or grilled chicken for a quick and flavorful base.
BBQ Sauce – Choose your favorite variety; a smoky or spicy sauce complements the wrap beautifully.

For the Coleslaw

Cabbage – Green cabbage provides a fresh crunch, while red cabbage adds vibrant color.
Carrots – Shredded carrots enhance sweetness and paired crunch; opt for a slaw mix for convenience.
Bell Peppers (optional) – Adding any color bell peppers ups the crunch factor and visual appeal.
Greek Yogurt (optional) – A creamy and healthier replacement for mayo in your slaw dressing.

For the Wraps

Tortillas – Whole wheat or low-carb tortillas work well; they’re the perfect vessel for your filling!
Hot Sauce (optional) – Drizzle on for a delightful kick if you enjoy that extra heat.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Begin by shredding your pre-cooked chicken or cooking fresh chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, which should take about 20–25 minutes if baking. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a bowl and generously mix in your chosen BBQ sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated for delicious flavor.

Step 2: Make Coleslaw
In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and optional chopped bell peppers for added crunch. Toss the vegetables with your desired dressing—mayonnaise or Greek yogurt works beautifully. Season to taste, then let the coleslaw sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, creating a refreshing addition to your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps.

Step 3: Warm Tortillas
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and warm the tortillas for about 15 to 30 seconds on each side. This not only improves their pliability, preventing tearing when you wrap them, but also enhances their flavor. Keep the tortillas warm in a clean kitchen towel or in a covered dish as you prepare to assemble the wraps.

Step 4: Assemble Wraps
Take a warm tortilla and spoon a generous scoop of the BBQ chicken mixture along one side. Next, add a hearty portion of the coleslaw on top of the chicken. Carefully fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it tightly from the bottom up to create a secure wrap. For a visually appealing touch, slice each wrap in half diagonally before serving, showcasing the vibrant fillings.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your assembled BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps on a platter, optionally drizzling with additional BBQ sauce or hot sauce for those who like an extra kick. These wraps are best enjoyed fresh, but can be kept warm in aluminum foil. Remember to savor every bite of this delectable fusion of tender chicken and crunchy slaw!

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Satisfy your cravings by complementing these tasty wraps with delightful sides and drinks that enhance your meal experience.

Sweet Potato Fries:
These crispy, slightly sweet fries offer a wonderful contrast to the smoky flavors of the wraps, adding delicious texture.
Fresh Garden Salad:
Light and zesty, a garden salad with a citrus vinaigrette pairs perfectly, balancing the richness of the BBQ chicken.
Fruit Salad:
A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing touch, enhancing the meal’s sweetness while providing vibrant flavors.
Corn on the Cob:
Grilled or boiled, the sweetness of corn on the cob brings a classic summer vibe that perfectly complements the wraps.
Pickles:
Their tangy bite cuts through the creaminess of the coleslaw, providing a crunchy contrast that livens each bite of the wrap.
Iced Tea or Lemonade:
A chilled beverage like sweet iced tea or lemonade cools down the palate, enhancing the savory notes of the BBQ chicken.
Potato Chips:
Perfect for crunch lovers, a side of potato chips adds an irresistible texture and makes for a casual, fun meal!
Coleslaw Variations:
Serve different styles of coleslaw; think pineapple or jalapeño slaw to spice things up, providing a fun twist to your meal.
Chocolate Chip Cookies:
To finish on a sweeter note, enjoy a few warm chocolate chip cookies—an easy dessert that everyone will love after the delicious wraps!

Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Choose Quality Chicken: Use high-quality cooked chicken for better flavor. Rotisserie chicken adds richness, while grilled chicken gives a smoky taste.
Customize Coleslaw: Avoid bland coleslaw by experimenting with different ingredients. Add diced apples or raisins for sweetness or jalapeños for heat in your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps.
Dress Right: If using Greek yogurt, mix in a little honey or mustard to enhance the creamy flavor, making a delicious and healthier slaw dressing.
Perfect Tortilla Handling: Warm tortillas adequately to avoid tears. If they crack, they might not hold your filling well.
Chill and Prep Ahead: Prepare the coleslaw in advance for optimal flavor. Refrigerating it allows the ingredients to soak in the dressing, elevating your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps.
Tightly Wrap: When assembling, ensure your wraps are secured and tight. This helps to prevent any spills and keeps all those delicious ingredients together.

Make Ahead Options

These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are perfect for busy cooks looking to streamline meal prep! You can prepare the BBQ chicken up to 3 days in advance by mixing your shredded chicken with BBQ sauce and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The coleslaw can also be made ahead; simply combine the shredded cabbage and carrots (and any optional bell peppers) without the dressing. Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to keep the veggies crisp. When you’re ready to serve, just toss the coleslaw with your chosen dressing, warm the tortillas for enhanced pliability, and assemble the wraps for a quick, flavorful meal that tastes just as fresh as if you made them right before serving!

Storage Tips for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Fridge: Store any leftover BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If possible, separate the chicken and coleslaw components to maintain freshness.

Freezer: You can freeze wrapped BBQ Chicken for up to 3 months, but it’s best to do so without the coleslaw to avoid sogginess. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing.

Reheating: Allow frozen wraps to thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. This keeps your wraps warm without making them soggy.

Prepping Ahead: Consider making the coleslaw ahead of time and storing it separately. This can enhance the flavors and make your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps even more delicious!

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Variations

Feel free to get creative with your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps and tailor them to your taste!

Lettuce Wraps: Swap tortillas for crisp lettuce leaves to enjoy a refreshing, low-carb option. Crunchy romaine or butter lettuce works best and adds a delightful crunch.
Different Proteins: Use shredded turkey or even canned chickpeas for a tasty change! This keeps the wraps hearty while offering unique flavor profiles.
Spicy BBQ Sauce: Opt for a hotter variety of BBQ sauce or mix in some sriracha for an extra kick! Your taste buds will dance with excitement, making meal times more thrilling.
Vegan Twist: Replace the chicken with roasted or grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You won’t miss the meat, as the veggies soak up all the BBQ goodness.
Add Fruits: Incorporate diced apples or mango for a sweet twist in the slaw. This burst of fruity flavor adds a refreshing layer to each bite.
Creamy Slaw Variations: Instead of Greek yogurt, try a tahini dressing for a nutty flavor. It’s a unique take that balances perfectly with the BBQ chicken.
Herb Boost: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into your coleslaw for a burst of freshness. This adds a beautiful burst of color and zesty flavor to the wraps.
Crunchy Extras: Add nuts or seeds, such as sunflower seeds or chopped pecans, for an extra crunch and nutty flavor! It creates a delightful texture contrast with the soft tortillas.

With these variations, your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps can become a new adventure each time you make them! Enjoy experimenting, and don’t hesitate to explore options like my beloved Butter Chicken Comfort for even more ideas!

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for the coleslaw?
Absolutely! When selecting cabbage, look for heads that feel heavy for their size and have crisp, tightly packed leaves. Avoid any with dark spots or wilting. For carrots, opt for firm and vibrant ones. Freshness really enhances the flavor!

How should I store leftover BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?
Store any leftover wraps in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. For best results, separate the BBQ chicken and coleslaw components if possible to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.

Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?
Yes, you can freeze the BBQ chicken for up to 3 months! For best results, make sure to wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Avoid freezing the coleslaw with the chicken to keep its crisp texture.

What should I do if my tortillas keep tearing?
If your tortillas are tearing, it might be due to them being too cold. I recommend warming them in a skillet over medium heat for about 15 to 30 seconds per side until they’re pliable. This enhances their flexibility and helps prevent tearing during assembly.

Are BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps suitable for people with certain allergies?
The great news is that BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps can be customized to accommodate various dietary needs! If you’re allergic to dairy, use dairy-free yogurt or mayo as a substitute. For gluten-free options, swap out the tortillas for large lettuce leaves, creating a fresh wrap that everyone can enjoy.

Can I make coleslaw in advance?
Very! You can prepare the coleslaw a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just give it a good stir before using to refresh the texture!