Bbq Chicken Coleslaw Wraps have become my go-to for a quick and utterly delicious meal that always hits the spot! There’s something magical about the combination of tender, smoky pulled chicken smothered in tangy BBQ sauce, all nestled with cool, crunchy coleslaw inside a warm tortilla. I remember the first time I made them; the kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of barbecue, and my family devoured them in minutes. They are truly the ultimate weeknight dinner, and I’m so excited to share how incredibly easy these easy BBQ chicken wraps are to put together. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
These wraps are a weeknight dream, packed with flavor and super easy to make:
- Incredible taste: The sweet and smoky BBQ chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy, tangy coleslaw.
- Lightning-fast prep: You can whip these up in under 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy evenings.
- Healthier choice: Packed with protein and veggies, these are a lighter option than many takeout meals.
- Budget-friendly: Using rotisserie chicken and simple ingredients keeps these affordable.
- Family favorite: Even picky eaters adore these BBQ chicken and coleslaw wraps.
- Versatile: Enjoy them warm or cold, making them great for lunches or picnics.
- Satisfying crunch: The combination of tender chicken and crisp coleslaw is incredibly satisfying.
- These BBQ chicken and coleslaw wraps are a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
Gather these simple ingredients for your delicious BBQ chicken coleslaw tortilla wraps:
- 2½ cups cooked shredded or chopped chicken – rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut here!
- ½ cup BBQ sauce – plus more for drizzling; choose your favorite smoky or sweet variety.
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix) – the base for our crunchy, creamy slaw.
- ½ cup shredded carrots – adds a little sweetness and color to the slaw.
- ¼ cup mayonnaise – the binder for our creamy coleslaw dressing.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – provides that essential tang to balance the richness.
- 1 teaspoon sugar – just a touch to enhance the flavors in the dressing.
- ¼ teaspoon celery seed (optional) – this little spice adds a classic coleslaw flavor boost.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – to season everything perfectly.
- 4 large flour tortillas (burrito size) – the perfect vessel for these flavorful wraps.
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil (for toasting) – optional, but highly recommended for a crispy finish.
- Optional Toppings: Sliced red onions, Pickles, Jalapeños, Shredded cheese – customize your wrap!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
Putting these delicious wraps together is a breeze! They’re perfect for a speedy dinner or a satisfying lunch.
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grab a medium bowl and gently toss your cooked shredded chicken with the ½ cup BBQ sauce. If your chicken is cold, you can warm this mixture slightly in the microwave or on the stovetop for a few minutes until it’s nicely coated and warm.
- Step 2: In a separate large bowl, combine the 2 cups shredded cabbage (or your favorite coleslaw mix) and the ½ cup shredded carrots. In a small bowl, whisk together the ¼ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar, and the optional ¼ teaspoon celery seed. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Pour this creamy dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture and toss until everything is beautifully coated.
- Step 3: Lay out your 4 large flour tortillas. Spoon a generous amount of the saucy pulled BBQ chicken wraps mixture down the center of each tortilla. Next, add a hearty scoop of the creamy coleslaw mixture on top of the chicken. If you’re using any optional toppings like sliced red onions, pickles, or jalapeños, now’s the time to add them!
- Step 4: Fold the sides of each tortilla inward towards the filling, then bring the bottom edge up and over the filling. Roll everything up tightly, tucking in the sides as you go, to create a neat, burrito-like wrap. Place each wrap seam-side down.
- Step 5: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil. Once the butter is melted or the oil is shimmering, carefully place the wraps seam-side down into the skillet. Toast for 2–3 minutes per side, until the tortillas are golden brown and slightly crispy. This step really elevates the texture of your pulled BBQ chicken wraps.
- Step 6: Remove the toasted wraps from the skillet. You can cut them in half diagonally for easier handling, or serve them whole. Enjoy your amazing BBQ chicken wraps warm!
Pro Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
Elevate your wraps with these simple tricks for amazing flavor and texture:
- Don’t overcook your chicken; it should be tender and moist before saucing.
- For the coleslaw, let the dressing sit with the cabbage for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Toasting the wraps is key for that satisfying crunch, so don’t skip it if you have the time!
- Adjust the BBQ sauce and vinegar ratio in the coleslaw to suit your personal taste preference.
What’s the secret to perfect BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps?
The magic lies in the balance of textures and flavors. A tangy, creamy coleslaw cuts through the rich, smoky BBQ chicken, and toasting the tortilla adds a delightful crispness that makes these chicken coleslaw wraps truly special.
Can I make BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep components ahead! Store the BBQ chicken and coleslaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble and toast right before serving to maintain the best texture.
How do I avoid common mistakes with BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps?
Avoid dry chicken by using good quality meat and not overcooking it. Also, ensure your coleslaw dressing isn’t too thin; a thicker dressing clings better to the vegetables and won’t make the wraps soggy.
Best Ways to Serve BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
These vibrant BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps are fantastic on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a few simple sides. For a complete meal, consider serving them with a light and refreshing corn on the cob, a simple side salad, or some crispy sweet potato fries. If you’re looking for more inspiration, checking out a classic barbecue chicken coleslaw recipe can give you ideas for complementary dips or toppings that would also work well with these wraps. They’re perfect for a casual lunch or a fun backyard gathering!
Nutrition Facts for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of these delicious BBQ chicken wraps:
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: [Leave blank if not provided in recipe details]
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 780mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
Properly storing your BBQ chicken wraps ensures they stay delicious for your next meal. After they’ve cooled slightly, place any leftover wraps in an airtight container. You can refrigerate them for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual wraps wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, for up to 3 months. These are great for making ahead for busy weeks. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, the best way to reheat is to gently warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat with a little butter or oil, just like when you first made them. You can also reheat them in a toaster oven or a conventional oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes, until heated through. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that lovely crisp texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
Can I make the components of BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps ahead of time?
Absolutely! To save time, you can prepare the BBQ chicken mixture and the coleslaw dressing up to 2 days in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This makes assembling your BBQ chicken wraps with coleslaw a breeze when you’re ready to eat! For more recipe ideas, check out our recipes section.
What’s the best way to get crispy tortillas for my BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps?
For that irresistible crunch, heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of butter or oil. Place the assembled wraps seam-side down and toast for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy. This step really makes a difference in the overall texture of your BBQ chicken wraps with coleslaw. If you enjoy this style of cooking, you might also like our Chinese-style mango chicken stir-fry.
Can I make these BBQ chicken wraps healthier?
Yes, you can easily lighten up these wraps! For a healthier coleslaw dressing, swap the mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt. You can also use whole wheat or low-carb tortillas. Opting for lean chicken breast and a lower-sugar BBQ sauce also contributes to a healthier meal. For more healthy options, explore our coconut chicken meatballs.
What are some good vegetarian or vegan options for these wraps?
For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with seasoned baked tofu or black beans. For a vegan option, ensure you use vegan BBQ sauce, vegan mayonnaise for the coleslaw, and vegan tortillas. These substitutions still provide a delicious flavor profile. If you’re interested in other cuisines, our Indian butter chicken recipe offers a different flavor experience.
Variations of BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps You Can Try
Feeling adventurous? You can easily customize these BBQ chicken wraps to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Spicy BBQ Chicken Wraps: For a fiery kick, use a spicy BBQ sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper and some finely diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the coleslaw dressing.
- Grilled Chicken Variation: Instead of using pre-cooked chicken, grill your chicken breasts seasoned with your favorite BBQ rub. Once cooked, shred or chop them and toss with BBQ sauce for an extra smoky flavor.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a lower-carb option, skip the tortillas altogether and serve the BBQ chicken and coleslaw mixture in large lettuce cups, like butter or romaine lettuce. It’s a refreshing twist! For a similar light meal, try our Mediterranean chicken gyros.
- Sweet & Savory Flavor Combo: Add a sprinkle of toasted pecans or chopped peanuts to your coleslaw for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweet and savory notes of the BBQ chicken.
Bbq Chicken Coleslaw Wraps: 4 Amazing Twists
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 wraps 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps, a flavorful and crunchy meal perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. They feature tender pulled chicken in smoky BBQ sauce with creamy coleslaw, all wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients
- 2½ cups cooked shredded or chopped chicken
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (plus more for drizzling)
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ¼ teaspoon celery seed (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas (burrito size)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil (for toasting)
- Optional Toppings: Sliced red onions, Pickles, Jalapeños, Extra BBQ sauce, Shredded cheese
Instructions
- In a bowl, toss cooked chicken with BBQ sauce. Warm gently if needed.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper. Pour over the cabbage mix and toss until fully coated.
- Lay out each tortilla and spoon BBQ chicken down the center. Top with a generous scoop of coleslaw and any extras like pickles or red onions.
- Fold the sides in, roll it up tightly like a burrito, and place seam-side down.
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add a little butter or oil. Toast each wrap for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and slightly crispy.
- Cut in half and serve warm or cold.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
- Toasting the wrap enhances texture but is optional.
- Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt in the coleslaw for a lighter version.
- For a spicier flavor, use hot BBQ sauce or add jalapeños.
- Coleslaw can be made ahead and stored for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Assembly and Toasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wrap
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g


