BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps – Easy, Tangy & Perfect for Quick Meals

Introduction

If you love bold flavor, easy prep, and satisfying crunch, these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps will become a go-to favorite. Juicy shredded BBQ chicken wrapped up in soft tortillas with crisp, creamy coleslaw—it’s the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy in every bite.

Whether you’re prepping lunches, feeding a hungry family, or throwing together a casual dinner, this recipe delivers on flavor and convenience. These wraps are great hot or cold, and they’re easy to customize with store-bought shortcuts or homemade components.

From weeknight dinners to summer cookouts, BBQ chicken wraps with slaw are always a hit—minimal ingredients, maximum satisfaction.

Ingredients Overview

Here’s what goes into these easy, flavorful wraps and how each component adds to the overall dish.

BBQ Chicken

• Cooked Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works perfectly. You can also cook and shred your own breasts or thighs.
• BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite variety—smoky, spicy, sweet, or tangy. Look for a thicker sauce so it coats the chicken without being runny.
• Paprika or Smoked Paprika (Optional): Enhances the smoky flavor of the BBQ sauce.

Creamy Coleslaw

• Coleslaw Mix: Pre-shredded cabbage and carrot mix is a great time-saver. You can also shred your own green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots.
• Mayonnaise or Greek Yogurt: For a creamy slaw base. Yogurt gives it a tangy, lighter feel, while mayo brings richness.
• Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice: Adds acidity and balances the creaminess.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Just a touch to sweeten the slaw naturally.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning.

Wraps & Add-Ins

• Large Flour Tortillas or Wraps: Burrito-size wraps work best. Use whole wheat, spinach, or low-carb versions if preferred.
• Pickles or Pickled Onions (Optional): For extra tang and crunch.
• Shredded Cheese (Optional): Cheddar or pepper jack adds richness and meltiness.
• Hot Sauce or Jalapeños (Optional): For a spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and is super easy to scale up or prep ahead.

1. Prepare the Chicken
   In a medium skillet over medium heat, combine:
   • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
   • ½ cup BBQ sauce (add more to taste)
   • Optional: ½ tsp smoked paprika
     Stir until the chicken is heated through and well coated. Simmer for 3–5 minutes, then remove from heat.
2. Make the Coleslaw
   In a large bowl, whisk together:
   • ½ cup mayo or plain Greek yogurt
   • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
   • 1–2 tsp honey or maple syrup
   • Salt and pepper to taste
     Add:
   • 3 cups coleslaw mix
     Toss until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning.
3. Warm the Wraps
   Warm tortillas in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side, or microwave for 15–20 seconds to make them more pliable.
4. Assemble the Wraps
   On each tortilla, layer:
   • A generous scoop of BBQ chicken
   • A handful of creamy slaw
   • Optional toppings: pickles, shredded cheese, jalapeños

   Fold the sides inward, then roll tightly from the bottom like a burrito.

5. Serve or Grill (Optional)
   Serve immediately as-is, or grill seam-side down in a hot skillet for 1–2 minutes to crisp and seal the wrap.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb or lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free mayo or yogurt for the slaw. Skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative.
• Add Crunch: Thin-sliced apples, crushed tortilla chips, or sunflower seeds add fun texture.
• More Protein? Add black beans, chopped hard-boiled eggs, or quinoa to the chicken mix.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Store chicken and slaw separately and assemble wraps fresh to prevent sogginess.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are incredibly versatile:

• Easy Lunch or Dinner: Serve with sweet potato fries, roasted veggies, or fruit salad.
• Picnic-Ready: Wrap tightly in foil for a no-mess portable meal.
• Party Food: Slice into pinwheels for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
• Meal Prep Lunches: Pack with extra slaw and a side of fruit or chips.
• Kid-Friendly: Serve deconstructed for picky eaters—chicken, slaw, and wrap on the side.

Nutritional & Health Notes

These wraps are balanced and easily adjustable to fit your dietary needs:

• Protein-Rich: With lean chicken and Greek yogurt, each wrap packs a good protein punch.
• Fiber Boost: Coleslaw mix adds crunch and fiber from cabbage and carrots.
• Healthy Fats: Mayo or yogurt brings creaminess while offering fats to keep you satisfied.
• Lower Sugar Option: Use sugar-free BBQ sauce or skip added sweeteners in the slaw.
• Portion Smart: One wrap is usually filling enough, especially with a fresh side.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is perfect and saves time. Just shred and heat it with BBQ sauce.

Q2: How long does the slaw last?

It keeps well for 2–3 days in the fridge. The cabbage softens slightly but still has good texture.

Q3: What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?

Use your favorite—sweet and smoky sauces pair great with the creamy slaw. Choose low-sugar or sugar-free for lighter versions.

Q4: Can I make these ahead of time?

Wraps are best assembled fresh to avoid sogginess, but you can prep all components ahead and store separately.

Q5: Are these freezer-friendly?

Not recommended. The slaw doesn’t freeze well and tortillas can get soggy. Stick to refrigerating for short-term storage.

Q6: Can I use other proteins?

Absolutely—try pulled pork, tofu, tempeh, or grilled shrimp with BBQ sauce.

Q7: Can I grill the wraps?

Yes! Lightly grill or pan-sear them to seal and add crunch—especially tasty if you’re serving them warm.

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