Name: BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
Prep time: 25 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Cooked Chicken Breast (Use leftover roasted chicken for flavor); 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce (Choose a high-quality BBQ sauce); 4 large Flour Tortillas (Opt for soft tortillas); 4 cups Coleslaw Mix (Pre-packaged or homemade); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Substitute with Greek yogurt for lighter option); 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar (For acidity in the slaw); 1 tablespoon Sugar (Adjust to taste); To taste Salt; To taste Pepper; 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Cilantro (For herbal brightness); 1/4 cup Sliced Green Onions (For sharp flavor)

The moment you bite into a BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wrap, you’re met with a delightful crunch that’s just as satisfying as the smoky flavor that dances on your palate. This quick prep meal is my secret weapon on busy weeknights when I crave something hearty yet refreshing. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up these handheld summer comfort foods that are perfect for picnics or potlucks, too. Imagine tender shredded chicken mixed with your favorite BBQ sauce, nestled in a bundle of crisp coleslaw—all wrapped snugly in a soft tortilla. Not only is this recipe a crowd-pleaser, but it also helps you make the most of leftover chicken! So, are you ready to dive into some tasty summer vibes with me?

Why are BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps irresistible?

Quick Preparation: You can whip up these wraps in just 25 minutes, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of smoky BBQ chicken and crunchy coleslaw creates a delicious flavor profile that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Versatile and Fun: Customize your wraps with fresh herbs or a spicy kick by adding jalapeños, offering a fun way to cater to different taste preferences.

Perfect for Leftovers: Transform leftover chicken into a mouthwatering meal, reducing food waste while treating your family to something special.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether at a picnic, potluck, or dinner table, these wraps are guaranteed to wow your guests and keep everyone coming back for seconds! For more delicious ideas using leftover chicken, check out my Honey BBQ Chicken and Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese recipes.

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling
• Cooked Chicken Breast – Use leftover roasted chicken for a hearty, flavorful filling.
• BBQ Sauce – Choose a high-quality BBQ sauce to enhance smokiness and depth.

For the Wraps
• Flour Tortillas – Opt for large, soft tortillas to easily roll and enclose your delicious filling.

For the Coleslaw
• Coleslaw Mix – Pre-packaged mixes save time, or create your own with fresh cabbage and carrots.
• Mayonnaise – Adds a creamy texture; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides necessary acidity to balance the flavors in the slaw.
• Sugar – Adjust to taste to enhance the sweetness of the coleslaw.
• Salt and Pepper – Season to your preference for a perfect flavor balance.

Optional Add-ins
• Chopped Fresh Cilantro – Adds herbal brightness to your BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps.
• Sliced Green Onions – Offers a sharp burst of flavor and visual appeal to your wraps.

With these ingredients, you’re already on your way to crafting the most delightful BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps, a true celebration of summer flavors!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps:

Step 1: Prepare the BBQ Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded leftover chicken breast with your favorite BBQ sauce. Stir until the chicken is fully coated, ensuring that each shred is glazed in tangy goodness. Let the mixture marinate for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify, while you prepare the next steps.

Step 2: Make the Coleslaw
In a separate large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until all ingredients are well mixed and coated. The coleslaw should have a creamy texture with a good balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Set aside for 5 minutes to let the ingredients mingle for extra taste.

Step 3: Optional Flavor Boosters
If you’d like to enhance the flavor of the coleslaw, consider mixing in chopped fresh cilantro and sliced green onions at this point. These optional additions bring a fresh, herby brightness to your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps, creating a delightful contrast to the smoky chicken and creamy slaw.

Step 4: Assemble the Wraps
Lay a large flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon a generous portion of the BBQ chicken mixture into the center, followed by a heaping spoonful of the coleslaw. Aim for about one-third of the tortilla’s surface to avoid overfilling, making it easier to roll up your wraps neatly.

Step 5: Roll and Secure the Wraps
Start by folding the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll tightly from the bottom to enclose the filling completely. The ends should be tucked in securely, ensuring every delicious layer stays inside. This technique helps maintain the integrity of your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps while making them easy to handle.

Step 6: Cut for Serving
Once each wrap is rolled, use a sharp knife to cut them in half diagonally. This not only makes for a visually appealing presentation but also allows for easy eating, turning these wraps into perfect picnic or potluck snacks.

Step 7: Serve Immediately
Serve your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps right away to enjoy their optimal freshness and crunch. Pair them with chips, lime wedges, or your favorite refreshing beverage for a complete meal that embodies the flavors of summer.

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

These delicious wraps create a delightful meal, perfectly paired with sides and drinks that enhance their rich flavors and textures.

Crispy Potato Chips: The crunch and saltiness of chips contrast beautifully with the softness of the wraps, adding a satisfying element to every bite.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing sweetness that complements the savory BBQ chicken, cleansing the palate delightfully.
Zesty Lime Wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice over the wraps adds a bright acidity that elevates the flavor, making each bite more invigorating.
Iced Tea: A tall glass of lightly sweetened iced tea pairs perfectly, balancing the richness of the BBQ chicken with its refreshing undertones.
Garlic Breadsticks: The warm, buttery flavor of these breadsticks provides a comforting finish, making your meal feel indulgent yet homey.
Pickle Chips: The tangy crunch of pickles adds an exciting flavor contrast, enhancing the overall taste experience while adding a punch of brightness.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: Combining sweet corn with creamy dressing, cilantro, and spices complements the smoky flavors of the wraps, creating a harmonious blend.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: A sweet treat for dessert, soft cookies provide a delightful finish, ensuring a well-rounded meal that leaves everyone satisfied.

Storage Tips for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Fridge: Store assembled wraps in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness, it’s best to keep the BBQ chicken and coleslaw separate until you’re ready to enjoy.

Freezer: If you’re making these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps in advance, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw the wraps overnight in the fridge. Warm them gently in a microwave for 30-45 seconds or in a skillet over low heat until heated through, but avoid sogginess.

Texture Maintenance: When storing, placing a paper towel inside the container can help absorb excess moisture, keeping the wraps from getting too soft.

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps with a few delightful pairings that will elevate your meal and make it even more satisfying. Each suggestion complements the smoky and crunchy flavors perfectly!

Crunchy Potato Chips: The salty crunch of chips adds a satisfying texture contrast to the wraps. Serve them on the side for a fun, traditional pairing.
Zesty Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over your wraps just before eating for an extra burst of acidity that brightens the flavors beautifully.
Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea, either sweetened or unsweetened, provides a cool and soothing complement to the hearty meal.
Fruit Salad: Lighten things up with a fruity side like a watermelon and mint salad or a mixed berry bowl. The sweetness of the fruit balances the savory BBQ flavors perfectly!
Coleslaw Variations: If you’re a coleslaw lover, consider serving a different type of coleslaw on the side. Try a sweet apple or a spicy chili-lime slaw for a delightful twist!
Pickles or Jalapeños: Add a jar of pickles or a bowl of sliced jalapeños to the table for those who crave an extra zing. These condiments add a tangy punch that complements the wraps.

By combining your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps with these tantalizing sides, you create an inviting and delicious meal that everyone will love. For additional inspiration, don’t miss my Sticky Garlic Chicken or Cajun Chicken Sloppy recipes; they are always crowd-pleasers, too!

Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Freshness Matters: Use fresh ingredients for the coleslaw to ensure a satisfying crunch in your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps. This elevates flavor and texture.
Avoid Sogginess: Store BBQ chicken and coleslaw separately until serving. Assembling wraps too early can lead to a soggy tortilla.
Warm Tortillas: To make rolling easier, warm the tortillas in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This helps prevent tears and makes them pliable.
Flavor Balance: Adjust the sugar and vinegar in the coleslaw to find your perfect sweetness and tang. This enhances the overall flavor of your wraps.
Creative Add-Ins: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Adding jalapeños or hot sauce gives your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps an exciting spicy kick that delights.

Make Ahead Options

These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the BBQ chicken filling and coleslaw up to 24 hours in advance. Simply shred the cooked chicken and mix it with BBQ sauce, then combine the coleslaw mix with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. To maintain quality, store the filling and coleslaw in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy, lay your tortillas flat and assemble the wraps with the prepped fillings, rolling them tightly for that just-made taste. You’ll get to savor these delicious wraps on busy weekdays with minimal effort!

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using leftover roasted chicken. It adds heartiness and brings a delightful smokiness to your wraps. If you’re cooking chicken fresh, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe and delicious.

What’s the best way to store BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?
To keep your assembled BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, I suggest storing the fillings separately from the tortillas. This prevents sogginess and keeps everything crispy and refreshing!

Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?
Yes! If you want to prepare your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps in advance, wrap each individual wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat gently in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or in a skillet over low heat.

What if my coleslaw gets too watery?
Very! If your coleslaw has become watery, it’s often due to excess moisture from the cabbage or dressing. To fix this, you can drain some of the liquid and add a little more cabbage to absorb excess moisture. Alternatively, make the coleslaw a few hours in advance and refrigerate it to allow flavors to meld; just don’t let it sit too long before serving!

Can these wraps be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! To adapt BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps for a vegetarian diet, simply substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu. Just cook the tofu with a splash of BBQ sauce until heated through. This way, you can still enjoy that smoky flavor with plenty of crunch from the coleslaw!

What should I do if my tortillas crack when rolling?
If your tortillas are cracking, they’re likely too cold or dry. To prevent this, warm them gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This makes them pliable and easy to roll without breaking. If you have leftovers, consider placing a damp paper towel between layers of tortillas to keep them moist!