There’s something truly satisfying about unraveling the perfect wrap, especially when it’s bursting with the smoky goodness of BBQ chicken and the refreshing crunch of coleslaw. I found myself craving that delightful combination on a busy weeknight when takeout just wouldn’t do. With a few simple ingredients, I discovered that I could whip up BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps that were not only quick to prepare but also a fantastic way to utilize leftovers.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft tortilla filled with tender chicken married to a zesty slaw, each bite offering layers of flavor and texture. Whether you’re hosting friends at a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a family-friendly dinner, these wraps are incredibly versatile—switch up the coleslaw dressing or swap proteins to match your taste. Join me in creating these deliciously easy wraps that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds!
Why are BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps a Must-Try?
Bold flavors: Enjoy the smoky essence of BBQ chicken perfectly complemented by crunchy, fresh coleslaw.
Customizable delight: Personalize each wrap with your favorite proteins or unique coleslaw dressings for a twist on tradition.
Quick prep: Whip these up in no time, making them the ultimate solution for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Healthy options: Switch to whole wheat tortillas or Greek yogurt for an added nutrition boost without sacrificing flavor.
Leftover magic: Transform yesterday’s chicken into a vibrant meal that reduces food waste and feeds your family deliciously!
BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Shredded BBQ Chicken – The star ingredient that brings rich, smoky flavor; perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken.
• BBQ Sauce – Adds moisture and enhances flavor; don’t skimp on this for a vibrant taste boost!
For the Coleslaw
• Coleslaw Mix (Cabbage and Carrots) – Provides crispness and freshness; toss in diced bell peppers for extra zing.
• Greek Yogurt – A healthier alternative to mayonnaise in coleslaw, giving it creaminess without the guilt.
For the Wraps
• Tortillas – The base for your wraps; opt for whole wheat tortillas for a nutritious twist.
• Optional Add-ins – Consider hot sauce for that spicy kick or fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
• Sweet Potato Fries – They make a perfect side to complement your wraps, adding a touch of sweetness.
• Light Salad – Pair your wraps with a refreshing side salad for a well-rounded meal.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
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Prepare the Chicken: Shred your cooked BBQ chicken or cook fresh chicken breast until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Mix it up with your favorite BBQ sauce for a flavorful kick.
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Make the Coleslaw: Combine shredded cabbage and carrots in a bowl. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes to enhance their flavor. Feel free to adjust the seasoning or add extra veggies like bell peppers if desired.
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Warm the Tortillas: Heat your tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are soft and pliable, making them easier to wrap.
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Assemble the Wraps: Place a generous layer of BBQ chicken followed by the coleslaw on each tortilla. Wrap tightly to prevent any delicious spillage, and ensure all flavors are encapsulated.
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Serve: Cut the wraps diagonally to create an appealing presentation. If you’d like, drizzle extra BBQ sauce over the top or sprinkle with fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor.
Optional: Add a dash of hot sauce inside the wrap for a spicy twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these wraps your own with delightful twists and substitutions!
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Spicy Kick: Add a layer of sliced jalapeños to your wrap for an extra burst of heat that pairs beautifully with the smoky BBQ flavor.
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute BBQ chicken with grilled mushrooms or chickpeas for a hearty, plant-based alternative that retains the wrap’s delicious flair.
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Crunchy Add-Ins: Toss in some diced apples or crunchy nuts into your coleslaw for a refreshing sweetness and added texture that elevates each bite.
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Crispy Lettuce Wraps: Swap out tortillas for large lettuce leaves, creating a low-carb version that’s fresh and crisp—perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
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Creamy Dressing: Instead of Greek yogurt, try a tangy vinaigrette in your coleslaw. This variation offers a bright taste that lightens the overall flavor profile.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into your coleslaw for an aromatic twist that transforms your wraps into a garden-fresh delight.
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Cheesy Layer: Sprinkle some feta or shredded cheese inside the wrap for a creamy contrast that adds rich flavor and a delightful creaminess to each bite.
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Fruit Fusion: For a tropical vibe, add diced pineapple or mango to your coleslaw for a sweet, juicy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the BBQ chicken.
Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
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Taste the Dressing: Always sample your coleslaw dressing while preparing; adjusting the salt and vinegar at this stage can enhance the final flavor dramatically.
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Chill the Coleslaw: Let your coleslaw sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving; this amplifies its flavors and softens the cabbage, lending a delightful crunch.
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Secure the Wrap: After layering your BBQ chicken and coleslaw, make sure to wrap tightly; a secure wrap prevents spillage and keeps every bite delightful.
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Warm Tortillas: Briefly warming your tortillas in a dry skillet helps them become more pliable, reducing the risk of tearing when you roll them up.
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Experiment with Variations: Don’t hesitate to swap proteins or dressings; whether it’s a spicy kick or a tangy twist, customizing your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps is part of the fun!
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Utilize Leftovers Wisely: These wraps are a brilliant way to use up leftover chicken, making your meals not just tasty but also economical.
Make Ahead Options
Prepare your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps ahead of time for a seamless meal prep experience! You can make the coleslaw up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and any additional veggies, then enclose it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its crispness. For the BBQ chicken, consider shredding leftover rotisserie chicken and mixing it with BBQ sauce, which can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your wraps, just warm the tortillas briefly in a skillet, assemble with the prepared chicken and coleslaw, and savor a delicious, stress-free dinner! With this prep, your flavorful BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps will be just as delightful!
How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
- Fridge: Store assembled wraps in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the chicken and coleslaw separate if possible to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: Wrap individual BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw frozen wraps overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes on each side.
- Coleslaw Storage: Store any leftover coleslaw in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 24 hours; it may lose crunch over time, so enjoy promptly!
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?
Creating a satisfying meal is all about harmony—finding the perfect sides to complement those tantalizing wraps filled with smoky goodness and crunchy slaw.
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Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet, crispy fries create a delightful contrast to the flavors of the wraps while adding a wholesome twist. Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with savory BBQ chicken.
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Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens and a tart vinaigrette refreshes the palate, making it a perfect counterpart to the rich wraps. Adding seasonal veggies can elevate the dish even more.
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Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad with strawberries, blueberries, and peaches provides a refreshing and juicy finish to your meal, brightening up the overall flavor profile and offering a hint of sweetness.
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Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, sweet corn on the cob brings a classic touch to your BBQ feast. Its buttery sweetness enhances the savory notes of the BBQ chicken, making every bite a delight.
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Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad adds a comforting texture and flavor to your meal, providing a satisfying balance to the crunch of coleslaw. Consider a tangy dressing to tie all the flavors together.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing iced tea or zesty lemonade brings a cooling element to the table. Both drinks contrast beautifully with the warm, savory wraps, leaving your guests feeling refreshed and satisfied.
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Chocolate Brownies: For dessert, fudgy chocolate brownies offer a rich and indulgent sweet treat, rounding off the meal with their decadent texture and flavor. They’re the perfect finish for a delightful BBQ-inspired dinner!
BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?
Absolutely! You can use shredded leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook fresh chicken breast. If you opt for fresh, ensure it’s cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before mixing it with BBQ sauce.
How long can I store assembled BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps in the fridge?
Assembled wraps can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I recommend keeping the coleslaw and chicken separate until just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps? How?
Yes, you can! To freeze, carefully wrap individual BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or wrap them in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes on each side.
How do I prevent my coleslaw from becoming soggy?
Very good question! To avoid sogginess, I recommend letting the coleslaw chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps enhance the flavors while slightly softening the cabbage, making each bite a crunch without excess moisture. Additionally, storing coleslaw separately until serving can help maintain its crispness.
Are there any dietary considerations for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?
Certainly! If you’re preparing these wraps for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free tortillas and Greek yogurt as a substitute for mayonnaise in the coleslaw. For those watching their carbs, lettuce leaves make a fantastic low-carb wrap alternative. Always ensure that any sauces or dressings used are allergy-friendly!
How should I select the best veggies for my coleslaw mix?
When selecting cabbage and carrots for your coleslaw, look for vibrant colors and a crisp texture. Avoid any heads of cabbage or bags of carrots that have dark spots or wilting leaves. Fresh ingredients not only make a delicious coleslaw but also ensure that every bite of your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps tastes fantastic!
BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps: Quick, Flavorful Fun for Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Shred your cooked BBQ chicken or cook fresh chicken breast until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Mix it up with your favorite BBQ sauce for a flavorful kick.
- Combine shredded cabbage and carrots in a bowl. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes to enhance their flavor. Feel free to adjust the seasoning or add extra veggies like bell peppers if desired.
- Heat your tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are soft and pliable, making them easier to wrap.
- Place a generous layer of BBQ chicken followed by the coleslaw on each tortilla. Wrap tightly to prevent any delicious spillage, and ensure all flavors are encapsulated.
- Cut the wraps diagonally to create an appealing presentation. If you’d like, drizzle extra BBQ sauce over the top or sprinkle with fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor.