8 Step Delicious BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Recipe

Everyone loves a portable meal that doesn’t skimp on flavour. These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps deliver smoky‑sweet chicken strands and crisp, creamy slaw all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. The contrast of tangy sauce, crunchy vegetables and chewy flatbread makes each bite a mini celebration. In this SEO‑friendly guide you’ll learn everything you need to know to make restaurant‑quality wraps at home in about 15 minutes. We’ll walk through ingredients, step‑by‑step instructions, variations, storage tips, nutrition information and even answer common questions. By the end you’ll have confidence to whip up BBQ chicken wraps for weekday lunches, picnics or spontaneous gatherings without turning on the oven.

Why You’ll Love These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

• No cooking required when using leftover or rotisserie chicken – simply mix, assemble and enjoy.
• Beginner‑friendly recipe that takes roughly 15 minutes to put together and serves four.
• Balanced flavour from smoky barbecue sauce and tangy coleslaw dressing, with optional herbs and vegetables for freshness.
• Flexible ingredients: choose your favourite BBQ sauce, tortillas and toppings; use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter slaw; or add cheese, pickles or bacon for indulgence.
• Meal‑prep friendly: store components separately for up to 3–4 days and assemble wraps when needed.
• Family‑friendly: these wraps appeal to adults and kids alike and can be served as lunch, dinner or party snacks.

Key Ingredients and Why They Matter

Understanding each component helps you build a BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps that is both flavourful and satisfying. Here are the stars of the show:

Shredded Chicken

The base of this dish is tender, cooked chicken. Using rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted breasts keeps the recipe fast and ensures you start with juicy meat. Food bloggers emphasize seasoning the chicken before glazing with BBQ sauce to amplify flavor. If using raw breasts, season them with smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt and black pepper before cooking. You can also opt for pre‑grilled chicken strips or rotisserie chicken to skip cooking altogether.

BBQ Sauce

Barbecue sauce provides the signature smoky sweetness. Choose a high‑quality sauce because it is the star of the dish. A standard full‑calorie sauce works fine, but sugar‑free versions like G Hughes can reduce calories and carbs. If you enjoy bold flavours, experiment with Korean BBQ, honey harissa or hot honey variations.

Tortillas or Flatbreads

Soft flour tortillas create a pliable wrapper that holds the filling without breaking. Spinach wraps or lavash breads offer whole‑grain options with extra protein. Warm tortillas briefly in the microwave before filling to prevent cracking.

Coleslaw Mix

A ready‑shredded mix of cabbage and carrots adds crunch and colour. Coleslaw balances the sweet BBQ sauce with tangy dressing. Use traditional cabbage slaw or switch to broccoli or kale slaw for extra nutrients. You can even shred your own cabbage to control texture.

Slaw Dressing

Classic slaw uses mayonnaise for creaminess, apple cider vinegar for acidity, sugar for sweetness and salt and pepper for seasoning. For a lighter alternative, substitute non‑fat Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard and honey. Many nutritionists choose 0 % Greek yogurt to replicate mayonnaise’s texture while boosting protein.

Optional Herbs and Vegetables

Fresh cilantro and sliced green onions brighten the slaw and lighten heavy BBQ flavours. Lettuce, romaine, spinach or arugula add extra crunch and nutrients; some cooks prefer spinach wraps for subtle flavor. Tomatoes, pickles or avocado slices can provide bursts of freshness or extra tang. Cheese lovers can include cheddar, Monterey Jack or pepper jack.

Equipment You’ll Need

Most kitchens already have the tools to assemble these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps. You’ll need:

• Two medium mixing bowls (one for chicken and one for slaw)
• A sturdy spoon or spatula for mixing
• A chopping board and knife (only if chopping fresh vegetables)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Plastic wrap or parchment paper for storing assembled wraps

If you’re cooking chicken from scratch you may also need a skillet or grill pan, but this recipe assumes your chicken is pre‑cooked.

The 8‑Step Assembly Process

This recipe yields four generous BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps. Each serves one person and contains approximately 450–500 calories depending on your ingredients. Here’s how to assemble them:

1. Prepare the chicken mixture: In a bowl combine 2 cups shredded cooked chicken and ½ cup barbecue sauce. Stir until every strand is coated. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, just pull it apart into bite‑size pieces. You can also heat leftover chicken in a skillet with spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder and cayenne pepper for 1–2 minutes before mixing in BBQ sauce.
2. Make the slaw dressing: In a separate bowl whisk together ⅓ cup mayonnaise (or non‑fat Greek yogurt), 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar and 1 teaspoon sugar. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. For added tang, whisk in 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or a splash of sour cream.
3. Combine the slaw: Add 2 cups of coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots) to the dressing. Gently fold until the vegetables are coated. Optional: stir in 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro and 1 thinly sliced green onion for herbal brightness.
4. Rest the slaw: Let the slaw sit for 10 minutes. The salt and vinegar will soften the cabbage slightly, making it easier to wrap. Avoid letting it rest too long; leaving coleslaw dressing on cabbage for extended periods causes it to become watery because the salt and vinegar draw out moisture. If meal prepping, keep the vegetables and dressing separate until serving.
5. Warm the tortillas: Place four flour tortillas on a plate, cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for 10–15 seconds. Warming makes them more flexible and prevents tearing.
6. Fill the tortillas: Lay a tortilla on your work surface. Spoon about ½ cup of the BBQ chicken mixture down the centre, leaving room at the edges. Top with a generous scoop (about ½ cup) of the coleslaw. If you like extra crunch, layer lettuce or spinach leaves underneath the chicken.
7. Wrap tightly: Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the two sides. Roll the wrap tightly from the bottom to the top, encasing the filling. Use your fingers to tuck in stray pieces as you roll.
8. Serve or store: Slice each wrap diagonally and serve immediately for the best contrast of warm chicken and cool slaw. To store, BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps, tightly in parchment or plastic wrap and refrigerate. These wraps taste best eaten within a few hours because the coleslaw can moisten the tortilla. For longer storage (up to two days), keep the chicken and slaw in separate containers and assemble just before eating.

Customisation Ideas

One of the joys of wraps is how easily you can tweak them. Here are some ways to personalise your BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps:

Swap the BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

• Whole‑wheat tortillas for extra fibre.
• Spinach or herb wraps for subtle flavour and vibrant colour.
• Lavash bread or high‑protein flatbread to increase protein and keep carbs moderate.
• Gluten‑free tortillas if you’re avoiding gluten.

Jazz Up the Protein

• Use grilled chicken thighs or pre‑grilled chicken strips for a smokier taste.
• Mix leftover rotisserie chicken with the BBQ sauce; seasoning the chicken first improves flavor.
• For a vegetarian twist, try jackfruit or chickpea “chicken” tossed in BBQ sauce.

Play with the Slaw

• Replace part or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter slaw and extra protein.
• Add honey or Dijon mustard for a sweet‑tangy kick.
• Use broccoli or kale slaw to boost nutrients.
• Chop fresh apples or raisins into the slaw for a hint of sweetness.

Add More Fillings

• Cheese: cheddar, Monterey Jack, pepper jack or even smoked gouda.
• Pickles: dill or bread‑and‑butter pickles provide acidity and crunch.
• Fresh vegetables: lettuce, spinach, romaine, tomatoes or sliced bell peppers.
• Bacon or avocado: for extra richness.
• Hot sauce or ranch dressing: drizzle inside the wrap for creaminess or heat.

Side Dish Pairings

To make a complete meal, serve your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps with sides that echo the flavours or offer contrast. Food bloggers suggest pairing with baked fries, sweet potato wedges or oven‑baked fries. For lighter options, serve with a green salad, fruit salad or roasted vegetables. A glass of iced tea or lemonade cuts through the richness and ties the meal together.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Proper storage keeps your wraps tasting fresh and prevents sogginess. Follow these guidelines:

• Store components separately: Keep chicken, slaw and tortillas in separate airtight containers. This prevents the vinegar and sugar in the slaw from breaking down the vegetables and making the wrap watery.
• Time frame: Both the chicken and slaw will last 3–4 days in the refrigerator. Assemble the BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps just before serving.
• Assembled wraps: If you must assemble in advance (for lunch boxes), eat them within 5 hours because the tortillas soften quickly. Smear a thin layer of mayonnaise or butter on the tortilla to act as a moisture barrier.
• Freezing: Freezing is possible if you use sturdy tortillas and avoid watery vegetables. Freeze assembled (but uncut) wraps on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and eat cold or lightly warmed.

Nutritional Overview

Nutritional values vary depending on your chosen ingredients. Here’s an approximate breakdown for one wrap made with a flour tortilla, ½ cup shredded chicken, 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce, ½ cup coleslaw (with a mayo‑based dressing), lettuce and no cheese:

Component	Approximate calories	Key nutrients
8 inch flour tortilla	~140 kcal	Carbohydrates, protein
½ cup shredded chicken	~120 kcal	Protein, B vitamins
2 tbsp BBQ sauce	~70 kcal	Carbs, sugar
½ cup coleslaw w/ mayo	~110 kcal	Vitamins A & C, fats
Lettuce & herbs	~10 kcal	Fibre, vitamins

Total: approximately 450–500 calories, 30 g protein, 50 g carbs and 15 g fat. Lighter versions using Greek yogurt and lavash bread can reduce calories to around 485 calories with 49 g protein. A cheese‑loaded version may reach 582 calories per wrap. Choose ingredients that align with your dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Rotisserie or leftover chicken makes this recipe almost effortless. Shred the meat and toss it with spices and BBQ sauce. Reheat briefly with a dash of olive oil if you want to bloom the spices.

Is it better to use mayo or Greek yogurt in the slaw?
Both work. Mayonnaise produces a classic creamy slaw, while Greek yogurt reduces fat and adds protein. You can also do a 1:1 mix or add sour cream and Dijon mustard for complexity.

Can I make these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps ahead of time?
It’s best to assemble right before eating. Leftover coleslaw quickly becomes watery, which can sog the tortilla. For meal prep, store chicken, dressing and vegetables separately and assemble within 3–4 days.

What if I don’t like cabbage?
Try using broccoli or kale slaw for a nutrient‑dense option. You can also fill wraps with lettuce, spinach or mixed greens for crunch.

What other sauces can I use?
Feel free to swap BBQ sauce for honey mustard, buffalo, Korean BBQ or Thai sweet chili. Adjust the slaw and toppings accordingly.

Are there gluten‑free options?
Yes. Use gluten‑free tortillas or lettuce cups. Many BBQ sauces are gluten free; check the label to be sure.

How can I keep tortillas from tearing?
Warm them briefly in the microwave to make them pliable. Don’t overfill the wraps and roll tightly.

Serving Suggestions

Make your meal memorable by pairing wraps with complementary sides and beverages. Try lime wedges for a citrusy squeeze, homemade kettle chips for extra crunch, a bowl of fresh coleslaw for added veggies and a glass of iced tea or lemonade. For a heartier spread, serve with sweet potato fries, avocado fries or oven‑baked wedges. In warmer months, a fruit salad adds refreshing contrast.

Conclusion: Wrap Up Deliciousness

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are a simple yet flavour‑packed answer to busy days. By combining tender shredded chicken, smoky BBQ sauce and crisp creamy slaw, you get a handheld meal with contrast and balance. The eight easy steps outlined above mean you can assemble this dish in minutes, whether you’re using leftover chicken or starting from scratch. Customize your wrap with herbs, cheese, greens or pickles; choose between mayo or Greek yogurt; and experiment with different sauces to keep things interesting.

Don’t let soggy wraps ruin your experience—store components separately, assemble when ready and enjoy within a few hours. With proper prep, these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps can brighten lunches, dinners and gatherings without any cooking fuss. Grab your favourite barbecue sauce and some tortillas, and delight in a meal that’s as wholesome as it is indulgent. Happy wrapping!