Smoky BBQ Chicken Wraps

Delicious BBQ Chicken Wraps with homemade coleslaw

Smoky & Satisfying: The Best BBQ Chicken Wraps with Homemade Coleslaw

By:

Julia Pacheco

Dive into the ultimate flavor experience with these incredibly delicious BBQ Chicken Wraps, featuring tender, saucy chicken and a crisp, creamy homemade coleslaw. This recipe is your go-to for a quick, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a speedy lunch, an easy weeknight dinner, or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering, these wraps deliver big on taste with minimal effort. They’re so good, they’ll be ready in minutes and disappear even faster!

Prep:

10 minutes

Cook:

10 minutes

Total:

20 minutes

Servings:

4
servings
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Why These BBQ Chicken Wraps Are a Must-Try

These BBQ Chicken Wraps are more than just a meal; they’re an experience. Imagine succulent chicken breast, perfectly seasoned and coated in your favorite smoky BBQ sauce, nestled amongst a vibrant, tangy, and creamy homemade coleslaw, all wrapped up in a soft flour tortilla. This recipe stands out for its simplicity, speed, and incredible balance of flavors and textures. It’s the ideal choice for busy individuals and families who crave delicious, homemade food without spending hours in the kitchen. In just 20 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into a dish that tastes like it took all day to prepare.

The secret to their irresistible charm lies in the combination of tender chicken and the refreshing crunch of the coleslaw. The coleslaw isn’t just a side dish here; it’s a critical component, offering a cool, zesty contrast to the warm, savory chicken. Plus, with customizable options, you can easily tailor these wraps to suit any dietary preference or craving. Get ready to add this fantastic recipe to your regular rotation!

Ingredients

Creating these delightful BBQ Chicken Wraps requires two main components: a vibrant, homemade coleslaw and perfectly cooked, saucy BBQ chicken. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some notes to help you achieve the best results.

Coleslaw Ingredients:

The coleslaw is designed to be fresh, creamy, and tangy, cutting through the richness of the BBQ chicken. For best flavor, allow it to chill for at least an hour before serving.

  • 4 tbs mayo (Full-fat mayonnaise offers the best creaminess, but light mayo can be used for a healthier option.)
  • 1 tbs sour cream (Adds an extra layer of creaminess and a subtle tang. Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a lighter version.)
  • 1 dash pepper (Freshly ground black pepper is always recommended for maximum flavor.)
  • 2 tsp dijon mustard (Provides a sharp, tangy kick that balances the creaminess of the dressing.)
  • 2 tsp apple cider vinegar (Essential for that classic coleslaw tang. White vinegar can be used as an alternative.)
  • ½ tsp sugar (Just a touch to balance the acidity and enhance the overall flavor.)
  • ½ white onion, thinly sliced (Adds a subtle savory bite. Red onion can be used for a stronger flavor and color.)
  • 1 shredded carrot (For sweetness, color, and texture. You can use pre-shredded carrots to save time.)
  • ½ green cabbage, thinly sliced (The base of your coleslaw. For a quicker option, use a bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix.)

Chicken Ingredients:

The chicken is the hearty centerpiece of these wraps, seasoned well and coated in your favorite BBQ sauce for maximum flavor.

  • 2 medium chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally (Slicing them thinner ensures quicker cooking and more surface area for seasoning. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used for extra juiciness.)
  • 2 tsp olive oil (For cooking the chicken and ensuring a nice sear.)
  • paprika (Adds a mild, sweet pepper flavor and a lovely color.)
  • salt (To taste. Essential for enhancing all other flavors.)
  • pepper (To taste. Black pepper adds a gentle heat.)
  • onion powder (Provides a concentrated savory onion flavor without the texture.)
  • garlic powder (A staple seasoning that adds depth and aroma.)
  • cup bbq sauce (Use your favorite brand, whether it’s sweet, smoky, or spicy. You can also make your own!)
  • 4 flour tortillas (Large, soft tortillas work best for wrapping. Whole wheat or corn tortillas can be used for variations.)
  • spinach (Adds freshness and a boost of nutrients. Romaine lettuce or mixed greens are also great options.)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious BBQ Chicken Wraps:

Making the Coleslaw

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, pepper, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until well combined and smooth. This creates your tangy and creamy coleslaw dressing.
  2. Add the thinly sliced white onion, shredded carrot, and thinly sliced green cabbage to the bowl with the dressing. Toss thoroughly until all the vegetables are evenly coated. For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.

Cooking the BBQ Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts (sliced in half horizontally). Season generously with paprika, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder on both sides. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and golden brown, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  2. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat. You can either slice the chicken into strips or shred it using two forks for a pulled chicken effect. Return the chicken to the pan (off heat) or to a bowl and brush generously with your favorite BBQ sauce, tossing to ensure all pieces are well coated. The residual heat will help the sauce adhere to the chicken.

Assembling the Wraps

  1. Warm your flour tortillas slightly (in a dry pan, microwave, or oven) to make them more pliable. Lay out each tortilla on a clean surface.
  2. To assemble, place a layer of fresh spinach (or other greens) on the bottom of each tortilla. Top with a generous portion of the saucy BBQ chicken, followed by a scoop of the homemade coleslaw. Feel free to add any other favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sliced pickles, or a drizzle of ranch dressing.
  3. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to create a neat wrap. Slice in half if desired and serve immediately. Enjoy your flavorful and easy BBQ Chicken Wraps!

Tips for Perfect BBQ Chicken Wraps

To ensure your BBQ Chicken Wraps are always a hit, keep these expert tips in mind:

  • Marinate the Chicken: For even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a little BBQ sauce or a simple blend of spices for 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) and then remove it promptly from the heat.
  • Chill the Coleslaw: While you can eat the coleslaw right away, allowing it to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour truly makes a difference. The flavors deepen and the vegetables slightly soften, creating a more harmonious texture.
  • Warm Tortillas: Gently warming your tortillas makes them much more flexible and less likely to crack when you roll them, making assembly a breeze.
  • Experiment with BBQ Sauce: There are countless BBQ sauce varieties. Try a spicy one for a kick, a sweet and smoky one for classic flavor, or a tangy vinegar-based sauce for a different profile.

Variations and Customizations

These BBQ Chicken Wraps are incredibly versatile! Here are some ideas to make them your own:

  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to your chicken seasoning or coleslaw dressing for extra heat. Sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes also work wonders.
  • Add Cheese: Shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a smoky provolone would be delicious additions inside the wrap.
  • Extra Veggies: Boost the nutritional content and crunch with thinly sliced bell peppers, corn, black beans, or even avocado.
  • Different Greens: Instead of spinach, try romaine lettuce for more crunch, or mixed greens for a milder flavor.
  • Grill or Air Fry Your Chicken: For a different texture and flavor, grill your seasoned chicken breasts until cooked through, or cook them in an air fryer for a crispy exterior.
  • Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, skip the tortilla and serve the BBQ chicken and coleslaw in large lettuce cups.
  • Pulled Pork/Beef Option: If chicken isn’t your preference, this recipe works beautifully with leftover pulled pork or beef tossed in BBQ sauce.

Serving Suggestions

These wraps are substantial enough to be a meal on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes:

  • Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of the fries complements the smoky BBQ flavor perfectly.
  • Corn on the Cob: A classic summer side that’s always a hit.
  • Baked Beans: Another BBQ staple that rounds out the meal.
  • Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can add freshness.
  • Potato Salad: For a more indulgent, comforting meal.

Meal Prep and Storage

These BBQ Chicken Wraps are fantastic for meal prepping. Here’s how to prepare them ahead of time:

  • Coleslaw: Prepare the coleslaw dressing and chop the vegetables. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Mix them together just before serving to maintain crunch. It will keep for 2-3 days.
  • Chicken: Cook and shred or slice the BBQ chicken. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a skillet before assembling.
  • Assembly: It’s best to assemble the wraps just before eating to prevent the tortillas from getting soggy. However, if you need to make them a few hours in advance, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge.

Video

Nutrition Information

Here’s an approximation of the nutritional breakdown per serving:


Calories:
435kcal
|

Carbohydrates:
35g
|

Protein:
27g
|

Fat:
21g
|

Saturated Fat:
5g
|

Polyunsaturated Fat:
8g
|

Monounsaturated Fat:
6g
|

Trans Fat:
0.03g
|

Cholesterol:
95mg
|

Sodium:
680mg
|

Potassium:
670mg
|

Fiber:
5g
|

Sugar:
15g
|

Vitamin A:
2802IU
|

Vitamin C:
51mg
|

Calcium:
115mg
|

Iron:
7mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.





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Reader Comments and Reviews

We invite you to share your thoughts on these BBQ Chicken Wraps! Your feedback helps us and other home cooks improve and discover new favorites.

  • Did you enjoy the homemade coleslaw?
  • How did you customize your chicken seasoning or BBQ sauce?
  • Do you have any tips or variations to share?

Leave a comment below and let us know your experience!