Name: BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps – Quick, Flavorful Family Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cabbage (mix green and purple for vibrant color); 1 large carrot (grated); 1/4 cup mayonnaise (for creamy base); 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (for acidity); 1 tablespoon honey (for natural sweetness); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for tanginess); salt (to taste); pepper (to taste); 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded, use leftover rotisserie chicken); 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite variety); 4 large soft tortillas/wrappers (gluten-free options available)

The smell of smoky barbecue wafting through the kitchen instantly transports me to summer gatherings, filled with laughter and sunshine. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps—a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual lunches with family and friends. These wraps not only showcase the delightful combination of tender, BBQ-coated chicken and crunchy, tangy coleslaw but also offer a world of customization possibilities. Whether you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken or a gluten-free tortilla, they promise a satisfying bite without any fuss! Plus, they make for an ideal no-waste lunch option, ensuring you can enjoy every morsel. How do you like to customize your wraps for a perfect lunch?

Why You’ll Love These Wraps

Quick and Easy: These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps come together in no time, making them perfect for weeknight dinners after a busy day.

Bold, Cruisy Flavor: The smoky BBQ chicken combined with refreshing, tangy coleslaw creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Endless Customization: You can easily adapt the wraps to fit your taste; try different sauces or veggie options like grilled tofu for a unique twist.

Perfect for Leftovers: Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and delicious way to utilize leftovers without sacrificing flavor.

Family-Friendly: These wraps are a hit with both kids and adults, making them a great go-to meal for the whole family!

These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are not just delicious; they’re also versatile and practical—a perfect addition to your quick meal repertoire!

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Ingredients

• Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal!

For the Coleslaw

Shredded Cabbage (2 cups) – Adds crunch and fiber; mix green and purple for vibrant color.
Large Carrot (1, grated) – Introduces sweetness and extra crunch to the coleslaw.
Mayonnaise (1/4 cup) – Acts as a delicious, creamy base for the dressing.
Apple Cider Vinegar (2 tablespoons) – Provides acidity and brightens up the flavors.
Honey (1 tablespoon) – Adds a touch of natural sweetness to balance the tang.
Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon) – A subtle kick of tanginess enhances the coleslaw.
Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning the dressing and overall flavor.

For the Wrap Filling

Cooked Chicken (2 cups, shredded) – Gives the wraps protein and heartiness; use leftover rotisserie chicken for extra flavor.
BBQ Sauce (1/2 cup) – Coats the chicken; choose your favorite variety (smoky, spicy, or sweet).

For Serving

Large Soft Tortillas/Wrappers (4) – A soft base to enclose all the tasty fillings; gluten-free options are available.

These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps promise a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Step 1: Prepare the Coleslaw Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded cabbage with 1 grated large carrot. Use a sturdy spatula to mix the vegetables until evenly distributed, ensuring a colorful blend. This step lays the foundation for your crunchy coleslaw. Set aside while you prepare the dressing.

Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Add salt and pepper to taste, then continue whisking until smooth and creamy. This tangy dressing will enhance the flavor of your coleslaw, so make sure everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dressing and Vegetables
Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Toss gently with tongs until all the veggies are evenly coated with the dressing. This step is crucial to ensuring each bite of your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps has that rich, creamy flavor. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let those flavors meld.

Step 4: Mix the Chicken with BBQ Sauce
In another bowl, take 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and pour in 1/2 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce. Use a fork to mix thoroughly until each piece of chicken is well coated with the sauce. This smoky, flavorful chicken will be the star of your wraps, so ensure it’s evenly combined for the best results.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas
Prepare to assemble your wraps by warming 4 large soft tortillas. You can do this by placing them on a microwave-safe plate and covering them with a damp paper towel. Heat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds until they’re soft and pliable. This step makes rolling the BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps much easier!

Step 6: Assemble the Wraps
Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the BBQ chicken mixture down the center, followed by a good dollop of the chilled coleslaw. Be careful not to overfill, so you can roll them without spills. Fold in the sides and roll tightly from the bottom to secure the filling. Repeat for each tortilla.

Step 7: Serve or Store for Later
Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps immediately for a fresh meal, or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap for later. If you’re storing them, keep the coleslaw separate until serving for the best crunch. These wraps are perfect for meal prep or a casual dinner, showcasing the delightful flavors you’ve created!

Storage Tips for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Fridge: Keep the wraps stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days, ensuring they’re tightly wrapped to maintain freshness.

Coleslaw Separation: For optimal crunch, store the coleslaw separately from the BBQ chicken wraps until ready to serve.

Freezer: Avoid freezing assembled wraps, as the coleslaw will become soggy. Instead, freeze the chicken and coleslaw separately if desired.

Reheating: Gently reheat the BBQ chicken in a pan or microwave, but be cautious not to overheat the tortillas to prevent them from becoming tough.

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Variations

Feel free to take your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps to the next level with these fun and tasty variations!

Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free mayonnaise alternative for the coleslaw dressing to make it suitable for those with lactose intolerance. Creamy and delicious, this swap keeps the flavor intact!
Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free tortillas to cater to dietary needs. This simple substitution ensures everyone can enjoy these wraps without worry.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the coleslaw for a zesty twist. This brings a delightful heat that packs a flavorful punch.
Veggie Delight: Replace shredded chicken with grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Both provide a hearty base that complements the creamy slaw beautifully, satisfying your cravings.
Tropical Twist: Mix in diced pineapple or mango to the coleslaw for a sweet and fruity contrast. This addition brightens the dish while offering a refreshing summer flair.
Smoky Flavor Boost: Swap BBQ sauce for a chipotle or teriyaki sauce to create a new flavor profile. Each option introduces a unique, smoky sweetness that enhances the chicken beautifully.
Crunchy Extras: Toss in some sunflower seeds or crunchy ramen noodles to the coleslaw for added texture. This delightful crunch creates excitement with every bite, turning an ordinary wrap into something special.
Herbaceous Flair: Add fresh cilantro or basil to the coleslaw for an aromatic touch. These herbs elevate the flavors while giving a vibrant, green appeal.

Feel energized to customize your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps! Experimenting is half the fun, and don’t forget, for more delicious recipes, check out our crunchy slaw options or learn how to make your own BBQ sauce for a perfect pairing!

Make Ahead Options

These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the coleslaw mixture—shredded cabbage and carrots—up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its crunch. The BBQ chicken can also be mixed with the sauce and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply warm the tortillas (15-20 seconds in the microwave) and assemble the wraps with the prepped filling. Keeping the coleslaw separate until just before serving prevents sogginess, ensuring these wraps stay just as delicious as when freshly made!

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Looking to create the perfect accompaniment to your delicious wraps? Let’s enhance this meal experience together!

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness and crunch provide a delightful contrast to the savory BBQ flavors, making every bite extraordinary. Pair with a zesty dipping sauce for added fun!
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or steamed, it provides a fresh, sweet element that complements the smoky chicken, while the vibrant color beautifies your plate.
Tangy Pickles: These crisp pickles balance the richness of the wraps and add an irresistible tang; a crunchy contrast that’s simply irresistible!
Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits brings brightness and freshness, cutting through the meal’s heartiness. Think juicy watermelon, tart berries, and zesty citrus—perfectly refreshing!
Coleslaw Variations: Create different flavor profiles with a mango or pineapple slaw; their sweetness beautifully enhances the savory BBQ chicken.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: These refreshing drinks bring a touch of citrusy brightness and can be sweetened or unsweetened, depending on your preference, to perfectly match the flavors of your meal.
Homemade Potato Chips: Crispy and salty, they add a fun crunch. You could even season them with a touch of smoked paprika to echo the BBQ theme of the wraps.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note! These warm, gooey cookies bring a sense of nostalgia and comfort, perfectly balancing the savory nature of your dinner.

Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Flavor Balance: Ensure you don’t overpower the dish by using a balanced amount of BBQ sauce; too much can make the wraps soggy instead of flavorful.
Meal Prep Ready: Prepare the coleslaw in advance to let the flavors meld, but keep it separate from the chicken until you’re ready to serve for maximum crunch.
Tortilla Choices: Consider using whole wheat or spinach tortillas for added fiber and nutrition; just make sure they’re large enough to hold your fillings!
Veggie Variations: Feel free to swap out the coleslaw ingredients for other favorites like diced bell peppers or fresh cilantro to customize your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps.
Watch the Sog: To maintain the freshness of your wraps, store the BBQ chicken and coleslaw separately, especially if you’re planning to keep them for a couple of days.
Add Spice: If you enjoy heat, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or some sliced jalapeños in your coleslaw can elevate the flavor profile and make these wraps even more exciting!

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best cabbage for coleslaw?
Absolutely! When selecting cabbage for your coleslaw, look for heads that are firm and heavy for their size with crisp, vibrant leaves. Avoid any cabbage that has dark spots all over or feels soft—these are signs of spoilage. A mix of green and purple cabbage not only adds color but also enhances the crunch for your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps.

What’s the best way to store leftover BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?
Very! To keep your wraps fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the coleslaw separate from the BBQ chicken until you’re ready to eat to maintain that delicious crunch. If you’ve prepared the coleslaw in advance, it can be stored in a separate container for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze BBQ Chicken and coleslaw for later use?
Definitely! However, you should avoid freezing the assembled wraps as the coleslaw will become soggy. Instead, you can freeze the BBQ shredded chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. For the coleslaw, it’s best made fresh and not frozen, so prepare it when you’re ready to serve your wraps.

What if I have an allergy to mayonnaise?
No worries at all! If you or someone else has an allergy to mayonnaise, you can easily substitute it with a dairy-free yogurt or vegan mayonnaise for the coleslaw dressing. This will maintain that creamy texture while keeping it safe for everyone to enjoy. Plus, using a flavorful vinegar like apple cider will ensure your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are still packed with zest!

My wraps are becoming soggy; how can I prevent this?
Absolutely, soggy wraps are a common issue! To prevent this, ensure your coleslaw is well-drained and refrigerated before serving to keep it crisp. Additionally, assemble the wraps just before serving. If you need to make them ahead of time, you can keep the chicken and coleslaw separate and simply roll them together when you’re ready to eat for the best texture.