Name: BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps: Your Easy Weeknight Feast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded grilled chicken (or rotisserie chicken); 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand); 2 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix); 1 cup grated carrots (or sliced bell peppers); 1/2 cup coleslaw dressing (mayonnaise, vinegar, or Greek yogurt); 4 large tortillas (or lettuce wraps for lower carbs)

As I stood in my kitchen last weekend, the tantalizing aroma of BBQ wafted through the air, reminding me of summer cookouts and family gatherings. It was the perfect moment to reinvent some leftover grilled chicken, and that’s when the idea for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps struck me. This recipe is not only a quick and easy solution for using up leftovers, but it also offers a fresh twist on a classic dish. With a satisfying crunch from vibrant coleslaw, wrapped in a soft tortilla, these wraps come together in no time and are customizable for any dietary preference. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or craving a light lunch, you’ll love how effortlessly these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps can elevate your mealtime! What variations will you try to make them your own?

Why Are BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Amazing?

Flavor Explosion: Every bite offers a delightful mix of smoky BBQ chicken and crunchy, refreshing coleslaw that’s simply irresistible.

Customizable Delights: You can easily switch up the coleslaw ingredients or dressings to match your taste, making these wraps adaptable for everyone.

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time—perfect for those busy weeknights!

Healthy Twist: Opt for lettuce wraps or Greek yogurt-based dressing for a lightened version that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Crowd-Pleaser: Serve these wraps at gatherings, and watch them disappear. They’re a fun alternative to traditional fare, paired great with a side of Southwest Chicken Salad.

You’ll see these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps quickly become a staple in your meal rotation!

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Grilled Chicken – Use shredded leftover grilled chicken for that smoky flavor, or substitute with rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• BBQ Sauce – Choose your favorite brand or make your own for a personalized touch in these BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps.
For the Coleslaw
• Cabbage – Acts as the crunchy base; feel free to substitute with a coleslaw mix or even kale for a different texture.
• Carrots – Add sweetness and color; you can swap these out for sliced bell peppers for a vibrant twist.
• Coleslaw Dressing – Mix in mayonnaise or vinegar, and consider Greek yogurt for a healthier option that still packs flavor.
For the Wraps
• Tortillas – Soft flour or corn tortillas are classic, but try lettuce wraps for a gluten-free and low-carb alternative!

These ingredients come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Begin by shredding your leftover grilled chicken or, if starting fresh, cook chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat for about 6–7 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, toss the shredded chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce until it’s well coated and glistening, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Step 2: Make Coleslaw
In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage and grated carrots. Pour in your coleslaw dressing of choice—mayonnaise, vinegar, or Greek yogurt—mixing until fully incorporated. Let the coleslaw sit for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together, creating a deliciously creamy texture that perfectly complements the smoky BBQ chicken.

Step 3: Warm Tortillas
To soften your tortillas for easy wrapping, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Place each tortilla in the skillet for about 15 seconds per side, or until they are just warm and pliable. This step is crucial for preventing tears and ensuring that your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps come together beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble Wraps
On each warmed tortilla, spread a generous layer of the coleslaw mixture. Next, add a portion of the BBQ chicken, making sure to evenly distribute the filling for balanced flavors. Carefully wrap the tortilla, tucking in the sides as you roll to create a secure wrap. If desired, wrap tightly in foil for later enjoyment or serve immediately for a fresh bite.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Slice each wrap diagonally for a visually appealing presentation, and feel free to drizzle additional BBQ sauce on top for extra flair. Pair your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps with a light salad or your choice of sides. These wraps are full of flavor and satisfying texture, making them a delightful meal option that everyone will love!

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

These wraps are perfect for exploring delightful pairings that elevate your meal to new heights.

Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, they provide a wonderful contrast to the savory wraps and are a healthier alternative to traditional fries.
Light Green Salad: A mixed greens salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the BBQ chicken.
Fresh Fruit Salad: The natural sweetness of seasonal fruits like berries and melons provides a bright, refreshing finish that complements the savory elements.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, the sweet and buttery corn adds fun texture, enhancing the summer vibes of your meal.
Coleslaw Variation: Try a vinegar-based coleslaw for a tangy twist. It’s a delightful contrast that adds more crunch without being overly heavy.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: Stay refreshed with a cold glass of iced tea or lemonade. Both drinks bring a hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the smoky, savory flavors.
Baked Beans: Their rich, sweet flavor contrasts the savory wraps perfectly while adding a hearty element to your meal.
Guacamole & Chips: Creamy guacamole with crunchy tortilla chips creates a delightful appetizer that complements the flavors of the wraps beautifully.
Grilled Vegetable Platter: A mix of seasonal veggies adds a colorful and nutritious touch, enhancing the freshness of your meal.

Let your imagination soar—each of these ideas turns your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps into a culinary celebration!

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Variations

Feel free to think outside the box and personalize your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps to suit your taste buds.

Dairy-Free: Replace mayo in the coleslaw with almond or coconut yogurt for a creamy, non-dairy option. This adds a subtle sweetness that pairs well with BBQ flavors.
Low-Carb: Use lettuce leaves instead of tortillas to create a fresh, gluten-free alternative. Crisp romaine or butter lettuce works beautifully and adds an extra crunch.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the coleslaw for a zesty twist. This fiery addition brings warmth that balances the smoky chicken perfectly.
Crispy Texture: Incorporate crunchy add-ins like sunflower seeds or toasted nuts into your coleslaw for a delightful crunch. These elements contrast beautifully with the tender chicken.
Herbed Variations: Experiment by mixing in fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or basil into your coleslaw. This brightens up the dish and infuses a burst of freshness with every bite.
Flavorful Dressings: Try different coleslaw dressings such as Asian sesame or a tangy vinegar-based dressing to change the flavor profile completely. These distinct tastes offer a refreshing spin on your classic wraps.
Smoky Flavor Boost: Enhance the BBQ chicken with smoked paprika or chipotle powder before mixing with the BBQ sauce. This will deepen the overall flavor and add a delightful smoky richness.

Serve your customized wraps alongside a fresh side salad or a handful of sweet potato fries, and you’ll have a complete meal that everyone loves! For more delicious ideas, give your taste buds a treat with dishes like Cowboy Butter Chicken or Green Chile Chicken.

Make Ahead Options

These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful meal with minimal last-minute effort. You can make the coleslaw up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully. Simply combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, and dressing, refrigerating the mixture until you’re ready to assemble. Furthermore, you can cook and shred the BBQ chicken ahead of time, storing it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just warm the tortillas briefly and assemble the wraps with the prepped ingredients. This means you’ll have a delicious, stress-free meal ready in minutes, just as satisfying as when freshly prepared!

Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Taste Tests Matter: Always sample the coleslaw dressing before mixing it in. Adjust seasoning as needed to get that perfect balance for your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps.
Flavor Infusion: Let the coleslaw sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This enhances the flavors and creates a creamier texture.
Tortilla Care: Gently warm tortillas in a skillet to make them pliable. This prevents tearing and makes wrapping easier, ensuring your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps hold together.
Versatile Layers: Feel free to add extra ingredients, like sliced avocados or cheese, to amp up the flavor profile in your wraps. Just remember to keep the wrap manageable.
Presentation Counts: For an eye-catching dish, slice your wraps diagonally and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for that extra pop.

How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Fridge: Store assembled BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while preventing sogginess in the tortillas.

Freezer: You can freeze the wraps tightly wrapped in foil or plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side, or until heated through. This helps retain their crunch and avoids a chewy texture.

Coleslaw Storage: Keep leftover coleslaw separate from wraps to maintain freshness. Store in a covered bowl in the fridge for 2–3 days, adding it to the wraps just before serving.

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ripe ingredients for my coleslaw?
Absolutely! When choosing cabbage for your coleslaw, look for heads that are firm with no dark spots or blemishes. The leaves should be crisp and vibrant in color. For carrots, opt for those that are bright orange and feel solid; avoid any that are soft or have wrinkles.

What is the best way to store leftovers of BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?
To store your assembled BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep them fresh while preventing the tortillas from getting soggy. If you want to keep the wraps intact, I recommend separating the coleslaw and chicken from the tortillas until you’re ready to dig in.

Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze these wraps! Wrap each one tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side; this helps maintain their delicious texture.

What are some common issues I might encounter while making BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?
One common issue is the coleslaw becoming too soggy if it sits too long before serving. To prevent this, prepare the coleslaw dressing and mix it with cabbage and carrots just before you’re ready to assemble the wraps. Another tip: warm your tortillas gently in a skillet to avoid tearing, making it easier to wrap your ingredients tightly.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! If you or someone you’re serving has gluten sensitivities, you can easily make these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps gluten-free by swapping traditional tortillas for lettuce wraps. Also, if you have allergies to mayonnaise, Greek yogurt is a fantastic, healthier substitute for the dressing without sacrificing creaminess.

How long can I store leftover coleslaw separately?
The coleslaw can remain fresh in the fridge for about 2–3 days when stored in a tightly covered container. Just keep it separate from the wraps until you’re ready to chow down to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy and losing their delightful texture.