BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps bring together bold, tangy flavors with creamy crunch in a way that feels like a backyard cookout… wrapped up and ready to go. If you’re anything like me—a busy mom juggling kids, a to-do list that never quits, and a kitchen that somehow always needs cleaning—then this recipe is about to be your new go-to.
These wraps are the kind of no-fuss, high-reward meal that comes together in under 30 minutes and feels a little indulgent without being over the top. The primary keyword, BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps, stars front and center because, let’s be honest, that’s what you’re here for. And in the middle of all the midweek chaos, these wraps deliver a delicious, portable meal solution that everyone at the table (yes, even the picky eaters) will love.
Table of Contents
What Are BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?
BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are exactly what they sound like—a little smoky, a little sweet, and 100% satisfying. At their heart, they’re made with juicy shredded chicken drenched in your favorite BBQ sauce, topped with a crunchy homemade coleslaw, all bundled in a soft flour tortilla. Think of them as the lovechild of a summer picnic and a grab-and-go lunch. They’re flexible too—you can keep them simple or jazz them up with add-ins like cilantro and green onions for that extra zip.
Whether you’re packing lunchboxes, prepping for a laid-back dinner, or making a quick bite between Zoom calls, these wraps are your shortcut to delicious. And since they use store-bought rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken, they’re proof that “homemade” doesn’t have to mean “hours in the kitchen.”
Reasons to Try BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
Let’s face it—there are a million wrap recipes out there, but BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps stand out for good reason. First, the flavor combo is a total win: smoky BBQ meets creamy, tangy slaw. Second, they’re wildly customizable. Got leftover rotisserie chicken? Perfect. Prefer spicy BBQ sauce? Go for it. Want to sneak in more veggies? Nobody’s stopping you. Third—and this one’s big for the busy crowd—they’re fast.
From fridge to table in under 25 minutes fast. Oh, and they’re great cold or hot, which makes them lunchbox-friendly and dinner-table-worthy. Still not convinced? Wraps like this are also excellent crowd-pleasers. Whether it’s your teenager with an “I’m starving” face or your co-workers at the next potluck, these wraps won’t disappoint.
Ingredients Needed to Make BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1⁄2 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite brand or homemade)
- 4 large flour tortillas (whole wheat optional)
- 2 cups coleslaw mix (store-bought works great)
- 1⁄4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Optional: 1/4 cup sliced green onions
Instructions to Make BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
If you’ve ever found yourself staring into the fridge thinking, “What on earth am I going to make for lunch that doesn’t require a culinary degree or a ton of time?”—this step-by-step guide for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps is here to save the day. Below, we’ll walk you through each part of the process clearly and casually (just like we were cooking together in your kitchen), with helpful tips and internal links along the way. Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or just craving something fuss-free and flavorful, this step-by-step breakdown keeps things simple and doable.
Step 1: Prep the BBQ Chicken
First things first, grab your cooked chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken (huge time-saver) or any leftover cooked chicken breast you’ve got hanging around. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Place the shredded chicken in a medium mixing bowl.
Now it’s time to bring the flavor. Pour in about ½ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce. Whether you like it smoky, sweet, or spicy, this is your moment to shine. Gently stir until all the chicken is thoroughly coated and saucy. If you like your wraps extra juicy, feel free to add a little more sauce—no judgment here!
Pro Tip: Not sure which BBQ sauce to use? Check out our guide to easy ingredient swaps where we also talk about customizing sauces to fit your taste and pantry stash.
Step 2: Make the Coleslaw – Step by Step
In a second bowl, you’ll whip up the creamy, tangy coleslaw that gives these wraps their signature crunch. Start with 2 cups of coleslaw mix (you can grab a bag from the grocery store—super convenient). Add in ¼ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon sugar, and a pinch each of salt and pepper.
Mix it all together until the slaw is creamy and evenly coated. Give it a little taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—maybe a touch more vinegar if you like things tangy, or a dash more sugar if you prefer it on the sweet side.
Optional Boost: Want to level things up? Stir in ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro and ¼ cup sliced green onions. These add freshness and a little bite that complements the BBQ chicken perfectly.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can prep the slaw up to a day in advance. The flavors actually get better the longer they sit, kind of like magic in a bowl. For more make-ahead friendly dishes, take a peek at this cozy chicken enchilada soup that also stores like a dream.
Step 3: Warm and Prep the Tortillas
Before assembling, gently warm your flour tortillas. You can microwave them for about 10 seconds or heat them on a dry skillet for 15–20 seconds on each side. This makes them more pliable and easier to roll without tearing—because nobody wants a wrap blowout.
Place a warmed tortilla flat on your work surface. If you’re using whole wheat tortillas for a healthier spin (totally optional), just know they might be a little less flexible, so warming is extra helpful here.
Step 4: Assemble the Wraps – Step by Step
Now comes the fun part—building your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps. In the center of the tortilla, add a generous scoop of the BBQ chicken mixture. Spread it out slightly so it’s even, but keep it away from the edges so things don’t get messy.
Next, top it with a big spoonful of the coleslaw. The combo of warm chicken and cool, crisp slaw is what makes these wraps irresistibly satisfying.
If you’re looking for more wrap assembly ideas, don’t miss our reader-favorite cheesy chicken wrap for another quick and delicious option.
Step 5: Wrap It Up Like a Pro
Here’s a step-by-step trick for rolling your wrap like a sandwich artist:
- Fold the sides inward (like you’re tucking in a burrito).
- Then, starting from the bottom, roll the wrap up tightly while holding the fillings in place.
- Keep rolling until it’s fully enclosed, seam-side down.
If you’re making these ahead for lunchboxes or road trips, you can wrap each one in parchment paper or foil to keep it all together.
Step 6: Slice and Serve (or Store for Later)
For easy eating and an extra touch of fancy, slice each wrap in half diagonally. Serve them immediately if you want the best combo of warm chicken and crunchy slaw.
Need a side dish idea? Pair these wraps with something crisp and refreshing like crispy smashed potato salad or keep it cozy with a bowl of spicy Thai curry chicken soup.
If you’re storing them for later, keep the chicken and slaw separate and assemble just before eating. This keeps everything fresh and prevents sogginess.
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
These wraps are a full meal on their own, but if you want to make it a “real” dinner, pair them with something easy and complementary. A side of crispy smashed potato salad hits the spot, or go lighter with sliced cucumbers and ranch dip. If you’re feeling fancy, a chilled glass of iced tea or lemonade is pure backyard BBQ energy. For colder nights, consider a warm bowl of rotisserie chicken enchilada soup as a cozy companion.
Key Tips for Making BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
- Use pre-cooked chicken to save time—leftovers or rotisserie are both perfect.
- Don’t skip the vinegar in the slaw; it balances out the sweetness of the BBQ.
- Warm your tortillas before wrapping—microwave for 10 seconds or heat in a dry pan for better flexibility.
- Let the slaw sit for 10 minutes before assembling to let the flavors meld.
- Customize away—jalapeños, avocado slices, or even a drizzle of hot honey can make this wrap your own.
Storage and Reheating Tips for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps
If you’re meal-prepping or just happen to have leftovers (unlikely, but hey), wrap each one tightly in foil or parchment and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best texture, keep the slaw and chicken separate and assemble fresh. If you do have them fully assembled and chilled, skip the microwave—reheating can make the slaw soggy. Instead, enjoy them cold like a deli wrap. Want to warm them up anyway? Just remove the slaw and heat the chicken-tortilla combo in a skillet or toaster oven for a few minutes.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, just use a dairy-free mayo or swap for Greek yogurt if tolerated.
What BBQ sauce should I use?
Whatever your heart desires! Sweet, smoky, spicy—choose one you’d happily lick off a spoon.
Can I freeze these wraps?
Not ideal. The coleslaw doesn’t freeze well. Stick to storing in the fridge and eating within 2 days.
Is this kid-friendly?
Very. Just use a mild BBQ sauce and skip the green onions if your kids are texture-sensitive.
Final Thoughts
BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are the kind of meal that makes you look like you’ve got your life together—even if you’re juggling work emails with one hand and wiping peanut butter off your kid’s cheek with the other. It’s fast, flavorful, and totally flexible. Try it once, and you’ll be adding this to your regular rotation in no time. Hungry for more easy wraps and bowls? Don’t miss our street corn chicken rice bowl for your next mealtime win.
Visit our Pinterest for regular slow cooker recipe updates, or join our Facebook discussions where cooking fans exchange their favorite hearty meal ideas.
Print
BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps for a Fast, Flavorful Lunch
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 wraps 1x
Description
Experience a burst of flavors with tender BBQ chicken and crunchy coleslaw, all wrapped in soft tortillas. A fun, tasty dish that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1⁄2 cup BBQ sauce
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups coleslaw mix
- 1⁄4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Optional: 1/4 cup sliced green onions
Instructions
1. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce. Stir until the chicken is well coated.
2. In another bowl, prepare the coleslaw. Mix the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
3. Optional: Add chopped cilantro and sliced green onions to the coleslaw for additional flavor. Stir to incorporate.
4. Lay out a flour tortilla on a flat surface. Place a portion of the BBQ chicken mixture in the center, followed by a generous scoop of the coleslaw.
5. Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll tightly from the bottom to enclose the filling completely.
6. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
7. Once all wraps are assembled, cut each in half for easier handling and serving.
8. Serve immediately for the best texture, but they can also be wrapped and stored in the refrigerator for a short period if preparing in advance.
Notes
For a healthier version, use whole wheat tortillas.
The coleslaw can be made a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld.
Experiment with different BBQ sauce flavors to customize the dish to your liking.
This dish is perfect as a quick lunch or casual dinner option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: No-Cook, Assembling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wrap
- Calories: 450
