BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are a fresh and tasty mix of tender BBQ chicken and crunchy coleslaw tucked inside a soft tortilla. These wraps bring together the smoky flavor of barbecue with the crisp, tangy crunch of cabbage and carrots, making every bite a little burst of fun and flavor.
I love making these wraps when I want something easy but still full of flavor. The BBQ chicken gives a smoky, sweet taste that pairs perfectly with the creamy, slightly tangy coleslaw. I usually toss the coleslaw with a little bit of mayo and vinegar to keep it light and zesty—it’s what makes the wrap feel so fresh and satisfying.
These wraps are great for lunch, a casual dinner, or even a picnic. I like to serve them with some extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping and maybe a cold drink to go with it. They’re one of those meals that feel like a treat but don’t take forever to make, which makes me happy every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked, shredded chicken breast works best for tenderness and easy eating. If you want a smoky taste, try grilled chicken instead. You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time.
BBQ Sauce: Choose a BBQ sauce you like—sweet, spicy, or smoky. If you don’t have BBQ sauce, a mix of ketchup and a little vinegar with a dash of honey can work as a quick substitute.
Coleslaw Mix: A pre-shredded mix of green and purple cabbage with carrots adds great crunch and color. You can add thinly sliced apples or bell peppers for extra freshness.
Mayonnaise & Vinegar: These keep the coleslaw creamy but light. If you prefer a healthier option, swap mayo for Greek yogurt or use a vinaigrette dressing instead.
Tortillas: Whole wheat tortillas add a nice nutty flavor and extra fiber, but regular flour tortillas or even large lettuce leaves work well if you want a gluten-free option.
How Do You Make Sure the Wrap Stays Tight and Doesn’t Fall Apart?
Rolling the wrap properly is key to keeping all the tasty filling inside without leaks.
- Warm the tortillas slightly in a dry pan or microwave to make them more pliable.
- Place the fillings in the center but leave space on the edges—don’t overfill.
- Fold in the sides first, then roll from the bottom tightly upward, keeping the filling snug.
- If needed, secure with a toothpick or wrap in parchment paper to hold shape.
- Optionally, to seal better and add texture, toast the wrapped seam-side down in a pan for 1-2 minutes.
This way, the wraps stay neat and easy to eat, perfect for on-the-go meals or gatherings.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – one for the BBQ chicken and one for the coleslaw to keep flavors fresh and separate.
- Sharp knife – for chopping or shredding chicken and slicing any extra veggies you want to add.
- Cutting board – provides a clean, safe surface for chopping and prepping ingredients.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helpful for mixing BBQ sauce into the chicken without breaking it up too much.
- Nonstick skillet (optional) – great if you want to warm or toast your wraps for a crisp finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for pulled pork or smoked turkey for a twist that keeps the BBQ vibe strong and tasty.
- Add sliced avocado or a few jalapeño slices for creaminess or a little heat that balances the tangy slaw.
- Mix shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese into the coleslaw for a cheesy kick that melts slightly when warm.
- Stir in some chopped fresh cilantro or green onions to brighten flavors and add a fresh pop in every bite.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and BBQ Sauce:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
For the Coleslaw:
- 2 cups coleslaw mix (shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, and carrots)
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Wraps:
- 4 large whole wheat tortillas (or flour tortillas)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and assemble. Warming the wraps in a skillet adds just 1-2 extra minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the BBQ Chicken:
In a medium bowl, combine the cooked chicken with the BBQ sauce. Stir well until the chicken is completely coated. If you like, you can warm this mixture slightly in the microwave or on the stove, but it’s delicious served at room temperature too.
2. Prepare the Coleslaw:
In another bowl, mix together the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly coated and creamy. This will give the coleslaw a fresh and tangy flavor.
3. Assemble the Wraps:
Lay the tortillas flat on a clean surface. Spoon a good amount of the BBQ chicken onto each tortilla, leaving space around the edges for wrapping. Next, add a generous handful of the creamy coleslaw on top of the chicken.
4. Roll Up the Wraps:
Carefully fold the sides of each tortilla inward, then roll from the bottom up tightly to form a wrap. This keeps all the tasty fillings inside.
5. Optional Warm & Seal:
If you want, heat a dry skillet over medium heat and place the wraps seam-side down. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until the tortilla is warmed through and slightly crisp. This also helps seal the wrap for easier eating.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Cut each wrap in half if you like, and serve right away. Optional sides include extra BBQ sauce or ranch dressing for dipping. These wraps are delicious, fresh, and perfect for sharing!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked or Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken saves time and works perfectly for this recipe. Just shred or chop the chicken before mixing it with the BBQ sauce.
Can I Make the Wraps Ahead of Time?
You can prep the chicken and coleslaw up to a day in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the wraps just before serving to keep the tortillas from getting soggy.
What’s a Good Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Coleslaw?
Greek yogurt is a great healthier alternative that still gives the coleslaw a creamy texture and tangy flavor. You can swap it 1:1 for mayonnaise.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover chicken, coleslaw, or wraps in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the wraps get soggy, you can reheat the chicken separately and assemble fresh wraps for best texture.
