BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps: Craving a quick, flavorful lunch or a light dinner that bursts with summer vibes? Look no further! These wraps are a delightful explosion of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors, all conveniently bundled into a portable package. Imagine tender, shredded BBQ chicken mingling with a creamy, crunchy coleslaw, all nestled in a soft tortilla – it’s a taste sensation you won’t want to miss.

While the exact origins of combining BBQ chicken and coleslaw are a bit hazy, the pairing has become a beloved staple across the American South and beyond. BBQ, with its rich history rooted in slow-cooked traditions, provides the savory foundation, while coleslaw, a dish with possible Dutch origins, offers a refreshing counterpoint. Together, they create a harmonious balance that tantalizes the taste buds.

People adore BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps for their incredible versatility and ease. They’re perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, picnics, or even a quick lunch on the go. The combination of textures – the tender chicken, the crisp coleslaw, and the soft tortilla – is simply irresistible. Plus, the sweet and smoky BBQ sauce perfectly complements the creamy, tangy coleslaw, creating a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. So, ditch the boring sandwich and get ready to experience the deliciousness of these easy-to-make wraps!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the BBQ Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (I prefer a smoky-sweet variety!)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Coleslaw:
• 1/2 head green cabbage, shredded
• 1/4 head red cabbage, shredded
• 1 large carrot, shredded
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Wraps:
• 6 large tortillas (I like using whole wheat or spinach tortillas)
• Optional toppings: avocado slices, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, pickled jalapeños

Preparing the BBQ Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken: First, let’s get the chicken ready. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Then, cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This will make it easier to incorporate into the wraps later.
2. Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. This is where the flavor party starts!
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Add the BBQ Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low and pour in your favorite BBQ sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial for that delicious, sticky BBQ goodness!
5. Shred the Chicken (Optional): If you prefer shredded chicken, you can use two forks to shred the chicken right in the skillet after it’s cooked and coated in BBQ sauce. This is totally up to your personal preference!

Making the Coleslaw

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, shredded red cabbage, shredded carrot, chopped fresh cilantro, and chopped red onion. The more colorful, the better!
2. Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. I sometimes add a pinch of celery seed for extra flavor.
3. Combine and Chill: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss well to combine. Make sure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This chilling time is important for the coleslaw to develop its best flavor. You can even make it a few hours ahead of time!

Assembling the BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

1. Warm the Tortillas (Optional): If you like, you can warm the tortillas slightly before assembling the wraps. This makes them more pliable and easier to roll. You can warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side, or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
2. Assemble the Wraps: Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the BBQ chicken onto the center of the tortilla.
3. Add the Coleslaw: Top the BBQ chicken with a generous amount of the coleslaw. Don’t be shy! The coleslaw adds a wonderful crunch and tanginess that complements the BBQ chicken perfectly.
4. Add Optional Toppings: If desired, add any optional toppings such as avocado slices, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, or pickled jalapeños. These additions can really take your wraps to the next level!
5. Wrap it Up: Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then tightly roll it up from the bottom. If you’re having trouble keeping the wrap closed, you can secure it with a toothpick.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Cut the wrap in half (optional) and serve immediately. These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are perfect for lunch, dinner, or a picnic!

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce or coleslaw dressing for a little extra heat.
• Make it Vegan: Use vegan mayonnaise and maple syrup in the coleslaw dressing. You can also substitute the chicken with jackfruit or tofu.
• Use Different Tortillas: Experiment with different types of tortillas, such as gluten-free or flavored tortillas.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the coleslaw, such as bell peppers, celery, or cucumbers.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the BBQ chicken and coleslaw ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the wraps just before serving.
• Grill the Chicken: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet.
• Different BBQ Sauce: Try different flavors of BBQ sauce. A honey BBQ or a spicy BBQ would be delicious.
• Add Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese adds a nice creamy element.
• Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover grilled or roasted chicken.
• Make it a Salad: If you’re watching your carbs, skip the tortilla and serve the BBQ chicken and coleslaw over a bed of lettuce.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of sweet potato fries or potato chips.
• Pair with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade.
• Bring to a potluck or picnic.
• Enjoy as a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Storage Instructions:

• Store leftover BBQ chicken and coleslaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Assembled wraps are best eaten immediately, as the tortillas can become soggy over time.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per wrap):

• Calories: 500-600
• Protein: 30-40g
• Fat: 25-35g
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g

Enjoy your delicious and easy BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps! They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are truly a game-changer for lunch, dinner, or even a quick and easy party appetizer. I know, I know, I might be biased, but trust me on this one. The combination of smoky, tangy BBQ chicken with the crisp, creamy coleslaw is simply divine. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite, and the wrap format makes it incredibly convenient and portable. Forget boring sandwiches – these wraps are where it’s at!

But what makes these wraps a must-try? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the BBQ sauce is beautifully offset by the slight tang of the coleslaw, and the tender chicken provides a satisfying protein boost. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make! You can use leftover grilled chicken or even rotisserie chicken to save time, making this a fantastic weeknight meal option. And let’s not forget the versatility! You can easily customize these wraps to suit your own taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Feeling adventurous? Try adding some crumbled bacon for an extra layer of smoky flavor. Or, if you like a little heat, a drizzle of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes will do the trick. For a vegetarian option, you could substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or black beans. The possibilities are endless!

As for serving suggestions, these wraps are fantastic on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a side of sweet potato fries, a simple green salad, or even some corn on the cob. They’re also perfect for picnics, potlucks, and tailgating events. Imagine bringing a platter of these to your next gathering – they’re guaranteed to be a hit!

If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can use a light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in your coleslaw. You can also swap out the flour tortillas for lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. And for a truly decadent treat, try adding some crispy fried onions to the wraps.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different BBQ sauces, too! A honey BBQ sauce will add extra sweetness, while a spicy BBQ sauce will give the wraps a kick. You can even make your own homemade BBQ sauce for a truly unique flavor.

I’ve also found that these wraps are a great way to use up leftover ingredients. If you have some leftover grilled vegetables, like bell peppers or onions, you can add them to the wraps for extra flavor and nutrients. And if you have some leftover corn on the cob, you can cut the kernels off and add them to the coleslaw.

Ultimately, the best part about these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps is that they’re so easy to adapt to your own personal preferences. So go ahead, get creative and make them your own!

I truly believe that once you try these wraps, you’ll be hooked. They’re the perfect combination of flavor, convenience, and versatility. So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen and whip up a batch of these delicious wraps today!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! And I’d absolutely love to hear what you think. Please, please, please, once you’ve made them, come back and leave a comment below. Let me know what variations you tried, what sides you served them with, and most importantly, how much you enjoyed them! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to create even better recipes in the future. Happy wrapping!