BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are a fun and fresh way to enjoy a tasty meal with a little bit of a kick. They bring together tender BBQ chicken, crunchy coleslaw, and soft wraps for a combo that’s both satisfying and light. The tangy BBQ sauce paired with the crisp veggies in the coleslaw makes every bite a perfect mix of flavors and textures.
I love making these wraps when I want something quick but still special. The BBQ chicken is usually leftover from a batch I grilled earlier, making this a great way to use up extra meat without cooking again. I like to add extra lime juice to the coleslaw to give it a bright, zesty twist that really lifts the whole wrap.
These wraps are awesome for casual lunches, picnics, or even a relaxed dinner with friends. I usually serve them with a side of fresh fruit or some crunchy chips to keep things simple but tasty. It’s one of those recipes that always brings smiles to the table because it’s easy to eat and full of good, honest flavors.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using cooked, shredded chicken makes this recipe quick and easy. I prefer thighs for juiciness, but breasts work well too. Leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken are great options.
Barbecue Sauce: This adds the main smoky, sweet flavor. Pick a sauce you like—mild, spicy, or smoky. If unavailable, try mixing ketchup with a splash of vinegar and honey as a quick substitute.
Coleslaw Mix: The mix of green and purple cabbage with carrots gives crunch and color. If you don’t have a pre-shredded mix, chop fresh cabbage finely and shred carrots. You can swap mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter slaw.
Mayonnaise & Apple Cider Vinegar: These create the creamy, tangy dressing for the slaw. You can adjust the vinegar amount for more zing or use lemon juice instead. For dairy-free, use a vegan mayo alternative.
Tortillas: Soft flour tortillas are best for wrapping. If you prefer, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free wraps, or even large lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
How Do You Make the Creamy Coleslaw without It Getting Watery?
Making coleslaw that stays creamy and crisp needs a few simple steps:
- Mix the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey first to create a smooth dressing.
- Toss the dressing with the coleslaw mix right before serving to keep the cabbage crisp.
- If preparing in advance, keep the dressing separate and add it just before wrapping.
- Use firm, fresh cabbage and carrots, and avoid over-mixing to prevent sogginess.
These tips keep the coleslaw fresh, crunchy, and perfect inside your BBQ Chicken Wraps every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – use one for the chicken and BBQ sauce, and another for the coleslaw dressing and veggies.
- Sharp knife – helps to finely chop or shred cabbage and carrots if you don’t have pre-shredded mix.
- Cutting board – a stable surface to chop veggies safely.
- Spoon or spatula – great for mixing the chicken and coleslaw without crushing the veggies.
- Skillet or microwave – to warm the tortillas so they’re flexible and easy to roll.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for pulled pork or shredded beef for extra heartiness and different BBQ flavors.
- Add sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream inside for creaminess and balance to the tangy coleslaw.
- Include diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder if you like a spicy kick.
- Use coleslaw with apple for a sweeter twist or add chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for freshness.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast or thighs, shredded
- ½ cup barbecue sauce, plus extra for drizzling
For the Coleslaw:
- 2 cups coleslaw mix (shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, and carrots)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Wraps:
- 4 large flour tortillas or wraps
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time if your chicken is already cooked. Warming tortillas and assembling the wraps takes just a few minutes, making the total time about 15 minutes. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix the shredded cooked chicken with ½ cup of barbecue sauce. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated. Set it aside to let the flavors blend.
2. Make the Coleslaw:
In another bowl, combine the coleslaw mix with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey or sugar. Add salt and pepper to taste, then stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Warm the Tortillas:
Heat the tortillas gently in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds so they become soft and flexible, making them easier to roll.
4. Assemble the Wraps:
Lay a warm tortilla flat on a clean surface. Place a generous scoop of BBQ chicken in the center, then top with a spoonful of the creamy coleslaw. Drizzle some extra barbecue sauce over the filling.
5. Roll and Serve:
Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it tightly to enclose the filling. Repeat with remaining tortillas. Optionally, sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley over the wraps for a burst of color and flavor. Serve your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps right away, or wrap them up to enjoy later.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s fully thawed before shredding. Thaw it safely in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method for quicker thawing. This helps keep the chicken juicy and prevents uneven cooking.
Can I Make the Coleslaw Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coleslaw a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. To keep it crisp, mix the dressing just before assembling the wraps or store the coleslaw and dressing separately and combine before serving.
How Should I Store Leftover Wraps?
Wrap leftovers tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. To prevent sogginess, you may want to keep the coleslaw separate and add it fresh when ready to eat.
Can I Substitute Flour Tortillas with Something Else?
Yes! You can use whole wheat or gluten-free wraps if you prefer. For a low-carb option, large lettuce leaves like romaine or butter lettuce work great as a fresh, crunchy alternative.
